16 Best Homemade Ice Cream Sandwich Recipes for Summer
Discover 16 creative, delicious homemade ice cream sandwich ideas to make every summer gathering sweet and memorable.
If you’re looking to elevate your summer desserts, nothing’s more fun and satisfying than a homemade ice cream sandwich. Mixing freshly baked cookies, brownies, or even unconventional treats with your favorite ice cream flavors is the ultimate way to cool off and indulge. This curated collection features 16 delicious homemade ice cream sandwich recipes, each promising to be as memorable as they are easy to make. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, these ideas will bring big smiles to your family and guests all season long.
Table of Contents
- Classic Chocolate Ice Cream Sandwich
- Snickerdoodle Ice Cream Sandwich
- Blondie Ice Cream Sandwich
- Brownie Ice Cream Sandwich
- Oatmeal Cookie Ice Cream Sandwich
- Sugar Cookie Ice Cream Sandwich
- Peanut Butter Ice Cream Sandwich
- Funfetti Ice Cream Sandwich
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Ice Cream Sandwich
- Macaron Ice Cream Sandwich
- Waffle Ice Cream Sandwich
- Lemon Shortbread Ice Cream Sandwich
- Graham Cracker Ice Cream Sandwich
- Gingersnap Ice Cream Sandwich
- Brown Sugar Cookie Ice Cream Sandwich
- Cereal Milk Ice Cream Sandwich
1. Classic Chocolate Ice Cream Sandwich
The nostalgic favorite is always a hit—tender chocolate cookies with a creamy vanilla ice cream center. These are a homemade take on the classic store-bought variety, but fresher and deeper in flavor.
- Cookie base: Cocoa powder and just a touch of salt for balance.
- Ice cream: Best with classic vanilla, though you can swap for strawberry for a Neapolitan twist.
- Tips: Poke holes in the top cookie for the signature look and to allow steam to vent during baking.
2. Snickerdoodle Ice Cream Sandwich
Soft, chewy snickerdoodle cookies baked with cinnamon and sugar offer the perfect pillow for a scoop of your favorite ice cream. The warmth of cinnamon brings a cozy, comforting note to your frozen treat.
- Cookie: Classic snickerdoodles, generously rolled in cinnamon sugar before baking.
- Ice cream: Vanilla, butterscotch, or even caramel swirl works beautifully.
- Try this: Use cinnamon ice cream for even deeper flavor.
3. Blondie Ice Cream Sandwich
If you love blondies and ice cream, this is the ultimate combo. Slabs of butterscotch blondie bars are sandwiched around rich, creamy ice cream for a decadent treat that’s chewy, dense, and utterly satisfying.
- Blondie base: Brown sugar, butter, and a bit of vanilla for a caramel-like chew.
- Fill with: Coffee, chocolate, or cookie dough ice cream for a café-inspired flavor bomb.
- Presentation tip: Cut into large squares or rectangles for an impressive presentation at parties.
4. Brownie Ice Cream Sandwich
Rich, fudgy brownies are baked as thin sheets, cooled, and then layered with ice cream. The soft, almost gooey texture of the brownies melds perfectly with melty ice cream.
- Brownie base: Use your favorite dense and chewy brownie recipe.
- Ice cream idea: Mint chocolate chip or raspberry ripple for contrast.
- Quick tip: Use boxed brownie mix in a pinch; just spread thin before baking!
5. Oatmeal Cookie Ice Cream Sandwich
Whole oats and brown sugar lend a nutty, satisfying chew to these classic oatmeal cookies. Powerful on their own, but when sandwiched with cool, creamy ice cream, they become an old-fashioned fave refreshed for summer.
- Cookie flavors: Spice with cinnamon and a bit of nutmeg.
- Best with: Raisin or butter pecan ice cream for a cozy, comforting treat.
- Mix-in idea: Add mini chocolate chips or chopped toasted walnuts to the dough.
6. Sugar Cookie Ice Cream Sandwich
The buttery simplicity of sugar cookies brings sweet nostalgia. These pairs are especially pretty with a scoop of pastel ice cream, making them perfect for birthdays and baby showers.
- Cookie shape: Use fun cutters for special occasions.
- Color pop: Roll edges in sprinkles while the ice cream is soft.
- Try with: Lemon or strawberry ice cream for added zing.
7. Peanut Butter Ice Cream Sandwich
Salty-sweet peanut butter cookies pair perfectly with chocolate or banana ice cream. These sandwiches sit at the crossroads of childhood favorites and gourmet grown-up flavor.
- Cookie: Make classic crisscross peanut butter cookies.
- Ice cream suggestions: Chocolate, banana, or peanut butter swirl.
- Idea: Drizzle the edges with melted chocolate before refreezing.
8. Funfetti Ice Cream Sandwich
Bring the fun of birthday cake to any day! Soft, sprinkle-studded cookies hold scoops of ice cream for a festive pop of color and flavor.
- Cookie: Bake with rainbow sprinkles in the dough.
- Ice cream: Cake batter or vanilla bean with more sprinkles added.
- Perfect for: Kids’ parties and celebrations!
9. Chocolate Chip Cookie Ice Cream Sandwich
The eternal classic for a reason—chewy chocolate chip cookies, slightly soft and full of gooey chips, sandwiching cold vanilla ice cream. Always a crowd-pleaser, and endlessly customizable.
- Make ahead: Bake cookies a bit underdone for maximum softness when frozen.
- Flavor options: Try salted caramel, mint chip, or double chocolate ice cream between the cookies.
- Serving tip: Roll sides in mini chocolate chips for extra crunch and chocolate flavor.
10. Macaron Ice Cream Sandwich
Elevate your summer treats with delicate, almond-based macarons as the sandwich. Their crisp shells and gooey centers offer a sophisticated spin on the traditional treat.
- Macaron flavors: Pistachio, strawberry, chocolate, or lavender.
- Ice cream: Pair with sorbets or gelato for a gourmet twist.
- Presentation: Arrange on a tray for impressive party desserts.
11. Waffle Ice Cream Sandwich
Thinking outside the cookie box, sandwich creamy ice cream between fresh homemade waffles. Warm, toasty edges and icy centers—pure bliss.
- Waffle type: Try traditional, Belgian, or even chocolate waffles.
- Ice cream tip: Fruit sorbet or classic vanilla works well. Add berries or syrup for breakfast-for-dessert vibes.
- Pro tip: Toast the waffles just before assembling for extra texture.
12. Lemon Shortbread Ice Cream Sandwich
Bright and tangy, these lemony shortbread cookies paired with berry or vanilla ice cream offer a refreshing citrus burst—perfect for hot days.
- Shortbread: Add fresh lemon zest and juice for maximum zing.
- Pairing: Try with raspberry or blueberry ice cream for natural color and flavor.
13. Graham Cracker Ice Cream Sandwich
Inspired by campfire s’mores, these sandwiches combine honey graham crackers with a layer of chocolate and marshmallow-flavored ice cream. It’s a dessert that appeals to all ages.
- Cracker: Use store-bought for ease, or bake homemade for extra crunch.
- Filling: Marshmallow swirl or rocky road ice cream.
- Upgrade idea: Coat one side with melted chocolate and freeze before assembling.
14. Gingersnap Ice Cream Sandwich
Warm ginger, cinnamon, and molasses make these crisp gingersnap cookies the perfect foil for spicy-sweet ice cream. A welcome treat in warm weather and festive enough for winter holidays.
- Cookie: Classic gingersnap, extra crisp for contrast.
- Ice cream options: Pumpkin, dulce de leche, or cinnamon swirl.
- Garnish: Roll in candied ginger pieces for zing.
15. Brown Sugar Cookie Ice Cream Sandwich
Rich, chewy brown sugar cookies bring butterscotch notes and a soft bite to this ice cream sandwich. Pair with creamy caramel or toffee ice cream for an irresistible treat.
- Cookies: Brown sugar, egg, flour, and a hint of vanilla.
- Ice cream pairing: Try rum raisin or brown butter ice cream for deep flavor.
- Twist: Sprinkle finishing salt on the cookies before baking for caramel notes.
16. Cereal Milk Ice Cream Sandwich
This playful sandwich lets you relive breakfast nostalgia. Use classic crispy rice or cornflake cookies for the sandwich and a cereal-infused ice cream for filling. It’s a treat for all ages, especially the young at heart!
- Cookie: Rice cereal and marshmallow or cornflake crunch cookies.
- Ice cream: Cereal milk ice cream or plain vanilla with crushed cereal mixed in.
- Decorating tip: Roll sides in more cereal for fun texture.
How to Build the Perfect Ice Cream Sandwich
Whatever flavors or combinations you choose, the key to homemade ice cream sandwiches is the balance of soft-but-sturdy cookies and rich, creamy ice cream. Here are expert tips to ensure each sandwich is a showstopper:
- Don’t overbake the cookies: Keep them slightly underdone for a tender bite even when frozen.
- Soften the ice cream: Let ice cream sit at room temperature for a few minutes so it’s easy to scoop and spread.
- Work quickly: Assemble sandwiches in batches and return to the freezer immediately to keep things firm.
- Wrap individually: Use wax paper or plastic wrap so they stay fresh and don’t stick together.
- Freeze well: At least 2 hours before serving, or overnight for best texture.
Flavor Pairing Table
| Cookie/Baked Base | Recommended Ice Cream |
|---|---|
| Classic Chocolate | Vanilla, Strawberry, Banana |
| Snickerdoodle | Vanilla, Caramel, Cinnamon |
| Brownie | Mint Chip, Cherry, Peanut Butter |
| Oatmeal | Butter Pecan, Rum Raisin |
| Sugar Cookie | Lemon, Strawberry, Confetti |
| Peanut Butter | Banana, Chocolate, Vanilla Swirl |
| Macaron | Sorbet, Pistachio, Gelato |
| Graham Cracker | Rocky Road, Marshmallow |
Baking & Assembly FAQs
How do I keep my ice cream sandwiches from becoming soggy?
Bake cookie or brownie bases until just set but not dry—they’ll stay chewy after freezing. Avoid using cookies with too much moisture or filling (like jam) for the sandwich portion.
Can I use store-bought cookies or ice cream?
Yes! Store-bought cookies and your favorite ice cream brands make assembly quick and easy—and kids can help build their own custom sandwiches.
What is the best way to store homemade ice cream sandwiches?
After assembly, individually wrap each sandwich in plastic wrap or parchment paper, then store in a sealed container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. This prevents freezer burn and keeps cookies fresh.
How can I make vegan or gluten-free ice cream sandwiches?
Use gluten-free flour in your cookies, dairy-free ice creams, and plant-based butter. There are many vegan and gluten-free ice cream and cookie recipes available to customize as needed.
Can I prepare these sandwiches in advance for parties?
Absolutely! Prepare, assemble, and freeze up to several days ahead. Take them out just before serving for the perfect summer dessert buffet treat.
Pro Tips for Next-Level Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Dip sandwich edges in melted chocolate, then roll in nuts, crushed cookies, or sprinkles for added flair.
- Experiment with mix-ins: swirl caramel or fudge through the ice cream, or add crushed fruit or cookies.
- Cut sandwiches into smaller rounds or fingers for easy party snacking.
- Let kids help decorate—rolling sandwich sides in sprinkles or mini chips for hands-on fun.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What’s the best cookie texture for ice cream sandwiches?
A: Slightly soft and chewy cookies work best, as they remain tender after freezing and bite easily paired with firm ice cream.
Q: Can I use different flavors in one batch?
A: Absolutely! Make a variety with different cookies and ice creams. Let guests mix-and-match for a fun dessert bar experience.
Q: How far in advance can I make homemade ice cream sandwiches?
A: Wrapped individually and stored airtight, they keep in the freezer for up to two weeks with best quality.
Q: What are creative ways to serve ice cream sandwiches at a summer party?
A: Arrange on chilled trays, create a DIY sundae bar with toppings, or pre-slice stacks into mini sliders for easy sharing.
References
- https://www.womansday.com/food-recipes/food-drinks/recipes/g1852/best-ice-cream-sandwiches/
- https://www.womansday.com/food-recipes/food-drinks/recipes/a11869/snickerdoodle-ice-cream-sandwiches-recipe-122939/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a43669461/blondie-ice-cream-sandwich-recipe/
- https://www.womensweeklyfood.com.au/dessert/ice-cream-sandwich-recipes-30646/
- https://wholemadehomestead.com/chocolate-ice-cream-sandwich-cookie/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xbf92-KHctQ
Similar Articles
Read full bio of medha deb
