Blondie Ice Cream Sandwiches: A Decadent Homemade Treat
Homemade childhood nostalgia meets caramel richness and creamy texture in every bite.
On steamy summer days, nothing embodies childhood nostalgia like biting into a soft, creamy ice cream sandwich. Classic ice cream trucks popularized this frozen treat, but making your own at home brings a new level of flavor and pleasure. This recipe combines the best of two worlds: thick, cakey chocolate chip blondies—a cross between a brownie and a cookie—sandwiching smooth ice cream. These are not only satisfying but impressive enough for parties or simple family gatherings.
Why Blondie Ice Cream Sandwiches?
Traditional ice cream sandwiches are often made with thin chocolate cookies. This version elevates the classic by using soft brown sugar blondies studded with mini chocolate chips. The result is a dessert that’s rich, chewy, and perfectly balanced—not overly sweet, but filled with deep caramel-notes from the blondies.
- Texture: Cakey yet sturdy enough to hold ice cream.
- Flavor: Buttery, brown sugar-rich, with melty chocolate chips in each bite.
- Presentation: Clean layers—golden blondie, creamy ice cream.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Baking spray with flour | As needed | For lining pans |
| Unsalted butter (melted & cooled) | 6 Tbsp. | Gives rich flavor |
| Vegetable shortening (melted & cooled) | 6 Tbsp. | Keeps blondies soft |
| Light brown sugar (packed) | 3/4 cup | Sweetens & adds caramel notes |
| Granulated sugar | 1/2 cup | Balances sweetness |
| Large eggs (room temperature) | 2 | Binds ingredients |
| Vanilla extract | 1 1/2 tsp. | For depth of flavor |
| All-purpose flour | 1 1/2 cups | Gives structure |
| Cornstarch | 1 1/2 Tbsp. | For cakey texture |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp. | Leavening agent |
| Kosher salt | 1/4 tsp. | Balances flavors |
| Whole milk (room temperature) | 3 Tbsp. | Adds tenderness |
| Mini semisweet chocolate chips | 3/4 cup | Folded & sprinkled—added in two stages for texture |
| Ice cream | 3 pints | Flavor of your choice |
Step-by-Step Directions
Prep the Pan
Preheat oven to 325°F. Line two 13-by-9-inch baking pans with parchment, leaving an overhang for easy lifting later. Spray parchment with baking spray.
Tip: Alternatively, use one 18-by-13-inch half-sheet pan.Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, melted shortening, and both sugars until smooth. Whisk in eggs, one at a time, and vanilla extract.
Combine Dry Ingredients & Blend
In another bowl, whisk flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk, whisking until just combined.
Divide and Bake
Divide batter evenly between prepared pans (or spread in the half-sheet pan). Smooth the top; sprinkle 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips over each.
Bake blonde layers 18 to 20 minutes, rotating pans halfway, until golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Sprinkle remaining 1/4 cup chocolate chips on top. Cool 10 minutes in pan, then lift out and cool completely on a wire rack.Prepare the Ice Cream Layer
Line a 13-by-9-inch pan with plastic wrap. Scoop in the ice cream and spread evenly. Cover and freeze until solid (1 to 2 hours).
Assemble the Sandwich
If using a half-sheet pan, cut the cooled blondie into two 13-by-9 rectangles. Place one blondie (topside down) on a large sheet of plastic wrap. Layer frozen ice cream rectangle on top (flat side of blondie). Cover with other blondie (topside up). Use wrap to help transfer into pan; cover and freeze again (4 to 6 hours).
Trim & Slice
Trim blondie edges for clean, professional sides. Slice into twelve (2-by-4-inch) bars. Wrap sandwiches individually in parchment, foil, or plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.
Tips for Success
- Use quality ice cream: Higher-fat premium ice creams work best for slicing and eating.
- Don’t overbake blondies: Slightly underbake for chewiness, as they continue setting as they cool.
- Freeze in stages: Ensures ice cream stays firm and blondies don’t get soggy.
- Flavor variations: You can swap chocolate chips for white chocolate, nuts, or sprinkle additional mix-ins.
- Storage: Wrapped well, sandwiches keep up to 3 months in the freezer.
Flavor Ideas & Customization
One of the joys of making ice cream sandwiches at home is the ability to experiment:
- Ice Cream Choices: Classic vanilla, chocolate, coffee, or more adventurous (salted caramel, cookies & cream, strawberry).
- Blondie Add-ins: White chocolate chips, dried fruit, crushed toffee, chopped nuts.
- Decoration: Roll sandwich edges in sprinkles, crushed cookies, or mini chocolate chips for party-perfect presentation.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
For best texture, let sandwiches sit at room temperature 2–4 minutes before serving.
- Cut into smaller portions for children’s parties or larger bars for adults.
- Individually wrap for grab-and-go freezer snacks.
- Great make-ahead dessert for barbecues, birthday parties, or picnic baskets.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make these blondies gluten-free?
A: Yes, substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. The result may be slightly more delicate, but still delicious.
Q: What if I don’t have two baking pans?
A: Use a half-sheet (18-by-13-inch) pan and cut the entire blondie layer in half after baking and cooling, as described above.
Q: Which ice cream flavors pair best with blondies?
What others are reading
A: Vanilla and chocolate are universally loved, but coffee, caramel, and fruit-based ice creams also complement the brown sugar base.
Q: How long will these sandwiches last in the freezer?
A: Individually wrapped, they last up to three months. Be sure to minimize air exposure for peak freshness.
Q: Can I add mix-ins to the blondie batter?
A: Absolutely. Try extra chocolate chips, nuts, sprinkles, or even cookie crumbs for a twist.
Q: How should I store leftovers?
A: Wrap individual bars tightly in foil or parchment and keep them in a sealed freezer bag or airtight container.
Nutrition Information (approximate, per sandwich)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 370–430 |
| Total Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 53g |
| Sugars | 34g |
| Protein | 5g |
Expert Tips for Homemade Sandwiches
- Let blondies cool completely before assembling; warm bars can melt the ice cream, making layering impossible.
- Use a sharp knife (run under hot water and wiped dry) for clean, defined edges when slicing sandwiches.
- Don’t skimp on freeze time after assembly—this guarantees neat, tidy sandwiches that hold up during serving.
- Get creative: Try different ice cream flavors, swirl in caramel or fudge between blondie and ice cream layers, or decorate sides for a festive look.
More Ice Cream Sandwich Variations & Inspiration
- Classic chocolate wafer sandwiches: Thin, chewy chocolate cookie layers are a nostalgic take.
- Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use peanut butter or chocolate chip cookies for even more texture and flavor.
- Confetti Blondie Ice Cream Sandwiches: Add colorful sprinkles to the blondie batter or frosting for a celebratory, fun twist.
Table: Blondie Ice Cream Sandwiches vs. Classic Ice Cream Sandwiches
| Feature | Blondie Ice-Cream Sandwich | Classic Sandwich |
|---|---|---|
| Base | Brown sugar chocolate chip blondie | Thin chocolate wafer |
| Texture | Cakey, chewy, sturdy | Soft, pliable |
| Flavor | Buttery, rich, caramelized | Subtle chocolate |
| Serving Size | Thicker, hand-held bars | Slim, portable |
| Customizable | Endless options—inside & outside | Mostly ice cream flavor |
Conclusion: Homemade Magic
Blondie ice cream sandwiches are the ultimate nostalgic summer dessert. They taste better than store-bought, offer endless customization, and deliver a blissful blend of brown sugar, chocolate, and creamy ice cream in every bite. Whether you’re making them for a party, a special treat, or just to relive childhood memories, these sandwiches are sure to bring smiles and applause. Cool off, indulge, and enjoy sharing these irresistible homemade treats.
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a43669461/blondie-ice-cream-sandwich-recipe/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pxgnnXtAyDs
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tP2B8I46T9o
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/a44269365/ice-cream-treats/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/ice-cream/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/brownies-and-bars/
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