Who doesn’t love the combination of a cold, creamy scoop of ice cream sandwiched between two soft, chewy cookies? Ice cream sandwich cookies are a classic summer treat that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. In this article, we’ll take you through the step-by-step process of making ice cream sandwich cookies from scratch.
Choosing the Right Cookies for Your Ice Cream Sandwiches
When it comes to making ice cream sandwich cookies, the type of cookie you choose is crucial. You want a cookie that is soft and chewy on the inside, but still firm enough to hold its shape and support the weight of the ice cream. Here are a few factors to consider when choosing a cookie for your ice cream sandwiches:
Cookie Texture
The texture of your cookie is important because it will affect how well it holds up to the ice cream. A cookie that is too soft or too hard can be difficult to work with. Look for a cookie that is soft and chewy on the inside, but still firm enough to hold its shape.
Cookie Flavor
The flavor of your cookie is also important because it will complement the flavor of the ice cream. Choose a cookie that has a flavor that complements the ice cream you plan to use. For example, if you’re using a sweet ice cream, you may want to choose a cookie that has a slightly salty flavor.
Cookie Size
The size of your cookie is also important because it will affect how well it fits with the ice cream. Look for a cookie that is large enough to hold a scoop of ice cream, but not so large that it’s difficult to eat.
Popular Cookie Options for Ice Cream Sandwiches
There are many different types of cookies that you can use to make ice cream sandwiches. Here are a few popular options:
Chocolate Chip Cookies
Chocolate chip cookies are a classic choice for ice cream sandwiches. They have a soft and chewy texture, and the chocolate chips add a nice flavor contrast to the ice cream.
Peanut Butter Cookies
Peanut butter cookies are another popular choice for ice cream sandwiches. They have a rich, nutty flavor that pairs well with many different types of ice cream.
Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Oatmeal raisin cookies are a great choice for ice cream sandwiches if you want a slightly healthier option. They have a soft and chewy texture, and the oatmeal adds a nice texture contrast to the ice cream.
How to Make Ice Cream Sandwich Cookies
Now that we’ve discussed the different types of cookies you can use to make ice cream sandwiches, let’s talk about how to actually make them. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making ice cream sandwich cookies:
Step 1: Bake the Cookies
The first step in making ice cream sandwich cookies is to bake the cookies. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Scoop the cookie dough into balls, about 1 tablespoon each. Place the balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
Step 2: Chill the Cookies
Once the cookies are baked, let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once the cookies are cool, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes. This will help the cookies to firm up and make them easier to work with.
Step 3: Scoop the Ice Cream
While the cookies are chilling, scoop the ice cream into balls, about 1 1/2 tablespoons each. You can use any type of ice cream you like, but make sure it’s a flavor that complements the cookies.
Step 4: Assemble the Ice Cream Sandwiches
Once the cookies are chilled and the ice cream is scooped, it’s time to assemble the ice cream sandwiches. Place a scoop of ice cream between two cookies, pressing gently to adhere. Make sure the cookies are aligned properly and the ice cream is evenly distributed.
Step 5: Freeze the Ice Cream Sandwiches
Once the ice cream sandwiches are assembled, place them in the freezer to firm up for at least 30 minutes. This will help the cookies to adhere to the ice cream and make them easier to eat.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you take your ice cream sandwich cookies to the next level:
Use High-Quality Ingredients
Using high-quality ingredients is important when making ice cream sandwich cookies. Choose a high-quality ice cream and cookies that are made with real ingredients.
Experiment with Different Flavors
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors when making ice cream sandwich cookies. Try using different types of ice cream and cookies to create unique flavor combinations.
Add Mix-Ins
Adding mix-ins to your ice cream sandwich cookies can add texture and flavor. Try adding nuts, candy pieces, or sprinkles to your cookies for a fun twist.
Use a Cookie Scoop
Using a cookie scoop can help you to portion out the cookie dough evenly and create uniform cookies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when making ice cream sandwich cookies:
Overbaking the Cookies
Overbaking the cookies can make them too hard and difficult to work with. Make sure to bake the cookies until they’re lightly golden brown and still soft in the center.
Using Low-Quality Ice Cream
Using low-quality ice cream can affect the flavor and texture of your ice cream sandwich cookies. Choose a high-quality ice cream that’s made with real ingredients.
Not Chilling the Cookies
Not chilling the cookies can make them too soft and difficult to work with. Make sure to chill the cookies for at least 30 minutes before assembling the ice cream sandwiches.
Conclusion
Making ice cream sandwich cookies is a fun and easy process that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create delicious ice cream sandwich cookies that are perfect for hot summer days. Remember to choose the right cookies, use high-quality ingredients, and experiment with different flavors to take your ice cream sandwich cookies to the next level.
What type of cookies are best suited for ice cream sandwiches?
The best type of cookies for ice cream sandwiches are those that are sturdy, yet soft and chewy. Cookies with a dense texture, such as chocolate chip or oatmeal raisin, work well because they can hold their shape and support the weight of the ice cream. Avoid using cookies that are too crumbly or fragile, as they may break apart when assembled.
In addition to texture, consider the flavor of the cookies when choosing a type for ice cream sandwiches. Cookies with a strong flavor, such as peanut butter or mint, can complement the ice cream and add an extra layer of flavor to the sandwich. On the other hand, neutral-tasting cookies like sugar or snickerdoodle can provide a nice contrast to the richness of the ice cream.
How do I ensure my cookies are the right size for ice cream sandwiches?
To ensure your cookies are the right size for ice cream sandwiches, use a cookie scoop or spoon to portion out the dough. This will help you achieve uniform cookies that are all roughly the same size. You can also use a cookie cutter to cut out shapes from the dough, which can add a fun touch to your ice cream sandwiches.
When choosing a size for your cookies, consider the size of your ice cream scoops. You want the cookies to be large enough to hold a generous scoop of ice cream, but not so large that they overwhelm the sandwich. A good rule of thumb is to aim for cookies that are about 3-4 inches in diameter.
Can I use store-bought cookies for ice cream sandwiches?
Yes, you can use store-bought cookies for ice cream sandwiches. In fact, using store-bought cookies can be a convenient and time-saving option, especially if you’re short on time or not feeling like baking. Look for cookies that are sturdy and have a texture that will hold up to the ice cream.
When using store-bought cookies, keep in mind that they may not have the same freshness or flavor as homemade cookies. You can try to enhance the flavor of the cookies by toasting them in the oven or adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top. Additionally, consider choosing a high-quality cookie that is made with wholesome ingredients and has a good texture.
How do I assemble ice cream sandwiches?
Assembling ice cream sandwiches is a straightforward process that requires just a few simple steps. Start by scooping a generous portion of ice cream onto one half of a cookie. Place the other half of the cookie on top of the ice cream, pressing gently to adhere the two halves together.
To ensure the ice cream sandwiches stay together, you can insert a stick or skewer into the side of the sandwich. This will help hold the cookies in place and prevent them from falling apart. You can also wrap the sandwiches in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in the freezer to firm up before serving.
Can I customize my ice cream sandwiches with mix-ins?
Yes, you can customize your ice cream sandwiches with mix-ins to add extra flavor and texture. Some popular mix-ins include chopped nuts, sprinkles, and candy pieces. You can also try using different types of ice cream, such as gelato or sorbet, to change up the flavor and texture of the sandwiches.
When adding mix-ins, be mindful of the texture and flavor of the cookies and ice cream. You want the mix-ins to complement the other ingredients, rather than overpower them. Start with a small amount of mix-ins and add more to taste, as you can always add more but it’s harder to remove excess mix-ins.
How do I store ice cream sandwiches?
Ice cream sandwiches are best stored in the freezer to keep them firm and prevent the ice cream from melting. Wrap each sandwich individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. You can also store the sandwiches in an airtight container, such as a glass or plastic container with a tight-fitting lid.
When storing ice cream sandwiches, it’s a good idea to label the container with the date and contents, so you can easily keep track of how long they’ve been in the freezer. Ice cream sandwiches can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer, but they’re best consumed within a few weeks for optimal flavor and texture.
Can I make ice cream sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes, you can make ice cream sandwiches ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble them just before serving. If you need to make them ahead of time, you can bake the cookies and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also scoop the ice cream into balls or logs and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When assembling the sandwiches ahead of time, be aware that the cookies may become soggy or the ice cream may start to melt. To minimize this risk, assemble the sandwiches just before serving, or consider using a cookie that is more resistant to sogginess, such as a cookie with a higher ratio of fat to sugar.