Who doesn’t love ice cream sandwiches? The combination of creamy ice cream and soft, chewy cookies is a match made in heaven. But what if you could take this classic treat to the next level by using cake mix as the “buns” instead of traditional cookies? In this article, we’ll show you how to make ice cream sandwiches with cake mix, a game-changing dessert that’s sure to impress your friends and family.
The Benefits of Using Cake Mix
Using cake mix to make ice cream sandwiches may seem unconventional, but it has several benefits. For one, it’s incredibly easy to make. Simply mix the cake mix with some eggs, oil, and water, pour it into a pan, and bake. You can also customize the flavor of your cake mix by adding different extracts or mix-ins, such as nuts or chocolate chips.
Another benefit of using cake mix is that it’s a great way to use up leftover mix. If you’ve made a cake recently and have some leftover mix, you can use it to make ice cream sandwiches. This is a great way to reduce food waste and get creative with your baking.
Choosing the Right Cake Mix
When it comes to choosing a cake mix for your ice cream sandwiches, the options are endless. You can use any type of cake mix you like, from classic vanilla or chocolate to more unique flavors like red velvet or carrot cake.
If you’re looking for a recommendation, we suggest using a mix that’s moist and tender. A mix with a high oil content will produce a cake that’s soft and chewy, perfect for ice cream sandwiches. Some good options include:
- Duncan Hines Moist Deluxe Cake Mix
- Betty Crocker SuperMoist Cake Mix
- Pillsbury Moist Supreme Cake Mix
Assembling the Ice Cream Sandwiches
Now that we’ve covered the benefits of using cake mix and how to choose the right mix, it’s time to assemble the ice cream sandwiches. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Bake the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Mix the cake mix with the required eggs, oil, and water, and pour it into a 9×13 inch pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Step 2: Cool the Cake
Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan. This is an important step, as you want the cake to be completely cool before you start assembling the ice cream sandwiches.
Step 3: Cut Out the Cake Rounds
Once the cake is cool, use a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass to cut out rounds of cake. You can also use a knife to cut the cake into squares or rectangles, depending on the shape you prefer.
Step 4: Scoop the Ice Cream
Scoop your favorite ice cream into balls, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. You can use any type of ice cream you like, from classic vanilla or chocolate to more unique flavors like matcha or strawberry.
Step 5: Assemble the Ice Cream Sandwiches
Place a scoop of ice cream between two cake rounds, and press gently to adhere. You can also use a small amount of frosting or whipped cream to “glue” the cake rounds together.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to take your ice cream sandwiches to the next level:
- Use high-quality ice cream. The better the ice cream, the better the ice cream sandwich will be. Look for ice cream with a high fat content, as it will be creamier and more flavorful.
- Experiment with different flavors. Try using different flavors of cake mix and ice cream to create unique and delicious combinations. Some ideas include:
- Strawberry cake mix with strawberry ice cream and fresh strawberries
- Chocolate cake mix with mint chocolate chip ice cream and crushed Oreos
- Carrot cake mix with cream cheese ice cream and chopped walnuts
- Add some crunch. Consider adding some crunchy elements to your ice cream sandwiches, such as chopped nuts or sprinkles. This will add texture and interest to the dessert.
- Use a variety of mix-ins. Mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit can add flavor and texture to your cake mix. Experiment with different mix-ins to find your favorite combinations.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making ice cream sandwiches with cake mix, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:
- Overbaking the cake. This will result in a dry, crumbly cake that’s not ideal for ice cream sandwiches. Make sure to check the cake frequently while it’s baking, and remove it from the oven when it’s still slightly tender in the center.
- Using low-quality ice cream. As mentioned earlier, the quality of the ice cream is crucial to the success of the ice cream sandwich. Look for ice cream with a high fat content, and avoid ice cream with a lot of added ingredients or preservatives.
- Not cooling the cake completely. This will result in a cake that’s still warm and fragile, making it difficult to assemble the ice cream sandwiches. Make sure to allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before starting to assemble the sandwiches.
Conclusion
Making ice cream sandwiches with cake mix is a fun and creative way to enjoy this classic dessert. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create delicious and unique ice cream sandwiches that are sure to impress your friends and family. Remember to experiment with different flavors and mix-ins, and don’t be afraid to try new things. Happy baking!
What is the main ingredient in ice cream sandwiches with cake mix?
The main ingredient in ice cream sandwiches with cake mix is cake mix. This is a twist on the classic ice cream sandwich, which typically uses cookies as the “buns.” Using cake mix allows for a moist and flavorful base that pairs perfectly with the ice cream.
To make the cake mix “buns,” simply prepare the cake mix according to the package instructions, pour into a baking dish, and bake until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely before cutting into desired shapes and sizes for the ice cream sandwiches.
What type of ice cream works best for ice cream sandwiches with cake mix?
Any type of ice cream can be used for ice cream sandwiches with cake mix, but some flavors work better than others. For a classic combination, try using vanilla or chocolate ice cream. If you want to mix things up, you can also use strawberry, cookie dough, or mint chocolate chip ice cream.
When choosing an ice cream flavor, consider the flavor of the cake mix and the mix-ins you plan to add. For example, if you’re using a chocolate cake mix, you may want to choose a vanilla or strawberry ice cream to provide a nice contrast. If you’re using a vanilla cake mix, you can choose a bold flavor like cookie dough or mint chocolate chip.
How do I assemble the ice cream sandwiches with cake mix?
Assembling the ice cream sandwiches with cake mix is a simple process. Start by cutting the cooled cake into desired shapes and sizes. Next, scoop a generous helping of your chosen ice cream onto one half of the cake. Place the other half of the cake on top of the ice cream to create a sandwich.
To make the ice cream sandwiches more secure, you can also use a small amount of frosting or whipped cream to “glue” the two halves of the cake together. This is especially helpful if you’re using a particularly messy ice cream flavor. Simply spread a small amount of frosting or whipped cream onto one half of the cake before adding the ice cream and topping with the other half.
Can I customize the ice cream sandwiches with cake mix with mix-ins?
One of the best things about ice cream sandwiches with cake mix is that you can customize them with your favorite mix-ins. Some popular mix-ins include sprinkles, chopped nuts, chocolate chips, and candy pieces. You can also use fresh fruit, such as strawberries or blueberries, to add natural sweetness and flavor.
To add mix-ins to your ice cream sandwiches, simply fold them into the ice cream before assembling the sandwiches. You can also sprinkle mix-ins onto the top of the ice cream before adding the second half of the cake. This is a great way to add extra flavor and texture to your ice cream sandwiches.
How do I store ice cream sandwiches with cake mix?
Ice cream sandwiches with cake mix are best stored in the freezer to keep the ice cream from melting. To store, simply place the assembled sandwiches in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag. You can also wrap each sandwich individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil for easier storage.
When storing ice cream sandwiches with cake mix, it’s also a good idea to label the container or bag with the date and contents. This will help you keep track of how long the sandwiches have been stored and ensure that you use the oldest ones first.
Can I make ice cream sandwiches with cake mix ahead of time?
Yes, you can make ice cream sandwiches with cake mix ahead of time. In fact, this is a great way to prepare for a party or special event. To make ahead, simply assemble the sandwiches as desired and store them in the freezer until ready to serve.
When making ice cream sandwiches with cake mix ahead of time, it’s a good idea to assemble the sandwiches just before freezing. This will help prevent the cake from becoming soggy or the ice cream from melting. You can also make the cake mix “buns” ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours.
Are ice cream sandwiches with cake mix suitable for special diets?
Ice cream sandwiches with cake mix can be adapted to suit special diets, but it depends on the ingredients used. For example, if you’re using a gluten-free cake mix, the sandwiches will be suitable for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity. If you’re using a dairy-free ice cream, the sandwiches will be suitable for those with dairy allergies or intolerances.
To make ice cream sandwiches with cake mix suitable for special diets, simply choose ingredients that fit within the dietary restrictions. You can also consider using alternative sweeteners, such as honey or maple syrup, to reduce the sugar content of the sandwiches.