The classic ice cream sandwich – a timeless treat that never fails to bring a smile to our faces. Who can resist the allure of a cold, creamy scoop nestled between two soft, chewy cookies? It’s a match made in heaven, and one that’s easy to recreate in the comfort of your own home. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey to create the perfect old fashioned ice cream sandwiches, just like grandma used to make.
The History of Ice Cream Sandwiches
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of making these tasty treats, let’s take a brief look at their history. The concept of ice cream sandwiches dates back to the early 20th century, when street vendors in New York City began selling ice cream sandwiched between two wafers. The idea quickly gained popularity, and soon ice cream sandwiches were being sold at beaches, amusement parks, and other popular destinations.
The Anatomy of an Ice Cream Sandwich
So, what makes an ice cream sandwich truly special? It all comes down to the combination of textures and flavors. A good ice cream sandwich should have:
- A soft and chewy cookie that provides a gentle crunch and a touch of sweetness
- A cold and creamy scoop of ice cream that’s rich in flavor and texture
- A perfect balance of flavors that complements the cookie and ice cream
Choosing the Right Cookies
When it comes to making old fashioned ice cream sandwiches, the type of cookie you use is crucial. You want a cookie that’s soft and chewy, yet sturdy enough to hold its shape when frozen. Here are a few tips for choosing the right cookies:
- Opt for a classic cookie recipe, such as chocolate chip or oatmeal raisin
- Use a combination of white and brown sugar to give your cookies a rich flavor
- Don’t overbake your cookies – you want them to be soft and chewy, not hard and crunchy
Our Favorite Cookie Recipe
Here’s a classic cookie recipe that’s perfect for making old fashioned ice cream sandwiches:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 1 cup |
| White sugar | 3/4 cup |
| Brown sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| Flour | 2 1/4 cups |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Chocolate chips | 1 cup |
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and chocolate chips.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Scoop the dough into balls, about 1 tablespoon each. Place the balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Choosing the Right Ice Cream
When it comes to choosing the right ice cream for your old fashioned ice cream sandwiches, the options are endless. Here are a few tips for selecting the perfect flavor:
- Opt for a classic flavor, such as vanilla or chocolate
- Choose an ice cream with a high fat content, as this will give it a richer flavor and a creamier texture
- Consider using a homemade ice cream recipe, as this will allow you to customize the flavor to your liking
Our Favorite Ice Cream Recipe
Here’s a classic ice cream recipe that’s perfect for making old fashioned ice cream sandwiches:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Heavy cream | 2 cups |
| Whole milk | 1 cup |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
- Remove the mixture from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let it cool to room temperature.
- Cover the mixture and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours, or until it is chilled.
- Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Once the ice cream is churned, transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the freezer to harden for at least 2 hours.
Assembling the Ice Cream Sandwiches
Now that you have your cookies and ice cream, it’s time to assemble the sandwiches. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Scoop the ice cream into balls, about 1 tablespoon each.
- Place a cookie on a flat surface, with the flat side facing up.
- Place a scoop of ice cream on top of the cookie, pressing it gently into place.
- Place another cookie on top of the ice cream, with the flat side facing down.
- Press the cookies gently together, until they are securely attached to the ice cream.
- Repeat the process with the remaining cookies and ice cream.
Tips for Freezing the Ice Cream Sandwiches
Once you’ve assembled the ice cream sandwiches, it’s time to freeze them. Here are a few tips for freezing the sandwiches:
- Place the sandwiches on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they are not touching each other.
- Place the baking sheet in the freezer and freeze for at least 30 minutes, or until the sandwiches are frozen solid.
- Transfer the sandwiches to an airtight container, making sure they are not touching each other.
- Store the sandwiches in the freezer for up to 3 months, or until you are ready to serve them.
Conclusion
Making old fashioned ice cream sandwiches is a fun and rewarding process that’s perfect for hot summer days. With these simple steps and tips, you can create delicious ice cream sandwiches that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So go ahead, get creative, and start churning out your own old fashioned ice cream sandwiches today!
What is the best type of cookie to use for old fashioned ice cream sandwiches?
The best type of cookie to use for old fashioned ice cream sandwiches is a matter of personal preference. However, classic favorites include chocolate chip cookies, oatmeal raisin cookies, and peanut butter cookies. These types of cookies are sturdy enough to hold up to the ice cream without becoming too soggy or falling apart.
When choosing a cookie, consider the flavor and texture you want to pair with your ice cream. For example, if you’re using a rich and creamy ice cream, a cookie with a bit of crunch or spice can provide a nice contrast. On the other hand, if you’re using a lighter and fruitier ice cream, a cookie with a softer texture and milder flavor may be a better match.
How do I keep my cookies fresh for making ice cream sandwiches?
To keep your cookies fresh for making ice cream sandwiches, it’s best to bake them just before assembling the sandwiches. If you need to bake the cookies ahead of time, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours. You can also freeze the cookies for up to 2 months and thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to use them.
If you’re using store-bought cookies, check the packaging for any storage instructions. Some cookies may be more prone to becoming stale or soggy than others, so it’s best to use them within a day or two of opening.
What type of ice cream is best for old fashioned ice cream sandwiches?
The type of ice cream that’s best for old fashioned ice cream sandwiches is a matter of personal preference. However, classic flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry are always popular choices. You can also use more unique flavors like cookie dough, mint chip, or rocky road to add some extra excitement to your ice cream sandwiches.
When choosing an ice cream, consider the flavor and texture you want to pair with your cookies. For example, if you’re using a crunchy cookie, a smooth and creamy ice cream can provide a nice contrast. On the other hand, if you’re using a soft and chewy cookie, a chunkier ice cream with mix-ins can add some extra texture and interest.
How do I assemble old fashioned ice cream sandwiches?
To assemble old fashioned ice cream sandwiches, start by scooping a generous portion of ice cream onto one half of a cookie. You can use a cookie scoop or a spoon to portion out the ice cream, depending on the size of cookie you’re using. Next, place the other half of the cookie on top of the ice cream, pressing gently to adhere the two halves together.
As you assemble the sandwiches, be careful not to press too hard on the cookies, as this can cause them to break or become misshapen. You can also use a bit of pressure to shape the sandwiches into a neat and tidy rectangle, if desired.
Can I customize my old fashioned ice cream sandwiches with mix-ins?
Yes, you can definitely customize your old fashioned ice cream sandwiches with mix-ins. Some popular mix-ins include chopped nuts, sprinkles, chocolate chips, and caramel sauce. You can also use fresh fruit, like strawberries or blueberries, to add some extra flavor and texture to your ice cream sandwiches.
When adding mix-ins, be careful not to overdo it, as this can make the sandwiches difficult to assemble and eat. A good rule of thumb is to use a small handful of mix-ins per sandwich, depending on the size of the cookie and the amount of ice cream you’re using.
How do I store old fashioned ice cream sandwiches?
To store old fashioned ice cream sandwiches, place them in an airtight container in the freezer. You can wrap each sandwich individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place them in a single layer in a container and cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
When storing ice cream sandwiches, be careful not to stack them on top of each other, as this can cause them to become misshapen or stick together. You can also label the container with the date and the type of ice cream and cookies used, so you can easily keep track of how long they’ve been stored.
Can I make old fashioned ice cream sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes, you can make old fashioned 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, assemble the sandwiches and place them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 hours. This will help prevent the cookies from becoming soggy or the ice cream from melting.
If you’re making the sandwiches for a party or special occasion, you can also consider assembling them in batches and storing them in the freezer until you’re ready to serve. Just be sure to label the containers with the date and the type of ice cream and cookies used, so you can easily keep track of how long they’ve been stored.