Chocolate Chip Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches are a decadent dessert made by sandwiching a scoop of creamy ice cream between two chewy, golden-brown chocolate chip cookies. The combination of warm, gooey cookies and cold, creamy ice cream creates a textural and flavor explosion in every bite. Whether you make them from scratch or with a shortcut or two, they’re perfect for summer parties, birthday celebrations, or a just-because indulgence.
1. What Are Chocolate Chip Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches?
At their core, Chocolate Chip Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches combine two of the most beloved desserts: cookies and ice cream. The idea is simple but brilliant—create a handheld dessert where ice cream is encased between two soft-yet-sturdy cookies, then frozen until firm enough to hold its shape but still tender enough to bite into.
You can make everything from scratch, use store-bought cookies, or mix and match ice cream flavors for exciting combinations. Best of all, they’re easy to customize, make ahead, and serve at just about any occasion.
Why they’re amazing:
- Portable and mess-free (well… sort of)
- A guaranteed crowd-pleaser
- Freezer-friendly and great for prepping in bulk
- Perfect blend of warm + cold, chewy + creamy
2. How to Make Chocolate Chip Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the cookies (homemade option):
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
For the filling:
- 1 to 1 ½ quarts ice cream (any flavor—vanilla, chocolate, cookie dough, strawberry, etc.)
- Optional: mini chocolate chips, sprinkles, crushed nuts (for rolling edges)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Make the Cookies
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream the butter and sugars until fluffy.
- Add eggs and vanilla, mixing well.
- Mix in flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir in chocolate chips.
- Drop dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet using a cookie scoop.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, until edges are golden but centers still soft.
- Cool completely before using for sandwiches.
- Soften the Ice Cream
Let the ice cream sit out for 10–15 minutes to soften slightly. It should be easy to scoop but not melted. - Assemble the Sandwiches
- Pair cookies of similar size.
- Place a generous scoop of ice cream on the bottom of one cookie.
- Gently press another cookie on top to form a sandwich.
- Press lightly to spread the ice cream evenly to the edges.
- Add Toppings (Optional)
Roll the sides in mini chocolate chips, sprinkles, crushed Oreos, or chopped nuts. - Freeze Until Firm
Place sandwiches on a baking sheet and freeze for at least 1–2 hours before serving. Wrap in plastic wrap for long-term storage.
Tips for the Best Ice Cream Sandwiches:
- Use slightly underbaked cookies for a softer bite after freezing.
- Match cookie size and thickness to prevent lopsided sandwiches.
- Use an ice cream scoop or spatula for consistent filling.
3. Healthier Swaps and Benefits (Yes, Really)
While this is clearly a treat, you can tweak the recipe for a lighter or allergy-friendly version:
Healthier Modifications:
- Use whole wheat flour or oat flour in the cookies
- Substitute Greek yogurt-based ice cream or dairy-free alternatives
- Reduce sugar or use coconut sugar
- Add chopped nuts or oats for a fiber boost
Potential Nutritional Wins:
- Calcium from the ice cream (especially in dairy-based or fortified non-dairy versions)
- Antioxidants from dark chocolate chips
- Controlled portions—you know exactly what’s inside when you make them at home
4. Creative Variations of Chocolate Chip Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches
Once you’ve mastered the basics, get creative with flavor and texture combinations:
Flavor Twist Ideas:
- Cookies & Cream: Use Oreo-stuffed cookies and cookies-and-cream ice cream
- Peanut Butter Cup: Use peanut butter cookies with chocolate ice cream and peanut butter drizzle
- Salted Caramel Crunch: Add a caramel swirl and sprinkle flaky sea salt before freezing
- Red Velvet: Use red velvet cookies and cream cheese ice cream
- S’mores Style: Add a layer of marshmallow fluff and use graham-flavored cookies
Diet-Friendly Options:
- Vegan: Use egg-free cookies and coconut milk-based ice cream
- Keto/Low-Carb: Almond flour cookies + low-carb ice cream sweetened with erythritol
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour or pre-made GF cookie dough
5. Pairing and Serving Suggestions
These sandwiches are versatile, and how you serve them can turn a good treat into a great experience.
Serving Ideas:
- Stack them on a platter and serve like sliders at a party
- Serve with hot fudge or caramel drizzle
- Plate with fresh berries or a dusting of cocoa powder
- Wrap in wax paper and tie with string for rustic charm
Drink Pairings:
- Milkshakes or cold brew coffee
- Iced matcha latte for a sophisticated twist
- Sparkling water with citrus as a light refresher
- Hot chocolate in winter for contrast
6. Tips for Storing and Meal Prepping
These are excellent make-ahead desserts for stress-free entertaining or after-dinner treats.
Freezing:
- Once assembled, place in a single layer on a baking tray.
- Freeze for 1–2 hours until solid.
- Wrap each in plastic wrap or wax paper and store in a zip-top freezer bag.
- They’ll keep for up to 2 months.
Thawing:
- Let sit at room temp for 3–5 minutes before serving for easier biting.
Transporting:
- Pack in a small cooler with ice packs if bringing to a party or picnic.
- Keep them wrapped and cold until just before serving.
FAQs About Chocolate Chip Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches
1. Can I use store-bought cookies and ice cream?
Absolutely! It’s a great shortcut. Just choose cookies that are soft but sturdy enough to hold the ice cream without breaking.
2. What’s the best ice cream for sandwiches?
Pick a firm but scoopable variety. Avoid very airy or soft-serve types—they melt too fast. Gelato also works well for a denser bite.
3. Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free flour in the cookie recipe or buy gluten-free cookies. There are also many gluten-free ice cream options available.
4. How do I keep them from getting rock hard in the freezer?
Use slightly underbaked cookies, and let the sandwiches sit out for a few minutes before eating. Wrapping them individually helps maintain moisture.
5. Can I use other cookies besides chocolate chip?
Totally! Sugar cookies, peanut butter cookies, oatmeal raisin, snickerdoodles—go wild with flavor combos.
6. What’s the best way to get perfectly shaped sandwiches?
Use an ice cream scoop and place the scoop on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Press another cookie on top. Use a knife to smooth the edges, then freeze.
7. Can kids help make these?
Yes! This is a super fun and easy recipe for kids. Let them scoop, sandwich, and roll the edges in sprinkles.
8. Can I use mini cookies to make bite-sized versions?
Yes! Mini cookie sandwiches are perfect for parties or portion control. Freeze them in batches and serve on a platter.
9. Do I need a stand mixer to make the cookies?
Nope. A handheld mixer or even a sturdy whisk will do the trick for creaming the butter and sugar.
10. Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free butter and non-dairy chocolate chips for the cookies, and choose coconut milk, almond milk, or oat milk-based ice cream.
Conclusion
Chocolate Chip Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches are more than just a nostalgic treat—they’re the ultimate dessert mashup. Whether you go classic with vanilla and chocolate chips or get creative with flavor and texture combos, they’re always a hit. Make them ahead, freeze a stash for later, or whip them up for a fun weekend project with the kids. However you serve them, they’re guaranteed to deliver big smiles and bigger bites. 🍪🍦❤️