If you have a sweet tooth and an adventurous spirit, you are going to absolutely love The Ultimate Cookie Dough Ice Cream Sandwich Recipe. Imagine biting into perfectly soft, homemade cookie dough-infused ice cream nestled between two classic chocolate chip cookies—a luxurious combination that brings together the best of both worlds. This recipe is not just any dessert; it’s a celebration of creamy, rich ice cream mixed with chewy chunks of cookie dough and melty chocolate chips, promising a delightfully indulgent treat that feels as comforting as a warm hug. Ready for a dessert experience that will quickly become a new favorite? Let’s dive right in!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every element in The Ultimate Cookie Dough Ice Cream Sandwich Recipe is thoughtfully chosen to create the perfect balance of flavors and textures. From the creamy half-and-half to the chocolate chips that add bursts of sweetness, each ingredient plays an important role in crafting a tasty masterpiece.
- Unsalted butter, 1 stick: Softened for a creamy, rich cookie dough base without added saltiness.
- Granulated sugar, 2 tbsp: Adds subtle sweetness and helps achieve that perfect cookie dough texture.
- Brown sugar, ⅓ cup, packed: Introduces a deep caramel flavor and moisture to the dough.
- Whole milk, 2 tbsp: Provides moisture and lightness to the cookie dough.
- Vanilla extract, 1 tsp + 2 tbsp: Enhances the overall sweetness and aroma of both dough and ice cream.
- Flour, 1 ¼ cups: Forms the structure of the dough, giving it that perfect chew.
- Kosher salt, ¼ tsp: Balances sweetness and elevates the chocolate flavor.
- Semisweet chocolate chips or disks, 1 ⅓ cups, divided: For chocolatey goodness both inside the dough and sprinkled throughout the ice cream.
- Half-and-half, 4 cups: The creamy base that makes the ice cream irresistibly smooth.
- Sweetened condensed milk, 1 can (14 ounces): Adds richness and natural sweetness, helping create a luscious ice cream texture.
- Chocolate chip cookies, 36 pieces: The classic sandwich exterior, either store-bought or homemade, that holds everything together.
How to Make The Ultimate Cookie Dough Ice Cream Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Cookie Dough Preparation
Start by creaming the softened unsalted butter with granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy—this is key to ensuring a soft, spreadable dough. Next, add the whole milk and vanilla extract, mixing gently. Incorporate the flour and kosher salt until everything comes together into a smooth dough. This cookie dough will soon become the heart of your ice cream.
Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough for Ice Cream
Divide your dough carefully: set aside a third without chocolate chips to freeze on a sheet, which will act as your melted ice cream base later. Stir ⅓ cup of chocolate chips into the remaining dough and freeze it until firm. Once the plain dough is frozen, cut it into small, tempting squares that you’ll mix into the ice cream for irresistible chewy bites.
Step 3: Make the Ice Cream Base
In the microwave, gently melt the frozen plain cookie dough until soft but not fully liquid. Combine this with the half-and-half, sweetened condensed milk, and the additional vanilla extract in a large bowl, whisking until smooth and luscious. Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions—almost done!
Step 4: Add Cookie Dough Chunks and Chocolate Chips
When the ice cream has about a minute left in the churning cycle, fold in the frozen cookie dough chunks and the remaining chocolate chips. These additions create pockets of joy in every scoop, offering that wonderful contrast of texture that makes this recipe truly ultimate.
Step 5: Final Freezing
Transfer your freshly churned ice cream to a container and lovingly top it with extra cookie dough and chocolate chips for added flair and flavor. Freeze the mixture for 4 to 6 hours, or overnight if you can wait, until it firms up perfectly.
Step 6: Assemble the Sandwiches
Now for the fun part. Scoop about ⅓ cup of your decadent cookie dough ice cream onto one chocolate chip cookie, then gently press another cookie on top to form your sandwich. Repeat this process for a total of 18 heavenly ice cream sandwiches.
Step 7: Freeze the Sandwiches
Place the assembled sandwiches on a baking sheet and freeze them for at least 1 to 2 hours. This step is crucial for ensuring the ice cream stays firm and the sandwich holds together perfectly when you’re ready to dig in.
How to Serve The Ultimate Cookie Dough Ice Cream Sandwich Recipe
Garnishes
Serving The Ultimate Cookie Dough Ice Cream Sandwich Recipe with a sprinkle of extra chocolate chips, mini cookie crumbs, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce elevates the presentation and adds an extra layer of flavor that your guests will adore. A light dusting of powdered sugar can bring that bakery-fresh vibe straight to your kitchen table.
Side Dishes
Pair these delightful sandwiches with a scoop of simple vanilla ice cream or a small bowl of fresh berries. The fruity brightness provides a lovely counterpoint to the richness of the cookie dough and chocolate, making your dessert plate feel balanced and well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, create a DIY ice cream sandwich bar, letting friends choose their own cookie and ice cream combos or toppings like sprinkles, crushed nuts, and fudge sauce. You can also cut sandwiches into smaller “slider” sizes for bite-sized indulgences, perfect for sharing without the guilt.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any extra assembled sandwiches in an airtight container, layered between parchment paper, in your freezer. This simple step will keep them fresh and prevent them from sticking together, so you can enjoy your dessert anytime without a fuss.
Freezing
If you want to make The Ultimate Cookie Dough Ice Cream Sandwich Recipe ahead of time, freezing is your best friend. After assembling, freeze sandwiches for at least 2 hours, then keep them wrapped individually in plastic wrap or foil for up to one week to maintain maximum freshness and flavor.
Reheating
Because these are best enjoyed frozen, reheating is not recommended. However, for a slightly softened treat that’s easier to bite into, let your sandwich sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes before serving. This short wait allows the ice cream to soften just enough without losing that perfect ice cream sandwich texture.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought cookie dough for this recipe?
Absolutely! While homemade cookie dough adds a special touch, using store-bought dough can save time and still produce delicious results. Just be sure it’s safe to eat raw or intended for no-bake use.
What if I don’t have an ice cream maker?
You can still enjoy this recipe by using the no-churn method: blend the melted cookie dough mixture well, freeze it until firm, stirring every 30 minutes during the initial freezing to incorporate air and break up ice crystals.
Can I substitute the half-and-half with another dairy or non-dairy product?
Half-and-half is ideal for that creamy texture, but you can try whole milk or a blend of milk and cream. For non-dairy alternatives, coconut milk or almond milk work, though they may change the flavor and creaminess slightly.
How long do these ice cream sandwiches last in the freezer?
Stored properly in an airtight container, your ice cream sandwiches can last up to one week without losing flavor or texture. Beyond that, ice crystals may form and impact the experience.
What’s the best way to handle ice cream sandwich assembly without melting or mess?
Keep your ice cream slightly firm but scoopable—chill your cookie chip cookies as well. Work quickly in a cool environment, and use a spoon or spatula to smooth the ice cream evenly before pressing the second cookie on top.
Final Thoughts
Making The Ultimate Cookie Dough Ice Cream Sandwich Recipe is like crafting a little piece of heaven that’s perfect for sharing or indulging solo. Its combination of luscious ice cream, chewy cookie dough, and classic chocolate chip cookies will win hearts every single time. Give this recipe a try and treat yourself—you deserve a scoop of happiness today and always!
Print
The Ultimate Cookie Dough Ice Cream Sandwich Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 18 servings (sandwiches) 1x
Description
A decadent and delicious homemade ice cream sandwich featuring rich cookie dough chunks folded into creamy vanilla ice cream, sandwiched between classic chocolate chip cookies. This treat combines the irresistible flavors of homemade cookie dough and smooth ice cream, perfect for a crowd or special dessert.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 stick unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp whole milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ¼ cups flour
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 ⅓ cups semisweet chocolate chips or disks (divided)
Ice Cream Base
- 4 cups half-and-half
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 ounces)
- 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
Assembly
- 36 chocolate chip cookies (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Cookie Dough Preparation: Cream the softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the milk and vanilla extract, mixing well. Gradually incorporate the flour and kosher salt until the dough forms.
- Prepare Cookie Dough for Ice Cream: Divide the dough; take one-third and freeze it without adding chocolate chips. To the remaining dough, stir in ⅓ cup of chocolate chips and freeze this dough on a sheet. Once the plain dough is frozen, cut it into small squares to use later as mix-ins for the ice cream.
- Ice Cream Base Preparation: Melt the portion of cookie dough that does not contain chocolate chips in the microwave until smooth. In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted cookie dough with half-and-half, sweetened condensed milk, and 2 tablespoons of vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Churn the Ice Cream: Pour the ice cream base into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. One minute before the churning is complete, add the frozen cookie dough chunks and the remaining chocolate chips to incorporate.
- Freeze the Ice Cream: Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe pan. Top with additional cookie dough pieces and chocolate chips to enhance texture. Freeze the ice cream for 4 to 6 hours or overnight to firm up.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Place a scoop (about ⅓ cup) of the prepared ice cream between two chocolate chip cookies. Gently press them together to form a sandwich.
- Freeze the Sandwiches: Place the assembled ice cream sandwiches in the freezer for 1 to 2 hours to ensure the ice cream firms up and the sandwiches hold together well before serving.
Notes
- Use high-quality half-and-half and vanilla extract for the best flavor.
- If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can freeze the mixture in a container and stir every 30 minutes until creamy.
- Store-bought cookies save time, but homemade chocolate chip cookies add a fresher taste.
- Make sure the cookie dough chunks are well frozen before adding them to the ice cream to prevent melting.
- For easier scooping, let the ice cream soften for a few minutes at room temperature before assembling.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Ice Cream Maker (Churning)
- Cuisine: American
