Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwiches

If you’ve ever dreamed of combining the fresh, fruity sweetness of strawberries with the creamy delight of ice cream in a handheld treat, you’re in luck. Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwiches bring together the best of both worlds in a fun, easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect any time of the year. This recipe lets you create deliciously soft, fruit-forward ice cream sandwiches that are sure to become your new favorite indulgence, whether you’re enjoying them on a sunny afternoon or a cozy evening in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple ingredients: Uses basic, fresh components you likely already have on hand, making this an easy weekend project.
• Refreshing and fruity: The natural sweetness of strawberries makes it perfect for a light yet satisfying treat.
• Customizable: You can easily tweak flavors or textures to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
• No churn needed: Skip the ice cream machine and still enjoy creamy homemade ice cream.
• Perfect portion size: Individually sized sandwiches make serving and sharing effortless.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All you need for these Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwiches are a handful of fresh and pantry staples. Each ingredient plays a crucial role to build that wonderful balance of softness, creaminess, and vibrant flavor that makes this recipe shine.

• Fresh strawberries: The star of the show, bringing bright color and juicy sweetness to the ice cream.
• Heavy cream: Creates rich, smooth ice cream texture that melts beautifully on the tongue.
• Sweetened condensed milk: Adds sweetness without crystallizing, giving the ice cream its perfect consistency.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic note that rounds out the strawberry.
• Soft cookies or biscuits: Act as delicious sandwich holders—choose your favorite for different textures and flavors.

Variations for Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwiches

Once you get comfortable making the classic Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwiches, experimenting with variations is a breeze. These options make it just as easy to switch things up depending on what you crave or what you have in the kitchen.

• Chocolate-dipped cookies: Dip your cookies in melted chocolate before sandwiching for an extra decadence layer.
• Mixed berry blend: Add blueberries or raspberries alongside strawberries for a berry explosion.
• Dairy-free alternative: Use coconut cream and a plant-based condensed milk substitute to make it vegan-friendly.
• Nutty crunch: Roll the edges in crushed nuts like pistachios or almonds for added texture.
• Herbal infusion: Gently fold in fresh mint or basil for an unexpected herbal twist.

How to Make Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwiches

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries

Start by washing and hulling about two cups of fresh strawberries. Purée them in a blender or food processor until smooth. This will give the ice cream a fresh, vivid strawberry flavor and a beautiful pink hue.

Step 2: Whip the Cream

In a chilled mixing bowl, whip one cup of heavy cream until you achieve soft peaks. This airy cream creates the creamy texture that’s essential to the ice cream’s delightfully smooth mouthfeel.

Step 3: Mix Strawberry Purée and Condensed Milk

Gently fold your pureed strawberries and one cup of sweetened condensed milk into the whipped cream. Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to bring a nice depth to the flavor profile. Mix carefully to maintain the airy texture.

Step 4: Freeze the Ice Cream Base

Pour the mixture into a shallow container and cover it tightly. Place it in the freezer for at least 4 to 6 hours, or overnight, until completely firm but scoopable.

Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches

Choose your favorite soft cookies or biscuits—think buttery shortbread or simple sugar cookies. Scoop a generous dollop of the frozen strawberry ice cream onto one cookie, then sandwich it with another cookie pressed gently on top.

Step 6: Final Freeze for Set

Place the assembled sandwiches on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for another 30 minutes to an hour. This helps everything set together nicely, making for a perfect handheld dessert.

Pro Tips for Making Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use ripe strawberries: Makes a flavorful, naturally sweet ice cream base without extra sugar.
• Chill your tools: Cold bowls and beaters help the cream whip faster and fluffier.
• Don’t overmix: Fold ingredients gently to keep the ice cream light and airy.
• Experiment with cookies: Different cookies change the texture and flavor, so try new combos.
• Keep sandwiches tightly wrapped: Use plastic wrap or airtight containers to prevent freezer burn.

How to Serve Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwiches

Garnishes

Enhance your Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwiches with fresh strawberry slices, a drizzle of strawberry sauce, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar to elevate their visual appeal and boost flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair these sandwiches with a small bowl of fresh fruit salad, mint leaves, or a light lemon sorbet to keep things fresh and balanced on the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve on colorful dessert plates with edible flowers or crushed pistachios around the edges for a stunning presentation that’s both fun and elegant.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwiches individually in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the freezer to maintain freshness and prevent ice crystals.

Freezing

For best texture, freeze the assembled sandwiches for at least 4 hours before serving, and keep them frozen until you’re ready to enjoy, limiting thaw time to avoid melting.

Reheating

Ice cream sandwiches are best enjoyed cold; avoid reheating. If too hard, let them sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before serving for easier biting.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen strawberries work well, but be sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before pureeing to avoid watery ice cream.

What kind of cookies are best for these sandwiches?

Soft, sturdy cookies like shortbread, sugar cookies, or chocolate chip cookies hold up best without becoming soggy.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Swap heavy cream with coconut cream and use a vegan-friendly condensed milk alternative for a delicious vegan Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwich.

How long do these sandwiches last in the freezer?

They stay fresh for up to 2 weeks when properly wrapped, though best enjoyed within the first week for optimal flavor and texture.

Is there a way to make these without sugar?

Try using a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup in place of condensed milk and opt for sugar-free cookies to reduce sugar content while maintaining sweetness.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwiches are a delightful treat that bring smiles with every bite. Their simplicity, freshness, and irresistible texture make them perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a personal indulgence. Give this recipe a try—you might just find it your new go-to dessert that brightens any day effortlessly.

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