Chewy brownie ice cream sandwiches are the ultimate indulgence, combining fudgy brownies with creamy ice cream for a deliciously decadent treat. Perfect for warm weather or any time you’re craving a sweet pick-me-up, these sandwiches are as fun to make as they are to eat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Combination: Chewy brownies and creamy ice cream are a match made in dessert heaven.
- Customizable: Use your favorite ice cream flavors to create endless variations.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for parties, barbecues, or a casual family treat.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble in advance and store in the freezer for an easy dessert.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Brownies:
- Unsalted butter (melted)
- Granulated sugar
- Brown sugar
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- All-purpose flour
- Salt
For the Ice Cream Sandwiches:
- Ice cream (your favorite flavor)
Directions
Prepare the Brownies:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two 9×13-inch baking pans with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Make the Brownie Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs and vanilla extract, whisking until fully combined.
- Sift in cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Mix until a smooth batter forms.
- Divide and Bake: Spread the batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the brownies are set but still soft. Let cool completely.
Assemble the Ice Cream Sandwiches:
- Soften the Ice Cream: Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes, or until it’s spreadable.
- Layer the Ice Cream: Place one brownie sheet on a flat surface and spread an even layer of ice cream over the top. Carefully place the second brownie sheet on top, pressing gently to adhere.
- Freeze: Wrap the assembled sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
Cut and Serve:
- Cut Into Squares: Remove the sandwich from the freezer and unwrap. Use a sharp knife to cut into squares or rectangles. Wipe the knife clean between cuts for neat edges.
- Serve Immediately or Store: Serve immediately or wrap individual sandwiches in parchment paper and return to the freezer for later enjoyment.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes 8-10 sandwiches.
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 12 minutes
- Freezing Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 32 minutes
Variations
- Flavor Swaps: Try vanilla, chocolate, mint chip, or strawberry ice cream.
- Add Mix-Ins: Stir chocolate chips, nuts, or crushed cookies into the brownie batter.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the brownies.
- Vegan Option: Use dairy-free butter, eggs, and ice cream for a vegan version.
- Decorate: Roll the sandwich edges in sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or crushed nuts for added flair.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Wrap individual sandwiches in plastic wrap or parchment paper and store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
- Reheating: Serve directly from the freezer; no reheating required.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought brownies?
Yes, store-bought brownies can save time, but homemade brownies offer a chewier texture ideal for sandwiches.
2. How do I prevent the brownies from cracking?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water to cut the sandwiches cleanly without cracking.
3. Can I use a single pan for the brownies?
Yes, bake the batter in one pan, then slice it horizontally to create two layers.
4. What’s the best way to soften the ice cream?
Leave the ice cream at room temperature for 5-10 minutes, or microwave it in 10-second intervals until spreadable.
5. How do I keep the sandwiches from sticking together?
Wrap each sandwich individually in parchment paper or wax paper before freezing.
6. Can I make mini sandwiches?
Absolutely! Use a smaller cutter or slice into smaller portions for bite-sized treats.
7. What type of cocoa powder works best?
Unsweetened cocoa powder is ideal for a deep, chocolatey flavor.
8. Can I add a layer of sauce?
Yes, spread a thin layer of fudge, caramel, or strawberry sauce between the brownies and ice cream.
9. How do I keep the brownies from being too soft?
Ensure the brownies are fully cooled before assembling the sandwiches to prevent melting the ice cream.
10. Can I use a different type of dessert for the sandwich layers?
Yes, cookies, blondies, or even waffles can be used in place of brownies for a fun variation.
Conclusion
Chewy brownie ice cream sandwiches are a perfect treat for any chocolate and ice cream lover. They’re easy to make, customizable, and freezer-friendly, making them an ideal dessert for any occasion. Grab your favorite ice cream flavor, whip up a batch of fudgy brownies, and enjoy this irresistible frozen delight!
Print
Chewy Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 27 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 sandwiches 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These chewy brownie ice cream sandwiches are the ultimate treat for chocolate and ice cream lovers. With rich, fudgy brownie layers and creamy ice cream in the middle, they’re perfect for hot summer days or as a decadent dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Brownie Layers:
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup (35g) cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Filling:
- 1 pint (475ml) of your favorite ice cream (vanilla, chocolate, or any flavor of choice)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch (or similar-sized) square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Make the Brownie Batter:
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, and cocoa powder until smooth.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, and whisk until fully incorporated.
- Stir in the flour and salt until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Bake the Brownies:
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. The layer will be thin.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the brownie is just set but still soft. Let it cool completely in the pan.
- Cut the Brownie Layers:
- Once cooled, carefully lift the brownie out of the pan using the parchment overhang.
- Place the brownie on a flat surface and cut it in half to create two equal layers.
- Prepare the Ice Cream Filling:
- Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to soften slightly.
- Spread the softened ice cream evenly over one brownie layer. Use a spatula to smooth it out.
- Place the second brownie layer on top of the ice cream, pressing down gently.
- Freeze:
- Wrap the assembled sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
- Slice and Serve:
- Once frozen, unwrap and use a sharp knife to cut the sandwich into individual portions. Serve immediately or store in the freezer for later enjoyment.
Notes
- For cleaner cuts, warm your knife by running it under hot water and wiping it dry before slicing.
- Customize the filling with your favorite ice cream flavors or add-ins like sprinkles or chocolate chips.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 week.