4th of July Ice Cream Sandwiches

There’s nothing quite like the combination of creamy ice cream nestled between two delightful cookies, especially during the warm summer days of July. That’s why I’m thrilled to share this recipe for July Ice Cream Sandwiches with Red, White, and Blue. Perfect for celebrating Independence Day or simply enjoying on a sunny afternoon, these colorful treats will charm both kids and adults alike. Trust me, when you present these scrumptious sandwiches at your next gathering, they’ll be a huge hit.

Why This Recipe Matters

These July Ice Cream Sandwiches are not only a visual delight with their patriotic colors, but they also embody the spirit of summer fun. Picture this: a warm evening with fireworks, laughter, and the delicious crunch of homemade cookies blending with creamy ice cream. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a celebration in every bite. Plus, this recipe is versatile. You can easily swap out flavors to customize the sandwiches to your liking, making it a perfect staple for any summer occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 pint vanilla ice cream
• 1 pint blue raspberry or blueberry ice cream
• Red sprinkles or crushed strawberries for garnish

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set it aside for later.

Step 2:

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with the granulated and brown sugars until it’s light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3:

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing until fully incorporated after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4:

Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips gently to keep them intact.

Step 5:

Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Leave about two inches between each cookie to allow for spreading.

Step 6:

Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 7:

Once cooled, take one cookie, add a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream, followed by a scoop of blue raspberry or blueberry ice cream, and top it with another cookie to create your sandwich.

Step 8:

Roll the edges in red sprinkles or crushed strawberries to give them a festive look. Serve immediately or freeze for later enjoyment.

Nutritional Information

These July Ice Cream Sandwiches are a delightful treat, but like most desserts, they can be a bit indulgent. Each sandwich provides a perfect balance of sugars and fats, along with a boost of flavors from the cookies and ice cream. A single sandwich contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ice cream variety used. Enjoy with moderation.

Healthier Alternatives

If you want to enjoy these July Ice Cream Sandwiches with a slightly healthier twist, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. You can also swap out the butter for coconut oil or use sugar alternatives like honey or agave nectar. For the ice cream, choose low-fat or dairy-free options, and you can still savor that delicious summer treat without the guilt.

Serving Suggestions

These July Ice Cream Sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh, but they also make a fantastic dessert for picnics or barbecues. Pair them with fresh fruit or serve them alongside a scoop of your favorite sorbet for a colorful dessert platter. Don’t forget to put out some toppings like whipped cream or extra sprinkles for added fun.

Common Mistakes

When making these sandwiches, it’s easy to either underbake or overbake the cookies. Keep an eye on them as they bake to ensure they come out perfectly chewy. Another common mistake is not letting the cookies cool completely before assembling. Warm cookies can cause the ice cream to melt too quickly, leaving you with a messy sandwich.

Storing Tips

To store your July Ice Cream Sandwiches, place them in an airtight container lined with parchment paper in between layers. They can be kept in the freezer for up to two weeks. Just make sure to let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before indulging, as this will bring back that delightful texture.

• Pro tip: Use fun ice cream flavors like cotton candy or strawberry shortcake to change things up each time.
• Pro tip: For a make-ahead option, assemble the sandwiches and individually wrap them in plastic wrap before freezing them.
• Pro tip: Try using different cookie recipes as the base, such as my popular smores cookies for a delicious twist.

FAQs

• Q1: Can I use store-bought cookies for these sandwiches?
  A1: Absolutely; Store-bought cookies can save time, especially if you want to whip up these treats quickly.
• Q2: How can I make these sandwiches dairy-free?
  A2: Simply use dairy-free butter and ice cream alternatives to create a delicious dairy-free version.
• Q3: What’s a good alternative to ice cream for a lighter option?
  A3: Consider using frozen yogurt or sorbet for a refreshing and lighter twist on the classic ice cream sandwich.

These July Ice Cream Sandwiches with Red, White, and Blue are sure to bring smiles and joy to your summer gatherings. So go on, gather the kids or your friends, and bring the celebration to life this 4th of July. Keep this recipe handy; it’s a surefire way to beat the summer heat and indulge in a little nostalgia. If you’re also in the mood for more sweet treats, check out my recipe for decadent brownie truffles; they’re a delight. Happy baking!

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