Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwich Recipe: A Perfect Summer Treat

Summer is a time for indulging in refreshing desserts that not only cool you off but also satisfy your sweet cravings. One such treat that combines the best of both worlds is the Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwich. Whether you’re hosting a summer party or simply looking for a fun way to beat the heat, this delicious treat is sure to be a hit. The perfect balance of homemade strawberry ice cream sandwiched between buttery shortbread cookies creates an irresistible flavor and texture combination that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

In this article, we’ll guide you step by step through the Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwich recipe. You’ll learn how to make fresh strawberry ice cream, create melt-in-your-mouth buttery shortbread cookies, and assemble the perfect ice cream sandwiches recipe. Let’s dive in and get started on making this irresistible summer fruit dessert!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Fresh Strawberry Ice Cream:

Fresh Strawberries – 2 cups (hulled and chopped)
Heavy Cream – 1 ½ cups
Whole Milk – 1 cup
Sugar – ¾ cup
Vanilla Extract – 1 tsp
Strawberry Powder – 1 tbsp (for an extra burst of strawberry flavor, optional)

For the Buttery Shortbread Cookies:

All-Purpose Flour – 2 ½ cups
Butter – 1 cup (cold, cut into cubes)
Powdered Sugar – ½ cup
Vanilla Extract – 1 tsp
Salt – ½ tsp

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Fresh Strawberry Ice Cream

The key to a great strawberry ice cream sandwich lies in the ice cream itself. While store-bought options may be convenient, making homemade strawberry ice cream ensures a fresher, creamier treat that’s just bursting with flavor.

Prepare the Strawberries: Start by washing and hulling the strawberries, then chop them into small pieces. Place the chopped strawberries into a bowl and add 2 tablespoons of sugar. Allow the strawberries to sit for about 10-15 minutes to release their juices. Afterward, use a fork or a potato masher to gently mash the strawberries into a chunky puree.
Make the Ice Cream Base: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the whole milk and remaining sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved. Then, add the heavy cream and vanilla extract and mix until combined. If you want a more intense strawberry flavor, add 1 tablespoon of strawberry powder to the mixture. The powder enhances the strawberry taste and gives the ice cream a vibrant color.
Combine the Strawberry Puree with the Ice Cream Base: Pour the mashed strawberry mixture into the ice cream base, mixing well to combine. The creamy, fruity base is now ready to be churned.
Churn the Ice Cream: Follow the instructions on your ice cream maker for churning the mixture. Typically, the mixture will take 20-30 minutes to thicken and turn into a creamy texture.
Freeze the Ice Cream: Once the ice cream reaches a soft-serve consistency, transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the freezer for about 4-6 hours or until it firms up completely.

Step 2: Bake the Buttery Shortbread Cookies

While your homemade strawberry ice cream is freezing, it’s time to prepare the buttery shortbread cookies that will perfectly complement the rich ice cream. Shortbread cookies have a light and crumbly texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy ice cream.

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cold butter and powdered sugar. Use a hand mixer or a stand mixer to cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and mix again. Gradually add all-purpose flour and salt to the mixture and blend until just combined. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
Roll the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out to about ¼-inch thickness. Using a round cookie cutter (about 3 inches in diameter), cut out cookie shapes. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies for 15-18 minutes, or until they are lightly golden around the edges. Remove them from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 3: Assemble the Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwich

Now comes the fun part: assembling the strawberry ice cream sandwich! This is where the magic happens as you combine the buttery shortbread cookies with the rich fresh strawberry ice cream.

Scoop the Ice Cream: Once the strawberry ice cream is fully frozen, take it out of the freezer and let it sit for a few minutes to soften slightly. This makes it easier to scoop and spread between the cookies.
Assemble the Sandwiches: Take one buttery shortbread cookie and scoop a generous portion of homemade strawberry ice cream onto it. Place a second shortbread cookie on top and gently press down to flatten the sandwich slightly. Repeat this process with the remaining cookies and ice cream.
Freeze the Sandwiches: Once all the sandwiches are assembled, place them back in the freezer for about 1-2 hours to firm up. This step helps the ice cream set so it doesn’t melt immediately when you take a bite.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Your strawberry ice cream sandwiches are now ready to be enjoyed! These make the perfect dessert for hot summer days, backyard barbecues, or even just a casual family treat. The combination of fresh strawberry ice cream and buttery shortbread cookies is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

If you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can also roll the sides of the ice cream sandwiches in crushed nuts, mini chocolate chips, or even more strawberry powder for an added layer of flavor and texture.

Tips for Perfecting Your Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwiches

Make Ahead: You can make both the fresh strawberry ice cream and buttery shortbread cookies in advance. The ice cream can be stored in the freezer for up to two weeks, and the cookies will stay fresh for several days in an airtight container.
Strawberry Powder: If you’re looking for a way to intensify the strawberry flavor without using artificial flavorings, strawberry powder is a fantastic option. It’s made from freeze-dried strawberries and can be easily incorporated into both the ice cream and cookies.
Try Other Fruits: While strawberry ice cream is the star of this recipe, feel free to experiment with other summer fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or peaches for a fun twist on the classic ice cream sandwich.
Vary the Cookie: If you’re not a fan of shortbread, try using other types of cookies, such as chocolate chip, oatmeal, or even coconut macaroons. The key is to pick a cookie that will hold up well against the ice cream.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking for a lighter version of this summer fruit dessert, here are a few substitutions you can make:

Low-fat Cream: Use low-fat or non-dairy alternatives like almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free version of homemade strawberry ice cream.
Reduce the Sugar: You can cut back on the sugar in both the ice cream and the cookies, or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
Whole Wheat Flour: Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier take on the shortbread cookies.

Why Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwiches are the Perfect Summer Dessert

The Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwich is the epitome of a summer fruit dessert. Fresh strawberries are in season, and their natural sweetness combined with the creamy richness of homemade ice cream creates an irresistible combination. The buttery shortbread cookies add the perfect amount of crunch, offering a delightful contrast to the smooth and creamy ice cream. Whether enjoyed as an after-dinner treat or a midday snack, this dessert is sure to make your summer sweeter.

Plus, the Ice Cream Sandwich Recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize it to your tastes or dietary preferences. With just a few ingredients and a bit of creativity, you can make a delicious, homemade dessert that your family and friends will rave about all summer long.

Final Thoughts

Now that you have the complete guide to making the perfect Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwich, it’s time to get in the kitchen and treat yourself to this incredible summer fruit dessert. With fresh strawberry ice cream, buttery shortbread cookies, and a dash of creativity, you can create a treat that’s not only delicious but also the perfect way to cool off during those hot summer days. So, grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the sweet taste of summer with this simple yet indulgent treat!