Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches

In these delightful Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches, rich fudge brownies marry with your favorite ice cream to create a blissful summer treat. Perfect for family gatherings, barbecues, or a sweet indulgence after dinner, these sandwiches combine the best of both worlds: chewy brownies and creamy ice cream. Each bite is an explosion of flavor that will impress everyone from kids to adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of rich chocolate brownies and creamy ice cream makes for an irresistible dessert.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up these sandwiches in no time.
• Customizable: Use your favorite ice cream flavors or mix-ins for a unique twist every time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer party or a cozy night in, these treats fit right in.
• A Crowd-Pleaser: Serve them at gatherings and watch everyone come back for seconds!

Tools and Preparation

To make the perfect Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches, having the right tools is essential. These tools will help streamline your preparation process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Parchment paper
• Baking pans (8×8 inches)
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without spills.
• Hand Mixer: Makes mixing egg and sugar easier, ensuring a fluffy batter.
• Rubber Spatula: Perfect for spreading brownie batter evenly in the pan.
• Parchment Paper: Helps prevent sticking and makes it easy to lift brownies out of the pan.

Ingredients

In these indulgent Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches, rich fudge brownies and your fave ice cream get sandwiched together to create the perfect Summer treat!

Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter (melted)
– 2 1/4 cups granulated sugar
– 1 1/2 cups light brown sugar (packed)
– 6 large eggs (room temperature)
– 3 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 tbsp pure vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups cocoa powder
– 1 1/2 tsps salt
– 1.5 qts fave ice cream flavor (can you use less if you want)

How to Make Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease two 8×8 pans with butter or baking spray. Then line the bottom with parchment paper, allowing about 4-6 inches of paper to hang over the sides.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a medium-sized bowl, add melted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar. Mix with your hand mixer on medium speed until well combined.

Step 3: Add Eggs

Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition to incorporate fully. This step is crucial as it helps create that crackled top we all love in brownies!

Step 4: Mix in Oil and Vanilla

Stir in the vegetable oil and pure vanilla extract until everything is well blended.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Reduce the speed of your mixer before gradually adding this dry mixture into the wet batter.

Step 6: Bake the Brownies

Divide half of the brownie batter into each prepared pan. Use a rubber spatula to spread it evenly. Bake for about 30-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out just barely clean—don’t overbake!

Step 7: Cool Brownies

Once baked, remove from oven and allow brownies to cool for about ten minutes. Carefully lift them out using parchment paper onto a cooling rack while peeling off only one half of the parchment paper. Let them cool until they reach room temperature.

Step 8: Thaw Ice Cream

Thaw your favorite ice cream flavor for about five to ten minutes until it’s spreadable.

Step 9: Assemble Sandwiches

Return one half of the brownie back into its pan (the side with parchment). Spread your desired amount of softened ice cream on top; typically around three-fourths of it works well.

Step 10: Complete Assembly

Invert the second half of the brownie over the ice cream layer. Cover tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and freeze for at least six hours—overnight is even better!

Step 11: Cut and Serve

When ready to serve, remove from freezer and let thaw for five to ten minutes before cutting. Use parchment paper to lift out the entire block carefully and cut into eight even squares. Enjoy your delicious Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches!

How to Serve Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches

Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways to enhance their enjoyment. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet night at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dessert experience.

Classic Presentation

• Cut into Squares: Slice the sandwiches into even squares for easy serving and sharing.
• Garnish with Whipped Cream: Top each sandwich with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness.

Flavor Pairings

• Fresh Berries: Serve with strawberries or raspberries for a fruity contrast that balances the chocolate.
• Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: A drizzle of warm chocolate sauce on top enhances the chocolatey flavor.

Creative Serving Ideas

• Ice Cream Scoop: Place a scoop of ice cream on the side for an extra treat alongside the sandwich.
• Sprinkle Toppings: Add colorful sprinkles or crushed nuts for texture and visual appeal.

How to Perfect Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches

To ensure your Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Eggs: This helps create a smoother batter, leading to better-textured brownies.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your brownies; they should be slightly underbaked to remain fudgy and delicious.
• Let Them Cool Completely: Ensure brownies cool to room temperature before adding ice cream to prevent melting.
• Experiment with Ice Cream Flavors: Try different flavors like mint chocolate chip or caramel swirl for unique combinations.

Best Side Dishes for Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches

Pairing side dishes with your Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches can enhance the overall dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light contrast to the rich brownies.
2. Chocolate Mousse: This creamy dessert complements the brownies’ texture and adds an extra layer of indulgence.
3. Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee pairs beautifully, as the bitterness balances the sweetness of the sandwiches.
4. Vanilla Pudding: Silky vanilla pudding can be served alongside for additional creaminess.
5. Toasted Nuts: Crushed almonds or walnuts add crunch and flavor when sprinkled on top of each sandwich.
6. Milkshake: A thick milkshake creates a fun dipping option that kids and adults alike will enjoy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches can be fun and rewarding, but there are a few common mistakes that could affect the outcome.

• Boldly skipping the cooling step: Allowing brownies to cool is crucial. If you skip this step, the ice cream will melt and make a mess.

• Boldly overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to tough brownies. Mix just until combined for a fudgy texture.

• Boldly ignoring the baking time: Overbaking can dry out brownies. Keep an eye on them, and test with a toothpick early.

• Boldly using hard ice cream: If your ice cream is too hard, it won’t spread easily. Let it soften for 5-10 minutes before assembling.

• Boldly not measuring ingredients properly: Accurate measurements are key to success. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Wrap each sandwich in plastic wrap or foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 5-10 minutes. This warms them without melting the ice cream.

• Microwave: Heat on low power in 10-second intervals until warm. Be cautious to avoid melting the ice cream completely.

• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes while covering with a lid. This method also helps maintain texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches?

Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches are delicious treats made by layering your favorite ice cream between rich fudge brownies.

Can I customize my Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches?

Absolutely! You can use different flavors of ice cream or add toppings like sprinkles or chocolate chips for extra fun.

How long do Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches last?

When stored properly, they last up to 5 days in the refrigerator and up to 2 months in the freezer.

Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make gluten-free Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches.

Are there any alternatives to traditional ice cream?

Yes! You can use dairy-free or vegan ice creams for a different twist on these sandwiches, making them suitable for various dietary preferences.

Final Thoughts

These Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches are not only indulgent but also versatile, allowing you to mix and match flavors according to your taste. Whether it’s summer or any season, give this recipe a try—experiment with different ice creams and toppings to create your perfect treat!