Brownie ice cream sandwiches are a sweet treat combining chewy brownies and creamy ice cream. They’re deliciously simple and perfect for any ice cream lover!
Making these is easy and fun! Just bake the brownies, let them cool, and then add your favorite ice cream in between. Who can resist this combo? 🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brownie Mix: A convenient choice, box mixes save time! If you prefer homemade, you can use your favorite brownie recipe. You could also use gluten-free brownie mix for a gluten-free option.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Vanilla is a classic pairing, but feel free to try chocolate, mint, or even cookie dough ice cream for a twist! Dairy-free options like coconut or almond milk ice cream work great too.
Mini Chocolate Chips: These are optional but add extra chocolatey goodness. If you don’t have mini ones, regular chocolate chips work just as well. Nuts can be a fun substitute if you want some crunch.
Additional Chocolate Chips: Using more chocolate chips as a garnish adds a fun touch! Consider rolling the sandwiches in crushed nuts or sprinkles instead for a colorful variation.
How Do I Ensure My Brownies Are Perfectly Baked?
Baking brownies to perfection needs a little attention! You want them soft and fudgy, not overcooked. Here’s how:
- Preheat your oven thoroughly to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
- Check for doneness at 20 minutes. Use a toothpick; it should have a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
- Let them cool completely in the pan before cutting to avoid crumbling.
Once you’ve got the baking down, your sandwiches will be a hit every time! Enjoy making these delicious treats!
How to Make Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Brownie Base:
- 1 box (9×13 size) brownie mix (plus ingredients as per package instructions, typically 2 large eggs, ½ cup vegetable oil, and ¼ cup water)
For the Ice Cream Filling:
- 1 pint vanilla ice cream (or your choice of flavor)
Optional Add-Ins:
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips
- Additional chocolate chips for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 20-25 minutes for baking, and at least 1-2 hours to freeze the sandwiches once assembled. Perfect for a fun afternoon treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Brownies:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. In a mixing bowl, prepare the brownie mix according to the package instructions. If you want, stir in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips for a tasty twist!
2. Bake the Brownies:
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes. To know when they’re done, insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out mostly clean (with just a few moist crumbs), they’re ready! Once baked, take them out and let them cool completely in the pan.
3. Assemble the Ice Cream Sandwiches:
After the brownies have cooled, lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut the brownies into rectangles that are the right size for your ice cream. Take your pint of vanilla ice cream out of the freezer and let it sit for a few minutes to soften. Once it’s scoopable, place a generous scoop of ice cream on one brownie rectangle and top it with another brownie piece to make a sandwich. Press gently so the ice cream spreads to the edges!
4. Add a Special Touch:
If you’d like to make them extra special, roll the sides of the ice cream sandwiches in additional chocolate chips. This step is optional but oh-so-delicious!
5. Freeze and Serve:
Wrap each sandwich in plastic wrap and pop them into the freezer for at least 1-2 hours to let them firm up. Once they’re ready, serve frozen and enjoy your delightful brownie ice cream sandwiches with family and friends!
Can I Use a Different Type of Ice Cream?
Absolutely! You can substitute vanilla ice cream with any flavor you love, such as chocolate, mint, or even fruit-flavored ice cream. Just keep in mind that some flavors may change the overall taste of the sandwich, but they can add a delightful twist!
How Should I Store These Ice Cream Sandwiches?
Keep the assembled sandwiches wrapped individually in plastic wrap in your freezer. They can be stored for up to 2 weeks, but they’re best enjoyed within the first week for optimal freshness and flavor.
What If My Brownies Are Too Soft or Crumbly?
If your brownies seem too soft, they may need a bit more time in the oven. Check them around the 20-minute mark, and remember that a few moist crumbs on the toothpick are okay. If they crumble too much when cut, you can lightly press the pieces together when assembling the sandwich so they hold together better.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Just use a gluten-free brownie mix instead of the regular one. Follow the same instructions, and you’ll have yummy gluten-free brownie ice cream sandwiches that everyone can enjoy!
