Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches

In these indulgent Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches, rich fudge brownies and your fave ice cream get sandwiched together to create the perfect Summer treat! These delightful desserts are not only delicious but also versatile, making them ideal for picnics, parties, or simply enjoying at home. The combination of chewy brownies with creamy ice cream creates a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The rich chocolate flavor of the brownies pairs perfectly with your favorite ice cream.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these sandwiches are a breeze to make.
• Versatility: You can customize the ice cream flavor to suit your taste or use what’s on hand.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer BBQ or a cozy night in, these treats fit right in.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare them in advance and keep them frozen until you’re ready to serve.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 2 (8×8 inch) baking pans
• Parchment paper
• Hand mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking pans: Essential for shaping your brownies correctly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes it easy to lift out the brownies after baking.
• Hand mixer: Ensures all ingredients are properly mixed for that perfect brownie texture.
• Cooling rack: Allows air circulation around the brownies for even cooling.

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!

• 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 the oven to 350 degrees. Grease two 8×8 pans with butter or baking spray, then line the bottom with parchment paper, leaving about 4-6” of paper hanging over the sides.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, add melted butter, granulated sugar, and 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 important because it creates the crackled top we all love in brownies.

Step 4: Incorporate Oil and Vanilla

Mix in vegetable oil and pure vanilla extract until fully combined.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Reduce the speed of your mixer before adding this mixture to avoid a mess.

Step 6: Mix Batter

In intervals, add the flour mixture to the wet mixture until all ingredients are incorporated smoothly.

Step 7: Prepare Baking Pans

Add half the brownie batter to each pan. Use a rubber spatula to gently spread it out evenly.

Step 8: Bake Brownies

Bake for 30-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out just barely clean. Be careful not to overbake!

Step 9: Cool Brownies

Remove from oven and allow brownies to cool for about 10 minutes in their pans.

Step 10: Lift Brownies Out

Use parchment paper to carefully lift the brownies out onto a cooling rack. Peel off parchment from one half only. Allow cooling until they reach room temperature.

Step 11: Thaw Ice Cream

Thaw your chosen ice cream flavor for about 5-10 minutes so it’s easier to spread.

Step 12: Assemble Sandwiches

Return one half of the brownie back into its pan (the one still lined with parchment). Spread ice cream over this layer using a large spoon or rubber spatula. Use as much or as little as you like!

Step 13: Top It Off

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

Step 14: Serve

When ready to cut, remove from freezer and let thaw for about 5-10 minutes. Lift out using parchment paper again. Cut into eight even squares and enjoy!

How to Serve Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches

Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches are a delightful treat that can be served in many creative ways. Here are some fun serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

Classic Presentation

• Serve the sandwiches on a chilled plate for an elegant touch.
• Use parchment paper to line the plate, adding a rustic feel.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the top just before serving for extra indulgence.
• Garnish with sprinkles or crushed nuts for added texture.

Accompanied by Fresh Berries

• Serve with a side of fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries.
• The tartness of the berries perfectly balances the sweetness of the ice cream sandwiches.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for a light and airy contrast.
• Consider flavored whipped cream, like vanilla or chocolate, for added flair.

Ice Cream Bar Style

• Set up an ice cream bar where guests can choose their favorite ice cream flavor to use in their sandwiches.
• Include toppings like crushed cookies, nuts, and syrups for customization.

How to Perfect Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches

Creating the perfect Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches is all about technique and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure success.

• Use room temperature eggs: This helps achieve a smooth batter and better incorporation of ingredients.
• Don’t overbake the brownies: Keeping them slightly undercooked ensures they remain fudgy and chewy, which is ideal for sandwiches.
• Let brownies cool completely: This prevents melting when you add the ice cream and helps maintain structure.
• Choose high-quality ice cream: A rich, creamy ice cream enhances the flavor and overall enjoyment of your sandwich.
• Experiment with flavors: Try different ice cream flavors like mint chocolate chip or cookies and cream to mix things up.
• Wrap leftovers properly: Store any leftover sandwiches in plastic wrap or an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Best Side Dishes for Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches

Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their rich flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the brownies.
2. Chocolate Fondue: Serve warm chocolate fondue for dipping fruit or even extra brownie pieces.
3. Ice Cream Floats: Pair these sandwiches with soda floats made from your favorite sodas and ice creams for a fun twist.
4. Milkshakes: Thick milkshakes are perfect companions that enhance the dessert experience.
5. Cookies: Offer a variety of cookies like chocolate chip or oatmeal raisin for an added crunch.
6. Nutty Trail Mix: A mix of nuts and dried fruits gives a healthy balance alongside decadent brownies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Being aware of these can help ensure your dessert turns out perfectly.

• Overbaking the brownies: This can lead to dry brownies. Keep an eye on them and use a toothpick to test for doneness; it should come out with a few moist crumbs.
• Not using room temperature eggs: Cold eggs can prevent the batter from mixing well, affecting texture. Always let your eggs sit out for about 30 minutes before using them.
• Skipping the cooling step: Cutting warm brownies can result in a messy situation. Allow them to cool completely at room temperature before adding ice cream.
• Using too much ice cream: While it might be tempting, overfilling can make the sandwiches messy. Start with a moderate amount and add more if needed once you see how it spreads.
• Not lining the pans properly: Skipping parchment paper can lead to brownies sticking. Always line your pans to ensure easy removal.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days when properly stored.

Freezing Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches

• For longer storage, wrap each sandwich individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped sandwiches in a freezer-safe container or bag; they can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, wrap sandwiches in foil, and heat for about 8-10 minutes for a soft texture.
• Microwave: Heat individual sandwiches on a plate for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 1-2 minutes until soft.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different flavors of ice cream for Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches?

Yes! You can experiment with any flavor you like. Vanilla, mint chocolate chip, or even fruity options work well!

How do I prevent my brownies from sticking?

Make sure to line your baking pans with parchment paper and grease them lightly before pouring in the batter.

Can I make these Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches ahead of time?

Absolutely! These sandwiches are perfect for making ahead of time. Just freeze them until you’re ready to serve.

What is the best way to cut frozen brownie ice cream sandwiches?

Allow them to thaw for about 5-10 minutes before cutting. A sharp knife works best for clean edges.

How many servings does this recipe yield?

This recipe yields about 8 delicious Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches that are perfect for sharing!

Final Thoughts

Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches are not only indulgent but also versatile. You can customize them with various ice cream flavors or even mix-ins like nuts or sprinkles. This dessert is perfect for summer gatherings or cozy nights at home—try making it today!