If summer bliss could be summed up in one treat, it would be Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches. Thick, fudgy brownie layers hug creamy vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert that feels as nostalgic as it does indulgent. Whether you make them for a backyard party, a birthday surprise, or just to satisfy a Tuesday night craving, these sandwiches prove that comfort and celebration belong together in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best part about these Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches is that every ingredient plays a crucial role. From the rich, chocolatey base to the cool, creamy center, each element is pure joy. Here’s what you need and why it matters:
- Butter (1 cup, unsalted, melted): Adds richness that makes the brownies ultra moist and delivers that signature fudgy texture.
- Granulated Sugar (2 cups): Sweeter than sweet! Sugar lends both flavor and those classic shiny, crinkly edges everyone adores.
- Eggs (4 large, room temperature): Eggs provide structure and extra chew, ensuring every bite holds up to the ice cream layer.
- Pure Vanilla Extract (1 tablespoon): Boosts the complexity of the chocolate and gives a warm, inviting depth.
- All-Purpose Flour (1 cup): Just enough to bind the brownies – don’t overdo it, or you’ll lose that irresistible gooeyness.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (1 cup): Brings the bold cocoa flavor, setting the stage for brownie bliss.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the other flavors and keeps things from getting too sweet.
- Vanilla Ice Cream (1/2 gallon, slightly softened): The cool, creamy center – classic vanilla lets the brownies shine, but feel free to play here!
- Parchment Paper: For easy lift-out and clean layers, don’t skip this step – it’s a lifesaver for assembly.
How to Make Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave an overhang for easy removal. This single step ensures nothing sticks and you’ll have perfectly shaped Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches later.
Step 2: Whisk Up the Brownie Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until they’re smooth and glossy. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each to create a luscious, thick mixture. Stir in the vanilla extract to add that tempting aroma every good brownie should have.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Sift the flour, cocoa powder, and salt directly into the wet mixture. Fold gently—just enough to incorporate—so you don’t overmix. The goal is fudgy, not cakey, brownies. Fewer stirs mean a denser, chewier result, just right for holding ice cream.
Step 4: Bake and Cool the Brownies
Spread the brownie batter evenly into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until a toothpick inserted comes out with only a few moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan, as trying to rush this part will lead to crumbling during assembly.
Step 5: Slice and Prepare for Ice Cream
Once cooled, carefully lift the brownie slab out using the parchment overhang and transfer it to a cutting board. Slice it in half crosswise to create two equal rectangles. This will be your sandwich “bread.”
Step 6: Layer the Ice Cream
Line your baking pan with fresh parchment paper. Place one brownie half, top side down, into the pan. Spread the softened vanilla ice cream evenly over the brownie layer, using an offset spatula for smooth results. Top with the second brownie half, top side up, and gently press to secure.
Step 7: Freeze and Slice
Cover the whole pan tightly with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until solid. When ready to serve, use the parchment overhang to lift everything out and cut into generous squares for your very own Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches.
How to Serve Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches
Garnishes
Dress up your sandwiches by rolling the edges in sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or crushed nuts. For an extra wow factor, drizzle with melted chocolate right before serving. These extra touches make your Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches as dazzling as they are delicious.
Side Dishes
These sandwiches are the superstar of any dessert table, but they pair perfectly with a simple handful of summer berries or a fresh fruit salad. If you want to go all-in, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a rich hot fudge sauce on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving on a platter lined with parchment, or for a party, wrap each sandwich individually in parchment and tie with a string for a nostalgic, bakery-style touch. For special occasions, cut the sandwiches into fun shapes using large cookie cutters—stars, hearts, or circles—to surprise your guests!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap each leftover Brownie Ice Cream Sandwich individually in plastic wrap, then store them in an airtight container in the freezer. This keeps them fresh and prevents pesky freezer burn, so they’re always ready for a sweet moment.
Freezing
Homemade Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches freeze beautifully. Store them for up to two weeks—just let them sit at room temperature for two minutes before enjoying so the ice cream softens to that perfect, scoopable consistency.
Reheating
No reheating needed! However, if your sandwiches are rock-hard straight out of the freezer, give them a couple of minutes on the counter. If you want to get creative, briefly torch or broil the brownies alone for a gooey top before assembling, but it’s entirely optional.
FAQs
Can I use a different ice cream flavor?
Absolutely! Try chocolate, strawberry, coffee, or whatever you’re craving. Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches are endlessly customizable to match your mood or your guests’ favorites.
My brownies crumbled when assembling—what went wrong?
If the brownies crumble, they might have been a little overbaked or not completely cooled before assembly. Cooling fully and being gentle when handling are key for neat, sturdy sandwiches.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour. Just be sure the texture is similar—fudgy is best—to support the ice cream.
How can I slice the sandwiches cleanly?
Run a sharp knife under hot water, dry it, and slice. Wipe the blade and rewarm between cuts for those perfect, bakery-style Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches squares.
Is it possible to double the recipe?
Definitely! Just bake in two pans or in batches. These sandwiches are a hit for crowds, and they store so well that having extras never hurts.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for an unforgettable summer treat, make these Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches your go-to. They’re inviting, nostalgic, and satisfy every chocolate-and-ice-cream craving with style. Gather your loved ones and enjoy—after all, every bite is a reason to celebrate!
Print
Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 sandwiches 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate summer treat with these homemade Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches. Rich, fudgy brownies sandwiching creamy vanilla ice cream create a decadent dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Brownies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Ice Cream Layer:
- 1/2 gallon vanilla ice cream, slightly softened
- parchment paper for lining
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: Whisk melted butter and sugar in a large bowl until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Sift in flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Fold together until just combined.
- Bake Brownies: Spread batter in pan and bake for 20-25 minutes. Let cool completely.
- Assemble: Slice brownie slab in half, line pan with fresh parchment, layer ice cream, top with second brownie half, press down gently.
- Freeze: Cover and freeze for at least 4 hours.
- Serve: Lift out, cut into squares, and enjoy!
Notes
- For variety, try different ice cream flavors or add sprinkles.
- Dip sandwich edges in melted chocolate for an extra touch.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Freezing, Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
