Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe
If you’re ready to level up your dessert game and dazzle literally everyone you know, these Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches are about to become your go-to treat! Imagine ultra-fudgy brownies hugging lusciously creamy ice cream in every single bite—chocolatey, cool, and utterly irresistible. It’s the kind of dessert that draws “wow” reactions, perfect for parties, summer picnics, or simply spoiling yourself. Let’s dive into how to make Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches that will be the star of your dessert table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s amazing about Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches is how classic, pantry-friendly ingredients can transform into a magical treat. Each plays a starring role—some bring that signature deep chocolate flavor, others ensure a crave-worthy texture, and the ice cream? Well, it’s the creamy crown jewel.
- Unsalted butter: Provides richness and ensures our brownies are tender and chewy rather than dry.
- Granulated sugar: Gives sweetness and helps create that shiny, classic brownie top.
- Light brown sugar: Adds a subtle molasses depth and keeps brownies extra moist.
- Large eggs: At room temperature, eggs hold everything together and add just the right amount of fudge factor.
- Vegetable oil: Boosts moisture and guarantees melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Pure vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate, deepening flavors throughout.
- All-purpose flour: Forms the structure while keeping everything oh-so-soft and satisfying.
- Cocoa powder: The star for all the rich, dark, chocolatey flavor we crave in brownie ice cream sandwiches.
- Salt: Balances flavor, making the chocolate shine without being overwhelming.
- Your favorite ice cream (about 1.5 quarts): Pick whatever flavor makes you happiest—vanilla, strawberry, peanut butter swirl, or go wild with coffee or cookies and cream!
How to Make Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches
Step 1: Prep Your Pans and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease two 8×8 pans with butter or a quick spritz of baking spray, then line the bottom and sides with parchment—leave a generous overhang, about 4-6 inches, so you can lift the brownies out easily later. This simple prep step makes the whole sandwich assembly a breeze.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a medium bowl, mix the melted butter with both sugars using a hand mixer on medium speed. The combination of melted butter and sugars is the secret to getting brownies that are both fudgy and have that signature crackly top!
Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This ensures the batter stays silky and holds together for thick, indulgent brownies—the best foundation for any Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches.
Step 4: Bring in the Oil and Vanilla
Mix in the vegetable oil and pure vanilla extract. These ingredients add even more moisture and richness, bringing forward the chocolate and giving every bite a little extra love.
Step 5: Whisk and Add Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, stir together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Reduce your mixer’s speed, then add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture in intervals. Gently mix until just combined; this keeps your brownies soft, not tough.
Step 6: Divide and Spread the Batter
Pour half the brownie batter into each prepared pan. Use a rubber spatula to spread it evenly, making sure every corner gets attention. An even layer bakes up perfectly flat, ideal for sandwiching ice cream later!
Step 7: Bake to Fudgy Perfection
Bake both pans for 30 to 40 minutes. Check with a toothpick—you’re aiming for it to come out just barely clean. Overbaking can dry out brownies, so keep an eye out for that magical sweet spot.
Step 8: Cool and Set the Brownies
Once out of the oven, let the brownies cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, use the parchment overhangs to lift them from the pans onto a cooling rack. Only peel the parchment from ONE half—the other half will cradle your ice cream. Let both brownie slabs cool to room temperature.
Step 9: Soften the Ice Cream
Remove your ice cream from the freezer and let it soften on the counter for 5-10 minutes. You want it easily spreadable, not soupy.
Step 10: Assemble the Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches
Place the first brownie half (with parchment) back into the pan. Scoop and gently spread your softened ice cream over the brownie, smoothing it into a thick, dreamy layer. Use as much or as little as you like—the more, the merrier!
Step 11: Top and Freeze
Invert the second brownie half over the ice cream, sandwiching everything together. Gently press for evenness, then cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap. Pop the whole pan in the freezer for at least 6 hours (overnight is absolute perfection), giving the sandwich time to set firm for clean, easy slicing.
Step 12: Slice and Serve
When ready, pull your pan from the freezer and let it thaw for 5-10 minutes. Use the parchment to lift out the whole sandwich block, then slice it into 8 even squares with a sharp, warm knife. Admire your handiwork and get ready to indulge!
How to Serve Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches
Garnishes
For some extra flair, try rolling the edges of your Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches in mini chocolate chips, rainbow sprinkles, or chopped nuts. Drizzle the tops with melted chocolate or a dusting of powdered sugar. Even a few fresh berries alongside ups the wow factor!
Side Dishes
Pair these cool, fudgy sandwiches with a big bowl of summer berries, a simple fruit salad, or even a glass of cold brew coffee. For a party, set them out with lemonade or fruity iced tea for the ultimate crowd-pleasing treat.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the sandwiches into fun shapes using a large cookie cutter or serve bite-sized mini versions with cocktail picks for a kid-friendly dessert tray. You can even layer them, trifle-style, in glass jars for a fun twist on traditional Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches individually in plastic wrap or parchment, then keep in an airtight container in your freezer. They’ll stay delicious for up to two weeks—if you don’t eat them all first! Pull one out whenever you need a sweet pick-me-up.
Freezing
Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches freeze perfectly. After assembly and slicing, wrap them snugly and store in the coldest spot in your freezer. They’ll be ready for a spontaneous dessert night or unexpected guests.
Reheating
While these treats are meant to be eaten cold, if your brownies feel a bit too firm for biting straight from the freezer, let them sit at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. The ice cream softens slightly, and the brownies return to their just-right, perfectly chewy texture.
FAQs
Can I use boxed brownie mix for Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches?
Absolutely! While homemade brownies give you a richer, chewier texture, a good quality box mix can save time and still taste amazing. Just bake in two pans and follow the rest of the instructions as written.
What are the best ice cream flavors for these sandwiches?
Classic vanilla, rich chocolate, or cookies and cream are always winners. But don’t be afraid to play around with salted caramel, peanut butter cup, or coffee—your favorite flavor is the one that works best for you!
How do I keep the ice cream from melting during assembly?
Work quickly and make sure your brownies are completely cooled. If things start to get melty, return the pan to the freezer for 10-15 minutes between steps. Having the ice cream just soft enough to spread but not runny is key.
Can I make Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend. Just be sure your ice cream is gluten-free too and enjoy the same delicious treat with no worries.
How do I get clean, neat slices?
A sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts makes all the difference. You’ll get beautiful, bakery-worthy brownies with crisp edges and perfectly even layers of ice cream—definitely Instagram worthy!
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about homemade Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches—the way fudgy brownies and creamy ice cream come together just feels joyful. Whether you’re sharing at a summer cookout or sneaking a midnight treat, I hope this recipe brings a smile to your face. Don’t wait to give them a try!
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Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe
- Total Time: 7 hours
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate treat with these Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches. Rich, fudgy brownies sandwich a generous layer of your favorite ice cream for a decadent dessert that is sure to impress.
Ingredients
Brownie:
- 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
Ice Cream Filling:
- 1.5 qts favorite ice cream flavor
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and line two 8×8-inch pans.
- Mix sugars and butter: Combine melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a bowl. Mix with a hand mixer.
- Add eggs: Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Blend in oil and vanilla: Mix in vegetable oil and vanilla extract.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
- Incorporate dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet mixture, mixing until fully combined.
- Bake: Divide batter between pans and bake for 30-40 minutes.
- Cool and assemble: Cool brownies, spread ice cream over one layer, top with the other layer, and freeze for at least 6 hours.
- Serve: Thaw slightly, cut into squares, and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking, Freezing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 45g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
Keywords: Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches, Ice Cream Brownies, Dessert Recipe
