These Easy Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches are a fun treat that your taste buds will love! Picture soft, chewy brownies hugging creamy ice cream, creating the perfect snack.
I can’t resist these goodies, especially when I sneak a bite straight from the freezer. They’re super easy to make—just bake, scoop, and sandwich! Who needs fancy desserts when you have these? 🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal as it allows better control of salt in the recipe. You can substitute with margarine or coconut oil if needed. I personally love the rich flavor butter brings!
Sugar: Granulated sugar gives the brownies sweetness and texture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use coconut sugar or a sugar replacement like erythritol.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder is a must for rich brownie flavor. If you run out, Dutch-processed cocoa can also work. Just ensure it matches the recipe’s acidity needs.
Ice Cream: While vanilla is classic, feel free to mix it up! Chocolate or mint chocolate chip ice cream can add fun flavors. Dairy-free or any nut-free options work as great substitutions too!
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Brownies?
Achieving that perfect brownie texture is easier than you think! Follow these tips:
- Preheat the oven and line your pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- When mixing, avoid over-mixing the batter; this helps keep them chewy.
- Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick—moist crumbs should cling, not wet batter.
- Cooling is key! Let them sit completely before slicing to maintain shape.
Using these suggestions will help you achieve delicious brownies that are ideal for making ice cream sandwiches!
How to Make Easy Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Brownies:
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup (40g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
For the Ice Cream:
- 1 pint (about 2 cups) vanilla ice cream, slightly softened
- 1/3 cup chocolate chips or finely chopped chocolate pieces
Time Needed:
This delightful recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and around 20-25 minutes of baking time. After that, you’ll need to freeze the sandwiches for at least 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to clean up or grab a snack while waiting for the delicious treats to set!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Brownie Batter:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave some overhang to easily lift the brownies out later. Now, melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Once melted, stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet mixture, stirring until everything is just smooth. Be careful not to over-mix, or your brownies might turn out tough!
3. Bake Brownies:
Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes. To check if they are done, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs attached. Once baked, let the brownies cool completely in the pan.
4. Prepare Ice Cream Layer:
While the brownies are cooling, take your slightly softened vanilla ice cream and mix it with the chocolate chips or finely chopped chocolate until they are evenly distributed. This adds an extra delicious chocolatey surprise!
5. Assemble Sandwiches:
Once the brownies have fully cooled, lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper and place them on a flat surface. Carefully slice the brownies horizontally into two equal layers so you have a top and bottom for your sandwiches.
6. Add Ice Cream:
Spread the chocolate chip ice cream mixture evenly over one of the brownie layers. Then, place the other brownie layer on top to form a sandwich. Press down gently to ensure they stick together.
7. Freeze:
Wrap the entire brownie ice cream sandwich block tightly in plastic wrap. This will keep it fresh and ready to enjoy later. Freeze for at least 2 hours until everything is firm and set.
8. Serve:
When ready to serve, cut the block into individual ice cream sandwiches using a sharp knife. For cleaner cuts, you can dip your knife in warm water and wipe it dry before slicing. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious brownie ice cream sandwiches!
These treats are sure to impress your friends and family, and they’re a breeze to make! Enjoy every bite! 🍫🍦
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Alternative Sweeteners in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like erythritol for a lower-calorie option. Just note that this may slightly alter the taste and texture, so take care to follow measurement recommendations for these alternatives.
How Do I Store Leftover Ice Cream Sandwiches?
Store any leftover brownie ice cream sandwiches in an airtight container in the freezer. They will keep well for up to 1 month. To enjoy, simply pull them out and let them sit at room temperature for a couple of minutes before serving for easier slicing!
Can I Add Different Flavors of Ice Cream?
Definitely! While vanilla is delicious, feel free to experiment with other ice cream flavors like mint chocolate chip, cookies and cream, or even coffee. Just make sure the ice cream is slightly softened for easy spreading!
What Should I Do If My Brownies Are Too Crumbly?
If your brownies crumble more than you’d like, try adding a touch of melted butter or a splash of coffee to the brownie batter before baking—it will help keep them moist. Additionally, be sure not to overbake them, as that can lead to a drier texture.
