Top 10 Things to Have for Making Your Own Ice Cream Sandwiches

Few things evoke childhood joy quite like a classic ice cream sandwich. That delightful combination of soft, chewy cookies hugging a creamy layer of ice cream hits all the right notes—cold, sweet, and satisfying. While you can find prepackaged versions in the frozen aisle, making your own ice cream sandwiches at home is not only more delicious, it’s also incredibly fun!

If you're ready to bring the ultimate frozen dessert to life in your own kitchen, you’ll need the right tools. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the top 10 must-have items to make homemade ice cream sandwiches like a pro. Whether you're prepping for a summer treat, a birthday bash, or just a fun weekend project, these tools and ingredients will set you up for success.

1. Ice Cream Maker – The Heart of the Treat

#icecreammaker #homemade #dessert #frozentreats #icecreamtreats

An ice cream sandwich is only as good as the ice cream inside, and nothing beats the flavor and texture of homemade ice cream. A quality ice cream maker is an essential investment if you plan to whip up batches with full control over ingredients and flavor combinations.

Why You Need It:

• Customize your base with flavors like vanilla bean, matcha, or espresso.

• Add in swirls, fruits, or mix-ins like brownie bits or cookie dough.

• Ensure a creamy texture that freezes perfectly between your cookies.

Tips:

• Choose an automatic compressor model for ease, or a freezer bowl version for budget-friendliness.

• Chill your base mix overnight for best results before churning.

2. Cookie Cutters – For Picture-Perfect Shapes

#cookiecutters #icecreamsandwich #cookies #bakingtools

Consistency is key when it comes to cookie size—after all, your ice cream sandwiches need to match up perfectly. Cookie cutters give you the freedom to play with shape and ensure each cookie is identical.

Why You Need Them:

• Ensures uniformity in size and shape.

• Offers creative flair—try stars, hearts, or even custom seasonal shapes.

Pro Tip:

Use the same cookie cutter for both your baked cookies and the ice cream layer (freeze ice cream flat, then cut it to match).

3. Baking Sheets – Your Cookie Foundation

#bakingsheets #baking #cookies #dessert #bakingtools

No homemade ice cream sandwich is complete without a batch of soft-baked cookies, and a good set of baking sheets is essential for even baking and proper structure.

What to Look For:

• Heavy-gauge aluminum for durability and even heat distribution.

• A rimmed edge to avoid spills or melted butter drips.

Bonus Tip:

Use two sheets at once for large batches—one in the oven, one ready to go.

4. Parchment Paper – For Effortless Release

#parchmentpaper #baking #icecreamsandwich #bakingtools

Nothing ruins a perfect cookie like sticking. Parchment paper prevents that, and it also makes cleanup so much easier.

Why It’s Essential:

• Prevents cookies from sticking to the baking sheet.

• Can also be used to layer between ice cream sandwich stacks for storage.

Tip:

Line your baking sheet before baking and your countertop while assembling the sandwiches to reduce mess.

5. Offset Spatula – For Smooth Spreading

#offsetspatula #bakingtools #icecreamsandwich #dessert

An offset spatula is a small but mighty tool when it comes to spreading your freshly churned ice cream into a flat, even layer before cutting it into sandwich-sized slabs.

How It Helps:

• Smooths ice cream into trays or onto cookies without gouging.

• Helps apply soft ingredients like ganache or whipped cream if you’re adding layers.

Extra Tip:

Chill the spatula slightly before use to prevent melting or sticking when working with ice cream.

6. Freezer-Safe Containers – For Smart Storage

#freezercontainers #storage #frozentreats #icecreamtreats

Once your ice cream is churned, you’ll need something to hold it before assembling your sandwiches. Freezer-safe containers are the answer to long-term freshness and reduced freezer burn.

Features to Look For:

• Airtight lids to maintain flavor and texture.

• Shallow, wide shapes for easier spreading and cutting.

Pro Tip:

Line containers with parchment for easier release when you need to slice the ice cream into neat portions.

7. Chocolate & Sprinkles – For Decorative Flair

#chocolate #sprinkles #dessert #icecreamsandwich #frozentreats

The joy of making your own ice cream sandwiches lies in the customization, and nothing says fun quite like a rim of sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or a drizzle of melted chocolate.

Why Include Them:

• Adds texture and pops of color.

• Turns a simple sandwich into a festive treat.

• Makes it fun for kids and party guests.

Creative Ideas:

• Dip half the sandwich in melted dark chocolate.

• Roll sides in rainbow sprinkles, crushed nuts, or cookie crumbs.

8. Ice Cream Scoop – For Portion Control

#icecreamscoop #dessert #icecreamtreats #frozentreats #icecreamsandwich

A reliable ice cream scoop helps you portion out consistent servings, making your sandwiches more uniform and manageable. It’s also great for softening and shaping the ice cream during assembly.

Scoop Styles:

• Trigger-style scoops are great for portion control.

• Spring-loaded scoops provide easy release.

Tip:

Warm your scoop under hot water before use for smoother servings.

9. Rolling Pin – For Uniform Cookie Dough

#rollingpin #cookies #bakingtools #homemade

A rolling pin is essential when you’re working with cookie dough that needs to be flat and even—especially for cutout cookie styles like shortbread or sugar cookies.

Rolling Pin Tips:

• Use a rolling pin with measurement guides to ensure even thickness.

• Lightly flour the surface and pin to prevent sticking.

Tip:

Roll dough between two sheets of parchment paper for mess-free rolling.

10. Cooling Rack – For Perfect Cookie Texture

#coolingrack #cookies #baking #bakingtools #icecreamsandwich

Freshly baked cookies must cool completely before you even think about sandwiching ice cream between them. A cooling rack allows air to circulate, preventing soggy bottoms.

Benefits:

• Prevents overbaking from residual heat.

• Preserves cookie texture—soft, chewy, or crisp, depending on your recipe.

Tip:

Let cookies sit for at least 30 minutes after cooling before assembling, to avoid melting your ice cream.

Bonus: Top Tips for Ice Cream Sandwich Success

1. Timing is Everything

Assemble your sandwiches quickly once you’ve cut your ice cream or scooped it. Work in batches, keeping half in the freezer at all times.

2. Soften Ice Cream Slightly Before Use

Ice cream that’s too hard can crack your cookies. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes at room temperature before working with it.

3. Choose the Right Cookie

Go for cookies that are soft but sturdy—think chocolate chip, oatmeal, red velvet, or brownie cookies. Avoid crisp or crumbly ones that may break.

4. Freeze After Assembling

Place assembled sandwiches on a tray, cover with parchment, and freeze again for at least 2 hours to firm up before serving.

5. Use a Serrated Knife for Clean Cuts

If you’re slicing slabs of ice cream or splitting sandwiches for sharing, a sharp serrated knife does the job best.

DIY Ice Cream Sandwich Flavor Ideas

1. Classic Vanilla + Chocolate Chip

You can’t go wrong with this nostalgic combo.

2. Strawberry Ice Cream + Sugar Cookies + Sprinkles

Perfect for birthdays or Valentine’s Day.

3. Coffee Ice Cream + Brownie Cookies + Chocolate Drizzle

A grown-up twist with a caffeine kick.

4. Mint Chocolate Chip + Chocolate Cookies

Refreshing and cool with a bite of chocolate.

5. Salted Caramel Ice Cream + Snickerdoodle Cookies

Sweet, salty, and cinnamon-spiced perfection.

Why Make Ice Cream Sandwiches at Home?

• Control ingredients: Say goodbye to preservatives and artificial flavors.

• Creative freedom: Mix and match flavors, colors, and decorations.

• Fun activity: Great for parties, kids, and summer weekends.

• Better taste: Homemade cookies and fresh ice cream always taste better.

Final Thoughts

Making your own ice cream sandwiches is an easy and rewarding way to beat the heat while having a blast in the kitchen. With the right tools—like an ice cream maker, cookie cutters, baking sheets, and a cooling rack—you’ll be equipped to create delicious frozen masterpieces that everyone will love.

So gather your ingredients, chill your ice cream, and get creative. Once you’ve mastered these ten essentials, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought again.

Happy sandwiching!

Tags

#icecreammaker
#homemade
#dessert
#frozentreats
#cookiecutters
#bakingtools
#bakingsheets
#cookies
#parchmentpaper
#baking
#offsetspatula
#icecreamsandwich
#freezercontainers
#storage
#chocolate
#sprinkles
#icecreamtreats
#icecreamscoop
#rollingpin
#coolingrack