Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches

These Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches are the ultimate treat for any occasion, bringing together rich, fudgy brownies and your favorite ice cream. Perfect for summer gatherings or cozy nights in, they deliver a delightful combination of textures and flavors that everyone will love. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a dessert masterpiece that stands out at parties or just satisfies your sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The rich chocolate brownies paired with creamy ice cream make each bite a heavenly experience.
• Versatile Options: Customize with your favorite ice cream flavor to match any event or mood.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, even beginner bakers can whip up this delicious dessert.
• Perfect for Sharing: Cut into squares for a fun, shareable treat at parties or family gatherings.
• Make Ahead: Prepare in advance and freeze for a convenient dessert option when guests arrive.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Pans: Using two pans ensures even baking and allows you to create layers easily.
• Hand Mixer: This tool helps achieve a well-mixed brownie batter with minimal effort.
• Rubber Spatula: Perfect for spreading the brownie batter evenly in the pan and transferring ingredients without waste.

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!

Ingredients:
– 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 your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease two 8×8 pans with butter or baking spray, then line the bottom with parchment paper. Make sure about 4-6 inches of paper hangs over the sides.

Step 2: Mix the Sugars and Butter

In a medium-sized bowl, add melted butter along with granulated sugar and light brown sugar. Mix using your hand mixer on medium speed until combined.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time to the mixture, mixing thoroughly after each addition. This step is crucial as it helps create that desirable crackled top we all love in brownies.

Step 4: Add Oil and Vanilla

Stir in the vegetable oil and pure vanilla extract until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Reduce the speed of your mixer before adding this dry mixture to avoid flour clouds.

Step 6: Blend Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients until everything is fully incorporated.

Step 7: Bake Brownies

Pour half of the brownie batter into each prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a rubber spatula. Bake them for about 30–40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out just barely clean. Be careful not to overbake!

Step 8: Cool Brownies

Once baked, remove from oven and let cool for about ten minutes. Carefully lift the brownies out using the parchment paper onto a cooling rack—only remove parchment from one half. Allow them to cool completely until they reach room temperature.

Step 9: Thaw Ice Cream

Thaw your chosen ice cream flavor for about five to ten minutes so it becomes easier to spread.

Step 10: Assemble Sandwiches

Return one half of the brownie back to its pan (the one still lined with parchment). Use a large spoon or rubber spatula to spread an even layer of ice cream over this half. You can use as much or as little as you like; typically around three-quarters works great!

Step 11: Top It Off

Invert the second half of brownie on top of the ice cream layer. Cover tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Freeze for at least six hours; overnight yields better results!

Step 12: Serve

When you’re ready to enjoy these Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches, remove them from the freezer and let sit for five to ten minutes before cutting. Use parchment paper to lift out the entire block, then cut into eight even squares. Serve chilled and enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches

Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to enhance their presentation or add a bit more flavor, these serving suggestions will elevate your dessert experience.

Classic Presentation

• Serve the sandwiches on individual plates with a drizzle of chocolate syrup for an extra indulgent touch.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each sandwich for a light and airy contrast to the rich brownies.

Fresh Berries

• Garnish with fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries to add a burst of color and freshness.

A Scoop of Extra Ice Cream

• Place an extra scoop of your favorite ice cream alongside the sandwich for those who crave more creamy goodness.

Dusting of Powdered Sugar

• Lightly sprinkle powdered sugar over the sandwiches right before serving for an elegant finish.

Chocolate Shavings

• Top with chocolate shavings or curls for a gourmet look and an additional chocolatey flavor.

How to Perfect Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches

To make sure your Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches turn out perfectly every time, follow these essential tips.

• Use room temperature eggs: This helps create a smoother batter and ensures better mixing, leading to fudgier brownies.

• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on the brownies while baking; they should come out just barely clean for that gooey texture.

• Let them cool completely: Allow the brownies to cool fully before adding ice cream to prevent melting and sogginess.

• Choose quality ice cream: Select your favorite high-quality ice cream for the best flavor and texture in your sandwiches.

• Wrap tightly before freezing: Use plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep air out, ensuring the sandwiches stay fresh in the freezer.

Best Side Dishes for Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches

Pairing side dishes with your Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some delicious options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the richness of the brownies.

2. Vanilla Yogurt: The creaminess of vanilla yogurt complements the chocolate flavor without being overly sweet.

3. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: These treats offer another layer of chocolate and serve as a fancy addition to your dessert spread.

4. Mini Cheesecakes: Bite-sized cheesecakes provide a delightful contrast in texture and flavor alongside the brownies.

5. Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Set up a sundae station where guests can customize their toppings, creating an interactive dessert experience.

6. Coffee or Espresso: A cup of coffee or espresso pairs beautifully, balancing sweetness with its rich flavor profile.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some tips to ensure your dessert turns out perfectly.

• Incorrect oven temperature: Always preheat your oven properly. An incorrect temperature can lead to uneven baking and affect the texture of your brownies.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can create tough brownies. Mix until just combined for a fudgy texture.
• Not cooling brownies properly: Allow brownies to cool completely before adding ice cream. This prevents melting and ensures clean layers.
• Using the wrong ice cream consistency: Make sure your ice cream is slightly softened before spreading. This makes it easier to layer without damaging the brownies.
• Skipping the chilling process: Freezing is crucial for setting the sandwich. Don’t skip this step, as it helps maintain the structure when cutting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep layers separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm sandwiches on a baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 10 seconds until warm, being cautious not to melt the ice cream.
• Stovetop: Place in a non-stick pan on low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches that might help you during preparation.

Can I use any flavor of ice cream for Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different ice cream flavors to find your perfect combination.

How do I prevent my brownies from sticking?

Using parchment paper in your baking pans will help prevent sticking and make it easier to lift out the brownies.

Can I customize my Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches?

Absolutely! You can add toppings or mix-ins like nuts or sprinkles between layers for extra flavor and crunch.

What should I do if my brownies are too crumbly?

If your brownies crumble too easily, try adding a little more melted butter next time for added moisture.

How long do these sandwiches stay fresh?

Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

Final Thoughts

Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Their rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy ice cream makes them irresistible. Plus, you can easily customize them with your favorite ice cream flavors or toppings. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy creating your own delicious variations!