Quick Ice Cream Sandwich Bites

Bianca

Founder of Red Recipe

This post may contain affiliate links learn more.

After a long day, especially during those sweltering summer months, there’s nothing quite like a sweet, cold treat to lift your spirits. And when it comes to easy, crowd-pleasing desserts, these Quick Ice Cream Sandwich Bites are an absolute winner in my book. I stumbled upon this recipe when I was looking for something fun and simple to make with my kids one afternoon. Let me tell you, it was an instant hit! The sheer joy on their faces as they assembled these little frozen delights was priceless, and the taste? Pure nostalgic bliss. They’re perfectly portioned, endlessly customizable, and require absolutely no baking – making them ideal for even the most novice of kitchen helpers. From family movie nights to impromptu backyard barbecues, these ice cream sandwich bites have become our go-to dessert. They disappear in minutes, leaving everyone with sticky fingers and happy smiles. If you’re searching for a dessert that’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to bring joy to everyone who tries them, look no further. These Quick Ice Cream Sandwich Bites are about to become your new favorite treat too!

Ingredients

Ice Cream: 1 pint of your favorite flavor. Choose a flavor that complements your cookie choice. Let it soften slightly at room temperature to make it easier to work with.
Cookies: 1 package (approximately 12-16 ounces) of small, round cookies. Think mini chocolate chip cookies, vanilla wafers, or even gingersnaps for a spicier twist.
Toppings (Optional): Sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or any other small toppings you desire to add extra flavor and visual appeal.

Instructions

Prepare Your Workspace: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper. This will prevent the ice cream sandwich bites from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Have your cookies, softened ice cream, and chosen toppings ready to go.
Soften the Ice Cream (If Necessary): If your ice cream is very hard, let it sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes. You want it to be soft enough to scoop but not completely melted. The ideal consistency is similar to soft-serve ice cream. If it becomes too soft, place it back in the freezer for a few minutes to firm up slightly.
Scoop the Ice Cream: Using a small cookie scoop or a teaspoon, scoop small, rounded portions of ice cream onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. Aim for scoops that are slightly smaller than the diameter of your cookies. Spacing the scoops out evenly will make assembly easier. If you don’t have a cookie scoop, you can use two spoons to shape the ice cream into small balls. Work quickly to prevent the ice cream from melting too much.
Freeze the Ice Cream Scoops (Optional but Recommended): Place the baking sheet with the ice cream scoops into the freezer for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are firm but not rock solid. This step is optional, but it makes assembly much less messy and helps the final ice cream sandwich bites hold their shape better, especially if your kitchen is warm. Firming up the scoops also prevents the cookies from getting soggy too quickly.
Assemble the Ice Cream Sandwich Bites: Once the ice cream scoops are firm, take your cookies and carefully sandwich each scoop between two cookies. Gently press the cookies together to adhere to the ice cream. Don’t press too hard, or the ice cream might squish out the sides or the cookies might break. If the ice cream is still a bit too soft, work quickly or return the baking sheet to the freezer for a few minutes as needed.
Add Toppings (Optional): If you are using toppings, now is the perfect time to add them. You can roll the edges of each ice cream sandwich bite in a shallow bowl of sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, nuts, or coconut. Alternatively, you can gently press the toppings onto the sides of the ice cream with your fingers. Be creative and have fun with different topping combinations!
Freeze to Set: Place the assembled ice cream sandwich bites back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. Return the baking sheet to the freezer and freeze for at least 1-2 hours, or until the ice cream is firm and the sandwich bites are well set. Freezing them for a longer time will make them easier to handle and prevent them from melting too quickly when serving.
Store and Serve: Once frozen solid, transfer the Quick Ice Cream Sandwich Bites to an airtight container or freezer bag. Store them in the freezer for up to a month. When ready to serve, simply take them out of the freezer a few minutes before serving to soften slightly, if desired. Enjoy these delightful, bite-sized treats straight from the freezer!

Nutrition Facts

(Per Serving – 1 Ice Cream Sandwich Bite, estimations based on vanilla ice cream and mini chocolate chip cookies, without toppings)

Servings: Approximately 24 bites (depending on cookie and ice cream scoop size)
Calories: ~120-150 kcal
Fat: 6-8g

Please note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used, brands, and portion sizes. For precise nutritional information, refer to the nutrition labels of your chosen ice cream and cookies.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes (includes softening ice cream, scooping, and assembly)
Freeze Time: Minimum 2 hours (for setting, longer for firmer bites)
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (mostly inactive freezing time)

This recipe is incredibly quick to prepare, with most of the time being hands-off freezing time. It’s perfect for when you need a fast and delicious dessert without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Serve

These Quick Ice Cream Sandwich Bites are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of fun and appealing ways:

Casual Gatherings:
- Platter Presentation: Arrange the ice cream sandwich bites on a decorative platter or serving tray. This is perfect for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.
- Dessert Bar Addition: Include them as part of a larger dessert bar alongside other treats like brownies, cookies, and fruit.
- Kid-Friendly Snack: Serve them as a refreshing and fun afternoon snack for kids, especially on hot days.
Elevated Presentation:
- Individual Servings: Place 2-3 ice cream sandwich bites in small dessert bowls or ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
- Garnished Plates: Drizzle plates with chocolate syrup, caramel sauce, or fruit coulis before arranging the bites for a restaurant-style touch.
- Paired with Drinks: Serve alongside a glass of cold milk, iced coffee, or a light dessert wine for a sophisticated dessert pairing.
Themed Servings:
- Summer BBQ: Serve them straight from a cooler or insulated bag at a summer barbecue or picnic.
- Birthday Parties: Customize the toppings to match the party theme, using colorful sprinkles or themed candies.
- Holiday Celebrations: Use holiday-themed cookies and sprinkles for festive treats during Christmas, Halloween, or other holidays.
Fun Serving Ideas:
- Ice Cream Sandwich Bite Pops: Insert popsicle sticks or lollipop sticks into the side of each bite before freezing for easy-to-eat ice cream pops.
- Dipped Bites: Dip the frozen bites in melted chocolate or candy melts and then add toppings before the coating sets.
- Ice Cream Sandwich Bite Sundaes: Place a few bites in a bowl and top with whipped cream, sauces, and extra toppings for mini ice cream sundae sandwiches.

Additional Tips for Perfect Quick Ice Cream Sandwich Bites

Cookie Choice Matters: Select cookies that are sturdy enough to hold the ice cream without breaking easily. Softer cookies like soft-baked chocolate chip cookies may crumble more easily. Crispier cookies like vanilla wafers or gingersnaps tend to work best. Consider the flavor profile of the cookies and how it will complement the ice cream.
Ice Cream Consistency is Key: Don’t let the ice cream get too melted. Slightly softened is ideal for scooping and spreading, but if it’s too soft, it will be messy to work with and the bites will melt quickly. If your ice cream softens too much, refreeze it for a bit before proceeding. Conversely, if it’s too hard, it will be difficult to scoop and might crack the cookies.
Prevent Sticking: Always use parchment paper or wax paper to line your baking sheet. This is crucial for preventing the ice cream scoops and assembled bites from sticking to the pan, making removal and cleanup much easier.
Uniform Size for Best Results: Using a cookie scoop helps ensure that your ice cream scoops are uniform in size, leading to more consistent and visually appealing ice cream sandwich bites. If you don’t have a cookie scoop, try to measure out consistent portions using a spoon.
Work Quickly in a Cool Environment: Especially in warmer kitchens, work quickly to assemble the ice cream sandwich bites before the ice cream melts too much. If necessary, work in batches, keeping the remaining ice cream and cookies in the refrigerator or freezer until you are ready to use them.
Get Creative with Flavors and Combinations: Experiment with different ice cream flavors and cookie types to create unique and exciting combinations. Try chocolate ice cream with chocolate wafers, mint chocolate chip ice cream with chocolate cookies, or strawberry ice cream with vanilla wafers. Don’t be afraid to mix and match!
Customize with Toppings for Extra Fun: Toppings are a fantastic way to add flavor, texture, and visual appeal. Set up a topping station and let everyone customize their own ice cream sandwich bites. Consider offering a variety of sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, shredded coconut, crushed candies, and even drizzles of caramel or chocolate sauce.
Proper Storage is Essential: Store your finished ice cream sandwich bites in an airtight container or freezer bag in the freezer. This prevents freezer burn and keeps them fresh and delicious for up to a month. Make sure they are fully frozen before storing to prevent them from sticking together.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use different types of cookies for these ice cream sandwich bites?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with various types of small, round cookies. Vanilla wafers, mini chocolate chip cookies, gingersnaps, shortbread cookies, and even mini Oreos all work wonderfully. Consider the flavor profile of the cookie and how it will complement your chosen ice cream flavor.

Q2: What’s the best way to soften ice cream quickly without melting it too much?

A: The best method is to let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes. Keep a close eye on it and check its consistency frequently. You want it to be soft enough to scoop easily but still hold its shape. Avoid using a microwave to soften ice cream, as it can melt unevenly and become watery. If it gets too soft, place it back in the freezer for a few minutes.

Q3: Can I make these ice cream sandwich bites ahead of time?

A: Yes, that’s one of the great things about this recipe! You can make them well in advance. Once assembled and frozen solid, store them in an airtight container or freezer bag in the freezer for up to a month. They are perfect for preparing ahead of parties or events.

Q4: What if my ice cream scoops are not perfectly round? Will it matter?

A: While perfectly round scoops look aesthetically pleasing, it’s not essential for the taste or function of the ice cream sandwich bites. Slightly irregular scoops will still work perfectly fine. The cookies will help to shape them, and the most important thing is that they are bite-sized and delicious!

Q5: Can I use sugar-free or dairy-free ice cream for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can definitely adapt this recipe to dietary needs. Use sugar-free ice cream for a lower-sugar option, or dairy-free ice cream (like coconut milk, almond milk, or soy-based ice cream) for a dairy-free version. Just be sure to check the consistency of the dairy-free ice cream, as some varieties might soften faster than traditional ice cream.

Q6: My ice cream sandwich bites are sticking to the parchment paper. What can I do?

A: Ensure you are using good quality parchment paper or wax paper. If they are still sticking slightly, make sure the ice cream bites are fully frozen before attempting to remove them from the baking sheet. You can also gently slide a thin spatula or knife under the edge of the bites to help release them.

Q7: Can I refreeze ice cream if it melts during assembly?

A: It’s generally not recommended to refreeze ice cream that has completely melted, as it can affect the texture and quality. However, if your ice cream only becomes slightly soft during assembly, you can refreeze it. Try to work quickly and keep the ice cream as cold as possible throughout the process to minimize melting.

Q8: Are there any variations I can try with these Quick Ice Cream Sandwich Bites?

A: Absolutely! The possibilities are endless. Try dipping the finished bites in melted chocolate or candy melts and then adding toppings before the coating sets. You can also roll the edges in crushed nuts, sprinkles, or shredded coconut for added flavor and texture. Consider using different flavored cookies and ice cream combinations to create unique and exciting variations. Get creative and have fun experimenting!