There’s nothing quite like the joy of biting into a homemade ice cream cookie sandwich, where chewy cookies meet creamy, dreamy ice cream. The contrast of textures—soft, cold ice cream nestled between warm, slightly crisp cookies—creates a treat that’s pure bliss. With just a little effort and about 30 minutes of prep time, you can craft these indulgent delights that are perfect for sharing or savoring solo.

Customize your sandwiches with your favorite flavors, whether it’s rich chocolate chip cookies paired with vanilla bean ice cream or oatmeal raisin with a swirl of caramel. The possibilities are endless, and the result is always a crowd-pleaser. These sandwiches are not just a dessert—they’re a moment of happiness, ready in under an hour.

Ingredients for Homemade Ice Cream Cookie Sandwiches

For the Strawberry Ice Cream:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries (washed and hulled)
- 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
- 2 cups no-machine ice cream base (store-bought or homemade)
For the Meringue:
- 2 teaspoons lime zest (freshly grated for best flavor)
- A small amount of green food dye (optional, for vibrant color)
For Assembly:
- French macarons (store-bought or homemade, any flavor)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Strawberry Puree: In a blender or food processor, puree the fresh strawberries and sugar together until smooth. (Tip: Avoid leaving large strawberry chunks, as they can freeze hard and become difficult to eat.)
Mix the Ice Cream: Stir the strawberry puree into the no-machine ice cream base. Taste and adjust sweetness or strawberry flavor if needed.
Freeze the Ice Cream: Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container and freeze until firm, typically 4-6 hours or overnight.
Prepare the Meringue: If using, add 2 teaspoons of lime zest and a small amount of green food dye to your meringue mixture. Mix until evenly combined.
Assemble the Sandwiches: Once the ice cream is frozen, take two French macarons and place a scoop of strawberry ice cream between them. Press gently to sandwich together.
Serve or Store: Enjoy immediately for a soft, creamy texture, or freeze for later to maintain firmness.

Perfect Pairings: Sauce and Topping Ideas

Elevate your ice cream cookie sandwiches with a drizzle of chocolate ganache or a sprinkle of crushed pistachios for added texture. For a fruity twist, try a raspberry coulis or a dollop of whipped cream with fresh berries on the side. These extras make your dessert feel extra special!

Serve It Right: Presentation Tips

For a stunning presentation, roll the edges of your ice cream sandwiches in mini chocolate chips or colorful sprinkles. Serve them on a chilled plate or in a cupcake liner to keep them neat. Pair with a glass of cold milk or a cup of coffee for the ultimate treat!

Freeze and Enjoy Later: Storage Tips

Wrap each sandwich individually in parchment paper and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Let them sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before serving to soften slightly. This ensures the perfect texture every time!

Mix It Up: Recipe Variations

Swap the strawberry ice cream for vanilla, chocolate, or even mint chip for a fun twist. Use different cookies like chocolate chip or oatmeal raisin instead of macarons. Experiment with flavors to create your signature sandwich!

Quick Tips: Time-Saving Hacks

Use store-bought ice cream and macarons to save time without sacrificing flavor. Pre-puree your strawberries and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. These shortcuts make this recipe even easier to whip up on a busy day!