Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches

Indulge in the deliciousness of Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches! These delightful treats combine rich, fudgy brownies with your favorite ice cream, making them an ideal dessert for any occasion. Whether it’s a summer barbecue, birthday party, or cozy movie night, these sandwiches are sure to impress. The unique combination of textures and flavors creates a satisfying dessert that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The contrast between rich chocolate brownies and creamy ice cream offers a delightful taste experience.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps make this recipe accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 8 servings, these sandwiches are great for gatherings or family treats.
• Customizable Options: Use any ice cream flavor you desire to tailor the sandwiches to your taste.
• Make Ahead Convenience: Prepare ahead of time and freeze for a ready-to-serve dessert.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools and get ready for some fun! Having the right equipment will make your Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches come together smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer
• Rubber spatula
• 8×8 baking pans (two)
• Parchment paper
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients effectively without mess.
• Hand mixer: Helps achieve a smooth batter quickly, ensuring even texture in your brownies.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for spreading batter and ice cream evenly without damaging the brownies.
• Parchment paper: Makes it easy to lift baked goods out of the pan without sticking.

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 the oven to 350 degrees. Grease two 8×8 pans with butter or baking spray. Line the bottom with parchment paper, leaving about 4-6 inches hanging over the sides.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, combine melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Use your hand mixer on medium speed until well mixed.

Step 3: Add Eggs

Add eggs one at a time to the mixture, mixing after each addition until fully incorporated. This step is key for achieving that beloved crackled top on brownies.

Step 4: Incorporate Oil and Vanilla

Mix in vegetable oil and vanilla extract until blended smoothly.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Reduce the speed of your mixer before incorporating this dry mixture into the wet ingredients.

Step 6: Blend Everything Together

Gradually add the flour mixture into the wet batter until all components are well combined.

Step 7: Prepare Baking Pans

Divide half of the brownie batter into each prepared pan. Use a rubber spatula to spread it evenly.

Step 8: Bake Brownies

Bake in preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out just barely clean—avoid overbaking!

Step 9: Cool Brownies

Remove from oven and allow brownies to cool for about 10 minutes.

Step 10: Remove Brownies from Pan

Carefully lift brownies out using parchment paper onto a cooling rack. Peel off parchment from one half only. Let them cool until they reach room temperature.

Step 11: Thaw Ice Cream

Thaw your chosen ice cream flavor for about 5-10 minutes before assembly.

Step 12: Assemble Sandwiches

Return one half of brownie back into its pan (with parchment). Spread ice cream over the top using a large spoon or rubber spatula. Adjust quantity based on preference; about three-quarters is usually good to start.

Step 13: Cap with Second Half

Invert the second half of brownie over the ice cream layer. Cover tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and freeze for at least six hours—overnight is ideal!

Step 14: Serve

When ready to enjoy, remove from freezer and let thaw for about five minutes. Use parchment paper to lift it out completely before cutting into eight even squares. Serve immediately and savor each bite!

Enjoy your delectable Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches!

How to Serve Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches

Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. Whether it’s for a summer party or a cozy night in, these sandwiches can be enjoyed on their own or with complementary sides. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

Add Fresh Fruits

• Berries: Serve with a handful of fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a refreshing twist.
• Banana Slices: Add slices of ripe bananas for added sweetness and texture.

Drizzle with Sauces

• Chocolate Sauce: A generous drizzle of chocolate sauce will enhance the rich brownie flavor.
• Caramel Sauce: Drizzle caramel sauce over the sandwiches for a sweet and salty contrast.

Pair with Beverages

• Milkshakes: Enjoy with a creamy milkshake for an indulgent treat that complements the brownies.
• Iced Coffee: Serve alongside iced coffee to balance the sweetness and add a caffeine kick.

How to Perfect Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches

Creating perfect Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches involves attention to detail and some helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your dessert is top-notch.

• Use Room Temperature Eggs: This helps create a smooth batter that incorporates air, leading to fudgier brownies.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your brownies while they bake. They should be slightly underbaked in the center for the best texture.
• Let Ice Cream Softened: Allow ice cream to soften slightly before spreading it on the brownies for easy assembly.
• Freeze Overnight: For the best texture and flavor, freeze your sandwich overnight before slicing.

Best Side Dishes for Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches

To complement your Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches, consider serving them with these delicious side dishes. Each option adds its unique flavor profile, enhancing your dessert experience.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that balances out the richness of the brownie.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a bright contrast to the dense dessert.
3. Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a creamy texture that pairs well with chocolate.
4. Nut Mix: A crunchy nut mix can provide a satisfying crunch alongside the soft sandwiches.
5. Chocolate Chip Cookies: Extra cookies on the side make for more sweet indulgence!
6. Hot Fudge Sundae Sauce: Serve warm hot fudge sauce on the side for those who want an extra chocolate kick.
7. Coconut Whipped Topping: For those who enjoy coconut flavors, this light topping is perfect alongside brownies.
8. Marshmallow Fluff: A dollop of marshmallow fluff adds sweetness and fun texture when served next to your sandwich.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Skipping the Cooling Time: It’s tempting to rush, but not allowing the brownies to cool properly can lead to melted ice cream. Make sure they reach room temperature before adding the ice cream layer.

• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can result in tough brownies. Mix just until combined for a fudgy texture.

• Using Too Much Ice Cream: Adding excessive ice cream can make it hard to bite into your sandwich. Start with a moderate amount and adjust based on your preference.

• Not Greasing the Pans: Forgetting to grease or line your pans may cause the brownies to stick. Always use parchment paper for easy removal.

• Overbaking the Brownies: Overbaking can dry out your brownies. Keep an eye on them and remove them when a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure they are fully cooled before storing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Wrap each sandwich individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, wrap in foil, and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one sandwich at a time on low power for about 15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches, you’re in the right place!

Can I use different flavors of ice cream for my Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches?

Yes! You can use any flavor of ice cream that suits your taste. Try different combinations for unique sandwiches.

How do I know when my brownies are done baking?

Check by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Can I make these Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them a day in advance. Just store them properly in the freezer until ready to serve.

What toppings can I add to my Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches?

Feel free to top them with chocolate sauce, sprinkles, or crushed nuts for extra flavor and texture!

Are these sandwiches suitable for kids?

Definitely! They are fun and delicious treats that kids will love. Just supervise while they enjoy their dessert!

Final Thoughts

Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Their rich brownie base paired with creamy ice cream offers endless customization options—experiment with different flavors and toppings! Don’t hesitate; try this recipe today and indulge in this sweet delight!