Vegan Cookie Dough Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe
If you have a sweet tooth and a love for creative dessert combos, you are going to adore these Vegan Cookie Dough Ice Cream Sandwiches. Imagine chewy, buttery vegan cookies hugging creamy, dreamy vanilla ice cream with little bursts of chocolate chips in every bite. These treats are not only incredibly indulgent but also surprisingly easy to make, perfect for summer gatherings or a cozy night in. With a balance of soft, cool ice cream and warm, tender cookies, these Vegan Cookie Dough Ice Cream Sandwiches truly redefine vegan comfort food with every mouthwatering bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps it simple with everyday pantry staples that come together beautifully for a rich taste and great texture. Each ingredient plays its part in creating that perfect cookie dough and ice cream harmony that makes these sandwiches unforgettable.
- 1 cup flour (heat-treated): Heat-treating the flour is crucial for safe, edible cookie dough.
- ½ cup vegan butter: Provides that lovely richness and softness you want in cookie dough.
- ½ cup brown sugar: Adds deep caramel notes and natural sweetness to the cookies.
- ½ tsp vanilla extract: Brings warmth and enhances all the sweet flavors in the dough.
- 1 cup vegan chocolate chips: Adds pockets of melted chocolate for gooey, chocolaty goodness.
- 2 cups vegan vanilla ice cream: The creamy filling that makes these Vegan Cookie Dough Ice Cream Sandwiches so irresistible.
How to Make Vegan Cookie Dough Ice Cream Sandwiches
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough
Start by mixing the heat-treated flour, vegan butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract in a large bowl until it turns into a soft, pliable cookie dough. This mixture is the heart of the sandwich, so take a moment to notice how the buttery sweetness comes together in the perfect texture — not too sticky, but still soft enough to shape.
Step 2: Fold in the Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the vegan chocolate chips, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. Every bite needs those little chocolate bursts, and this step is where the magic begins to take shape.
Step 3: Shape and Bake the Cookies
Scoop small rounds of cookie dough onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper, then flatten them just slightly to help them bake evenly. Pop them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. When they come out, the cookies should be set but still soft, cooling to that perfect chewiness.
Step 4: Assemble the Ice Cream Sandwiches
Once your cookies have completely cooled, scoop a generous amount of vegan vanilla ice cream onto one cookie and sandwich it with another. Press gently to spread the ice cream evenly without squishing it out. This step brings together the two key elements of the Vegan Cookie Dough Ice Cream Sandwiches — the chewy cookie and creamy ice cream.
Step 5: Freeze Before Serving
To get that perfect scoopable and bite-able consistency, freeze the assembled sandwiches for at least one hour. This chill time helps the ice cream firm up and the cookies meld with the filling, making every bite heavenly.
How to Serve Vegan Cookie Dough Ice Cream Sandwiches
Garnishes
Sprinkle a few extra vegan chocolate chips on the plate or add a dusting of cocoa powder to perfectly complement the rich chocolate chunks inside. Fresh mint leaves or a drizzle of melted vegan caramel sauce can also elevate the presentation and add a fresh or indulgent touch.
Side Dishes
Serve your Vegan Cookie Dough Ice Cream Sandwiches with a refreshing fruit salad or a bowl of fresh berries to cut through the richness. A cold glass of oat milk or a fruity iced tea also pairs wonderfully, making this dessert a complete summer treat.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Wrap each sandwich in colorful parchment paper tied with twine for individual servings. Alternatively, layer broken sandwiches in a clear glass trifle dish for a dramatic, rustic dessert that invites everyone to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, keep your Vegan Cookie Dough Ice Cream Sandwiches in an airtight container in the freezer. This prevents the ice cream from picking up unwanted odors and keeps the cookies from becoming stale.
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap each sandwich individually in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. This extra step preserves the classic texture and flavor, so they taste freshly made even weeks later.
Reheating
Since the essence of this dessert is ice cream and cookie dough, reheating isn’t recommended. Instead, let any slightly frozen sandwiches thaw at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes before enjoying to soften the cookies slightly for the perfect bite.
FAQs
Can I use regular flour for this recipe?
Yes, you can, but make sure to heat-treat the flour by baking it at 180°C (350°F) for about 5 minutes to kill any bacteria, ensuring it’s safe to eat raw in the dough.
What brands of vegan butter and ice cream work best?
Look for plant-based butters made from coconut or blends of oils for a creamy texture. Vegan vanilla ice cream with a coconut milk or almond milk base tends to give the best rich and smooth flavor.
Can I substitute any ingredients to make it gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that you trust and follow the same heat-treating process. This will keep the dough safe and delicious without compromising texture.
Is it possible to make these without baking?
You can make no-bake cookie dough using a raw flour alternative like oat flour, but the classic baked version of Vegan Cookie Dough Ice Cream Sandwiches has that perfect chewy cookie texture that’s hard to replicate cold.
How long will these sandwiches last in the freezer?
When properly wrapped and stored, they can last up to 2 weeks in the freezer while maintaining their best flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about biting into a homemade Vegan Cookie Dough Ice Cream Sandwiches, where the chewy cookie and creamy ice cream dance together perfectly. Whether you’re a longtime vegan or just exploring plant-based treats, this recipe is a must-try that will quickly become a favorite. Dive in, experiment with your favorite flavors, and share these delicious moments with friends and family—summer just got a whole lot sweeter.
