This Easy Brownie Ice Cream Sandwich is a treat that combines rich, fudgy brownies with creamy ice cream. You get a perfect little dessert that’s fun to eat!
You can easily switch up the ice cream flavor, so it always feels special! I like to serve mine with a drizzle of chocolate sauce—who can resist that extra sweetness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Unsalted Butter: This is great for a balanced flavor, but you can also use margarine or coconut oil if needed. Just remember that using salted butter might change the taste slightly, so adjust the salt in the recipe.
Granulated Sugar: White sugar gives the brownies sweetness and moisture. You can swap this with brown sugar for a deeper flavor or even coconut sugar for a healthier option, keeping in mind that it may change the texture a bit.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa is perfect for that rich chocolate flavor. If you’re out, you could use Dutch-process cocoa which is milder in taste, or even carob powder for a different, unique twist on the flavor.
Vanilla Ice Cream: I love classic vanilla, but feel free to use any flavor like chocolate, mint, or even coffee to suit your taste. Dairy-free ice creams are also a great substitute for a dairy-free version.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Brownie Texture?
The brownie base is crucial for the sandwich’s success, so here are a few tips to get them just right:
- Make sure you don’t overmix your batter. Stir it just until the dry ingredients are incorporated to avoid tough brownies.
- When baking, check them a few minutes early. You want a toothpick to come out with a few moist crumbs—not wet batter. This keeps the brownies fudgy!
- Let the brownies cool completely before adding the ice cream. This prevents melting and a messy sandwich!
Easy Brownie Ice Cream Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Brownies:
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup (40g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
For the Ice Cream Filling:
- 1 pint (about 2 cups) vanilla ice cream, slightly softened
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips or chopped chocolate pieces
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake the brownies. After that, you’ll need to freeze the assembled sandwiches for at least 2 hours to let them set. So, overall, you’re looking at around 2 hours and 40 minutes, but a lot of that time is just waiting for everything to chill. Perfect for a weekend treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Brownies:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some paper hanging over the edges. This will help you lift the brownies out later.
2. Make the Batter:
Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Once melted, remove it from the heat and stir in the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until everything is smooth and combined.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. This step helps eliminate any lumps and ensures everything mixes together well.
4. Combine Everything:
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Don’t overmix; this keeps your brownies nice and fudgy!
5. Bake the Brownies:
Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Use a toothpick to check—when it comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter), they’re done!
6. Cool the Brownies:
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan. Once cool, grasp the edges of the parchment paper and lift the brownies out onto a cutting board or flat surface.
7. Prepare the Ice Cream Layer:
Spread the softened vanilla ice cream evenly over the top of the brownie layer. Make sure to use a spatula to smooth it out nicely.
8. Add Chocolate Chips:
Sprinkle the mini chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate) over the ice cream and gently press them in to help them stick. This adds a nice chocolatey crunch!
9. Assemble the Sandwiches:
If you want double-layer sandwiches, place another layer of brownie on top of the ice cream. If not, just cut the brownie and ice cream into sandwich-sized rectangles directly.
10. Freeze:
Wrap each sandwich individually in plastic wrap or parchment paper. Place them in the freezer for at least 2 hours, or until they’ve set nicely.
11. Serve:
Before serving, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes so they can soften a little. This makes them easier to bite into and enjoy!
Enjoy your delicious Easy Brownie Ice Cream Sandwich! They are perfect for warm days or any time you crave a sweet treat! 🍫🍦
FAQ for Easy Brownie Ice Cream Sandwich
Can I Use a Different Flavor of Ice Cream?
Absolutely! You can swap out the vanilla ice cream for any flavor you like. Chocolate, mint, or even cookie dough would make for delicious combinations!
How Should I Store Leftover Sandwiches?
Store any leftover sandwiches individually wrapped in plastic wrap or parchment paper in the freezer. They will keep well for up to 2 weeks, but they’re best enjoyed within a few days for optimal freshness!
Can I Make the Brownies Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can bake the brownies a day in advance. Just cool them completely, then wrap them tightly and store them at room temperature or in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble your sandwiches.
What if My Brownies Come Out Too Cake-like?
If your brownies turn out too cake-like, it might be because they were overbaked or the batter was overmixed. For a fudgier brownie, be sure to bake them just until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs, and mix the batter gently!
