Ice Cream Sandwiches
There's something special about biting into a cold, creamy ice cream sandwich on a warm summer day. The combination of crunchy cookies and smooth ice cream is a match made in heaven. As someone who's gluten-free, I've learned to adapt my favorite recipes to accommodate my dietary needs. In this recipe, I'll show you how to make delicious gluten-free ice cream sandwiches from scratch.
I remember the first time I made ice cream sandwiches at home. It was a game-changer. I realized that I didn't have to rely on store-bought treats that often tasted bland and lacked the freshness of homemade goodies. With a few simple ingredients and some basic kitchen equipment, you can create your own ice cream sandwiches that are not only gluten-free but also tailored to your taste preferences.
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a fun and easy dessert to make at home. Whether you're a parent looking for a special treat to surprise your kids or an adult seeking a nostalgic dessert, ice cream sandwiches are sure to bring a smile to everyone's face. So, let's dive into the world of gluten-free baking and make some incredible ice cream sandwiches!
To get started, you'll need a few essential ingredients, including gluten-free flours, ice cream, and some basic pantry staples. Don't worry if you're new to gluten-free baking; I'll guide you through the process, sharing tips and tricks to ensure that your cookies turn out light, crunchy, and full of flavor.
In this recipe, we'll be using a combination of rice flour, tapioca starch, and xanthan gum to create a gluten-free flour blend that's perfect for baking. We'll also be using a simple ice cream recipe that you can customize with your favorite flavors and mix-ins. So, let's get started and make some amazing ice cream sandwiches!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- These ice cream sandwiches are perfect for hot summer days and special treats
- The gluten-free cookies are easy to make and can be customized with your favorite flavors
- The ice cream is simple to make and can be tailored to your taste preferences
- This recipe is great for families and kids, as it's easy to make and fun to eat
- The ice cream sandwiches are perfect for outdoor gatherings and parties
- This recipe is a great way to get creative with different flavors and mix-ins
- The gluten-free cookies are a great alternative to traditional cookies and are perfect for those with dietary restrictions
Why This Recipe Works
The key to successful gluten-free baking lies in the combination of ingredients and the technique used. In this recipe, we're using a blend of rice flour, tapioca starch, and xanthan gum to create a flour that's not only gluten-free but also has the right texture and structure for baking. The xanthan gum helps to improve the dough's elasticity and texture, making it easier to work with and resulting in a more tender crumb.
Another important aspect of this recipe is the hydration rest. By allowing the dough to rest for 20-30 minutes, we're giving the starches time to fully absorb the liquid ingredients, resulting in a more even texture and a better crumb. This step is crucial in gluten-free baking, as it helps to prevent the cookies from becoming gritty or dense.
In addition to the ingredients and technique, the type of ice cream used is also important. We're using a simple ice cream recipe that's easy to customize with your favorite flavors and mix-ins. The key is to use high-quality ingredients and to not overmix the ice cream, as this can result in an icy texture.
By combining these elements – the right ingredients, the right technique, and the right ice cream – we're able to create ice cream sandwiches that are not only delicious but also gluten-free and easy to make at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these delicious ice cream sandwiches, you'll need a few essential ingredients, including gluten-free flours, ice cream, and some basic pantry staples. The key players in this recipe are the rice flour, tapioca starch, and xanthan gum, which combine to create a gluten-free flour blend that's perfect for baking. You'll also need some high-quality ice cream and your favorite mix-ins to customize the flavor.
When shopping for ingredients, be sure to choose high-quality gluten-free flours that are fresh and have a good texture. You can find these at most health food stores or online. For the ice cream, choose a high-quality brand or make your own using a simple recipe. Don't forget to pick up some fun mix-ins, such as sprinkles, chopped nuts, or candy pieces, to customize the flavor and make the ice cream sandwiches more exciting.
- 2 cups (250g) rice flourRice flour is a light, delicate flour that's perfect for gluten-free baking. Look for a high-quality rice flour that's fresh and has a good texture.
- 1 cup (120g) tapioca starchTapioca starch is a starchy flour that helps to add structure and texture to gluten-free baked goods. It's a great addition to this recipe, as it helps to create a tender crumb and a crunchy cookie.
- 1 teaspoon xanthan gumXanthan gum is a common ingredient in gluten-free baking, as it helps to improve the dough's elasticity and texture. It's a great addition to this recipe, as it makes the cookies easier to work with and results in a more tender crumb.
- 1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter, softenedUnsalted butter is a great addition to this recipe, as it adds flavor and moisture to the cookies. Look for a high-quality butter that's fresh and has a good texture.
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugarGranulated sugar is a common ingredient in baking, as it adds sweetness and texture to the cookies. Look for a high-quality sugar that's fresh and has a good texture.
- 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugarBrown sugar is a great addition to this recipe, as it adds a rich, caramel-like flavor to the cookies. Look for a high-quality brown sugar that's fresh and has a good texture.
- 2 large eggsEggs are a common ingredient in baking, as they add moisture, richness, and structure to the cookies. Look for fresh, high-quality eggs that are perfect for baking.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extractVanilla extract is a great addition to this recipe, as it adds a sweet, creamy flavor to the cookies. Look for a high-quality vanilla extract that's fresh and has a good flavor.
- 1 1/2 quarts (1.5L) ice creamIce cream is the star of the show in this recipe, as it adds a creamy, sweet texture to the sandwiches. Choose a high-quality ice cream that's perfect for your taste preferences, or make your own using a simple recipe.
- 1/2 cup (60g) chopped nuts or sprinkles, for garnishChopped nuts or sprinkles are a great addition to this recipe, as they add a fun, playful touch to the ice cream sandwiches. Choose your favorite mix-ins and have fun with it!
Equipment You’ll Need
How to Make Ice Cream Sandwiches
- 1Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help the cookies to bake evenly and prevent them from sticking to the pan.
- 2In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the rice flour, tapioca starch, and xanthan gum. This will help to combine the ingredients and create a smooth, even texture.
- 3Add the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar to the bowl and mix until a dough forms. This will help to create a tender, crunchy cookie that's perfect for ice cream sandwiches.
- 4Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until the dough is smooth and well combined. This will help to add moisture and flavor to the cookies.
- 5Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for 20-30 minutes. This will help the starches to fully absorb the liquid ingredients, resulting in a more even texture and a better crumb.
- 6Scoop the dough into balls, about 1 tablespoon (15g) each. This will help to create uniform cookies that are perfect for ice cream sandwiches.
- 7Place the balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches (5cm) of space between each cookie. This will help the cookies to bake evenly and prevent them from spreading too much.
- 8Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown and firm to the touch. This will help to create a crunchy, tender cookie that's perfect for ice cream sandwiches.
- 9Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This will help the cookies to set and become easier to handle.
- 10Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help the cookies to cool evenly and prevent them from becoming soggy or soft.
- 11Once the cookies are cool, scoop a ball of ice cream onto one half of the cookie and top with another cookie. This will help to create a delicious, creamy ice cream sandwich that's perfect for hot summer days and special treats.
- 12Garnish with chopped nuts or sprinkles, if desired. This will add a fun, playful touch to the ice cream sandwiches and make them perfect for serving to friends and family.
- 13Serve the ice cream sandwiches immediately and enjoy! This will help to ensure that the cookies and ice cream are fresh and delicious, and that the sandwiches are perfect for serving.
Expert Tips
- Make sure to use high-quality ingredients, including fresh and flavorful ice cream and gluten-free flours.
- Don't overmix the dough, as this can result in tough, dense cookies.
- Let the dough rest for the full 20-30 minutes, as this will help the starches to fully absorb the liquid ingredients and result in a better crumb.
- Use a variety of mix-ins, such as chopped nuts, sprinkles, or candy pieces, to customize the flavor and make the ice cream sandwiches more exciting.
- Experiment with different types of ice cream, such as chocolate, vanilla, or strawberry, to find your favorite flavor.
- Consider using a cookie scoop to portion out the dough, as this will help to create uniform cookies that are perfect for ice cream sandwiches.
- If you're having trouble getting the cookies to stick together, try using a small amount of melted chocolate or caramel to hold them in place.
- To make the ice cream sandwiches more fun and playful, consider using colorful sprinkles or chopped nuts to garnish the top of the sandwich.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using low-quality ingredients, such as old or stale flour, can result in tough, dense cookies.
- Overmixing the dough can result in tough, dense cookies that are not perfect for ice cream sandwiches.
- Not letting the dough rest for the full 20-30 minutes can result in a poor texture and a less tender crumb.
- Using too much ice cream can make the sandwiches difficult to eat and can result in a mess.
- Not cooling the cookies completely can result in a soggy or soft texture that's not perfect for ice cream sandwiches.
- Not using a variety of mix-ins can result in a boring or bland flavor that's not exciting or fun.
Variations and Substitutions
- Try using different types of gluten-free flours, such as almond flour or coconut flour, to create a unique and delicious flavor.
- Experiment with different types of ice cream, such as chocolate, vanilla, or strawberry, to find your favorite flavor.
- Add some chopped nuts or sprinkles to the dough to create a fun and playful texture.
- Use a variety of mix-ins, such as candy pieces or cookie crumbs, to customize the flavor and make the ice cream sandwiches more exciting.
- Consider using a cookie scoop to portion out the dough, as this will help to create uniform cookies that are perfect for ice cream sandwiches.
- Try using a different type of milk, such as almond milk or soy milk, to create a non-dairy ice cream sandwich.
- Experiment with different types of cookies, such as chocolate chip or oatmeal raisin, to create a unique and delicious flavor.
What to Serve With Ice Cream Sandwiches
Serve the ice cream sandwiches immediately and enjoy! These delicious treats are perfect for hot summer days and special occasions. Consider serving them at a backyard barbecue or picnic, or as a fun dessert for a birthday party or special celebration.
Some other ideas for serving the ice cream sandwiches include:
Serving them with a side of fresh fruit, such as strawberries or blueberries, for a sweet and healthy snack.
Pairing them with a cold glass of milk or a cup of hot coffee for a delicious and satisfying treat.
Using them as a topping for a sundae or milkshake, with whipped cream, chocolate sauce, and chopped nuts.
Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating
To store the ice cream sandwiches, place them in an airtight container in the freezer. This will help to keep them fresh and prevent them from becoming soggy or soft.
To make ahead, scoop the ice cream into balls and place them in an airtight container in the freezer. This will help to keep the ice cream fresh and make it easier to assemble the sandwiches when you're ready.
To freeze the cookies, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. This will help to keep the cookies fresh and make it easier to assemble the sandwiches when you're ready.
To reheat the cookies, simply place them in the microwave for a few seconds or in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for a few minutes. This will help to warm the cookies and make them perfect for serving.
Some other tips for storing and reheating the ice cream sandwiches include:
Using a vacuum sealer to remove air from the container and prevent the ice cream from becoming icy or freezer-burned.
Labeling the container with the date and contents, so you can easily keep track of how long the ice cream sandwiches have been stored.
Storing the ice cream sandwiches in a single layer, rather than stacking them, to prevent them from becoming soggy or soft.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of gluten-free flour is best for this recipe?
A combination of rice flour, tapioca starch, and xanthan gum is a great option for this recipe. This blend provides a good texture and structure for the cookies and helps to create a tender, crunchy cookie that's perfect for ice cream sandwiches.
Can I use a different type of ice cream?
Yes, you can use a different type of ice cream for this recipe. Some options include chocolate, vanilla, or strawberry. Simply scoop the ice cream into balls and place them in an airtight container in the freezer until you're ready to assemble the sandwiches.
How do I store the ice cream sandwiches?
To store the ice cream sandwiches, place them in an airtight container in the freezer. This will help to keep them fresh and prevent them from becoming soggy or soft.
Can I make the cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the cookies ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Simply thaw the cookies at room temperature or reheat them in the microwave or oven when you're ready to assemble the sandwiches.
What type of mix-ins can I use for the ice cream?
Some options for mix-ins include chopped nuts, sprinkles, or candy pieces. You can also use other ingredients, such as cookie crumbs or brownie bits, to create a unique and delicious flavor.
Can I use a different type of milk for the ice cream?
Yes, you can use a different type of milk for the ice cream, such as almond milk or soy milk. This will help to create a non-dairy ice cream sandwich that's perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
How do I assemble the ice cream sandwiches?
To assemble the ice cream sandwiches, simply scoop a ball of ice cream onto one half of the cookie and top with another cookie. You can also add some mix-ins, such as chopped nuts or sprinkles, to the ice cream for extra flavor and fun.
Can I customize the flavor of the cookies?
Yes, you can customize the flavor of the cookies by using different types of gluten-free flours or adding mix-ins, such as chocolate chips or nuts. This will help to create a unique and delicious flavor that's perfect for your taste preferences.

Ingredients
- 2 cups (250g) rice flour
- 1 cup (120g) tapioca starch
- 1 teaspoon xanthan gum
- 1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 quarts (1.5L) ice cream
- 1/2 cup (60g) chopped nuts or sprinkles, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help the cookies to bake evenly and prevent them from sticking to the pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the rice flour, tapioca starch, and xanthan gum. This will help to combine the ingredients and create a smooth, even texture.
- Add the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar to the bowl and mix until a dough forms. This will help to create a tender, crunchy cookie that's perfect for ice cream sandwiches.
- Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until the dough is smooth and well combined. This will help to add moisture and flavor to the cookies.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for 20-30 minutes. This will help the starches to fully absorb the liquid ingredients, resulting in a more even texture and a better crumb.
- Scoop the dough into balls, about 1 tablespoon (15g) each. This will help to create uniform cookies that are perfect for ice cream sandwiches.
- Place the balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches (5cm) of space between each cookie. This will help the cookies to bake evenly and prevent them from spreading too much.
- Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown and firm to the touch. This will help to create a crunchy, tender cookie that's perfect for ice cream sandwiches.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This will help the cookies to set and become easier to handle.
- Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help the cookies to cool evenly and prevent them from becoming soggy or soft.
- Once the cookies are cool, scoop a ball of ice cream onto one half of the cookie and top with another cookie. This will help to create a delicious, creamy ice cream sandwich that's perfect for hot summer days and special treats.
- Garnish with chopped nuts or sprinkles, if desired. This will add a fun, playful touch to the ice cream sandwiches and make them perfect for serving to friends and family.
- Serve the ice cream sandwiches immediately and enjoy! This will help to ensure that the cookies and ice cream are fresh and delicious, and that the sandwiches are perfect for serving.