Name: Ultimate Peanut Butter Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches for Summer Bliss
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 102 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Peanut Butter (Creamy or crunchy); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (Substitute with brown sugar for a richer flavor); 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (Adds a hint of caramel flavor); 1/2 cup Butter (Unsalted is best); 1 large Egg (No recommended substitutes); 1 3/4 cups All-Purpose Flour (Can be swapped with gluten-free flour); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (Ensure freshness for proper cookie rise); 1 pinch Salt (Omit if using salted butter); 3 cups Vanilla Ice Cream (Feel free to swap for your favorite flavor); 1 cup Milk Chocolate (Dark chocolate can be used for a less sweet option); 1 cup Crushed Peanuts (Consider substituting with crushed pretzels)

As summer sizzles into full swing, my fridge is a treasure trove of creamy delights and nostalgic treats. One of my favorite go-to summer desserts is these Peanut Butter Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches, and trust me, they are as fun to make as they are to devour! With no oven required for the ice cream element, this easy recipe lets you whip up a sweet and salty sensation in no time. The chewy peanut butter cookies cradle a generous layer of smooth vanilla ice cream, all while being encased in rich chocolate and crunchy peanuts. Not only are they a showstopper at gatherings, but they are also a fantastic way to stay cool and satisfied during those hot sunny days. Have a taste of summer in every bite! What unique flavor combinations will you try with this delightful treat?

Why are these sandwiches a must-try?

Irresistible Combination: The blend of chewy peanut butter cookies with smooth vanilla ice cream creates a delightful harmony of flavors.

No-Bake Magic: You don’t need to turn on the oven for the ice cream layer, making this recipe a breeze in the heat of summer.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for parties or family gatherings, these sandwiches are sure to impress with their fun, homemade charm.

Easy Customization: Feel free to swap out the vanilla ice cream for any flavor you love, meaning you can put your unique spin on each batch.

Make-Ahead Option: Prepare these sandwiches in advance and keep them in the freezer for an easy dessert on hand, perfect for those spontaneous summer get-togethers.

These Peanut Butter Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches will be your go-to treat for those hot summer days when indulgence meets convenience!

Peanut Butter Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches Ingredients

For the Cookies
• Peanut Butter – Provides flavor and moisture; creamy or crunchy can be used for texture variation.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps with the cookie texture; substitute with brown sugar for a richer flavor.
• Brown Sugar – Moistens the cookies while adding a hint of caramel flavor.
• Butter – Contributes to richness and smooth texture; unsalted is best for controlling salt content.
• Egg – Binds all ingredients together; no recommended substitutes unless making a vegan version.
• All-Purpose Flour – Creates the structure for the cookies; can be swapped with gluten-free flour.
• Baking Soda – Essential for leavening; ensure freshness for proper cookie rise.
• Salt – Enhances overall flavors; omit if using salted butter.

For the Filling and Coating
• Vanilla Ice Cream – The perfect creamy filling for sandwiches; feel free to swap for your favorite flavor.
• Milk Chocolate – Melts beautifully for coating; dark chocolate can be used for a less sweet option.
• Crushed Peanuts – Adds a wonderful crunch and flavor contrast; consider substituting with crushed pretzels for a fun twist.

These Peanut Butter Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches are perfect for indulging on hot summer days!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peanut Butter Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches

Step 1: Prepare Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, begin by creaming together 1 cup of peanut butter, ½ cup of softened butter, ½ cup of granulated sugar, and ½ cup of brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing well until fully incorporated. Gradually stir in 1 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and a pinch of salt until everything is nicely combined.

Step 2: Shape Cookies
Using a cookie scoop, portion out dough onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently flatten each dough ball with your fingers or a fork to create a decorative pattern. The cookies will spread slightly, so ensure each cookie has enough room to bake evenly. This step sets the foundation for your delicious Peanut Butter Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches.

Step 3: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you shape the cookies, ensuring it reaches temperature for even baking. Bake your cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the centers look set but still soft. Once baked, remove them from the oven and allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack, ensuring they maintain their chewy texture.

Step 4: Assemble Sandwiches
Once your cookies are fully cooled, it’s time to assemble your Peanut Butter Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches! Take a scoop of vanilla ice cream and place it on the flat side of half of your cookies. Sandwich it with the remaining cookies, pressing gently to ensure the ice cream fills the space without spilling out.

Step 5: Coat
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 1 cup of milk chocolate, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth and glossy. Dip each ice cream sandwich into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. For added crunch, roll the edges in crushed peanuts or your preferred topping. This adds delicious texture and enhances the flavor of your treats.

Step 6: Freeze
To set the chocolate coating and allow the flavors to meld, place your finished sandwiches on a parchment-lined baking sheet and return them to the freezer for at least 1 hour. This chilling time ensures each Peanut Butter Cookie Ice Cream Sandwich is perfectly cold and ready to delight your taste buds when you’re ready to serve them.

Make Ahead Options

These Peanut Butter Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time while still delivering an unforgettable treat! You can prepare the cookie dough and shape the cookies up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them on the baking sheet covered with plastic wrap. Bake the cookies when you’re ready, then allow them to cool completely. Assemble the sandwiches with ice cream, and for optimal taste, freeze them for at least 1 hour before serving. If you need to prepare them further in advance, you can store fully assembled sandwiches in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. This way, you’ll always have a sweet, indulgent dessert ready to delight friends and family!

Expert Tips for Peanut Butter Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches

Chill the Dough: Allow the cookie dough to rest in the fridge for 30 minutes before baking; this helps prevent spreading and gives a better texture.

Fully Cool Cookies: Make sure your cookies are completely cooled before adding ice cream; warm cookies may lead to melting and a messy sandwich.

Use a Large Scoop: For even-sized sandwiches, use a 1/4 cup scoop for both ice cream and cookie dough; it ensures uniformity and saves you from uneven layers.

Customize the Coatings: Get creative with coatings by trying different nuts, sprinkles, or crushed cookies for unique flavor twists on these Peanut Butter Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches.

Make Ahead: Prepare sandwiches a day in advance; letting them sit in the freezer overnight allows the flavors to meld wonderfully, enhancing the overall taste.

What to Serve with Peanut Butter Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches

Indulging in these delightful treats invites a world of pairing possibilities that balance sweetness with savory charm!

Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries or raspberries cuts through the sweetness, adding a refreshing contrast.
Milkshakes: Creamy chocolate or peanut butter milkshakes amplify that nostalgic vibe and make for a delightful pairing on a hot day.
Salted Caramel Sauce: Drizzling some salted caramel adds a luscious touch; its rich flavor harmonizes beautifully with the peanut butter.
Grilled Peaches: A warm, juicy peach brings a hint of smokiness and warmth, perfect for those seeking a summer twist.
Mini Fruit Salad: A mix of vibrant seasonal fruits creates a fresh counterpoint to the richness of the sandwiches, inviting invigorating bites.
Iced Coffee: The robust flavor of iced coffee balances the sweetness of the dessert, making it a comforting combo for afternoon treats.

Peanut Butter Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches Variations

Feel free to explore these fun twists and substitutions to make this recipe uniquely yours!

Nut-Sensitive Option: Substitute peanut butter with sun butter for a nut-free yet equally delightful flavor. Enjoy a creamy goodness without the worry.
Flavor Twist: Use chocolate chip ice cream instead of vanilla for an extra layer of sweet richness. Imagine the delightful melty chocolate chips in every bite!
Dairy-Free: Opt for dairy-free chocolate and your favorite non-dairy ice cream. It’s an inclusive way to share the joy with friends who have dietary restrictions.
Gluten-Free: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a safe treat. You’ll still get those chewy cookies everyone loves—no one will even notice!
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the ice cream before assembling the sandwiches for an indulgent topping. It adds a beautiful gooeyness that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the cookie dough for a surprising heat twist. This spice intensity will make your taste buds tingle!
Cookie Crunch: Instead of crushed peanuts, use crushed pretzels or toffee bits for a salty-sweet flavor combination that adds an exciting crunch.
Mini Sandwiches: Make smaller sandwiches using a mini scoop for fun bite-sized treats, perfect for gatherings or a delightful kids’ dessert. They’ll be the talk of your next get-together.

For more tasty ideas, check out these Crockpot Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes or little indulgences like Pot Garlic Butter.

How to Store and Freeze Peanut Butter Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches

Room Temperature: These treats are best enjoyed chilled, so avoid storing them at room temperature to maintain ideal texture and freshness.

Fridge: If you plan to serve them within 1-2 days, keep the sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator to slightly soften the ice cream while retaining flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, place the sandwiches in a single layer in an airtight container or wrap them individually in plastic wrap; they can last in the freezer for up to 2 weeks without losing their delightful taste.

Reheating: These Peanut Butter Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches are best enjoyed frozen; however, you can leave them out for 5-10 minutes before serving to let the ice cream soften slightly for perfect eating.

Peanut Butter Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe FAQs

What type of peanut butter should I use?
Absolutely! You can choose between creamy or crunchy peanut butter for these Peanut Butter Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches. Creamy peanut butter will give you smooth cookies, while crunchy adds delightful texture.

How do I store these ice cream sandwiches?
To maintain their amazing flavor and texture, store the sandwiches in an airtight container in the freezer. They’ll stay fresh for up to two weeks! You can also keep them in the fridge for 1-2 days if you plan to serve them soon, which will soften the ice cream slightly for delightful eating.

Can I freeze the Peanut Butter Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches?
Very! To freeze, place your sandwiches in a single layer in an airtight container, or wrap them individually in plastic wrap. They can last up to 2 weeks in the freezer without losing their incredible taste, making them the perfect make-ahead treat!

What should I do if my cookies turn out too soft or crumble?
If your cookies are too soft, ensure you’re letting them cool completely before assembling the sandwiches. Warm cookies may melt the ice cream and make the structure weak. Also, check your baking soda’s freshness to ensure proper leavening! If they crumble, the dough may need more binding, so consider using an extra egg or a bit more peanut butter next time.

Are there any allergy considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! Since this recipe contains peanut butter, it’s essential to consider peanut allergies. For nut-sensitive options, feel free to replace it with sun butter or another nut-free alternative. Additionally, check that your ice cream and chocolate are free from potential allergens if you’re serving these treats to guests with specific dietary restrictions.