Looking for a festive treat that will wow your guests? These Gingerbread Ice Cream Sandwiches combine the warm spice of gingerbread cookies with the sweet creaminess of ice cream. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights at home, they are simple to make and fun to enjoy. Discover how to whip these delightful sandwiches up in your kitchen, and watch them disappear faster than you can say “yum!”
Why I Love This Recipe
- Festive Flavor: The combination of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves creates a warm, spicy flavor that embodies the holiday spirit.
- Fun to Assemble: Building these ice cream sandwiches is a fun activity for all ages, making them perfect for family gatherings.
- Customizable: You can easily switch up the ice cream flavor or add different toppings, making each sandwich unique.
- Make Ahead: These sandwiches can be made in advance and stored in the freezer, making them a convenient treat for unexpected guests.
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients for Gingerbread Ice Cream Sandwiches
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 tablespoon ground ginger
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups vanilla ice cream (or flavor of your choice)
– Optional toppings: crushed gingerbread cookies, sprinkles
The first thing you need is good ingredients. These will make your gingerbread ice cream sandwiches tasty and fun. The all-purpose flour gives the cookies structure. Baking soda helps them rise and stay soft. Ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves add warm spices. Salt balances the flavors.
You’ll also need butter. It makes the cookies rich and creamy. Brown sugar gives them a nice color and taste. Granulated sugar adds sweetness. The egg binds everything together. Molasses adds moisture and a deep flavor. Finally, vanilla extract gives a lovely aroma.
For the ice cream, you can use vanilla or any flavor you love. The optional toppings, like crushed cookies or sprinkles, add a fun touch. You can get creative with them!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Gingerbread Dough
– Whisk together these dry ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 tablespoon ground ginger
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
In a big bowl, cream together:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Beat in:
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Then, mix the dry flour mix into the wet mix until a smooth dough forms. You might need to use your hands for the last bit of flour.
Chilling and Baking
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap. Chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour. This helps the dough firm up.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out fun shapes. Gingerbread men or round cookies are great options!
Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges are slightly firm. Let them cool on a wire rack.
Assembling the Sandwiches
Once your cookies are cool, take one cookie. Place a generous scoop of ice cream on the bottom. Then, top it with another cookie to form a sandwich.
For added fun, roll the edges of the ice cream in optional toppings like crushed gingerbread cookies or colorful sprinkles.
Finally, place the assembled sandwiches back in the freezer for about 30 minutes. This sets them firmly and makes them easier to enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Gingerbread Flavor
To get the best gingerbread flavor, use fresh spices. Fresh spices have a stronger scent and taste. Check your spice jars; if they are old, buy new ones. Also, be precise with your measurements. This will help you get the flavor just right every time.
Cookie Texture Tips
Chilling the dough is key to great cookies. After making your dough, wrap it in plastic wrap and chill it for at least one hour. This helps the cookies hold their shape. The thickness of your cookies matters too. If you’re making thicker cookies, bake them a bit longer. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
Serving Suggestions
Get creative with how you serve your gingerbread ice cream sandwiches. Use a festive platter to showcase them. You can drizzle caramel or chocolate sauce on top for a fun touch. For drinks, pair them with hot cocoa or spiced tea. These drinks will enhance the holiday vibe and make your treats even more special.
Pro Tips
- Chill the Dough: Be sure to chill the dough for at least one hour. This helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking and makes rolling out easier.
- Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Customize Your Ice Cream: Feel free to experiment with different ice cream flavors or even add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts for a unique twist!
- Presentation Matters: Serve your gingerbread ice cream sandwiches on a festive platter and consider drizzling with caramel or chocolate sauce for an eye-catching dessert.
Variations
Vegan Gingerbread Ice Cream Sandwiches
To make these treats vegan, you can swap some ingredients. Use plant-based butter instead of unsalted butter. Replace the egg with a flax egg, made by mixing one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with two and a half tablespoons of water. Let it sit for five minutes to thicken. For the ice cream, choose a dairy-free option that you like. Almond, coconut, or cashew ice creams work well. This way, you can enjoy the festive flavor without eggs or dairy.
Gluten-Free Options
For a gluten-free version, use a good gluten-free flour blend. Look for mixes that contain brown rice flour, tapioca starch, and potato starch. These blends mimic the texture of all-purpose flour. You can also add a bit of xanthan gum to help the cookies hold together. Follow the rest of the recipe as usual, and you’ll have delicious gluten-free gingerbread ice cream sandwiches.
Flavor Variations
Get creative with your ice cream flavors! While vanilla is a classic choice, try chocolate, peppermint, or even pumpkin spice for a fun twist. You can also add spices like nutmeg or cardamom to the dough for extra warmth. For crunch, mix in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts. This way, you can customize your sandwiches to suit your taste. The options are endless!
Storage Info
How to Store Gingerbread Ice Cream Sandwiches
To keep your gingerbread ice cream sandwiches fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps to lock in moisture and flavor. Place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. If you have leftovers, try to eat them in a few days for the best taste.
Freezer Storage Tips
These treats can last up to two months in the freezer. Wrap each sandwich in plastic wrap to keep them from getting freezer burn. For added protection, place the wrapped sandwiches in a freezer-safe bag. This method helps maintain a nice texture, so they stay soft and tasty.
Reheating Instructions
If your cookies become too hard, re-soften them by placing them in a warm oven for a few minutes. Keep the temperature low, around 200°F (93°C). Check them often to avoid overdoing it. This is a great way to bring back that fresh-baked feel!
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three days. When you’re ready, roll it out and bake!
What type of ice cream pairs best with gingerbread?
Vanilla ice cream is a classic choice. It balances the spices in gingerbread well. For a twist, try flavors like caramel, cinnamon, or even pumpkin. Each adds a unique touch to your sandwich.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cookie dough. Shape it into a disk, wrap it well, and store it in the freezer. It will keep for about three months. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking.
How do I prevent the ice cream from melting when assembling?
To keep the ice cream firm, scoop it right from the freezer. Work quickly when making the sandwiches. After you assemble them, freeze the sandwiches for about 30 minutes before serving. This helps them hold their shape.
Gingerbread ice cream sandwiches are a fun treat you can make at home. We covered essential ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for success. Variations for vegan and gluten-free options let you explore different flavors. Proper storage keeps them fresh and yummy.
Enjoy making these sandwiches your way. They will surely impress family and friends. Get creative and have fun with this easy recip
