Calling all ice cream lovers! We all know the classic joy of a giant, melty ice cream on a hot summer day. But what if there was a way to indulge that craving without the mess? Enter the world of the Mini Ice Cream Sandwich. These treats are the perfect summertime dessert (or afternoon snack, we won't judge!). They're incredibly easy to make at home, requiring no fancy equipment or baking skills. The basic concept is simple: a creamy, frozen center sandwiched between two thin cookies. To make it is super easy. Make an ice cream filling from condensed milk and mascarpone cheese, and freeze. Place the ice cream squares between two cookies, dip them into chocolate, and serve! They're ideal for backyard barbecues, pool parties, or simply a fun activity to do with the kids.
The concept of combining ice cream with some form of bread or cake can be traced back further than you might think. Roman accounts mention enjoying snow or ice flavored with honey, sometimes served nestled between slices of fruit bread.
Fast forward to the late 19th century in the United States. Street vendors in New York City are credited with some of the earliest versions of the ice cream sandwich. These early iterations were called "hokey pokeys" and featured slabs of ice cream nestled between cheap paper sheets.
Thankfully, the introduction of affordable cookies in the early 20th century revolutionized the ice cream sandwich. The classic pairing of vanilla ice cream sandwiched between two chocolate wafer cookies is believed to have emerged around this time. A patent for an "Ice Cream Sandwich Machine" using chocolate cookies even surfaced in the 1920s! These days ice cream sandwiches come in a dizzying array of flavors, from classic vanilla bean to adventurous options like mint chocolate chip or birthday cake. Another fun fact? National Ice Cream Sandwich Day is celebrated on August 2nd in the US!
Absolutely! While vanilla is a classic, feel free to experiment with flavors like chocolate, strawberry, mint chip, or even cookies and cream.
No! This recipe relies on a base of whipped condensed milk and mascarpone cheese for a creamy, scoopable center.
Thin and firm cookies are ideal. Mini chocolate chip cookies are popular, but you can also explore options like gingersnaps, shortbread, or even brownie bites.
Store the ice cream sandwiches in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a month.
In a large bowl, whisk the mascarpone with condensed milk until smooth and creamy.
In a large bowl, whisk the mascarpone with condensed milk until smooth and creamy.
Fold in the chocolate chips.
Fold in the chocolate chips.
Spread the creamy mixture in a square 20x20cm (8x8 inch) pan, and smooth out. Let sit in the fridge until fully set (for around an hour).
Spread the creamy mixture in a square 20x20cm (8×8 inch) pan, and smooth out. Let sit in the fridge until fully set (for around an hour).
Flip the ice cream block onto the cutting board lined with parchment paper.
Flip the ice cream block onto the cutting board lined with parchment paper.
Place 9 cookies on top.
Place 9 cookies on top.
Cut out a square around each cookie.
Cut out a square around each cookie.
Flip it onto the other side. Cover with another cookie to make a sandwich.
Flip it onto the other side. Cover with another cookie to make a sandwich.
Insert a wooden stick into each sandwich (optional), then place in the freezer for 30 minutes.
Insert a wooden stick into each sandwich (optional), then place in the freezer for 30 minutes.
Dip the sandwiches in melted chocolate, then serve.
Dip the sandwiches in melted chocolate, then serve.