Ice Cream Cookies: The Ultimate Guide to Deliciously Cool Treats

Takeaways:

• Ice cream cookies are a versatile and delicious dessert that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
• There are many different types of ice cream cookies to choose from, each with its own unique charm.
• Making your own ice cookies is easy and fun, and there are endless possibilities for creating unique combinations.
• You can also find delicious ice cookies at local bakeries, ice cream shops, and even grocery stores.
• Ice cream cookies are a fun activity to do with kids, and a perfect way to create memories and enjoy a delicious treat.

Introduction

Imagine this: a warm, gooey cookie, still slightly soft from the oven, cradling a scoop of creamy, cold ice cream. That, my friends, is the magic of ice cream cookies. They’re a delightful combination of textures and flavors, a perfect marriage of sweet and cool, that’s become a beloved dessert across generations.

I’m a self-proclaimed ice cream enthusiast, and over the years, I’ve had my fair share of ice cream cookies. I’ve devoured them in charming ice cream shops, baked them with my kids in the kitchen, and even experimented with creating my own unique variations. This blog post is my comprehensive guide to ice cookies, packed with tips, recipes, and insider knowledge that will make you an expert in no time.

What Are Ice Cream Cookies?

Ice cream cookies are simply cookies baked to hold a scoop of ice cream. They are the ultimate dessert for any occasion, from a casual afternoon treat to a celebratory finale. You can find ice cookies in various forms: classic ice cream sandwiches made with two cookies, ice cream cookie cups crafted from a single cookie, or even ice cream cookie bowls for a larger serving.

The beauty of ice cookies lies in their versatility. The combinations are truly endless! Whether you prefer a classic chocolate chip cookie with vanilla ice cream or a more adventurous ginger snap with raspberry sorbet, you’ll find an ice cream cookie that tickles your taste buds.

The History of Ice Cream Cookies

Tracing the origin of ice cream cookies is a bit like searching for a lost treasure. While there’s no definitive answer, it’s safe to say that the concept has been around for quite a while. We know that cookies and ice cream have been popular treats for centuries. Imagine those Victorian ladies and gentlemen, enjoying a scoop of ice cream nestled in a delicate biscuit. That, in essence, is the ancestor of the ice cream cookie.

However, it was the advent of commercially produced ice cream in the 20th century that really propelled ice cookies into the mainstream. Ice cream shops and bakeries started offering ice cream sandwiches, and soon, they became a staple in grocery stores and convenience shops.

The Different Types of Ice Cream Cookies

Let’s delve into the world of ice cookies and explore the different types you can find, each with its own unique charm:

1. Classic Ice Cream Sandwiches:

These are the OG ice cream cookies. Think of two cookies, usually chocolate chip or sugar cookies, sandwiching a scoop of ice cream. They’re the simplest form, yet they deliver a powerful punch of deliciousness.

2. Ice Cream Cookie Cups:

Imagine a single cookie, carefully shaped into a cup, waiting to embrace a scoop of your favorite ice cream. These are perfect for individual servings, and they offer a more elegant presentation than the classic sandwich.

3. Ice Cream Cookie Bowls:

For those with a larger appetite or a desire to share, there are ice cream cookie bowls. These are essentially larger cookies, formed into a bowl to hold a generous serving of ice cream. They’re perfect for family gatherings, picnics, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests.

4. Ice Cream Cookie Sandwiches with Different Fillings:

These ice cookies take the classic sandwich to another level. Instead of just two cookies and ice cream, they introduce additional layers of flavor and texture. Some popular fillings include brownie batter, cheesecake, or even fresh fruit. My personal favorite is a peanut butter cookie sandwich with a dollop of cheesecake ice cream. The tangy cheesecake cuts through the richness of the peanut butter, creating a truly delightful balance.

How to Make Ice Cream Cookies at Home

Making your own cream cookies is easier than you might think. With just a few ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a delicious dessert that will impress your friends and family.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make cream cookies at home:

1. Choosing the Right Cookie Recipe:

The cookie is the foundation of your ice cream cookie, so choosing the right recipe is crucial. Classic choices include sugar cookies, chocolate chip cookies, and oatmeal cookies. Consider the flavor profile of your ice cream and choose a cookie that complements it. For example, a chocolate chip cookie pairs well with vanilla ice cream, while a peanut butter cookie complements chocolate ice cream.

One of my go-to cookie recipes is a simple sugar cookie. It’s incredibly versatile, works well with a variety of ice cream flavors, and can be customized with different flavorings and toppings.

2. Baking the Cookies:

Once you’ve chosen your cookie recipe, follow the instructions carefully. The key is to bake the cookies until they’re golden brown and slightly crispy around the edges, but still soft and chewy in the center. This will ensure that the cookies are sturdy enough to hold the ice cream without getting soggy.

I’ve learned that it’s important to watch the cookies carefully in the oven. Every oven is different, so be ready to adjust baking times as needed. A slight overbake can make the cookies too hard and brittle, while an underbake can leave them too soft and prone to falling apart.

3. Freezing the Cookies:

Once the cookies have cooled completely, freeze them for at least 30 minutes. This step is essential, as it helps to firm up the cookies and prevent them from becoming too soft when the ice cream is placed on them.

4. Adding the Ice Cream:

Scoop your favorite ice cream onto the frozen cookies. Use a small scoop for classic sandwiches, or a larger scoop for cups or bowls. Remember to keep the ice cream in the freezer until you’re ready to assemble the cream cookies, to ensure it stays cold and firm.

5. Finishing Touches:

Now it’s time to get creative! Decorate your cream cookies with sprinkles, sauces, or other toppings. You can even add a drizzle of chocolate syrup, a dollop of whipped cream, or a handful of chopped nuts.

One of my favorite finishing touches is to use a simple syrup. I often make a homemade raspberry syrup by simmering raspberries with sugar and water until it reduces and thickens. This adds a beautiful, fruity flavor and a touch of sweetness to the cream cookies.

The Best Ice Cream Cookie Recipes

I’ve spent years collecting my favorite ice cream cookie recipes, and I’m eager to share some of them with you. Here are a few tried-and-true recipes that are guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth:

1. Classic Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Sandwiches:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • Your favorite ice cream
• Instructions:
  • Set oven temperature to 375 F, or 190 C.
  • Beat the sugar and butter together until the mixture is light and creamy.
  • Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
  • Mix the salt, baking soda, and flour in a separate basin.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  • Stir in the chocolate chips.
  • Drop by rounded tablespoons onto ungreased baking sheets.
  • Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until golden brown.
  • Let cool completely before freezing.
  • Once cooled, spread a generous scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies. Enjoy!

2. Peanut Butter Ice Cream Cookie Cups:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Your favorite chocolate ice cream
• Instructions:
  • Set oven temperature to 350 F (175 C).
  • Beat the butter, sugar, and peanut butter together until they become light and fluffy.
  • Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
  • Mix the salt, baking soda, and flour in a separate basin.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  • Drop by rounded tablespoons onto ungreased muffin tins.
  • Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until golden brown.
  • Let cool completely before freezing.
  • Once cooled, fill each cup with a scoop of chocolate ice cream. Enjoy!

3. Ginger Snap Ice Cream Cookie Sandwiches with Raspberry Sorbet:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup molasses
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Raspberry sorbet
• Instructions:
  • Set oven temperature to 350°F, or 175°C.
  • Beat the brown sugar, molasses, and butter together until they become light and fluffy.
  • Beat in the egg.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  • Drop by rounded tablespoons onto ungreased baking sheets.
  • Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown.
  • Let cool completely before freezing.
  • Once cooled, spread a generous scoop of raspberry sorbet between two cookies. Enjoy!

4. Lemon Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches with Key Lime Pie Ice Cream:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Key Lime Pie ice cream
• Instructions:
  • Set oven temperature to 350 F (175 C).
  • Beat the butter and sugar together until they become light and fluffy.
  • Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
  • Add the lemon zest and mix well.
  • Mix the flour, baking powder, and salt in a another basin.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  • Drop by rounded tablespoons onto ungreased baking sheets.
  • Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
  • Let cool completely before freezing.
  • Once cooled, spread a generous scoop of Key Lime Pie ice cream between two cookies. Enjoy!

Finding the Best Ice Cream Cookies to Buy

While making ice cream cookies at home is a fun activity, sometimes you just crave a delicious treat that’s ready to go. Luckily, there are plenty of places where you can buy the best ice cookies.

• Local Bakeries: Many local bakeries offer a wide selection of ice cream cookies, often featuring seasonal flavors and unique combinations. One of my favorite local bakeries, “The Sweet Spot,” has a rotating menu of ice cream cookies that I look forward to trying every month. Their chocolate chip cookies with salted caramel ice cream are truly heavenly!
• Ice Cream Shops: Ice cream parlors are a great place to find freshly made ice cream cookies. They often have a variety of cookies and ice cream flavors to choose from, and they’re experts in creating delicious combinations. One of my go-to ice cream shops, “Scoops & Swirls,” has a dedicated ice cream cookie section on their menu. I love their ice cream cookies because they use premium ice cream and a variety of homemade cookies, ensuring that every bite is a flavor explosion.
• Grocery Stores: Even your local grocery store might carry cream cookies. While the selection may not be as extensive as a bakery or ice cream shop, you can usually find a few classic options. However, if you’re looking for something truly special, I’d recommend exploring the options at local bakeries and ice cream shops.

Table: Type of Ice Cream Cookie

Type of Ice Cream Cookie	Description	Best Ice Cream Pairing
Classic Ice Cream Sandwich	Two cookies sandwiching a scoop of ice cream	Vanilla, chocolate, strawberry
Ice Cream Cookie Cups	A single cookie formed into a cup to hold ice cream	Chocolate, coffee, pistachio
Ice Cream Cookie Bowls	A larger cookie formed into a bowl to hold a larger serving of ice cream	Salted caramel, cookie dough, mint chocolate chip
Ice Cream Cookie Sandwiches with Different Fillings	A classic sandwich with added layers of flavor and texture	Cheesecake, brownie batter, fruit

Ice Cream Cookie Variations and Ideas

The possibilities with cream cookies are truly endless. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different cookie flavors, ice cream flavors, and toppings. Here are some suggestions to get you going:

• Cookie Flavors: Beyond the classics, consider using lemon cookies, ginger snaps, peanut butter cookies, or even chocolate chip cookie dough cookies. I’ve even experimented with using oatmeal raisin cookies, which surprisingly pair well with vanilla ice cream. The raisins create a distinctive flavor combination by adding a hint of sweetness and texture.
• Ice Cream Flavors: Don’t limit yourself to vanilla and chocolate. Experiment with flavors like strawberry, coffee, pistachio, salted caramel, or even fruit sorbets. I recently tried a ice cream cookie with a scoop of lavender honey ice cream, and it was absolutely divine. The floral notes of the lavender complemented the sweetness of the honey ice cream beautifully.
• Unique Toppings: Chocolate sauce, whipped cream, nuts, fruit, sprinkles, and even edible flowers can add a touch of magic to your cream cookies. One of my favorite toppings is to drizzle a bit of caramel sauce over the ice cream cookie and then sprinkle a few chopped pecans on top. The salty pecans and the sweet caramel sauce create a perfect balance of flavors.

Tips for Enjoying Ice Cream Cookies

Now that you’ve mastered the art of making and buying cream cookies, here are a few tips to ensure you enjoy them to the fullest:

• Eat them fresh: Ice cream cookies are best enjoyed immediately after they’re assembled. The combination of warm cookies and cold ice cream is a true delight. The warm cookie will melt the ice cream just a bit, creating a beautiful, gooey texture that is impossible to resist.
• Freeze them for later: If you can’t enjoy your ice cream cookies right away, freeze them for later. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the freezer for up to a week. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw for a few minutes at room temperature, allowing the ice cream to soften slightly.
• Enjoy them as a dessert after a meal: Ice cream cookies are a perfect way to end a satisfying meal. The sweetness of the cookie and ice cream complements the flavors of your dinner, creating a delicious and satisfying finale. One of my favorite pairings is a ice cream cookie with a cup of coffee. The rich coffee complements the sweetness of the ice cream cookie perfectly.

Ice Cream Cookies: A Fun Activity for Kids

Making ice cream cookies can be a fun and engaging activity for kids of all ages. It’s a great way to teach them about baking, and it’s an opportunity to get creative in the kitchen. Here are some tips for creating a fun ice cream cookie making experience for kids:

• Let them choose the ingredients: Give kids the opportunity to select the cookie flavor, the ice cream flavor, and the toppings. This will make them feel more invested in the process and encourage them to try new things. My kids love to choose their favorite flavors and toppings, and they always get excited to see what unique combination they’ve created.
• Make it a theme: Create a theme for your ice cream cookie making session, such as “tropical island” or “chocolate heaven.” This will add an extra layer of fun to the activity and inspire creative ideas. We recently had a “tropical island” themed ice cream cookie party, where we used pineapple cookies, mango sorbet, and a sprinkle of coconut flakes. It was a delicious and fun way to celebrate summer.
• Get creative with decorations: Let kids unleash their creativity with sprinkles, sauces, and other toppings. You can even use food coloring to create fun designs on the cookies. My kids love to decorate their cream cookies with a variety of sprinkles, candies, and chocolate chips. It’s a great way to unleash their inner artist and create a truly unique dessert.
• Turn it into a family tradition: Make ice cream cookies a regular family activity, like a Friday night tradition or a special occasion treat. We often make ice cream cookies on a Friday night as a fun family activity. It’s a great way to bond with our kids and enjoy a sweet treat together.

Conclusion

I hope this comprehensive guide has inspired you to explore the world of cream cookies. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, there’s a ice cream cookie out there for everyone. So grab your ingredients, get creative, and enjoy this delightful treat!

FAQ