Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup confectioners’ sugar, sifted
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- ½ cup mix-ins (optional, e.g., chocolate chips, nuts)
Instructions
- Prepare the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment to beat the softened butter and confectioners’ sugar together until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
- Add vanilla, salt, and flour: Mix in the vanilla extract and salt. Gradually beat in the sifted all-purpose flour on low speed until the dough just comes together. If using mix-ins such as chocolate chips or nuts, fold them into the dough now.
- Chill the dough: Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each into a flat disk. Wrap each disk tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up the dough and make it easier to roll out.
- Preheat the oven and prepare baking sheets: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and set aside.
- Roll and cut cookies: On a lightly floured surface, roll out each chilled disk to about ¼ inch thickness. Using a 2½-inch round cookie cutter, cut out cookies and arrange them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing each cookie approximately 1 inch apart to allow for slight spreading.
- Bake the cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 9 to 10 minutes, until the cookies appear soft and just slightly underbaked — this ensures they stay tender once filled.
- Cool the cookies: Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheets; this helps them firm up without becoming too hard.
- Assemble the sandwiches: Once cooled, take one cookie and sandwich a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies. Serve immediately for a soft and creamy treat or place the assembled sandwiches in an airtight container and freeze for up to one month for later enjoyment.
Notes
- For best results, ensure butter is softened but not melted before mixing.
- Optional mix-ins like chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or sprinkles add texture and flavor.
- Do not overbake cookies; they should remain soft to complement the ice cream.
- Ice cream sandwiches can be frozen in a single layer or separated by parchment paper in an airtight container.
- Allow frozen sandwiches to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating for easier biting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
