If you’re ready to transform a classic dessert into the ultimate frozen treat, these Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches are about to become your new favorite recipe. Imagine two slabs of decadent, crackly-topped brownies sandwiching your choice of creamy ice cream — every bite delivers a divine mix of fudgy chocolate and cool sweetness. Whether you stick to vanilla or opt for something wild and colorful, these sandwiches are perfect for summer parties, birthdays, or any day you crave something unforgettable. Assemble them ahead of time, stash them in your freezer, and watch as every hand reaches for seconds!

Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering everything for Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches is delightfully simple. Each ingredient plays an important role — from the chocolatey richness to the soft, chewy bite, and that irresistible pop of cool from your favorite ice cream. Here’s what you’ll want to have ready:

Unsalted butter, melted: Gives the brownies richness and helps create their chewy texture.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and aids in that classic flaky brownie top.
Light brown sugar, packed: For a hint of caramel flavor and extra moistness.
Large eggs, room temperature: Binds everything together and ensures a fudgy crumb.
Vegetable oil: A little oil makes brownies extra moist and shiny.
Pure vanilla extract: Deepens the chocolate flavor with a warm aroma.
All-purpose flour: The foundation that gives the brownies their structure.
Cocoa powder: Choose a good quality one for a truly rich chocolate hit.
Salt: Don’t skip it — salt balances out the sweetness and amplifies the chocolate.
Your favorite ice cream flavor (about 1.5 quarts): Let your creativity shine! Vanilla, cookies and cream, strawberry, or anything you adore.

How to Make Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches

Step 1: Prep Your Pans

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees. Take two 8×8-inch pans and grease them thoroughly with butter or nonstick spray. For extra insurance, line each pan with parchment paper, leaving a generous overhang on the sides — this will make brownie removal (and sandwich assembly) a breeze later on.

Step 2: Whip Up the Brownie Base

In a medium bowl, whisk your melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together using a hand mixer on medium speed. The sugars will dissolve, helping to give those signature crackly brownie tops. This is your ticket to both delicious flavor and perfect texture.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Flavorings

Crack in the eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition. Be patient and mix well — thorough mixing creates that gorgeous shiny crust we all love. After the eggs, pour in the oil and vanilla extract. Give everything a good mix so your brownie base is silky and cohesive.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into your wet mixture, lowering your mixer speed to avoid a floury countertop. Add the dry mix in intervals, scraping down the sides to ensure no pockets are left behind.

Step 5: Spread and Bake

Divide your brownie batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Use a rubber spatula to spread the batter into the corners and smooth the tops. Bake for 30–40 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick — it should come out mostly clean, but a few moist crumbs mean they’ll stay fudgy. Try not to overbake for the best texture!

Step 6: Cool the Brownies Completely

Once out of the oven, let your pans cool for about 10 minutes. Then use the parchment overhang to carefully lift brownies onto a wire rack. Leave the paper attached to one brownie slab — this one will be your base — and gently peel it off the other. Let both cool to room temperature for easier handling and assembly.

Step 7: Build the Sandwiches

Remove your ice cream from the freezer and let it soften for 5–10 minutes; you want it spreadable but not soupy. Pop the first brownie half (with the parchment on the bottom) back into its pan. Heap generous scoops of ice cream across the top and spread evenly, pressing gently into the edges. Adjust the thickness to your liking — about three-fourths of your ice cream usually does the trick, or go all out for extra indulgence!

Step 8: Top and Freeze

Invert the second brownie half and lay it gently over the ice cream layer, pressing down lightly to secure the sandwich. Cover the whole pan tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Place in the freezer for at least 6 hours (overnight is best) so the sandwiches set up beautifully and slice cleanly.

How to Serve Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches

Garnishes

For that “wow” factor, roll the edges in mini chocolate chips, rainbow sprinkles, or crushed nuts as soon as you slice the sandwiches. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a fond drizzle of chocolate sauce always gets major applause, too.

Side Dishes

Pair your Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches with summer berries or a bowl of sliced fruit for a refreshing contrast. If you’re feeling playful, offer a side of whipped cream or extra ice cream scoops so everyone can build their dream dessert plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, pre-wrap sandwiches in wax paper for easy grab-and-go treats. Slice them into mini squares for a bite-sized dessert bar, or sandwich between two waffles for a brunch twist. Stack on a cake stand and watch them become the center of your table!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you somehow have leftovers, keep your Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches tightly wrapped in plastic or parchment, then slide them into an airtight container. They’ll stay delicious and fresh for up to a week in the freezer, perfect for those spontaneous sweet cravings.

Freezing

These sandwiches are practically made for the freezer! For best results, freeze individual portions separated by parchment or wax paper. This keeps the brownies tender and prevents them from sticking together. They’ll stay at their best for up to three months — simply thaw for a couple of minutes before eating.

Reheating

No actual reheating needed here, but if you like your sandwich extra soft, leave it at room temperature for 5 minutes before biting in. That short wait gives you the ideal combination of gooey brownie and just-melting ice cream.

FAQs

Can I make Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free baking blend and double-check that your other components (like the ice cream) are also gluten-free. The texture is still dreamy and chocolaty.

Which ice cream flavors work best for Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches?

The beauty of this dessert is its versatility! Classic vanilla is a crowd-pleaser, but feel free to experiment with coffee, mint chip, strawberry, or even peanut butter swirl. Pick whatever makes your tastebuds happy.

Can I use box mix brownies instead of homemade?

You sure can! While homemade brownies offer a richer flavor, a quality boxed mix saves time and always tastes great. Just make sure to bake them in two pans and let them cool thoroughly before assembling.

How do I slice the sandwiches neatly?

For clean, bakery-style edges, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between each cut. If you freeze the pan overnight, you’ll get tidy, photo-worthy squares every time.

Can I make Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches ahead of time for a party?

Yes! In fact, they’re at their best when made ahead. Prepare and freeze the sandwiches a day or two before your event for a stress-free and super refreshing dessert.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to impress or simply want to spoil yourself, Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches deliver every time. They’re rich, creamy, and sure to bring pure joy to anyone lucky enough to have a bite. Don’t wait for a special occasion — treat yourself and your loved ones, and let this recipe become a summer (or anytime!) favorite in your kitchen.

Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe