These Lemon Ice Cream Sandwiches offer the perfect combination of fresh citrus and creamy indulgence. The soft, chewy cookies paired with the tangy lemon ice cream create a delightful contrast, making every bite an unforgettable treat.
Ideal for summer parties, picnics, or a special weekend dessert, these sandwiches are as fun to make as they are to eat. You can even experiment with different flavors of ice cream to switch things up. Whether you enjoy a burst of lemon zest or prefer a more subtle citrus flavor, these sandwiches are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping you cool.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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1/2 teaspoon baking soda
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
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1/2 cup granulated sugar
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1 large egg
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1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
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2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 pint lemon ice cream, softened
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
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In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
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Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
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Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
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Once the cookies have cooled, place a generous scoop of softened lemon ice cream between two cookies. Gently press the sandwich together, then roll the edges of the ice cream in extra lemon zest if desired.
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Place the sandwiches in the freezer for at least 2 hours to set before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 27 minutes | Kcal: 300 kcal per sandwich | Servings: 6 sandwiches
The Allure of Lemon and Ice Cream
The combination of lemon and ice cream has long been a favorite in the world of desserts. The tartness of lemon cuts through the richness of the ice cream, creating a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. The lemon adds brightness to the dessert, making it feel fresh and invigorating, while the ice cream provides a creamy, velvety finish. Together, they create a contrast in both flavor and texture that is simply irresistible.
Lemon’s versatility as a flavor is one of the reasons it pairs so well with ice cream. Whether it’s the tangy zest, the sharp acidity, or the refreshing juice, lemon provides a distinct yet complementary flavor to the richness of ice cream. It can be used to brighten up many different desserts, and its bright yellow color is visually appealing, making it a favorite for summer treats.
When incorporated into an ice cream sandwich, the lemon flavor shines even more. The cookies provide a chewy, slightly sweet base that contrasts with the smooth, cool ice cream. This texture combination creates a satisfying bite that is both decadent and refreshing.
A Classic Twist: Soft, Chewy Cookies and Smooth Ice Cream
The beauty of these lemon ice cream sandwiches lies in their simplicity. The cookies are soft, slightly chewy, and perfectly balanced in sweetness, allowing the lemon ice cream to take center stage. Many ice cream sandwiches use store-bought cookies, but homemade cookies make all the difference in achieving a truly gourmet experience.
The homemade cookies in this recipe are flavored with lemon zest, which enhances the citrus notes of the ice cream. The lemon juice adds a subtle tartness that further elevates the flavor profile, while the vanilla extract provides a smooth undertone that complements the lemon. The result is a perfectly balanced cookie that has just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the lemon ice cream.
Once the cookies are baked and cooled, they are filled with a generous scoop of softened lemon ice cream. The ice cream should be soft enough to spread easily, but not too melted that it will drip out of the sandwich. Rolling the edges of the ice cream sandwich in extra lemon zest is a nice touch, adding a little extra zing and making the treat even more visually appealing.
Versatility: Customize Your Lemon Ice Cream Sandwiches
One of the best parts about lemon ice cream sandwiches is their versatility. While this recipe sticks to the classic combination of lemon and vanilla, there are plenty of ways to customize these sandwiches to suit your tastes.
For instance, you could switch up the cookies by using a different flavor base. A shortbread cookie or a ginger snap could offer a unique twist and complement the tangy lemon ice cream. You could even experiment with different types of ice cream, such as raspberry, coconut, or strawberry, to create your own signature ice cream sandwich.
In addition, the ice cream filling doesn’t have to be limited to store-bought options. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could make your own lemon ice cream from scratch, which would allow you to control the sweetness and texture to your liking. Homemade ice cream could add a richer, more intense flavor to the sandwiches.
Another fun variation is to roll the edges of the sandwich in toppings, such as crushed nuts, sprinkles, or even bits of candy. This adds an extra crunch and a burst of flavor that will make the ice cream sandwich even more exciting.
Why Lemon Ice Cream Sandwiches Are the Ultimate Summer Dessert
There’s something about the combination of cookies, ice cream, and citrus that feels like the ultimate summer dessert. Lemon ice cream sandwiches are the perfect treat to enjoy during hot weather because they are cool, refreshing, and not too heavy. They are light enough to satisfy your sweet tooth without weighing you down, making them an ideal snack or dessert for a summer afternoon.
Additionally, lemon ice cream sandwiches are incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dessert that tastes like it came from a bakery. You don’t need any special equipment or advanced cooking techniques – just basic baking skills and a love for delicious food. The minimal preparation time makes these sandwiches perfect for last-minute gatherings or impromptu summer events.
Moreover, the ice cream sandwiches can be made in advance, which makes them perfect for entertaining. You can prepare them ahead of time, store them in the freezer, and serve them when your guests arrive. The fact that they are handheld makes them convenient for parties, picnics, or barbecues. No mess, no fuss – just a delightful, easy-to-enjoy treat.
A Crowd-Pleasing Dessert for All Ages
Lemon ice cream sandwiches are a hit with both kids and adults alike. Kids love the playful combination of ice cream and cookies, while adults appreciate the refreshing lemon flavor and the lightness of the dessert. It’s a treat that brings people together, offering a nostalgic childhood favorite with a gourmet twist.
They are also a great dessert option for a variety of dietary preferences. The cookies can be made gluten-free, dairy-free, or even vegan, ensuring that everyone at your gathering can enjoy this delicious treat. The flexibility of the recipe allows you to adapt it to your guests’ dietary needs while still keeping it indulgent and satisfying.
Perfect for Special Occasions or Everyday Enjoyment
Lemon ice cream sandwiches are perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, a summer barbecue, or just want to indulge in something sweet after a meal, these sandwiches will fit the bill. They can be dressed up with a garnish of mint leaves or served with a side of fresh berries for an extra touch of elegance.
However, their simplicity also makes them ideal for casual enjoyment. They’re easy enough to prepare on a whim, and the refreshing combination of lemon and ice cream makes them the perfect way to cool off during a hot summer day.
Conclusion: Why You Should Try Lemon Ice Cream Sandwiches
Lemon ice cream sandwiches are a refreshing and delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of summer. With their combination of soft cookies, creamy ice cream, and tangy lemon flavor, they are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Easy to make, customizable, and full of refreshing flavor, these sandwiches are an essential addition to any summer dessert repertoire. Whether you’re serving them at a party or simply enjoying them on a sunny afternoon, lemon ice cream sandwiches will quickly become a favorite in your dessert rotation.
They’re more than just a dessert – they’re a taste of summer, a celebration of citrus, and a sweet indulgence that can be enjoyed by all. If you’re looking for the perfect treat to enjoy this summer, look no further than these delicious, refreshing lemon ice cream sandwiches.