Looking for a fun and festive way to celebrate the 4th of July? These mini ice cream sandwiches, filled with creamy vanilla ice cream and topped with patriotic red and blue sprinkles, are the perfect holiday treat.
Soft, chewy cookies paired with cold ice cream create a delightful texture combination that everyone will love. Bright garnishes of fresh strawberries and blueberries add a refreshing touch to these adorable desserts.
Why these mini ice cream sandwiches stand out
- Patriotic flair: Red and blue sprinkles make these sandwiches a festive centerpiece for your 4th of July celebrations.
- Perfect bite size: These mini treats are easy to eat and great for kids and adults alike.
- Customizable garnish: Fresh berries and whipped cream add a sweet and colorful finishing touch.
Ingredients you’ll need
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup red and blue sprinkles
- 1 pint vanilla ice cream
- 1/2 cup whipped cream
- Fresh strawberries, for garnish
- Fresh blueberries, for garnish
How to make these patriotic treats
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt, then set the mixture aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with the granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and egg, mixing until fully combined.
Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until the dough comes together. Gently fold in the red and blue sprinkles to give the dough its festive look.
Using a tablespoon, scoop small portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once the cookies are cool, scoop a small portion of vanilla ice cream onto the flat side of one cookie. Top it with another cookie to form a sandwich, and repeat with the remaining cookies and ice cream.
For an extra festive touch, add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each sandwich. Garnish with fresh strawberries and blueberries before serving.
What to serve with these ice cream sandwiches
Pair these sandwiches with a refreshing pitcher of lemonade for a classic summer vibe. For a festive spread, serve alongside a fruit platter featuring more red, white, and blue fruits like watermelon and raspberries.
How to store leftovers
Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the freezer. They’ll stay fresh for up to 1 week, but for the best texture, serve them within a few days. Let them sit at room temperature for 1-2 minutes before eating if they are too firm.
Ingredient swaps for dietary needs
To make these gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour in place of all-purpose flour. You can also opt for dairy-free ice cream to accommodate lactose intolerance while keeping the festive spirit alive.