Gingerbread Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe

These Gingerbread Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches make an easy holiday treat. The cookies stay soft, and the cold ice cream gives a nice contrast. You can serve them at parties or keep them in the freezer for a quick dessert.
I also publish simple, reliable holiday recipes on HomeandFiesta, so this fits right in.

What is a Gingerbread Cookie Ice Cream Sandwich?

It’s a cookie sandwich made with soft gingerbread cookies and a layer of ice cream in the middle.
The spices give warmth. The ice cream adds creaminess.
You can use vanilla, cinnamon, caramel, or any flavor you like.

Gingerbread Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches

Why This Recipe Works

• The cookies stay soft, so they don’t crack when you press the ice cream inside.
• You can assemble the sandwiches ahead and freeze them.
• You can customize the ice cream and add toppings.
• Kids and adults both like the mix of warm spices and cold ice cream.

Ingredients You Need

Gingerbread Cookies

• 1/2 cup butter (softened)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/3 cup molasses
• 1 egg
• 2 1/4 cups flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 tablespoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Filling

• 1 to 1 1/2 quarts ice cream
  (vanilla, cinnamon, or caramel — depending on how thick you want the sandwiches)

Optional Coatings

• 1/2 cup crushed cookies
• 1/2 cup sprinkles
• 1/2 cup crushed candy canes

How to Make Gingerbread Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches

(Simple Step-by-Step Instructions)

1. Prep the Cookie Dough

1. Add 1/2 cup softened butter and 1/2 cup brown sugar to a bowl. Beat until smooth.
2. Add 1/3 cup molasses and 1 egg. Mix until the mixture looks creamy.
3. In another bowl, whisk 2 1/4 cups flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 tablespoon ginger, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon cloves, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
4. Add the dry mix to the wet mix. Stir until a soft dough forms.
5. Cover the bowl and chill the dough for 1 hour. It helps the cookies hold their shape.

2. Shape and Bake the Cookies

1. Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment.
3. Scoop or roll the dough into balls, about 1 tablespoon each.
4. Place them 2 inches apart on the baking sheet.
5. Press each ball lightly to flatten.
6. Bake for 8–10 minutes.
7. Let the cookies cool on the sheet for a few minutes, then move them to a rack.
8. Cool completely before adding ice cream.

3. Prep the Ice Cream Filling

1. Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes. It should soften but not melt.
2. Scoop the ice cream into a bowl and stir once to make it smooth.
3. If you want even layers, spread the softened ice cream into an 8×8 pan lined with parchment.
4. Freeze for 1 hour so it firms up again.

4. Assemble the Ice Cream Sandwiches

1. Match the cookies in pairs so they’re close in size.
2. Add a scoop of ice cream on one cookie.
3. Press the second cookie on top to make a sandwich.
4. If using the pan method, lift the firm ice cream slab and cut it into squares or circles that fit the cookies.

5. Add Optional Coatings

1. Pour crushed cookies, sprinkles, or crushed candy canes into small bowls.
2. Roll the edges of the sandwich in the coating.
3. Press gently so it sticks.

6. Freeze Before Serving

1. Place the finished sandwiches on a tray.
2. Freeze for at least 2 hours.
3. This helps the cookies and ice cream set, so the sandwiches hold their shape.

7. Storage

1. Wrap each sandwich in plastic wrap.
2. Store in a freezer-safe container.
3. They keep well for up to 2 weeks.

Tips for Best Results

• Chill the cookies before assembling. Cold cookies help prevent melting.
• Keep the ice cream firm. Too soft ice cream will ooze.
• Make the cookies the same size. It gives a neat sandwich.
• Freeze in a single layer. Then move to a container after they’re solid.

Best Ice Cream Flavors to Use

• Vanilla bean—simple and clean.
• Cinnamon ice cream—matches the spices well.
• Caramel or butterscotch—adds a deeper sweetness.
• Peppermint—good for holiday parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

• Assemble and freeze the sandwiches up to one month.
• Wrap each sandwich well to avoid freezer burn.
• Let them sit at room temperature for a minute before eating if they’re too firm.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with hot chocolate or warm apple cider.
• Add them to a dessert tray with brownies, sugar cookies, or truffles.
• Drizzle caramel sauce over the top for richer flavor.

Variations

• Dip half the cookie in melted chocolate.
• Add crushed candy canes on the edges.
• Use chocolate gingerbread cookies for deeper flavor.
• Fill with dairy-free ice cream if needed.

Recipe FAQ,s

Can I use store bought gingerbread cookies?

Yes, but choose soft cookies. Hard cookies will crack.

How do I keep the sandwiches from melting while assembling?

Work in batches. Keep the ice cream in the freezer and pull out a small amount at a time.

How long can I freeze them?

Up to one month if tightly wrapped.

Can I make the cookies soft?

Use butter and molasses. Don’t overbake. Bake until the edges set but the center looks soft.

What ice cream flavor works best?

Vanilla bean works for everyone. Cinnamon works if you want stronger spice.