Thick summer clouds are rolling in, thick with the promise of rain, and all I can think about are these irresistible no-churn strawberry ice cream sandwiches. With a graham cracker crust that adds a satisfying crunch to the creamy, fruity filling, this dessert captures the essence of those carefree summer days spent outside. As we escape the fast-food routine, these sandwiches emerge as a quick and delightful solution for family gatherings and sunny picnics. You’re just a few simple steps away from a homemade treat that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to prepare. Who wouldn’t want to take a bite out of summer? Let’s dive into this refreshing recipe that’s perfect for both satisfying your sweet tooth and impressing your loved ones!
Why make strawberry ice cream sandwiches?
Irresistible Combination: The no-churn goodness makes this dessert incredibly easy, so anyone can make it without needing special equipment.
Flavorful Delight: Each bite is a burst of fresh strawberries, perfectly complemented by a crunchy graham cracker crust that adds a delightful textural contrast.
Perfect for Summer: These sandwiches are a cool treat designed for hot days—ideal for barbecues, picnics, or simply enjoying in the backyard.
Versatile and Fun: You can easily mix it up by substituting strawberries with other fruits like raspberries or peaches for new flavor adventures.
Quick Preparation: With minimal prep time, these sandwiches fit perfectly into your busy schedule, letting you indulge in homemade joy without the fuss.
You’ll want to serve these alongside your favorite desserts, like Strawberry Shortcake Whipped or as a refreshing treat after a meal. Enjoy your summer days and make it memorable with this delightful recipe!
Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwich Ingredients
For the Strawberry Filling
• Strawberries – Fresh or frozen, finely diced for a vibrant, fruity flavor component.
• Water – 1 tablespoon; essential for cooking the strawberries into a delicious compote.
For the Graham Cracker Crust
• Graham Crackers – 325 g; the crunchy base that holds these no-churn strawberry ice cream sandwiches together.
• Unsalted Butter – 230 g, melted to bind the cracker crumbs into a rich crust.
For the Ice Cream Mixture
• Whipping Cream or Heavy Cream – 300 g, cold; crucial for achieving that light, airy ice cream texture.
• Vanilla Extract – 1 tablespoon; enhances the overall flavor of your strawberry ice cream.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk – 150 g; adds creaminess and sweetness, making this dessert irresistibly delightful.
Don’t hesitate to add a personal touch with various fruits and toppings for your homemade strawberry ice cream sandwiches!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwiches
Step 1: Prep the Pan
Begin by lining a 9×9″ baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later. Secure the edges with binder clips to keep the paper in place. This step will ensure that your delectable strawberry ice cream sandwiches lift out smoothly once frozen.
Step 2: Cook Strawberries
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine your finely diced strawberries and 1 tablespoon of water. Cook for about 5–7 minutes until the strawberries soften and the mixture thickens into a chunky compote. Remove from heat and let this fruity mix cool completely before folding it into the ice cream.
Step 3: Crush Graham Crackers
Place your graham crackers in a ziplock bag and crush them with a rolling pin until they’re crumbly. Alternatively, you can use a food processor for quicker results. You’ll want a fine consistency that resembles sand as it will form the delicious base of your strawberry ice cream sandwiches.
Step 4: Make Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter with the crushed graham cracker crumbs. Stir well until all crumbs are moistened and appear slightly soggy. Press half of this mixture firmly into the lined baking pan to create a solid base. Freeze for about 15 minutes to allow it to firm up.
Step 5: Whip Cream
In a separate mixing bowl, pour in the cold whipping cream and add the vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer, whip the cream on medium speed until stiff peaks form, which should take about 3–5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that light and fluffy texture in your strawberry ice cream.
Step 6: Combine Ice Cream Mixture
Gently fold the sweetened condensed milk into the whipped cream. Once combined, incorporate the cooled strawberry compote, ensuring a marbled effect. This mixture will become the creamy filling of your no-churn strawberry ice cream sandwiches, bursting with flavor.
Step 7: Assemble
Pour the ice cream mixture over the prepared graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Smooth the top for an even finish, then return the pan to the freezer for about 2 hours, allowing the mixture to firm up and become deliciously scoopable.
Step 8: Top with Crust
After the ice cream layer has set, take the remaining graham cracker crumbs and press them uniformly onto the top of the ice cream. This adds a delightful crunch to your strawberry ice cream sandwiches. Freeze the entire pan for at least 12 hours or overnight until it’s solid and perfect for slicing.
Step 9: Slice and Serve
Once fully frozen, lift your strawberry ice cream sandwiches from the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Carefully slice into 8 bars with a sharp knife. Each bar features a delightful combination of the creamy strawberry filling and the crunchy graham cracker crust, ready to be enjoyed!
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwiches
Fridge: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container to maintain texture and flavor. However, freezing is best for longer storage.
Freezer: Wrap individual sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or ziplock bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 weeks for optimal freshness.
Reheating: For best results, allow the sandwiches to sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This makes them easier to slice and enjoy!
Tip: Avoid leaving strawberry ice cream sandwiches in the freezer for too long to prevent ice crystals from forming, which can affect the creamy texture.
Make Ahead Options
These no-churn strawberry ice cream sandwiches are ideal for meal prep and can save you time on busy summer days! You can prepare the strawberry compote and graham cracker crust up to 24 hours in advance—simply cook the strawberries and store them in the fridge, ensuring they cool completely before covering to prevent condensation. Crush the graham crackers and mix them with melted butter, keeping the mixture in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble the sandwiches and freeze them for an additional 12 hours to achieve that perfect, solid texture. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious, homemade ice cream sandwiches without a last-minute rush!
Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwiches Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize these delicious sandwiches to your liking!
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Berry Mix: Swap strawberries for fresh raspberries, blueberries, or peach chunks to create a delightful fruit medley. The combination of flavors brings a refreshing twist that’s sure to surprise your taste buds.
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Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped almonds or walnuts into the ice cream mixture for a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy texture. A handful of nuts not only adds a delightful bite but also boosts the nutritional value!
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Coconut Twists: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a tropical flair. This dairy-free option brings a luscious richness while keeping the flavor profile light and airy. Perfect for lovers of all things coconut!
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Chocolate Delight: Add mini chocolate chips to the ice cream filling for a sweet surprise in every bite. This classic combination takes the desserts to the next level, offering a touch of decadence reminiscent of your favorite treats.
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Flavor Blast: Stir in a teaspoon of almond extract in place of vanilla to create a unique flavor that elevates your ice cream sandwiches. This slight change can lead to an exciting, nutty aroma throughout your dessert.
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Spiced Up: Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the ice cream mixture for subtle warmth that delights the senses. The comforting spices turn these summer treats into cozy indulgences suitable for any occasion!
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Graham Cracker Swap: Consider using crushed digestive biscuits if graham crackers aren’t on hand. This simple switch will still provide a delightful crunch and allow you to enjoy the same great taste.
Enhance your summer gatherings by serving these tasty creations alongside other delights, like Strawberry Matcha Overnight or a refreshing Pineapple Strawberry Swirled drink. The variations are limitless, just like your imagination!
Expert Tips for Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwiches
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Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale to measure ingredients accurately, especially when making the graham cracker crust; it ensures consistent results every time.
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Whip Cream Well: Whip the cream until stiff peaks form to create a light, airy texture for your no-churn strawberry ice cream. This helps avoid a dense filling.
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Cool Compote Completely: Always allow the strawberry compote to cool completely before adding it to the whipped cream. This step prevents the mixture from becoming too runny.
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Fast Freezing: After assembling, ensure the ice cream sandwiches freeze for a full 12 hours or overnight for the best texture; this avoids ice crystal formation that can occur with insufficient time.
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Slice with Care: Use a sharp knife to cut the sandwiches, and dip the knife in warm water between cuts for cleaner slices, enhancing the presentation of your delightful strawberry ice cream sandwiches.
What to Serve with Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwiches
As the sun shines brightly and laughter fills the air, these delightful treats are sure to be the star of any summer gathering.
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Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a refreshing touch, enhancing the fruity flavor and appealing to the eye. Fresh fruit always brings joy to a dessert spread; it’s a vibrant contrast to the creamy sandwiches.
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Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies: These cookies provide a delightful flavor twist with their cool minty taste, making them the perfect counterpart to the strawberry ice cream sandwiches. The chocolate and mint balances the sweetness beautifully, offering a refreshing surprise as you bite in.
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Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta: This creamy dessert adds a sophisticated finish to your meal. Its smooth, light texture pairs wonderfully with the strawberry ice cream sandwiches, creating a luxurious dining experience.
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Iced Lemonade: A tall glass of zesty lemonade quenches thirst and complements the sweetness of the ice cream sandwiches. The citrusy notes elevate the overall experience, making each bite and sip a match made in heaven.
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Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: A warm drizzle of rich chocolate sauce over the ice cream sandwiches adds a decadent touch, transforming them into a gourmet treat. It not only enhances flavor but also elevates the presentation for those special occasions.
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Sparkling Water with Lime: For a refreshing drink option, serve sparkling water with a twist of lime. This light beverage cleanses the palate and provides a delightful contrast to the richness of the sandwiches, keeping the day bright and bubbly.
Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe strawberries?
To pick the best strawberries, look for berries that are deep red in color with a glossy finish. Avoid any that have dark spots or are overly soft. I recommend choosing strawberries that are firm to the touch as they tend to have the best flavor. If you can, smell them—ripe strawberries have a sweet, fragrant aroma.
How should I store leftover strawberry ice cream sandwiches?
Store your strawberry ice cream sandwiches in an airtight container in the freezer. They will maintain their best quality for up to 2 weeks if wrapped individually in plastic wrap before placing them in the container. This helps keep them fresh and prevents ice crystals from forming, so you can enjoy them at their best!
Can I freeze the strawberry ice cream sandwiches?
Absolutely! After making the sandwiches, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or ziplock bag. They’ll last in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Just let them sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving to soften slightly, making it easier to slice.
What can I do if my whipped cream doesn’t hold its shape?
If your whipped cream isn’t holding its shape, it may be under-whipped. Make sure you’re beating it until stiff peaks form, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes with a hand mixer on medium speed. If it’s over-whipped (turning grainy), gently fold in a bit more cold cream to revive it. Always start with well-chilled equipment and cream for the best results!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes! If you’re making these for someone with allergies, be cautious of the graham crackers, which often contain gluten. For a gluten-free option, substitute with gluten-free cookies or oat-based alternatives. Additionally, for a dairy-free version, you can use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and substitute sweetened condensed milk with sweetened almond milk. Always check ingredient labels to ensure safety.
Creamy Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwiches to Beat the Heat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by lining a 9x9" baking pan with parchment paper, securing the edges with binder clips.
- In a small saucepan, combine your finely diced strawberries and 1 tablespoon of water. Cook for about 5–7 minutes until softened.
- Crush the graham crackers in a ziplock bag with a rolling pin until crumbly, or use a food processor for quicker results.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter with the crushed graham cracker crumbs, press half into the pan, and freeze for 15 minutes.
- In a separate mixing bowl, whip the cold whipping cream and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form, about 3–5 minutes.
- Fold the sweetened condensed milk into the whipped cream, then add the cooled strawberry compote ensuring a marbled effect.
- Pour the ice cream mixture over the graham cracker crust, smooth the top, and return the pan to the freezer for about 2 hours.
- Once set, press the remaining graham cracker crumbs onto the top of the ice cream and freeze for at least 12 hours.
- After freezing, lift the sandwiches from the pan using the parchment paper and slice into 8 bars.
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