Homemade Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwiches for Summer Fun

 

As the sun starts to warm the days and the garden bursts with sweet, juicy strawberries, thoughts of summer treats dance in my mind. There’s something truly magical about biting into a homemade dessert that captures those vibrant flavors without the fuss. That’s why I’m excited to share my recipe for No-Churn Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwiches with a delightful graham cracker crust. These sandwiches are not only incredibly easy to make—with no baking required—but they also bring a refreshing burst of fruity goodness that’s perfect for warm days. Imagine the creamy strawberry ice cream nestled between a crunchy, sweet crust, inviting you for another bite. This dessert is truly a crowd-pleaser, ideal for family gatherings or a simple treat after a long day. Plus, it’s customizable, so you can swap in your favorite berries if strawberries aren’t your jam. Let’s dive into this recipe and celebrate the flavors of summer together!

this Recipe

Why are Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwiches a Must-Try?

No-Bake Delight: This recipe requires no baking, making it perfect for hot summer days when you want a refreshing treat without heating up the kitchen.

Vibrant Flavors: Fresh strawberry ice cream captures the essence of summer, paired with a crunchy graham cracker crust that adds a delightful texture.

Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone from kids to adults will be reaching for seconds, ensuring your dessert is the star of any gathering.

Customizable: Feel free to swap in other berries for a fun twist, or even mix in some chocolate for extra decadence!

Quick and Easy: Whip these up in no time, allowing you to spend more moments enjoying with family and friends.

Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwich Ingredients

• Get ready to create delightful treats!

For the Ice Cream

• Strawberries (300 g) – Fresh or frozen, finely diced; they provide the wonderful, refreshing flavor of strawberry ice cream.
• Water (1 tablespoon) – Helps in cooking down the strawberries to make a saucy compote; can be omitted if using juicy strawberries.
• Whipping Cream (300 g) – Creates a light and airy texture in the ice cream; use coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
• Vanilla Extract (1 tablespoon) – Enhances the flavor profile; almond extract can be used for a different taste.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk (150 g) – Adds the necessary sweetness and creaminess; consider non-dairy condensed milk as a substitute.

For the Crust

• Graham Crackers (325 g) – Provides a sweet, crunchy base for the sandwiches; swap with digestive biscuits or gluten-free crackers if needed.
• Unsalted Butter (230 g) – Binds the graham cracker crumbs together to form a delicious crust; coconut oil makes a great dairy-free alternative.

Enjoy your journey to making these sumptuous Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwiches, where every bite sings of summer!

How to Make Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwiches

1. Prepare the Pan: Line a 9×9″ pan with parchment paper, making sure to secure it with binder clips to keep everything in place. This will help you easily lift out the sandwiches later!

2. Cook Strawberries: In a saucepan, simmer diced strawberries with water until they transform into a thick compote, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool completely.

3. Crush the Graham Crackers: Place the graham crackers into a zip bag and crush them finely using a rolling pin or food processor. You want them to be a nice crumb texture for the crust.

4. Mix Crust: In a bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers with melted butter until well mixed. Press half of this mixture firmly into the lined pan, then freeze briefly for about 10-15 minutes.

5. Whip Cream: In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the cold whipping cream with vanilla extract until firm peaks form. This can take about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer.

6. Combine Ice Cream Mixture: Gently mix the sweetened condensed milk into the whipped cream, then fold in the cooled strawberry compote until well combined, ensuring it’s blended but still light.

7. Fill the Pan: Pour the strawberry ice cream mixture over the crust in the pan, spreading it evenly. Cover and freeze for around 2 hours, or until it’s firm enough to handle.

8. Final Layer: Sprinkle the remaining graham cracker mixture on top of the ice cream layer, gently pressing it down. Freeze for at least 12 hours or overnight to ensure a solid sandwich.

9. Slice and Serve: Carefully lift the ice cream sandwich block from the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into bars and serve—enjoy the fruity indulgence with friends and family!

Optional: Serve with a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra treat.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwiches?

As you prepare to indulge in these delightful strawberry ice cream sandwiches, let’s explore how to create a refreshing summer feast alongside them.

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds a vibrant, healthy touch, balancing the sweetness of the sandwiches with a burst of juicy color.
• Minty Lemonade: This refreshing drink enhances the fruity experience, offering cool, zesty flavors that perfectly complement the creamy ice cream.
• Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted chocolate over the sandwiches adds an elegant touch, enhancing both flavor and presentation for a decadent treat.
• Granita or Sorbet: Serve alongside a light granita or sorbet for a refreshing, palate-cleansing option that keeps the dessert experience light and vibrant.
• Whipped Cream Topping: A dollop of freshly whipped cream brings creaminess to the table, adding a rich layer of indulgence to each bite of the sandwiches.
• Nutty Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti can offer a delightful contrast in texture, perfect for dipping in a cup of coffee or tea while enjoying these sweet treats.
• Pineapple or Mango Salsa: A tropical fruit salsa can add warmth and complexity, playing off the strawberry flavors and giving a colorful twist to the dessert spread.
• Iced Tea: Brew a refreshing iced tea with hints of mint or lemon for a sophisticated drink option that complements the fruity flavors without overwhelming them.
• Cheesecake Bites: These mini bites provide a creamy contrast, making them an indulgent pairing alongside the light and fruity flavor of the strawberry ice cream sandwiches.

Make Ahead Options

These No-Churn Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwiches are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the entire ice cream mixture and even the graham cracker crust up to 24 hours in advance. Simply create the compote with strawberries and combine it with the whipped cream and condensed milk, then spread it over the crust and freeze as directed. To maintain quality, ensure the sandwiches are tightly covered while freezing to prevent freezer burn. When ready to serve, just add the final crust layer, press down, and freeze for at least 12 hours or overnight if you haven’t already. Enjoy a delightful treat with minimal last-minute effort!

Storage Tips for Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Fridge: Store leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, keep in mind that they may lose their icy texture over time.

• Freezer: For long-term storage, place the sandwiches in an airtight container in the freezer. They will maintain their best quality for up to 2 weeks, ensuring you always have a refreshing treat on hand.

• Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, simply take them out of the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes before slicing. This makes cutting easier while keeping the delicious texture of the strawberry ice cream intact.

• Wrap Individually: For convenient snacking, consider wrapping each sandwich in plastic wrap or parchment paper before placing them in the container. This helps prevent freezer burn and keeps every bite fresh!

Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwich Variations

Explore delightful twists tailored just for you! These customizations will elevate your dessert experience to new levels of joy.

• Berry Blast: Replace strawberries with your favorite berries like blueberries, raspberries, or mixed berries for a fun medley of flavors. Each variation brings a unique sweetness that will excite your taste buds!

• Chocolate Lovers: Mix in cocoa powder into your ice cream base or use chocolate graham crackers for an indulgent chocolate twist. Rich and creamy, this variation will satisfy any chocolate craving.

• Nutty Crunch: Add crushed nuts like almonds or walnuts to the graham cracker mixture for added texture and a pleasant crunch. This layers rich flavor while giving your sandwiches a delightful bite.

• Dairy-Free Delight: Swap regular whipping cream for coconut cream and use non-dairy condensed milk for an entirely plant-based treat. A subtle coconut flavor harmonizes with the strawberries, making every bite heavenly!

• Almond Upgrade: Substitute vanilla extract for almond extract to introduce a whole new flavor profile. This nutty essence complements the strawberries beautifully, elevating the entire experience.

• Zesty Twist: Add a splash of lemon or lime juice to the strawberry compote for a fresh zest that brightens the dessert. It creates a refreshing balance that’s simply irresistible!

• Spicy Kick: Spice it up with a pinch of cayenne or cinnamon in the ice cream mixture for a surprising heat that will intrigue your palate. This twist offers a unique contrast, making each bite an adventure!

• Frozen Yogurt Version: For a tangy twist, substitute the whipping cream with your favorite yogurt. This variation makes the ice cream sandwiches slightly lighter while still being creamy and delicious.

Expert Tips for Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Cold Whipping Cream: Ensure your whipping cream is chilled before whipping; this is key to achieving those firm peaks for a perfect texture in your ice cream sandwiches.

• Use Fresh Berries: For the best flavor in your strawberry ice cream sandwiches, opt for fresh strawberries whenever possible; they bring out the best summer taste and sweetness.

• Crust Consistency: Make sure the graham cracker mixture is pressed firmly into the pan; a compact crust helps hold everything together and prevents crumbling when you slice the sandwiches.

• Give it Time: Allow the sandwiches to freeze for a full 12 hours for optimal firmness; this ensures easy slicing and prevents melting when serving.

• Creative Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Swap strawberries for your favorite berries or add chocolate chips to the ice cream mixture for a delicious twist.

Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe strawberries?
Absolutely! When selecting strawberries, look for bright red berries with a natural shine—this indicates freshness. They should be firm to the touch, with no dark spots all over which could signal overripeness. If you’re buying frozen strawberries, check for no added sugars or syrups for the best flavor in your ice cream.

How should I store Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwiches?
You can store these tasty treats in an airtight container in the freezer. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 weeks! If you want to be extra careful, consider wrapping each sandwich in plastic wrap before putting them in the container. This little trick helps ward off freezer burn, maintaining that delicious taste.

Can I freeze leftover strawberry ice cream mixture?
The more the merrier! If you have leftover strawberry ice cream mixture, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just remember to let it thaw slightly at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving, mixing it again to restore the creamy texture.

What if my ice cream mixture doesn’t whip well?
Oh no! If your cream doesn’t whip up to firm peaks, it could be because the cream wasn’t cold enough. Make sure to chill your mixing bowl and beaters beforehand, as this can significantly help with achieving the right texture. Also, double-check that you’re using heavy whipping cream; lighter creams won’t whip up as well.

Can I make this dessert dairy-free?
Very much so! To enjoy a dairy-free version of these Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwiches, swap out the whipping cream for chilled coconut cream and use non-dairy sweetened condensed milk. You can also replace the butter with coconut oil, and ensure your graham crackers are dairy-free or opt for a gluten-free alternative.

How long do they take to freeze completely?
Patience is key! Allow your assembled strawberry ice cream sandwiches to freeze for at least 12 hours, or overnight. This helps them set properly so you can slice cleanly into bars without melting mess during serving. Enjoy sharing these delightful treats!