Patriotic Ice Cream Sandwiches

Looking for a festive, crowd-pleasing dessert that screams summer fun? These Patriotic Ice Cream Sandwiches are your perfect answer. With soft cookies, creamy ice cream, and red, white, and blue flair, this no-fuss treat is ideal for Fourth of July parties, Memorial Day BBQs, or any time you want to celebrate American pride with a delicious twist.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering or looking for a fun activity with the kids, this recipe is simple to make, totally customizable, and incredibly photogenic. Let’s dive into the ultimate guide to making Patriotic Ice Cream Sandwiches at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These ice cream sandwiches are:

• Festive – Bursting with patriotic colors.

• Easy to Make – No fancy equipment needed.

• Customizable – Use your favorite cookies and ice cream flavors.

• Make-Ahead Friendly – Store them in the freezer for stress-free entertaining.

Ingredients for Patriotic Ice Cream Sandwiches

For the Cookies

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1 large egg

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp baking powder

• ½ tsp salt

• Red and blue food coloring (gel preferred)

For the Filling

• 1.5 quarts vanilla ice cream (or any flavor of your choice)

For Decoration

• Red, white, and blue sprinkles

• Optional: melted white chocolate for drizzling

How to Make Patriotic Ice Cream Sandwiches

Step 1: Make the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.

Step 2: Divide and Color the Dough

Divide the dough into three equal portions. Leave one plain (for white), color one with red food coloring, and one with blue. Wrap each portion in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 3: Roll Out and Combine the Dough

On a floured surface, roll out each colored dough to about ¼ inch thick. Stack the red, white, and blue dough together and gently roll again to press the layers into each other. Use a cookie cutter (star or circle shapes work great) to cut out the cookies. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 8–10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 5: Prepare the Ice Cream

Let the ice cream soften slightly at room temperature for 5–10 minutes. Scoop it into a lined 9×13 baking dish and spread it evenly. Freeze until firm again, about 1–2 hours.

Step 6: Assemble the Sandwiches

Using the same cookie cutter you used for the cookies, cut out ice cream shapes. Sandwich the ice cream between two cookies. Roll the edges in patriotic sprinkles or drizzle with melted white chocolate.

Step 7: Freeze and Serve

Place assembled sandwiches on a tray and freeze for at least 1 hour to firm up before serving. Store extras in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.

Tips for Success

Use Gel Food Coloring

Gel food coloring produces more vibrant colors without adding extra moisture to your dough.

Try Different Ice Cream Flavors

Vanilla is classic, but try strawberry for red or blueberry swirl for blue-themed twists.

Work Quickly

Ice cream melts fast! Work in small batches and freeze sandwiches as soon as they’re assembled.

Variations You’ll Love

Brownie Sandwiches

Substitute cookies with brownie rounds for a fudgy patriotic treat.

Gluten-Free Option

Use your favorite gluten-free cookie dough or pre-made GF cookies.

Ice Cream Bar Style

Set up a DIY sandwich bar with different cookie flavors, ice creams, and toppings.

Storing Your Patriotic Treats

Wrap each ice cream sandwich individually in wax paper or plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag and store them in the freezer for up to two weeks. Let sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before serving for the best texture.

FAQs About Patriotic Ice Cream Sandwiches

Can I use store-bought cookies?

Absolutely! For a shortcut, use soft store-bought sugar cookies or chocolate chip cookies. Just make sure they’re not too hard or crumbly.

How far in advance can I make these?

You can make and assemble the sandwiches up to two weeks ahead of time. Just keep them stored properly in the freezer.

What are some patriotic-themed ice cream flavors?

Look for red, white, and blue swirl ice cream, or use combinations like strawberry, vanilla, and blueberry scoops for an easy festive feel.

Can kids help make these?

Yes! Kids love rolling the dough, using cookie cutters, and decorating with sprinkles. It’s a fun and colorful activity for all ages.

What if I don’t have cookie cutters?

No problem. Use a round glass or jar lid to cut circles from the dough and ice cream, or simply cut the rolled dough into squares or rectangles for a more rustic look.

Serving Ideas for Your Celebration

Pair your Patriotic Ice Cream Sandwiches with:

• Sparkling lemonade or red, white, and blue punch

• Fresh berry salad

• Mini American flags for extra flair

• Fireworks viewing party snacks

These treats are guaranteed to be the highlight of any holiday dessert table!