Jose Mier finds a variety of dessert ideas for Sun Valley, CA and the world. Today’s is special in that is uses ready made, store bought ice cream sandwiches as the basis and a few other ingredients that make it look like you spent hours making it. This recipe is thanks to SimplyStacie.net.

Store-bought ice cream sandwiches are a nostalgic, easy-to-enjoy treat that can be enjoyed straight from the package. But with a few simple twists, they can be transformed into impressive desserts, each more delicious than the last. Here are some fun, creative ways to elevate store-bought ice cream sandwiches into crowd-pleasing treats, perfect for parties, gatherings, or even just a solo snack session.

1. Ice Cream Sandwich Cake

One of the simplest and most popular ways to transform ice cream sandwiches is to turn them into a show-stopping ice cream sandwich cake. This no-bake dessert is easy to assemble and can be customized with various flavors and toppings.

To make an ice cream sandwich cake:

• Line a baking dish with a layer of ice cream sandwiches (you may need to cut some in half to fit neatly).
• Spread a layer of whipped topping or softened ice cream over the sandwiches.
• Add another layer of sandwiches on top, then cover with more whipped topping.
• Finish by sprinkling on crushed cookies, candy pieces, or a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce.
• Freeze the cake for at least two hours before serving to allow everything to firm up.

This dessert can be tailored to different flavor profiles. For a cookies-and-cream theme, use chocolate ice cream sandwiches, whipped cream, and crushed Oreos. For a s’mores-inspired cake, layer with marshmallow fluff, graham cracker crumbs, and chocolate drizzle.

2. Dipped and Decorated Ice Cream Sandwiches

For a personalized touch, dip half of each ice cream sandwich in melted chocolate and add toppings. This fun idea is great for kids’ parties or for serving to guests at a casual gathering.

To make dipped and decorated ice cream sandwiches:

• Melt chocolate (dark, milk, or white) in a bowl, stirring until smooth.
• Dip one end or side of the ice cream sandwich into the chocolate.
• Immediately roll or sprinkle the chocolate-covered part with your choice of toppings, such as sprinkles, crushed nuts, mini chocolate chips, or shredded coconut.
• Place the decorated sandwiches on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until the chocolate sets.

You can also experiment with colorful melting chocolates, or try combinations like white chocolate with crushed freeze-dried strawberries, or dark chocolate with chopped almonds for an elegant twist.

3. Ice Cream Sandwich Bites

For a party-friendly option, turn your ice cream sandwiches into bite-sized treats. Mini ice cream sandwiches are perfect for dessert trays or as finger foods at a gathering.

To make ice cream sandwich bites:

• Use a sharp knife to cut each ice cream sandwich into quarters.
• Optional: Insert a popsicle stick into each bite for easier handling.
• Dip each bite in melted chocolate, caramel, or peanut butter, and add toppings like crushed nuts or sprinkles.
• Freeze until firm.

These bite-sized treats are great for customizing—try different ice cream sandwich flavors and toppings, or arrange them on a tray with a variety of dips for a fun DIY dessert station.

4. Ice Cream Sandwich Milkshake

Blending ice cream sandwiches into a milkshake is a fun way to enjoy their flavor in a new form. The sandwich cookies and ice cream combine to create a rich, creamy milkshake with bits of chocolate or cookie in every sip.

To make an ice cream sandwich milkshake:

• In a blender, combine 2-3 ice cream sandwiches with a cup of milk (or more, depending on the thickness you prefer).
• Add additional ice cream if you want a creamier shake, or a splash of chocolate or caramel sauce for extra flavor.
• Blend until smooth, adding milk to thin it out if needed.
• Pour into a glass and top with whipped cream, crushed cookie pieces, and a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

For variations, try using flavored syrups, a scoop of malt powder, or even blending with fruit, like strawberries or bananas, for a different twist.

5. Ice Cream Sandwich Sundae

Use ice cream sandwiches as the base of a sundae, layering them with toppings for an impressive yet easy dessert.

To make an ice cream sandwich sundae:

• Cut an ice cream sandwich into pieces and place them in a bowl.
• Add toppings like hot fudge, caramel, whipped cream, and a cherry.
• Sprinkle on crushed peanuts, mini marshmallows, or cookie crumbles for extra texture.

This dessert can be further customized by using flavored ice cream sandwiches, such as cookies and cream or mint chocolate chip, to add an extra layer of flavor.

6. Ice Cream Sandwich Brownie Bars

Combining ice cream sandwiches with brownies creates a rich, layered dessert bar that’s hard to resist. It’s an ideal treat for those who love both brownies and ice cream.

To make ice cream sandwich brownie bars:

• Prepare a batch of brownies and let them cool completely.
• In a baking dish, create a layer of brownies, then place ice cream sandwiches on top.
• Spread whipped topping over the sandwiches, or drizzle melted chocolate or caramel sauce.
• Freeze the dessert until firm, then cut into squares.

For added flavor, use brownies with mix-ins like walnuts, chocolate chips, or caramel swirls, or try flavored ice cream sandwiches to match.

7. Ice Cream Sandwich Cookies

Transforming ice cream sandwiches into cookie sandwiches is a fun twist that combines two dessert classics. This version is ideal for those who want a balance between chewy cookies and creamy ice cream.

To make ice cream sandwich cookies:

• Use a round cookie cutter to cut each ice cream sandwich into smaller, round portions.
• Place each ice cream portion between two cookies, pressing gently to adhere.
• Roll the sides of the ice cream in sprinkles, crushed nuts, or mini chocolate chips.
• Freeze the cookie sandwiches until firm.

Chocolate chip cookies, oatmeal cookies, and peanut butter cookies all work well as bases. Try different combinations, like pairing cookies with complementary ice cream flavors (such as chocolate cookies with mint ice cream).

8. Ice Cream Sandwich Trifle

For a more elegant presentation, layer cut-up pieces of ice cream sandwiches in a trifle bowl along with whipped cream, fruit, and other dessert layers.

To make an ice cream sandwich trifle:

• Cut ice cream sandwiches into bite-sized pieces and place a layer in the bottom of a trifle bowl.
• Add a layer of whipped cream, followed by a layer of sliced strawberries or other fresh fruit.
• Repeat the layers, finishing with whipped cream on top.
• Garnish with additional fruit, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce.

The trifle can be adapted with seasonal fruits or different ice cream sandwich flavors, creating a customizable dessert that’s both beautiful and delicious.

9. Ice Cream Sandwich Tacos

For a whimsical, taco-inspired treat, use ice cream sandwiches as the filling in chocolate-coated waffle “taco shells.”

To make ice cream sandwich tacos:

• Dip one side of a waffle taco shell (or a folded graham cracker) in melted chocolate and freeze until set.
• Cut ice cream sandwiches to fit inside the shell and press in place.
• Top with whipped cream, chocolate sauce, and sprinkles.

Ice cream sandwich tacos are easy to eat, visually fun, and can be customized with different shell types and toppings.

10. Ice Cream Sandwich Fondue

For a fun, interactive dessert, serve ice cream sandwiches alongside a warm chocolate fondue for dipping.

To make ice cream sandwich fondue:

• Cut ice cream sandwiches into smaller pieces.
• Prepare a chocolate fondue or dipping sauce, keeping it warm in a fondue pot or slow cooker.
• Serve the ice cream sandwiches with small skewers for dipping.

You can also serve other dippable items like fresh strawberries, marshmallows, or brownie bites alongside the ice cream sandwiches for variety.

11. Ice Cream Sandwich S’mores

For a twist on a classic campfire treat, replace the marshmallow and chocolate in s’mores with pieces of ice cream sandwich.

To make ice cream sandwich s’mores:

• Toast graham crackers slightly if desired, and break each sandwich into smaller sections.
• Place a piece of ice cream sandwich between two graham cracker halves, pressing gently.
• Roll the edges in chocolate chips or mini marshmallows.

Ice cream sandwich s’mores bring a refreshing, creamy twist to traditional s’mores, perfect for summertime or backyard gatherings.

12. Ice Cream Sandwich Parfait

Layered parfaits are easy to make and perfect for individual servings. Layer ice cream sandwiches with fruit, pudding, and whipped cream for a quick, stunning dessert.

To make an ice cream sandwich parfait:

• In individual glasses, layer pieces of ice cream sandwich with pudding or whipped cream.
• Add layers of fresh fruit or cookie crumbles between the ice cream and whipped cream.
• Repeat the layers until the glass is filled, then top with a dollop of whipped cream and a cherry.

Parfaits can be made in advance and kept in the freezer, ready for any occasion.

Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a fun family dessert, or just want a fresh way to enjoy an old favorite, there are endless ways to get creative with store-bought ice cream sandwiches. From decadent cakes to bite-sized treats, these ideas add flair to this simple classic and make it a memorable dessert option for any occasion.

 

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