Name: Cherry Pie Ice Cream Sandwiches: A Delectable Summer Treat!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved; 1 cup cherry pie filling; 2 cups vanilla ice cream; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Introduction to Cherry Pie Ice Cream Sandwiches

Summer is the perfect time for indulgent treats, and what could be better than Cherry Pie Ice Cream Sandwiches? These delightful creations combine the sweet, tart flavor of cherry pie with creamy ice cream, all nestled between two soft cookies. As a busy mom, I know how precious those moments are when you can whip up something special without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe is not just a quick solution for a hot day; it’s a way to impress your loved ones and create lasting memories. Let’s dive into this delicious adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Cherry Pie Ice Cream Sandwiches

These Cherry Pie Ice Cream Sandwiches are a dream come true for busy families. They’re quick to make, taking just over an hour from start to finish. The combination of flavors is simply irresistible, with the tart cherries and creamy ice cream dancing together in perfect harmony. Plus, they’re a fun way to get the kids involved in the kitchen, making memories while creating a delightful summer treat!

Ingredients for Cherry Pie Ice Cream Sandwiches

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Cherry Pie Ice Cream Sandwiches. Here’s what you’ll need:

Fresh cherries: Sweet and juicy, they add a burst of flavor. Pitting and halving them makes for easy layering.
Cherry pie filling: This is the shortcut to that classic cherry pie taste. You can use store-bought or homemade for a personal touch.
Vanilla ice cream: Creamy and rich, it complements the tartness of the cherries beautifully. Feel free to experiment with other flavors!
All-purpose flour: The base for your cookies, it provides structure and a soft texture.
Unsalted butter: Softened butter creates a rich, tender cookie. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
Granulated sugar: This sweetens the cookies and helps them spread while baking.
Brown sugar: Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor, making your cookies extra delicious.
Large egg: It binds the ingredients together and contributes to the cookie’s texture.
Vanilla extract: A splash of this enhances the overall flavor, making your cookies taste homemade.
Baking soda: This leavening agent helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.

For those looking to switch things up, consider using almond extract for a nutty twist or substituting other fruits like blueberries or peaches for a different flavor profile. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Cherry Pie Ice Cream Sandwiches

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part: making these Cherry Pie Ice Cream Sandwiches! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delightful treat that’s sure to impress.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures that your cookies bake evenly. If you skip this, your cookies might spread too much or not rise properly. Trust me, a well-preheated oven is the secret to cookie perfection!

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. This process is essential for creating a light and fluffy texture in your cookies. The sugar crystals help to aerate the butter, giving your cookies that perfect bite. It’s like giving your cookies a little spa treatment!

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Next, add in the egg and vanilla extract. These ingredients are the flavor powerhouses of your cookies. The egg binds everything together, while the vanilla adds a warm, inviting aroma. It’s like a hug for your taste buds!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Mixing dry ingredients separately is important because it ensures that the baking soda and salt are evenly distributed. This way, every bite of your cookie will have that perfect balance of flavors!

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and we want them to be soft and chewy. Think of it as a gentle dance between the ingredients!

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave some space between each cookie, as they will spread while baking. Think of them as little cookie friends that need their personal space!

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You want the edges to be golden brown while the centers remain soft. A good trick is to take them out when they look slightly underbaked; they’ll continue to cook on the baking sheet.

Step 8: Cool the Cookies

Once baked, let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack. This step is crucial because warm cookies can melt your ice cream, turning your sandwiches into a gooey mess. Patience is key here, my friend!

Step 9: Assemble the Sandwiches

Now comes the fun part! Take one cookie, spread a generous layer of vanilla ice cream on the bottom, and top it with cherry pie filling. Then, place another cookie on top to create your sandwich. It’s like building a delicious tower of joy!

Step 10: Freeze the Sandwiches

Finally, freeze the sandwiches for at least 1 hour before serving. This step is essential for achieving that perfect texture. The ice cream will firm up, making it easier to bite into your Cherry Pie Ice Cream Sandwiches without everything falling apart. Trust me, the wait will be worth it!

Tips for Success

Use room temperature butter for easier creaming and a better cookie texture.
Don’t skip the cooling step; it prevents melty ice cream disasters.
Experiment with different ice cream flavors for a fun twist.
For a crunchier cookie, bake a minute longer, but watch closely!
Make extra cookies to enjoy on their own or freeze for later.

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowls: A set of various sizes is handy; you can also use any large bowl you have.
Electric mixer: This makes creaming easier, but a whisk works too if you’re feeling strong!
Baking sheet: A standard one will do; line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Cookie scoop: This helps with portioning; a tablespoon works just as well.
Wire rack: Essential for cooling; a plate can work in a pinch.

Variations

Berry Medley: Swap out cherries for a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a colorful twist.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: Use chocolate chip cookies instead of the basic cookie recipe for a decadent treat.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.
Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter and a flax egg to create a vegan-friendly cookie.
Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts like almonds or pecans to the cookie dough for extra crunch and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Cherry Pie Ice Cream Sandwiches with a refreshing glass of lemonade or iced tea for a perfect summer combo.
Serve with a scoop of extra vanilla ice cream on the side for those who can’t get enough!
Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and flavor.

FAQs about Cherry Pie Ice Cream Sandwiches

Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen cherries work just as well. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess moisture in your sandwiches.

How do I store leftover Cherry Pie Ice Cream Sandwiches?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer. They’ll keep well for up to a week, but I doubt they’ll last that long!

Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the cookies and assemble the sandwiches a day in advance. Just freeze them until you’re ready to serve. It’s a great way to save time on busy days!

What other flavors can I use for the ice cream?

The sky’s the limit! Try chocolate, strawberry, or even a swirl of caramel for a unique twist. Each flavor will bring its own delightful touch to your Cherry Pie Ice Cream Sandwiches.

Are these sandwiches suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Your friends with gluten sensitivities will thank you for this delicious treat!

Final Thoughts

Creating Cherry Pie Ice Cream Sandwiches is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience filled with joy and laughter. As you gather your loved ones in the kitchen, the delightful aroma of baking cookies fills the air, setting the stage for sweet memories. Each bite of these sandwiches brings together the nostalgic flavors of cherry pie and creamy ice cream, making them a perfect summer treat. Whether you’re enjoying them on a sunny afternoon or sharing them at a family gathering, these sandwiches are sure to bring smiles and satisfaction. So, roll up your sleeves and dive into this delicious adventure!