Name: Vegan Ice Cream Sandwiches
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup coconut oil or vegan butter, softened; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup cane sugar; 2 tbsp plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup vegan chocolate chips (optional); 1 dairy-free ice cream (such as coconut, almond, or cashew-based)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These vegan ice cream sandwiches are a delicious twist on a childhood favorite, made entirely without dairy or eggs. They’re customizable, freezer-friendly, and perfect for both kids and adults. Whether you’re fully vegan or just looking for a lighter, cruelty-free dessert, this recipe hits the spot. Plus, you can mix and match your favorite flavors of cookies and non-dairy ice cream for endless combinations.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Baking soda
Salt
Coconut oil or vegan butter
Brown sugar
Cane sugar
Plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat)
Vanilla extract
Vegan chocolate chips (optional)
Your favorite dairy-free ice cream (such as coconut, almond, or cashew-based)

Directions

Make the cookie dough: In a bowl, mix the dry ingredients—flour, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, cream together the coconut oil, sugars, plant milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Combine wet and dry ingredients, then fold in chocolate chips if using.
Bake the cookies: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and flatten slightly. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden. Let the cookies cool completely.
Assemble the sandwiches: Once cookies are cool and the ice cream is slightly softened, scoop ice cream onto the flat side of one cookie and press another cookie on top to form a sandwich.
Freeze: Place the assembled sandwiches in the freezer for at least 1 hour to set.
Serve and enjoy: Let sit at room temperature for a couple of minutes before serving if too firm.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 6-8 ice cream sandwiches.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Freeze time: 1 hour
Total time: About 1 hour and 30 minutes

Variations

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the cookies.
Flavor Swaps: Try peanut butter, snickerdoodle, or oatmeal cookies instead of classic chocolate chip.
Ice Cream Options: Experiment with fruity sorbets, chocolate almond, or matcha coconut flavors.
Add-ins: Roll the edges in crushed nuts, sprinkles, or mini chocolate chips after assembly.
Mini Sandwiches: Use smaller cookies for bite-sized treats perfect for parties or portion control.

Storage/Reheating

Store the ice cream sandwiches individually wrapped in parchment paper or in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
To serve, let them thaw for 2-5 minutes at room temperature for easier biting.
Do not microwave or reheat, as the ice cream will melt and the cookies may become soggy.

FAQs

What kind of vegan ice cream works best for this recipe?

Any plant-based ice cream with a creamy texture, such as coconut milk, cashew milk, or oat milk-based varieties, works well.

Can I make these sandwiches gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the regular flour in the cookie recipe.

Do I need an ice cream maker?

No, store-bought vegan ice cream is perfect for this recipe, and no churning or special equipment is needed.

How long do they last in the freezer?

Properly stored, these vegan ice cream sandwiches can last up to 2 weeks in the freezer.

Can I use store-bought cookies?

Yes, if you’re short on time, opt for vegan-friendly store-bought cookies to assemble your sandwiches.

Can I use homemade vegan ice cream?

Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade vegan ice cream recipe, go for it. Just ensure it’s firm enough to hold between cookies.

How do I keep the sandwiches from becoming too hard?

Let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating so the cookies and ice cream soften slightly.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, these are great for making ahead. Assemble and freeze them up to several days in advance.

Are these kid-friendly?

Definitely! Kids love the classic cookie and ice cream combo, and they won’t even notice they’re vegan.

Can I add mix-ins like nuts or chocolate to the cookies?

Yes, feel free to customize your cookie dough with nuts, dried fruit, or different types of chocolate chips.

Conclusion

Vegan ice cream sandwiches are the perfect combination of nostalgic comfort and modern plant-based indulgence. Easy to make, endlessly customizable, and freezer-friendly, they’re a must-have dessert for summer or any time of year. Whether you’re sharing with friends or treating yourself, this recipe delivers delicious results every time.