There’s something magical about homemade ice cream sandwiches, especially when they’re easy and gluten-free. In this article, you’ll discover how to create simple gluten-free ice cream sandwiches that taste just like summer—without any stress or specialty equipment. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just a craving, you’ll get step-by-step guidance, tips for choosing the best gluten-free ingredients, and answers to common questions. From dough basics to creative filling ideas, this guide will help you whip up a nostalgic treat everyone can enjoy. The keyword “easy gluten-free ice cream sandwiches” is featured throughout, so you’re in the right place for delicious results!
Table of Contents
The Story & Intro
A Family Story: Why We Love Easy Gluten-Free Ice Cream Sandwiches
For me, easy gluten-free ice cream sandwiches are more than just dessert—they’re a memory in the making. I’m Imma, a home cook in New York City, and I grew up rolling filo dough with my Yiayia in the Greek sun. These days, my kitchen is a little noisier, with my Polish husband Marek and our daughter Emily giggling as we press soft gluten-free cookies around a scoop of vanilla ice cream. When my mom Elizabeth visits, she tells stories of her own summer treats, and together we blend traditions—sometimes adding a swirl of jam or a sprinkle of cinnamon. Easy gluten-free ice cream sandwiches are our way of sharing a little bit of that heritage with anyone who needs a gluten-free treat that actually feels like home. We don’t stress about perfection. Our cookies are sometimes lopsided, our ice cream melts a little too quickly, but there’s joy in every bite. The best part? Even Emily’s stuffed animals get in on the action, as we build our tower of gluten-free ice cream sandwiches at the kitchen table. If you’re looking for an easy gluten-free recipe that’s big on nostalgia and flavor, you’re in the right place.
Why Easy Gluten-Free Ice Cream Sandwiches Are Perfect for Everyone
You don’t have to be a gluten-free expert or have a fancy kitchen to make these ice cream sandwiches. With just a few pantry staples and your favorite store-bought or homemade ice cream, you’ll have a treat that’s both kid- and adult-approved. The keyword easy gluten-free ice cream sandwiches isn’t just for SEO—it’s a promise. This recipe is accessible, no-mess, and adaptable for any crowd. Whether you’re celiac, gluten-sensitive, or simply love good food, you’ll get all the texture and taste you remember, with none of the gluten. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s bring a little magic to your kitchen this summer.
Essential Ingredients & Choosing Gluten-Free Options
What Makes a Great Gluten-Free Cookie for Sandwiches
The secret to a great gluten-free ice cream sandwich is the cookie. You want a cookie that’s sturdy enough to hold ice cream but soft enough to bite through—no crumbly mess. I recommend using a blend of gluten-free all-purpose flour, brown sugar for moisture, and a touch of xanthan gum for chew. Make sure your baking powder and vanilla extract are certified gluten-free. Some families love a classic chocolate chip cookie base, while others swear by brownies or blondies. If you’re in a hurry, look for high-quality gluten-free cookies in the store—just check the label for cross-contamination.
Best Ice Cream Choices for Gluten-Free Sandwiches
Now, let’s talk filling! Any gluten-free ice cream will work—vanilla, chocolate, or fruit flavors. Double-check that your chosen brand is certified gluten-free, especially for mix-ins like cookie dough or cookie pieces. For dairy-free households, go for coconut or oat milk-based ice creams. The key is to let the ice cream soften slightly before assembling so it spreads without breaking the cookies. If you love a homemade touch, consider churning your own vanilla or strawberry ice cream using a simple recipe. No ice cream maker? No problem—a frozen whipped topping and sweetened condensed milk base will do the trick.
Step-by-Step: Making Easy Gluten-Free Ice Cream Sandwiches
Preparing and Baking the Gluten-Free Cookies
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy—this adds moisture, which is key for gluten-free cookies. Beat in an egg and a splash of vanilla extract, then add your gluten-free all-purpose flour, a pinch of baking powder, and a touch of xanthan gum if your flour blend doesn’t include it. Mix just until combined; overmixing can make the cookies tough. Scoop tablespoon-sized rounds onto your baking sheet and flatten slightly with your hand or the back of a spoon. Bake for 10–12 minutes until the edges are golden but the centers are soft. Let the cookies cool completely on the pan before moving—gluten-free cookies are delicate when warm.
Assembling and Freezing Your Ice Cream Sandwiches
Let your favorite gluten-free ice cream soften at room temperature for about 5 minutes. Flip half your cookies upside down, scoop a generous spoonful of ice cream onto each, and top with the remaining cookies, pressing gently to form a sandwich. Don’t worry about perfect edges—a little homemade look is part of the charm. If you like, roll the sides in mini chocolate chips, rainbow sprinkles, or chopped nuts (just check the labels for gluten). Arrange your sandwiches on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until firm, about 2 hours. Once frozen, wrap each sandwich in parchment or plastic wrap and store in a zip-top bag for up to two weeks. They’re ready to grab anytime you need a cool, nostalgic treat.
Serving, Storing, and Creative Variations
Serving Suggestions and Making Them Party-Ready
When it’s time to serve your easy gluten-free ice cream sandwiches, don’t be afraid to have fun. For a classic look, wrap each sandwich in parchment and tie with kitchen twine—kids love the surprise! Hosting a summer party? Create an “ice cream sandwich bar” by setting out a few cookie options (like chocolate chip, peanut butter, or brownie), several flavors of gluten-free ice cream, and bowls of toppings—think mini chocolate chips, freeze-dried berries, coconut flakes, or even gluten-free granola. Let guests assemble their own combinations. These sandwiches also make a nostalgic dessert for backyard BBQs or birthday celebrations, giving everyone a gluten-free option that feels special and included.
Storing and Freezing Tips for Make-Ahead Treats
One of the best things about these easy gluten-free ice cream sandwiches is how well they store. After assembling, freeze the sandwiches on a tray until solid. Then, wrap each individually in parchment or plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to two weeks—if they last that long! This make-ahead method means you’re always ready for unexpected guests or a sudden sweet craving. If the cookies start to firm up too much in the freezer, let the sandwiches sit at room temperature for five minutes before serving. That way, you’ll get the perfect bite every time: soft cookie, creamy ice cream, and zero gluten.
Print
Easy Gluten-Free Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 sandwiches 1x
Description
Easy gluten-free ice cream sandwiches are a nostalgic, kid- and adult-friendly treat that’s creamy, dreamy, and stress-free to make. With simple pantry staples and any gluten-free ice cream, these sandwiches are the ultimate summer dessert for every diet and occasion.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (or vegan butter/coconut oil for dairy-free)
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg (or flax egg for vegan: 1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water)
- 1 tsp gluten-free vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (with xanthan gum or add 1/4 tsp separately)
- 1/2 tsp baking powder (certified gluten-free)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Your favorite gluten-free ice cream (vanilla, chocolate, fruit, or dairy-free)
- Optional: mini chocolate chips, rainbow sprinkles, or chopped nuts (for rolling the sides, gluten-free)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream together softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
- Add gluten-free flour, baking powder, xanthan gum (if not included in flour), and salt. Mix until just combined. If dough is crumbly, add 1 tablespoon milk or water at a time.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized rounds onto the baking sheet. Flatten each slightly.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, until edges are golden but centers are still soft. Cool completely on the pan.
- Let ice cream soften at room temp for 5 minutes. Flip half the cookies upside down, add a generous scoop of ice cream, and top with another cookie. Press gently to sandwich.
- Roll sides in mini chips, sprinkles, or nuts if desired.
- Freeze assembled sandwiches on a tray until firm (about 2 hours). Then wrap each in parchment or plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 2 weeks.
- Let sit at room temp for 5 minutes before serving for the perfect soft bite.
Notes
You can use store-bought gluten-free cookies to save time. For dairy-free or vegan, swap butter and egg as described and use plant-based ice cream. Mix and match cookies and ice cream flavors for creative combos—chocolate chip, brownie, or peanut butter cookies work great!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked, Assembled, Frozen
- Cuisine: American, Family-Friendly
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the best gluten-free flours for ice cream sandwich cookies?
The best gluten-free flours for cookies are usually blends labeled “gluten-free all-purpose flour,” which often contain rice flour, potato starch, and xanthan gum. These blends mimic the texture of regular wheat flour and work well in cookie recipes. If you’re making your own blend, use a mix of white rice flour, tapioca starch, and a small amount of xanthan gum for binding. Always make sure your flour blend is labeled gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
2. Can I make these gluten-free ice cream sandwiches dairy-free or vegan?
Absolutely! Swap butter for vegan butter or coconut oil, and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) instead of a regular egg. For the filling, choose a certified gluten-free, dairy-free ice cream made with coconut, almond, or oat milk. This way, your sandwiches are both gluten-free and dairy-free or vegan—perfect for even more dietary needs.
3. How do I keep gluten-free cookies from falling apart in ice cream sandwiches?
Gluten-free cookies can be delicate, but a few tricks will help: Use brown sugar for moisture, don’t overbake the cookies, and let them cool completely before assembling. If the dough seems crumbly, add a tablespoon of milk or water at a time until it holds together. Freezing the assembled sandwiches also helps the cookies firm up for a perfect bite.
4. Can I use store-bought gluten-free cookies for ice cream sandwiches?
Yes! If you’re short on time, there are great store-bought gluten-free cookies available. Look for brands like Enjoy Life, Tate’s, or Schär, which make soft and chewy cookies. Always check the label to make sure they’re certified gluten-free and safe for your needs. Just pair them with your favorite gluten-free ice cream for a quick, easy treat.
Conclusion
Easy gluten-free ice cream sandwiches bring back the carefree days of summer, offering comfort and joy in every bite—without any gluten or fuss. From choosing the right cookies and ice cream to mixing in your family’s favorite flavors, you’ll have a treat that’s both nostalgic and fresh. Whether you’re new to gluten-free baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe proves that you don’t have to sacrifice taste or fun for dietary needs. Gather your loved ones, share your own kitchen stories, and enjoy the simplicity of a classic dessert, homemade with love.
👉 I hope you loved making these Easy Gluten-Free Ice Cream Sandwiches—they’re creamy, dreamy, and just the kind of treat everyone needs on a hot day (or, honestly, any time a sweet craving hits). These sandwiches are super simple to put together and perfect for sharing at parties, picnics, or cozy nights in.
Craving more easy, no-bake desserts? Our No-Bake Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bars are a no-fuss favorite for anyone looking to keep the oven off. If you want something a little fruity, the French Strawberry Tart delivers that perfect summer vibe with every bite. For a quick single-serve treat, don’t miss our Edible Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough for One—so easy, so good!
Want to explore even more sweet ideas? Check out the Raspberry Swirl Ice Cream Cake at DanaRecipes for a stunning, frozen dessert, or get inspired by the nostalgic Strawberry Banana Pudding Recipe from SANTMD, perfect for family gatherings.
If you’re on a gluten-free journey and searching for more, try SANTMD’s Lemon Poppy Seed Almond Flour Pancakes or their creamy, crave-worthy No-Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake.
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