Peanut butter ice cream sandwiches are the perfect blend of creamy, nutty, and crispy textures, making them a favorite dessert for all ages. Whether you’re looking for a homemade recipe or exploring store-bought options, this guide will cover everything you need to know about these delicious treats.
From easy homemade recipes to vegan and gluten-free variations, we’ll explore the best ways to enjoy peanut butter ice cream sandwiches. Plus, we’ll dive into storage tips, pairing ideas, and creative ways to customize them!
What Is a Peanut Butter Ice Cream Sandwich?
The Origin of Ice Cream Sandwiches
Ice cream sandwiches have been a popular frozen treat for decades. Traditionally made with vanilla ice cream between two soft cookies, modern variations include different flavors and ingredients like peanut butter, chocolate, and even gluten-free options.
How Peanut Butter Enhances Ice Cream Sandwiches
Peanut butter adds a rich, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with both chocolate and vanilla ice cream. It also enhances the texture, creating a creamy yet slightly crunchy contrast when combined with cookies, wafers, or brownies.
Types of Peanut Butter Ice Cream Sandwiches
There are several delicious variations of peanut butter ice cream sandwiches, including:
Classic Peanut Butter Cookie Sandwich – Soft peanut butter cookies filled with vanilla or chocolate ice cream.
Chocolate-Coated Peanut Butter Sandwich – A peanut butter cookie base dipped in chocolate for extra crunch.
Gluten-Free & Vegan Options – Made with dairy-free ice cream and almond or oat-based cookies.
Peanut Butter and Jelly Ice Cream Sandwich – A fun twist using jelly swirls in the ice cream for a PB&J-inspired treat.
How to Make a Homemade Peanut Butter Ice Cream Sandwich
Making a homemade peanut butter ice cream sandwich is easier than you think! With a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious dessert that’s far better than store-bought versions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make soft and chewy peanut butter ice cream sandwiches, you’ll need:
For the Peanut Butter Cookies:
1 cup creamy peanut butter
½ cup sugar
1 egg (or flax egg for vegan)
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon baking soda
For the Ice Cream Filling:
2 cups vanilla or chocolate ice cream (dairy or non-dairy)
¼ cup crushed peanuts (optional)
¼ cup chocolate chips (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Butter Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a bowl, mix peanut butter, sugar, egg, vanilla, salt, and baking soda until smooth.
Scoop out small dough balls and flatten them slightly on the baking sheet.
Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden brown. Let them cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Ice Cream Filling
Take the ice cream out of the freezer and let it soften for a few minutes.
Stir in crushed peanuts or chocolate chips for added texture.
Place a scoop of ice cream on one cookie and top with another cookie, pressing gently.
Step 3: Freeze and Enjoy!
Wrap each sandwich in plastic wrap and freeze for at least 2 hours to firm up.
Serve chilled and enjoy!
Dairy-Free and Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Ice Cream Sandwiches
Not everyone can enjoy traditional peanut butter ice cream sandwiches due to dietary restrictions. Fortunately, you can easily make dairy-free and gluten-free versions without sacrificing flavor or texture. Whether you have lactose intolerance, a gluten allergy, or follow a vegan lifestyle, these variations will satisfy your cravings!
Dairy-Free Peanut Butter Ice Cream Sandwiches
Best Dairy-Free Ice Cream Alternatives
To make a dairy-free peanut butter ice cream sandwich, choose one of these plant-based ice creams:
Coconut Milk Ice Cream – Rich and creamy with a mild coconut flavor.
Oat Milk Ice Cream – Smooth and neutral in taste, perfect for peanut butter combinations.
Almond Milk Ice Cream – Light and slightly nutty, complementing the peanut butter flavor.
Cashew Milk Ice Cream – Ultra-creamy and thick, similar to traditional ice cream.
You can also make homemade dairy-free peanut butter ice cream with just a few ingredients:
Simple Dairy-Free Peanut Butter Ice Cream Recipe:
2 cups coconut or almond milk
½ cup peanut butter
¼ cup maple syrup or agave
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Blend all ingredients until smooth.
Pour into an ice cream maker and churn until creamy.
Freeze for at least 2 hours before using in sandwiches.
Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Ice Cream Sandwiches
Best Gluten-Free Cookie Options
Regular cookies contain wheat flour, but these alternatives create a delicious gluten-free peanut butter cookie base:
Almond Flour Cookies – Soft and chewy with a nutty taste.
Oat Flour Cookies – Slightly hearty and perfect for ice cream sandwiches.
Coconut Flour Cookies – Light and airy, with a hint of coconut.
Store-Bought Gluten-Free Cookies – Brands like Tate’s Bake Shop or Simple Mills offer great options.
Easy Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe:
1 cup peanut butter
½ cup coconut sugar or brown sugar
1 egg (or flax egg for vegan)
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon baking soda
Instructions:
Mix all ingredients until smooth.
Scoop and flatten dough balls on a baking sheet.
Bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes.
Let them cool completely before assembling the sandwiches.
Combining Dairy-Free & Gluten-Free for the Ultimate Treat
For a completely dairy-free and gluten-free peanut butter ice cream sandwich, pair gluten-free peanut butter cookies with dairy-free ice cream. You can also customize it with mix-ins like:
Dark chocolate chips (ensure they’re dairy-free)
Chopped nuts for extra crunch
Cinnamon or sea salt for added flavor
Coconut flakes for a tropical twist
Low-Sugar and Keto-Friendly Peanut Butter Ice Cream Sandwiches
If you’re watching your sugar intake or following a keto-friendly diet, you don’t have to miss out on peanut butter ice cream sandwiches! This section will guide you on how to make low-carb, sugar-free, and keto-friendly versions of this delicious treat without sacrificing taste.
Low-Sugar Peanut Butter Ice Cream Sandwiches
Healthier Sweetener Alternatives
To reduce sugar while keeping the sweetness, try these natural and low-carb sweeteners:
Monk Fruit Sweetener – Zero-calorie and natural with no aftertaste.
Erythritol – A sugar alcohol with a mild sweetness and no impact on blood sugar.
Stevia – A plant-based sweetener that blends well with peanut butter.
Allulose – Has a sugar-like texture but fewer calories.
Low-Sugar Peanut Butter Ice Cream Recipe
For a low-sugar peanut butter ice cream, try this easy homemade version:
Ingredients:
2 cups heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
½ cup peanut butter (unsweetened)
¼ cup erythritol or monk fruit sweetener
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Blend all ingredients until smooth.
Pour into an ice cream maker and churn until creamy.
Freeze for at least 2 hours before using in sandwiches.
Keto-Friendly Peanut Butter Ice Cream Sandwiches
Choosing Keto-Friendly Cookies
Traditional cookies contain too many carbs for keto, but these low-carb cookie alternatives work great:
Almond Flour Cookies – Low-carb and nutty, perfect for keto diets.
Coconut Flour Cookies – Light and slightly sweet with a coconut hint.
Peanut Butter Fat Bomb Cookies – Made with peanut butter and butter for extra richness.
Keto Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe
1 cup natural peanut butter (no sugar added)
½ cup almond flour
¼ cup erythritol
1 egg
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix all ingredients until a dough forms.
Roll into small balls, flatten slightly, and bake for 10 minutes.
Let cool before using for ice cream sandwiches.
PART 5: Creative Toppings & Flavor Combinations
Now that you know how to make different types of peanut butter ice cream sandwiches, let’s explore fun toppings and mix-ins to elevate the flavor and texture!
Best Toppings for Peanut Butter Ice Cream Sandwiches
Once you’ve assembled your sandwich, roll the edges in these delicious toppings for extra crunch and flavor:
Crushed Peanuts – Enhances the nutty texture.
Mini Chocolate Chips – Adds a sweet, crunchy bite.
Toasted Coconut Flakes – Gives a tropical flair.
Sea Salt Flakes – Balances the sweetness with a hint of saltiness.
Sprinkles – Fun and colorful, great for kids!
Crushed Pretzels – A salty-sweet contrast.
Unique Flavor Combinations
Want to get creative? Try these delicious peanut butter ice cream sandwich variations:
1. Peanut Butter & Chocolate Explosion
Base: Peanut butter cookies
Filling: Chocolate ice cream
Topping: Crushed chocolate chips
2. PB&J Ice Cream Sandwich
Base: Peanut butter cookies
Filling: Strawberry or raspberry swirl ice cream
Topping: Dried fruit bits
3. S’mores Peanut Butter Sandwich
Base: Graham cracker-style peanut butter cookies
Filling: Marshmallow swirl ice cream
Topping: Crushed graham crackers
4. Salty-Sweet Pretzel Peanut Butter Sandwich
Base: Pretzel peanut butter cookies
Filling: Vanilla or caramel ice cream
Topping: Crushed pretzels and sea salt
5. Espresso Peanut Butter Ice Cream Sandwich
Base: Peanut butter cookies with a hint of coffee powder
Filling: Coffee ice cream
Topping: Crushed espresso beans or cacao nibs
How to Store Peanut Butter Ice Cream Sandwiches for Maximum Freshness
Once you’ve made a batch of peanut butter ice cream sandwiches, proper storage is key to maintaining their texture, flavor, and freshness. Follow these expert storage tips to keep them tasting just as delicious as the day you made them!
Best Storage Methods for Homemade Ice Cream Sandwiches
1. Wrap Them Individually
To prevent freezer burn and keep them fresh, wrap each sandwich separately using:
Plastic wrap – Forms a tight seal around the sandwich.
Parchment paper – A non-stick option that works well.
Aluminum foil – Helps maintain the cold temperature.
Pro Tip: If you’re making a large batch, wrap them tightly and double-layer with foil for extra protection.
2. Store in an Airtight Container
After wrapping each sandwich, place them in an airtight container or a freezer-safe resealable bag. This prevents moisture loss and freezer odors from affecting the flavor.
Use a hard plastic or glass container to prevent crushing.
Label and date the container so you remember when they were made.
3. Keep Them at the Right Temperature
For the best texture and longevity:
Store at 0°F (-18°C) or lower.
Avoid placing them near the freezer door, where temperature fluctuations can cause ice crystals.
4. How Long Do They Last?
Homemade peanut butter ice cream sandwiches: Up to 2 months if stored properly.
Store-bought ones: Check the expiration date, but they typically last longer due to preservatives.
How to Serve Frozen Ice Cream Sandwiches for the Best Texture
Avoid biting into a rock-hard sandwich! Instead:
Let it sit at room temperature for 3-5 minutes before eating.
Microwave for 5 seconds if you need to soften it quickly.
Slice into halves or quarters for easy serving at parties.
How to Make Peanut Butter Ice Cream Sandwiches for Special Occasions
Peanut butter ice cream sandwiches aren’t just an everyday dessert—they can be the star of any celebration! Whether you’re planning a party, holiday gathering, or special event, here’s how to make them festive and fun.
Party-Ready Ice Cream Sandwich Ideas
1. Birthday Party Peanut Butter Ice Cream Sandwiches
Make them colorful and fun by:
Rolling the edges in rainbow sprinkles.
Using chocolate or peanut butter drizzle on top.
Making mini-sized sandwiches for easy snacking.
2. Holiday-Themed Peanut Butter Ice Cream Sandwiches
Get creative with seasonal flavors:
Halloween: Use orange and black sprinkles or a pumpkin spice ice cream filling.
Christmas: Roll edges in crushed candy canes or red & green sprinkles.
Valentine’s Day: Use heart-shaped cookies and strawberry ice cream.
3. Wedding or Elegant Event Treats
For a classy touch, try:
Dipping sandwiches in white or dark chocolate.
Adding gold or silver edible glitter for a stylish look.
Serving them on a dessert platter with fresh berries and caramel drizzle.
4. Kid-Friendly Peanut Butter Ice Cream Sandwiches
Make it fun for kids by:
Using peanut butter and jelly ice cream filling.
Cutting sandwiches into fun shapes using cookie cutters.
Letting kids dip their sandwiches in melted chocolate and toppings.
How to Transport Ice Cream Sandwiches for Events
If you need to bring peanut butter ice cream sandwiches to a party, follow these tips:
Use an insulated cooler with ice packs to keep them frozen.
Layer sandwiches between parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freeze them overnight before transport for maximum firmness.
Best Drinks to Pair with Peanut Butter Ice Cream Sandwiches
Pairing peanut butter ice cream sandwiches with the right beverage can elevate the flavors and make your dessert experience even more indulgent. Whether you love creamy, chocolatey, or fruity drinks, here are the best beverages to complement your peanut butter treat.
1. Classic Milk Pairings
Cold Milk (Best for a Traditional Combo)
Nothing beats a tall glass of milk with a peanut butter ice cream sandwich! The creamy, cool texture balances the nutty and sweet flavors perfectly.
✅ Best choice: Whole milk, almond milk, or oat milk.Chocolate Milk (For a Richer Experience)
Peanut butter and chocolate are a match made in heaven. Enjoy your ice cream sandwich with a chilled glass of chocolate milk for a double dessert effect!
✅ Try this: Add a pinch of sea salt to your chocolate milk for extra flavor contrast.2. Coffee & Espresso Pairings
Iced Coffee (A Bold and Refreshing Choice)
A strong iced coffee balances out the sweetness of peanut butter and ice cream, making it an ideal pairing for adults.
✅ Best choices: Cold brew, iced Americano, or vanilla iced latte.Peanut Butter Mocha (The Ultimate Indulgence)
Try a homemade peanut butter mocha for an ultra-rich dessert drink!
☕ Recipe:1 shot espresso
1 cup steamed milk (or almond milk)
1 tablespoon peanut butter
1 teaspoon cocoa powder
Whisk together and enjoy!
3. Hot Drink Pairings for Cold Nights
Hot Chocolate (For a Cozy Dessert Experience)
A warm mug of hot chocolate pairs beautifully with a cold peanut butter ice cream sandwich. The contrast in temperature enhances every bite!
✅ Upgrade it: Add cinnamon, caramel drizzle, or a splash of peanut butter syrup.Chai Latte (For a Spiced Contrast)
If you love warm, spiced drinks, a chai latte is a fantastic pairing. The bold flavors of cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger complement peanut butter beautifully.
4. Fruity & Refreshing Drinks
Banana Peanut Butter Smoothie
For a healthy but indulgent pairing, sip on a banana peanut butter smoothie while enjoying your ice cream sandwich.
✅ Simple recipe: Blend 1 banana, 1 tablespoon peanut butter, 1 cup milk, and ice cubes.Berry Milkshake (A PB&J-Inspired Pairing)
A strawberry or raspberry milkshake brings a fruity balance to peanut butter’s richness, creating a PB&J-like flavor combination!
✅ Pro Tip: Make a peanut butter & jelly milkshake by blending vanilla ice cream, peanut butter, and fresh berries.
5. Alcoholic Pairings for Adults
Peanut Butter Whiskey (For a Boozy Treat)
A shot of peanut butter whiskey, such as Skrewball, pairs wonderfully with a peanut butter ice cream sandwich. It enhances the nutty flavors and adds a rich, smooth finish.
Baileys or Kahlúa (For a Creamy Dessert Cocktail)
Mix Baileys Irish Cream or Kahlúa with iced coffee or milk for an indulgent, dessert-style cocktail.
✅ Best pairing: A peanut butter ice cream sandwich dipped in a Baileys-spiked milkshake!
FAQs & Pro Tips for the Perfect Peanut Butter Ice Cream Sandwich
We’ve covered everything from recipes to pairings, but you may still have some questions about making and enjoying peanut butter ice cream sandwiches. In this final section, we’ll answer frequently asked questions (FAQs) and share expert tips to help you create the ultimate treat!
FAQs About Peanut Butter Ice Cream Sandwiches
1. Can I Make Peanut Butter Ice Cream Sandwiches Ahead of Time?
Yes! Peanut butter ice cream sandwiches can be made in advance and stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap or parchment paper and place them in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.
2. What’s the Best Way to Soften Ice Cream for Sandwiches?
To make it easier to spread ice cream between cookies:
✅ Let ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes until slightly softened.
✅ For a quick fix, microwave it for 10-15 seconds (but don’t melt it completely).
✅ Use an ice cream scoop or a spatula for even spreading.3. How Do I Keep the Cookies from Getting Too Hard in the Freezer?
If you find that your cookies become too hard after freezing, try these tricks:
Use soft-baked cookies instead of crunchy ones.
Add cornstarch or honey to your cookie dough for a chewier texture.
Let the sandwich sit for 3-5 minutes at room temperature before biting in.
4. Can I Use Store-Bought Ice Cream Instead of Homemade?
Absolutely! Store-bought ice cream works just as well. Some of the best flavors to pair with peanut butter cookies include:
Vanilla Bean (Classic and creamy)
Chocolate Fudge (For a Reese’s-inspired taste)
Strawberry Swirl (A PB&J flavor combination)
Caramel Swirl (A sweet and salty mix)
5. Can I Make a Healthier Version of Peanut Butter Ice Cream Sandwiches?
Yes! To make a healthier version, try:
Natural peanut butter with no added sugar.
Oat or almond flour cookies instead of white flour.
Low-sugar or dairy-free ice cream (like coconut or almond milk-based options).
Sweeteners like honey, monk fruit, or erythritol instead of refined sugar.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Peanut Butter Ice Cream Sandwich
✅ Chill the Cookies First – Before assembling, freeze the cookies for 10-15 minutes so they don’t crumble when spreading the ice cream.
✅ Use a Cookie Cutter for a Clean Shape – If you want perfectly shaped ice cream sandwiches, use a round cookie cutter to cut the ice cream before sandwiching it between cookies.
✅ Experiment with Mix-ins – Enhance the flavor by adding chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or crushed pretzels to your cookie dough.
✅ Try a Dipped Coating – Dip half of your ice cream sandwich in melted chocolate, caramel, or peanut butter drizzle for an extra gourmet touch.
✅ Let Guests Customize Their Sandwiches – For a fun party idea, set up a DIY ice cream sandwich station with different cookie flavors, ice cream choices, and toppings like sprinkles, nuts, and mini chocolate chips.
Enjoy Your Peanut Butter Ice Cream Sandwich!
Whether you make a classic version, a keto-friendly option, or a dairy-free treat, peanut butter ice cream sandwiches are an easy and delicious dessert for any occasion. From storage tips to flavor pairings, you now have everything you need to create the perfect peanut butter ice cream sandwich!
