When summer cravings call for something sweet, fruity, and refreshing, Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Sandwiches are the perfect answer. These delightful frozen treats combine buttery shortcake cookies with luscious strawberry ice cream, offering all the nostalgic charm of the classic dessert—without needing a fork.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, cooling down on a hot afternoon, or just indulging in a homemade dessert that tastes like sunshine, this recipe is fun to make and even more fun to eat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No baking expertise required – beginner-friendly and straightforward
- Perfect make-ahead dessert – ideal for freezing and serving later
- Fresh fruit flavor – with real strawberries folded into creamy ice cream
- Fun twist on a classic – like strawberry shortcake, but handheld
Ingredients
For the Shortcake Cookies (makes 10 sandwiches)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1 tablespoon turbinado sugar for topping
For the Strawberry Ice Cream Filling
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups chopped fresh strawberries
- Optional: 1 teaspoon lemon juice (to brighten flavor)
Total Time
- Prep time: 25 minutes
- Bake time: 12–14 minutes
- Chill time: 4–6 hours minimum (overnight preferred)
- Total time: Approximately 5–6 hours, including freezing
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Ice Cream
- In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- In a separate bowl, stir together the condensed milk, vanilla, and lemon juice.
- Fold the whipped cream into the condensed milk mixture.
- Gently fold in the chopped strawberries.
- Transfer mixture to a loaf pan or airtight container and freeze for at least 4–6 hours, or overnight for firmer ice cream.
Step 2: Prepare the Shortcake Cookies
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or fingers until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in cream and vanilla until a soft dough forms.
- Roll out dough to about ½ inch thickness on a floured surface. Cut into rounds or squares using a cookie cutter or glass.
- Optional: Sprinkle tops with turbinado sugar for extra texture.
- Bake for 12–14 minutes until lightly golden. Cool completely before assembling.
Step 3: Assemble the Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Once cookies are cool and ice cream is set, scoop about ¼ cup of strawberry ice cream onto one cookie and top with another.
- Press gently to sandwich, and smooth edges with a butter knife or offset spatula.
- Wrap each sandwich in parchment or plastic wrap and freeze for 1–2 hours to firm up.
- Serve frozen, and enjoy the perfect balance of buttery shortcake and fruity creaminess.
Optional Variations
- Add freeze-dried strawberries to the cookie dough for extra flavor and color
- Use gluten-free flour for a wheat-free version
- Swap the strawberries with raspberries or peaches for a fun twist
- Add a swirl of strawberry jam or compote into the ice cream base before freezing
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 Sandwich) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 360 |
| Protein | 5 grams |
| Total Fat | 21 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 13 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 39 grams |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 gram |
| Sugars | 22 grams |
| Sodium | 180 milligrams |
| Calcium | 10% DV |
| Vitamin C | 15% DV (thanks to fresh strawberries) |
Note: These values are approximate and may vary based on portion size or exact ingredients used.
Storage Tips
- Store ice cream sandwiches individually wrapped in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
- Let them sit at room temperature for 2–3 minutes before eating for best texture.
These Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Sandwiches are more than just a dessert—they’re a taste of summer nostalgia in every bite. Fresh strawberries, creamy ice cream, and soft shortcake cookies come together in a beautifully balanced, crowd-pleasing treat.