Patriotic Ice Cream Sandwiches

Patriotic Ice Cream Sandwiches are the perfect summer treat to showcase your red, white, and blue spirit! With creamy cheesecake ice cream sandwiched between crisp red velvet shortbread cookies shaped into charming stars, this recipe is an instant hit at Fourth of July gatherings, backyard BBQs, or any celebration that calls for flair and flavor. You’ll love how easy yet impressive these sandwiches are—no complex piping or fancy molds required. Plus, the combination of tangy cheesecake ice cream and buttery shortbread is simply irresistible. Ready to dive into creativity and sweetness? Let’s get started with this festive, refreshing delight!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Patriotic Ice Cream Sandwiches offer the best of both worlds—a luscious, creamy dessert and a gorgeous aesthetic that screams summer celebration. Imagine creamy cheesecake ice cream perfectly encapsulated between buttery, tender red velvet shortbread cookies in a fun star shape. They’re approachable enough for home bakers of all levels, yet unique enough to impress guests. Whether you’re hosting a Fourth of July party, a Memorial Day brunch, or simply want to treat yourself to something special, these sandwiches are as visually stunning as they are delicious.

Ingredients

For the Ice Cream

• 8 ounces full‑fat cream cheese, at room temperature
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 cup full‑fat sour cream
• ½ cup half‑and‑half
• ⅔ cup granulated sugar
• Pinch of kosher salt

For the Star Cookies

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ⅔ cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all‑purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• 4 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons (1 ounce) red food coloring
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• Red sanding sugar, for garnish

The ingredient list has been organized into clear categories—ice cream and cookies—making it easy to prep and shop.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Patriotic Ice Cream Sandwiches

1. Make the cheesecake ice cream base:
   • Chop the cream cheese into smaller pieces, then blend it with lemon zest, sour cream, half-and-half, sugar, and salt until the mixture is silky smooth.
   • Refrigerate for 1 hour, then churn in your ice cream maker per the manufacturer’s instructions.
   • Once churned, spread the ice cream evenly in a parchment-lined 9″ square pan, smooth the top, and freeze until solid—this typically takes around 2 hours.
2. Prepare the red velvet cookie dough:
   • In a stand mixer, cream together softened butter and sugar until fluffy.
   • Add flour and salt—mix just until incorporated.
   • Blend in cocoa powder, then incorporate red food coloring and vanilla at very low speed until evenly colored.
   • Divide dough into two 4″ discs, wrap tightly, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
3. Bake the star cookies:
   • Set your oven to 350°F and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
   • Roll one dough disc to ¼″ thickness, re‑rolling once if sticky.
   • Use a 2¼″ star cookie cutter dipped in flour to cut stars.
   • Place on baking sheet, sprinkle with red sanding sugar, and bake for 11–13 minutes—just until set, not browned.
   • Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Assemble your ice cream sandwiches:
   • Use the same star cutter dipped in hot water between each press to cut star shapes from the frozen ice cream slab.
   • Gently press an ice cream star between two cookies to form each sandwich.
   • Store sandwiches in a freezer‑safe container until fully frozen before serving.

Helpful Tips

• Softening the cream cheese: Set it out about 30 minutes before you start to achieve a creamy texture that blends smoothly.
• Ice cream consistency: For easier cutting, freeze the ice cream overnight. If super-firm, let it sit for 3–5 minutes before cutting.
• Cookie dough handling: Red velvet dough can stick—rolling twice and using flour helps, as does chilling long enough before rolling.
• Cookie cutter maintenance: Keep a shallow bowl of hot water nearby and dip frequently so cuts are clean.
• Even star spacing: Place cut ice cream stars tight on the slab to minimize waste and maximize yield.

Substitutions And Variations

• Food coloring alternatives: Use gel-based coloring for richer hue with less liquid.
• Red velvet flavor nod: Add ½ teaspoon of vinegar or a small amount of cocoa powder to the dough.
• Ice cream flavors: Swap cheesecake for vanilla, strawberry, or lemon sorbet for lighter sandwich options.
• Cookie shapes: Try circles, moons, or hearts for themed occasions—just have fun with shapes!
• Cookie colors: Omit cocoa and food coloring to make traditional buttery shortbread stars, ideal for other holidays or simpler aesthetics.

Storage Instructions

• Once assembled: Layer the ice cream sandwiches in a freezer-safe container using parchment or plastic wrap to separate them.
• Freezing: Freeze thoroughly for at least 2 hours before serving. They can be stored in the freezer for up to one month.
• Thawing before serving: Remove desired sandwiches 5–10 minutes before eating so they soften just enough for easy biting but stay intact.

Nutritional Information

• Per sandwich (approximate):
  • Calories: 405 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 41 g
  • Protein: 7 g
  • Fat: 24 g (14 g saturated, 8 g polyunsaturated)
  • Cholesterol: 65 mg
  • Sodium: 164 mg
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Sugar: 24 g

Nutrition data is estimated, depending on brands and portion sizes.

Serving Suggestions

• Plating: Serve on a pretty platter with a dusting of powdered sugar around the edges for patriotic flair.
• Accompaniments: Pair with fresh berries (raspberries and blueberries) or a berry coulis for extra color and brightness.
• For adults: A small shot of bourbon or Amaretto poured over the ice cream base pre‑freezing adds buzz-worthy depth.
• Presentation idea: Individually wrap each sandwich in wax paper ribbons prior to a party for easy grab-and-go treats.

Frequently Asked Questions About Patriotic Ice Cream Sandwiches

1. Can I use store‑bought cookies instead of making them?
You absolutely can! Choose crisp sugar or red velvet cookies, and simple star cutters or buy star-shaped cookies. The flavor may shift slightly, but it’ll still be delicious—especially if you want to save time.

2. My ice cream is too hard to cut—what can I do?
If the ice cream slab is rock solid, let it rest at room temperature for 3–5 minutes before cutting. You want it firm enough to hold shape, but soft enough to slice cleanly. Dipping your cutter in hot water for 10–15 seconds between cuts also helps.

3. Can I make the cookies ahead?
Yes! Bake cookies up to 3 days in advance and store in an airtight container at room temperature. Freeze the ice cream slab separately, and assemble sandwiches on the day you plan to serve.

4. How many sandwiches does this make exactly?
Yield is about 12 sandwiches, depending on how tightly you cut your stars. You’ll probably have a few extra cookie stars leftover—perfect for snacking.

5. Can I freeze these long‑term?
Yes, they freeze wonderfully. Keep in a sealed container with parchment between layers to avoid sticking. They’ll last up to 1 month; for best texture, enjoy within 2 weeks.

Conclusion

Thank you so much for trying this Patriotic Ice Cream Sandwiches recipe—your enthusiasm means the world! Making these star-shaped treasures is not only fun and rewarding but surprisingly easy. The creamy cheesecake-style ice cream paired with buttery red velvet shortbread is a flavor combination I adore. These sandwiches add charm and festivity to any warm-weather event, from backyard barbecues to casual hangouts. I hope your kitchen fills with smiles and sweet memories as you blend, roll, and sandwich your way to patriotic perfection. Enjoy every bite of these refreshing, colorful delights, and happy cooking to you, my fellow food lovers!