Strawberry Pretzel Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches: A Sweet & Salty Summer Delight

A Nostalgic Treat Reimagined

Strawberry Pretzel Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches quickly became a summer tradition in my kitchen, but their story started much earlier. Growing up, strawberry pretzel desserts were a staple at our family gatherings in Ohio. That sweet-and-salty combination always brought people back for seconds—and sparked plenty of giggles from the kids at the dessert table. Years later, that same comforting flavor came rushing back when my granddaughter Lily asked, “Grandma, can we make something cold, fun… and pink?”

That question was the beginning of something special. I thought, why not give our family-favorite strawberry pretzel salad a new twist? And just like that, the Strawberry Pretzel Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches was born—cool enough for summer, easy enough for little hands, and packed with memories old and new.

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

What makes this dessert shine is its beautiful balance. The Strawberry Pretzel Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches brings a light crunch and just the right touch of salt, which plays perfectly against the creamy strawberry ice cream tucked inside. It’s like summer captured in one bite—sweet, salty, smooth, and crisp all at once. Lily calls it “a bite of happy,” and honestly, I couldn’t have said it better myself.

Ingredients & Preparation

To achieve the ideal Strawberry Pretzel Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches, you’ll need:

  • All-purpose flour: Provides structure.
  • Brown sugar: Adds moisture and a hint of molasses flavor.
  • Crushed pretzels: Introduces a salty crunch.
  • Freeze-dried strawberries: Infuses a concentrated strawberry flavor.
  • Butter & eggs: Ensure richness and binding.

Mixing these ingredients yields a dough that’s both flavorful and textured. Once baked, the cookies have a delightful crunch, making them the perfect vessel for the creamy ice cream filling.

Ingredients for Strawberry Pretzel Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches
All the ingredients laid out for homemade Strawberry Pretzel Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches
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Strawberry Pretzel Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches stacked on a rustic wooden table

Strawberry Pretzel Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches: A Sweet & Salty Summer Delight


  • Author: rose
  • Total Time: 2 hours 32 minutes
  • Yield: 12 sandwiches 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A delightful combination of sweet strawberries, crunchy pretzels, and creamy ice cream, these sandwiches are the perfect summer treat.


Ingredients

Scale

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp baking soda

2/3 cup brown sugar

1/3 cup granulated sugar

1/2 tsp kosher salt

1 tbsp vanilla extract

2 sticks (1 cup) salted butter, at room temperature

2 large eggs

1 cup crushed pretzels

1 cup freeze-dried strawberries

4 cups strawberry ice cream


Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.

3. In another bowl, beat butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until creamy.

4. Add eggs and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix well.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until combined.

6. Fold in crushed pretzels and freeze-dried strawberries.

7. Scoop dough onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes.

8. Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.

9. Scoop strawberry ice cream onto one cookie and top with another to form a sandwich.

10. Wrap each sandwich in parchment paper and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Notes

Ensure cookies are completely cooled before assembling to prevent melting.

For added flavor, consider adding white chocolate chips to the cookie dough.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 sandwich
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 220mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg

Tips for Success

  • Chill the dough: This prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
  • Uniform sizing: Use a cookie scoop to ensure all cookies are the same size, making sandwiching easier.
  • Storage: Store baked cookies in an airtight container to maintain their crunch until assembly.

Selecting the Ideal Ice Cream

Flavor Pairings

While Strawberry Pretzel Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches is a natural choice, consider experimenting with:

  • Vanilla bean: Offers a creamy contrast to the tangy strawberry.
  • Lemon sorbet: Adds a zesty twist.
  • Chocolate fudge: For those who love a richer flavor profile.

The key is to choose an ice cream that complements the Strawberry Pretzel Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches without overpowering it.

Assembly Tips

  • Slightly soften the ice cream: This makes spreading easier and prevents the cookies from breaking.
  • Use a scoop: Ensures consistent portions.
  • Freeze immediately: Once assembled, place the sandwiches in the freezer to set, preserving their shape and texture.
Mixing pretzel cookie dough with strawberries
Dough mixed with pretzel pieces and freeze-dried strawberries

Serving & Storage

Presentation Ideas

Elevate your Strawberry Pretzel Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches by:

  • Dipping edges in melted chocolate: Adds a decadent touch.
  • Rolling sides in crushed nuts or sprinkles: Introduces additional textures and flavors.
  • Serving with fresh strawberries: Enhances the fruity notes and adds a pop of color.

Storage Recommendations

To keep your Strawberry Pretzel Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches fresh:

  • Wrap individually: Use parchment paper or plastic wrap.
  • Store in an airtight container: Prevents freezer burn and maintains flavor.
  • Consume within two weeks: For optimal taste and texture.
Served Strawberry Pretzel Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches on plate

Conclusion

The Strawberry Pretzel Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors, textures, and cherished memories. Whether you’re reminiscing about summers past or creating new traditions, this treat is sure to become a favorite. Dive into the delightful combination of sweet strawberries, salty pretzels, and creamy ice cream, and let each bite transport you to a place of pure joy.

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FAQs

What kind of cookies work best for these ice cream sandwiches?

Cookies that are firm yet slightly chewy, like the Strawberry Pretzel Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches, provide the best structure and texture for ice cream sandwiches.

Can I use store-bought cookies instead of homemade?

Absolutely! While homemade cookies offer a personalized touch, store-bought options like digestive biscuits or chocolate chip cookies can also work well.

What type of ice cream should I use?

Opt for premium ice creams with minimal air content for a creamier texture. Flavors like strawberry, vanilla, or even lemon sorbet pair beautifully with the cookies.

How do I keep the sandwiches from getting too hard in the freezer?

Allow the assembled sandwiches to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. This softens the ice cream slightly, making them easier to bite into.