15 Ingredients To Level-Up Your Ice Cream Sandwich Game

Marshmallow spread

Culinary creativity often flourishes through small, intentional adjustments. Incorporating marshmallow spread into an ice cream sandwich is one such simple enhancement that significantly elevates the overall experience. A layer of marshmallow spread introduces a delightful richness, infusing sweetness and a dreamy texture. Its smooth, sticky nature harmonizes beautifully with the cold, creamy ice cream, resulting in a bite that is both chewy and velvety. This subtle addition not only evokes comforting memories but also infuses a touch of sophistication into a classic dessert, making it feel both nostalgic and fresh.

Katie Sarna, co-founder of the organic popsicle brand Santa Cruz Fungi, is an enthusiastic advocate for using marshmallow spread on a traditional ice cream sandwich. "Spread or even torch a bit of marshmallow on the cookie, and you’ve got gooey goodness that transforms every bite into a campfire delight," she explains. If you choose to briefly torch it before adding it to the sandwich, the gentle char imparts an irresistible smoky flavor that truly enhances the experience.

Espresso powder

Espresso powder introduces a rich, deep flavor that can elevate an ice cream sandwich from ordinary to exceptional. When used in the right proportions, it not only adds a touch of coffee but also enhances the overall taste, creating a harmonious balance between the espresso's bitterness and the ice cream's sweetness. This combination results in a more intricate and enjoyable flavor profile. When paired with chocolate cookies, the coffee notes accentuate the cocoa's richness, making each bite a delightful treat.

Katie Sarna recommends a thoughtful approach to adding espresso powder to ice cream sandwiches. "Incorporating espresso powder or sprinkling it on top of the ice cream provides that coffee hint that enhances chocolate and caramel flavors," she notes. Meghan Birnbaum, a home chef and recipe creator from Los Angeles, adds her perspective: "Incorporate a bit into the cookie layers for a more intense chocolate flavor."

As these culinary experts highlight, the method of adding espresso powder is crucial. A light sprinkle can offer subtle nuances without overwhelming the primary flavors, while a more generous addition can deliver a bold coffee presence that will satisfy true coffee enthusiasts.

Sea salt flakes

Creating an elegant dessert requires a deep understanding of flavor interactions, particularly the delightful balance between sweet and savory. Sea salt flakes exemplify how a simple enhancement can elevate an ordinary ice cream sandwich into a memorable experience, as the natural saltiness beautifully contrasts with the sweetness of the ice cream. "A sprinkle of sea salt flakes elevates your ice cream sandwich," notes Katie Sarna. "It's that enchanting sweet-salty combination that enhances every bite."

Meghan Birnbaum suggests a more targeted technique, stating, "A light dusting on the ice cream before assembling the sandwich adds a burst of flavor to each bite." This approach is effective because the coldness of the ice cream slows the salt's dissolution, allowing the crystals to engage with the creamy texture over time. As the salt gradually dissolves, it enriches the flavor profile.

Additionally, sea salt flakes contribute a delightful texture to the ice cream sandwich. The larger flakes provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smoothness of the ice cream. These thoughtful details can transform an ice cream sandwich into a truly special treat, crafted with care.

Berry jam

Berry jam is a versatile ingredient that many of us have on hand, yet it can elevate an ice cream sandwich to new heights. It adds a delightful burst of fruity flavor that enhances the dessert, creating a balance that feels both luxurious and light. As Katie Sarna aptly puts it, it offers "a bright, fruity twist that's as visually appealing as it is delicious, providing that sweet-tart harmony that keeps you coming back for more."

Beyond flavor, texture is also an important consideration. The slight chunkiness of berry jam adds depth, contrasting beautifully with the creamy ice cream and crunchy cookies. A small amount is sufficient, so there's no need to overpower the sandwich; a thin layer will do the job perfectly.

When selecting your berry jam, pay attention to its sweetness. Many traditional jams contain high levels of sugar, but there are sugar-free or reduced-sugar alternatives that can still provide a fruity kick without the extra sweetness. The type of berry used in the jam is also significant—a tart raspberry preserve or a sweeter strawberry jam can dramatically alter the flavor profile, so choose one that matches your desired taste.

Freeze-dried berries

Freeze-dried berries might not be the first ingredient that comes to mind for an ice cream sandwich, but they can add a delightful burst of tartness and texture that’s hard to resist. These berries are an excellent way to enhance flavor intensity without the risk of sogginess, as their crisp, crunchy texture perfectly contrasts with the creamy ice cream and soft cookies. "By pressing some freeze-dried berries onto the edges of the ice cream, you get an explosion of berry flavor along with a satisfying crunch," says Katie Sarna. "And they look fantastic with their vibrant colors."

It's important to distinguish freeze-dried berries from frozen ones, as there are key differences. For starters, freeze-dried berries maintain all their concentrated flavor without the excess moisture that could make an ice cream sandwich difficult to eat. Additionally, freeze-dried berries are lighter and more shelf-stable than their frozen counterparts, making them easier to store and use whenever the craving hits.

Toasted coconut flakes

Toasted coconut flakes will elevate your ice cream sandwich with a tropical flair, whisking your taste buds away to sun-drenched shores. The subtle, nutty essence of coconut, enhanced by the toasting process, brings a gentle, warm sweetness that pairs perfectly with the creamy ice cream. As the coconut toasts, its natural sugars caramelize, adding a hint of smokiness that enriches the overall flavor without overpowering it. The light, crispy flakes also provide a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft ice cream and cookies, adding an enjoyable textural element. Additionally, the slight oiliness of the coconut flakes contributes a natural richness that remains light.

Deciding whether to purchase pre-toasted coconut flakes or toast them yourself is a matter of personal preference. While buying them pre-toasted is certainly more convenient, toasting them at home allows you to customize the level of golden crispiness. The longer you toast them, the more pronounced the smoky flavor will be.

Crushed pretzels

Crushed pretzels can completely transform ice cream sandwiches by introducing a delightful salty crunch that perfectly balances the dessert's sweetness. The savory flavor of the pretzels enhances the creamy richness of the ice cream, resulting in a delicious contrast. Katie Sarna suggests using crushed pretzels in ice cream sandwiches by "attaching them to the sides or sprinkling them on top for that irresistible salty-sweet combination." The texture is also essential in this pairing, as the pretzels provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the ice cream and cookies.

If you're concerned about the dessert being overly salty, you can choose lightly salted pretzels or even reduce the salt content before crushing them. No matter your preference for saltiness, pretzels are a simple addition that can elevate a standard ice cream sandwich into a well-balanced treat with rich layers of flavor and texture.

Candied ginger

Candied ginger brings a delightful zesty kick that complements the creamy ice cream, adding a spark to each bite that keeps things exciting. As Katie Sarna aptly puts it: "It adds a spicy-sweet twist that's particularly fantastic with vanilla or fruit-flavored ice creams. It's like a surprise party for your taste buds."

The allure of candied ginger extends beyond just flavor. Its chewy texture introduces an unexpected element, contrasting beautifully with the softness of the other ingredients in the sandwich. This interplay makes every bite more vibrant and enjoyable. When paired with fruity ice cream sandwiches like peach or lemon, candied ginger enhances the dessert's brightness, while with richer flavors like chocolate, it provides a refreshing balance to the indulgence.

Ginger has a rich history as both a treat and a remedy. Traditionally used in various cultures to alleviate nausea and support digestion, it adds a touch of practicality to your sweet indulgence. To use it, chop the ginger into small pieces for even distribution, or press thin slices onto the edges of your ice cream for a striking visual presentation.

Chopped fresh mint or basil

Chopped fresh basil or mint may not be the first ingredients that come to mind for a sweet treat like an ice cream sandwich, but these herbs can pleasantly surprise you with their vibrant, aromatic flavors. "Fresh herbs such as mint or basil elevate your ice cream sandwich to a whole new level," says Katie Sarna. "They add a refreshing, slightly upscale touch that pairs beautifully with chocolate or fruity flavors."

When using chocolate ice cream, mint provides a cool, crisp burst that transforms the classic mint chocolate chip into a fresh, garden-inspired delight. Basil, with its sweet and subtly peppery undertones, offers an unexpected yet delightful pairing with flavors like vanilla, strawberry, or lemon. Both herbs not only enhance the taste but also transform the entire experience, imparting a refreshing and fragrant quality to your dessert.

If you want to make a lasting impression, fresh herbs can also enhance the visual appeal of your ice cream sandwich. A sprinkle of finely chopped leaves pressed into the ice cream creates a striking pop of green, making your dessert feel more personal — as if you’ve added a thoughtful touch straight from your garden.

Peanut butter powder

If you've ever attempted to spread peanut butter on a cookie, you know it can be quite challenging and may easily dominate the dessert. Peanut butter powder offers a solution to this issue. Its light consistency allows for easy sprinkling into the mixture or coating the edges of your ice cream sandwich. It provides all the rich, roasted flavor of peanut butter without overwhelming the dish. "This is peanut butter without the sticky hassle," Katie Sarna explains. "Peanut butter powder brings that nostalgic taste in a clean, light way, making it perfect for blending into ice cream or cookies."

If you're unfamiliar with peanut butter powder, it's readily available at most grocery stores, typically found in the baking aisle. However, if you're feeling adventurous, you can easily make peanut butter powder at home. Simply dehydrate roasted peanuts in a low oven or dehydrator until they are completely dry, then grind them into a fine powder using a food processor. You can even customize the flavor by adding a pinch of salt or sugar. Whether you mix it into the ice cream or use it to dust the edges of the sandwich, it’s a delightful touch that personalizes your dessert.

Snickerdoodles or oatmeal cookies

Switching out the cookie in your ice cream sandwich can significantly enhance its flavor and texture, giving it a fresh twist. Instead of sticking with the classic chocolate cookie, "think about replacing the usual chocolate cookie with alternatives like snickerdoodles or oatmeal cookies to introduce a new flavor profile and texture," recommends Jessica Randhawa, head chef and owner of The Forked Spoon.

Snickerdoodles, known for their delightful cinnamon-sugar coating, provide a warm, comforting sweetness that pairs beautifully with creamy vanilla ice cream. Their soft, chewy consistency makes them a pleasure to bite into. Conversely, oatmeal cookies bring a hearty, rustic charm and complement both vanilla and strawberry ice creams exceptionally well.

Both choices offer a creative spin on the traditional ice cream sandwich, making them a bit more unique. Whether you prefer the warm spice of snickerdoodles or the satisfying chewiness of oatmeal cookies, either option promises a delicious and surprising twist on the classic treat.

Ice cream flavors other than the standard vanilla

Vanilla is a timeless favorite for ice cream sandwiches, but venturing into different flavors can elevate this frozen delight. For instance, dark chocolate ice cream, mint chip, or butter pecan sandwiched between chocolate wafers are all just a step away from the traditional option.

Yet, you don't have to limit yourself to conventional flavors. There are plenty of creative ways to mix things up. Jessica Randhawa fully supports this notion, stating, "Incorporating artisanal flavors like salted caramel, lavender honey, or rich espresso can greatly enhance the overall tasting experience. These unique flavors provide a gourmet twist and add depth to every bite."

For those who are feeling particularly daring, modern ice cream makers are experimenting with flavors such as black sesame, sweet corn, or goat cheese with cherry swirl. While these combinations may seem unconventional, they are definitely worth a try in an ice cream sandwich. This is part of the charm of this adaptable dessert — it serves as an ideal platform for both classic tastes and adventurous experimentation.

Crumbled nuts

Nuts and ice cream create a delightful combination, making it only natural to incorporate them into an ice cream sandwich for an elevated treat. The interplay of crunchy nuts, velvety ice cream, and soft cookies is truly unbeatable. Meghan Birnbaum concurs, highlighting that "crushed candied pecans or almonds provide a satisfying crunch and a touch of nuttiness" that balances the sweetness of the ice cream.

In addition to texture, various nuts contribute their own distinct flavors to the dessert. For instance, pecans introduce a rich, buttery taste, while almonds offer a light and subtle profile that allows other flavors to stand out. If you're feeling adventurous, toasting the nuts before crushing them enhances their flavor, bringing forth a delightful roasted essence that adds even more depth to your dessert.

Fruit compote

Fruit compote requires a bit more effort than basic fruit jams when creating ice cream sandwiches. This slow-cooking technique allows the fruit to develop richer, more intense flavors while preserving its natural brightness. When used as a topping for an ice cream sandwich, it transforms the dessert into a gourmet experience that is sure to impress anyone who tries it.

"For those who appreciate a hint of fruitiness, incorporating a layer of fruit compote, like raspberry or mango, between the ice cream and cookies adds a refreshing, tangy contrast that complements milder ice cream flavors such as vanilla or white chocolate," says Jessica Randhawa. The natural acidity of the fruit cuts through the creaminess of the ice cream, enhancing the overall flavor profile and making it more complex and interesting.

It's important to keep in mind that managing temperature and texture is essential when working with compote. The compote should be completely cooled and slightly thickened before being added to an ice cream sandwich to avoid the formation of ice crystals. These ice crystals can compromise the texture, turning what should be a smooth, indulgent treat into a grainy or icy mess, which is far from ideal.

Citrus zest

Citrus zest serves a multifaceted purpose in desserts, providing more than mere flavor. The oils found in the peel are rich in aromatic compounds that stimulate our sense of smell, which significantly influences our perception of taste. In fact, research indicates that as much as 80% of what we identify as flavor is derived from aroma. When incorporated into an ice cream sandwich, this aromatic enhancement can elevate the entire dessert, imparting a fresher, more lively quality.

Meghan Birnbaum recommends incorporating "a touch of zest into the cookie dough or ice cream for a refreshing kick — it will balance the richness of the ice cream." This method is effective because citrus oils are fat-soluble, allowing them to blend seamlessly with dairy-based ingredients.

To effectively use zest, it's important to employ the correct technique. Only the colored outer layer contains the desirable oils, while the white pith beneath can introduce an unwelcome bitterness. Therefore, a gentle approach is essential. Simply grate or peel the very outer layer to achieve the desired flavor without the harsh, unpleasant taste.