Chocolate Chip Cookie Ice Cream Bars

If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that combines the classic comfort of chocolate chip cookies with the creamy goodness of ice cream, look no further! These Chocolate Chip Cookie Ice Cream Bars are a delightful treat that you can enjoy any time of the year. With a rich cookie base, layers of soft chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream, and an extra sprinkle of chocolate chips, this dessert is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply craving something sweet, these bars are the perfect solution. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why This Recipe Works

These Chocolate Chip Cookie Ice Cream Bars are the ultimate indulgence. They blend two beloved desserts into one heavenly creation. The cookie base is thick and chewy, giving you that classic cookie experience, while the ice cream layer adds a refreshing softness that balances perfectly with the slight crunch of the cookie. The combination of brown sugar and granulated sugar in the cookie dough creates a rich, complex flavor that pairs beautifully with the chocolate chips. Plus, the hint of sea salt sprinkled on top elevates the flavors, making each bite a delicious experience.

Shopping List

• 2 1/8 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 12 tablespoons butter, melted and cooled to room temperature
• 1 cup light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 large egg yolk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups chocolate chips
• Sea salt for sprinkling over bars, if desired
• 1.5 quart of chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream, softened
• 1/3 cup chocolate chips
• Hot fudge sauce for serving, if desired

Kitchen Gear Checklist

• Large mixing bowl – for combining your cookie dough ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons – to accurately measure all ingredients.
• Baking pan (9×13 inch) – to bake your cookie base.
• Spatula – for spreading the ice cream and cookie dough evenly.
• Electric mixer (optional) – for easier mixing of the cookie dough.
• Plastic wrap or parchment paper – for lining the baking pan for easy removal.

Chocolate Chip Cookie Ice Cream Bars Made Stepwise

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookie base bakes evenly and turns golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. This will make it easier to remove the bars once they are set.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 1/8 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon baking soda. Whisk them together until well mixed.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars

In another bowl, combine 12 tablespoons of melted butter, 1 cup of light brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer or a whisk to cream the mixture until it’s light and fluffy.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add 1 large egg, 1 large egg yolk, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until fully incorporated.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.

Step 7: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in 2 cups of chocolate chips into the cookie dough until they are evenly distributed.

Step 8: Bake the Cookie Base

Spread half of the cookie dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The center should look slightly underbaked as it will continue to firm up as it cools.

Step 9: Cool the Cookie Base

Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the cookie base cool completely in the pan.

Step 10: Add Ice Cream Layer

Once the cookie base is completely cool, spread the softened chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream evenly over the cookie layer. Use a spatula to ensure it’s smooth and even.

Step 11: Top with Remaining Cookie Dough

Take the remaining cookie dough and crumble it over the ice cream layer. Sprinkle 1/3 cup of chocolate chips on top for added texture and flavor.

Step 12: Freeze Until Firm

Cover the baking pan with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until the ice cream is firm and the bars are set.

Step 13: Serve and Enjoy

Once set, remove the bars from the pan by lifting out the parchment paper. Cut into squares or bars and sprinkle with a little sea salt if desired. Serve with hot fudge sauce for an extra indulgent treat!

If You’re Out Of…

• Butter: You can substitute with margarine or a vegan butter alternative.
• All-purpose flour: Whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier option, but it may change the texture slightly.
• Chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream: Any chocolate or vanilla ice cream will work, though the flavor will differ.
• Light brown sugar: Dark brown sugar can be substituted, which will add a richer flavor.

Don’t Do This

Don’t skip the cooling step! Allowing the cookie base to cool completely is crucial for ensuring the layers hold together when you slice into the bars. If you add the ice cream too soon, it may melt and create a gooey mess.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

Store any leftover Chocolate Chip Cookie Ice Cream Bars in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. For best results, separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. If you want to enjoy them later, simply let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for easier slicing.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum for proper structure.

How do I know when the cookie base is done baking?

The edges should be golden brown, and the center will look slightly underbaked. It will continue to bake slightly as it cools in the pan.

Can I use different types of chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even peanut butter chips for a fun twist on the classic flavors.

What’s the best way to cut the bars?

Use a sharp knife and run it under hot water before cutting. This will help create clean cuts through the layers without squishing the bars.

Keep Cooking

• Sally’s Baking Addiction: The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Pinch of Yum: Easy Vanilla Ice Cream
• Minimalist Baker: Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies

Bring It Home

These Chocolate Chip Cookie Ice Cream Bars are not just a dessert; they are an experience. The wonderful combination of warm, chewy cookie and cold, creamy ice cream is something that will have everyone coming back for seconds. The next time you’re looking to impress your friends and family or treat yourself to something special, remember this recipe. Easy to make and even easier to love, these bars are sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Enjoy every bite!