If you are craving a dessert that perfectly balances nutty richness and creamy coolness, look no further than this Pistachio Blondie Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe. These indulgent treats feature soft, buttery blondies studded with crunchy pistachios, hugging a luscious layer of pistachio ice cream in between. It’s a playful dance of textures and flavors that will have you reaching for another bite—and then another—making it an irresistible crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make these delightful sandwiches is a breeze because each ingredient plays a crucial role. From the golden butter that provides moisture and richness to the subtle salt enhancing every flavor, these staples come together to create the perfect canvas for the pistachio magic.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, melted): Provides a moist, tender texture and rich base for the blondies.
- Brown sugar (1½ cups, packed): Adds deep caramel notes and keeps the blondies chewy.
- Large eggs (2): Bind ingredients and contribute to the blondie’s soft structure.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Brings warm, aromatic depth to the batter.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): The foundation that gives the blondies their body and chew.
- Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Ensures a light, tender crumb.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances sweetness and intensifies the pistachio flavor.
- Chopped shelled pistachios (¾ cup): Adds a delightful crunch and signature nutty flavor.
- Pistachio ice cream (1½ cups, slightly softened): The creamy heart of the sandwich that ties everything deliciously together.
How to Make Pistachio Blondie Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Mix the Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave some overhang for easy removal later. In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until they form a smooth, luscious mixture. This step is crucial because the butter keeps your blondies moist, while the brown sugar adds that perfect chewy texture and depth of flavor.
Step 2: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until everything is seamlessly combined. The eggs are your binder here, giving structure to the blondies, and the vanilla injects that cozy warmth everyone loves in a good dessert.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gently fold in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Be careful not to overmix; you want just enough to incorporate everything uniformly. This step ensures a tender crumb and the right balance between softness and chewiness in your blondies.
Step 4: Fold in Pistachios
Now for the star ingredient—fold in the chopped pistachios. Their earthy crunch is what makes these blondies truly exceptional. For an extra layer of flavor, consider toasting the pistachios beforehand to amplify their nuttiness.
Step 5: Bake and Cool
Spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top turns a gorgeous golden color and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the blondies cool completely in the pan; this makes handling easier and prevents your ice cream from melting prematurely.
Step 6: Assemble the Sandwiches
Using the parchment overhang, lift the blondies out of the pan and cut them in half crosswise, creating two large rectangles. Spread the softened pistachio ice cream evenly over one half, then gently place the other half on top to form your sandwiches. Press lightly to seal, and pop them into the freezer for 3 to 4 hours until they’re firm and ready.
How to Serve Pistachio Blondie Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation, sprinkle some extra chopped pistachios or even a dusting of powdered sugar right before serving. Adding a drizzle of melted white chocolate or a few fresh mint leaves can add a pop of color and complement the pistachio flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
These ice cream sandwiches are dessert stars on their own, but if you want to pair them, serve alongside a lightly sweetened berry compote or a simple fresh fruit salad. The tartness of berries balances the rich, nutty sweetness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Go beyond the typical square by cutting your sandwiches into fun shapes using cookie cutters—think pistachio leaves or playful hearts. You can also dip the edges in melted chocolate and then roll them in crushed pistachios or sprinkles for extra flair and crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, wrap each sandwich tightly in parchment paper and store them in an airtight container in the freezer. This will keep them fresh and prevent ice crystals from forming on the ice cream.
Freezing
The great news is this Pistachio Blondie Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe freezes wonderfully. Once assembled, freeze them for at least 3 to 4 hours to allow the ice cream to firm up. Wrapped well, they can last up to a month without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Reheating
While these ice cream sandwiches are best served cold, if you want to soften the blondies slightly before eating, let them sit at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the ice cream to melt unevenly.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of pistachios?
Absolutely! While pistachios give this recipe its signature flavor, you can swap in chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts for a different but equally delicious twist.
What if I don’t have pistachio ice cream?
No worries! You can use vanilla or almond-flavored ice cream as alternatives, which complement the blondies beautifully and still provide a creamy contrast.
How do I prevent the blondies from becoming too dry?
Be sure not to overbake the blondies. Pull them from the oven as soon as a toothpick comes out clean, and take care to measure your ingredients accurately, especially the butter and brown sugar, to maintain moisture.
Can I make these sandwiches dairy-free?
Yes. Use a dairy-free butter substitute and swap the pistachio ice cream for a plant-based version made from coconut or almond milk. Just ensure the ice cream is slightly softened before assembling.
Is there a way to toast the pistachios easily?
Simply toast shelled pistachios in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned. Let them cool before adding to the batter.
Final Thoughts
This Pistachio Blondie Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe is a celebration of texture and flavor that feels like a special treat yet comes together with straightforward steps. I can’t recommend it enough for those days when you want something comforting and cool all at once. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a favorite to whip up for family, friends, or simply to treat yourself. Go ahead and dive into this luscious, nutty delight—you won’t regret it!
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Pistachio Blondie Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes (plus 3-4 hours freezing time)
- Yield: 12 sandwiches
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Pistachio Blondie Ice Cream Sandwiches combine the chewy richness of buttery blondies studded with crunchy pistachios with the creamy, nutty flavor of pistachio ice cream. A perfect homemade dessert for summer, these sandwiches are baked until golden and then frozen to create a delightful cold treat that’s both satisfying and indulgent.
Ingredients
Blondie Batter
- 1 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1½ cups brown sugar (packed)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup chopped shelled pistachios
Ice Cream Filling
- 1½ cups pistachio ice cream (slightly softened)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal of the blondies.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until mixture is smooth and combined. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly until the batter is uniform.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Stir in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined to avoid overmixing and toughening the blondies.
- Add Pistachios: Gently fold in the chopped shelled pistachios, ensuring even distribution throughout the batter.
- Bake the Blondies: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until the blondies turn golden on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool Blondies: Remove from oven and allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan to firm up for assembly.
- Slice and Assemble: Use the parchment overhang to lift the cooled blondies out of the pan. Cut the blondies in half crosswise to form two large rectangles.
- Add Ice Cream Filling: Spread the softened pistachio ice cream evenly over one half of the blondie rectangle. Then place the second half on top, gently pressing down to form an ice cream sandwich.
- Freeze: Place the assembled sandwiches in the freezer for 3–4 hours or until firm enough to cut into individual squares.
- Serve: Slice into individual squares and serve chilled. For storage, wrap sandwiches individually in parchment paper and freeze.
Notes
- For extra nutty crunch, toast the pistachios lightly before folding into the batter.
- You can substitute pistachio ice cream with vanilla or almond-flavored ice cream for a different twist.
- Wrap individual sandwiches well and freeze for up to one month for longer storage.
