There’s something utterly delightful about an ice cream sandwich, wouldn’t you agree? The moment I discovered Sweet Potato Ice Cream Sandwiches, I felt like I’d stumbled upon a hidden treasure. It’s the perfect blend of creamy, dreamy ice cream between two soft and subtly sweet cookies. Now, before you start raising an eyebrow at the idea of sweet potatoes in dessert, let me tell you – they are a game changer!
I first tried these delicious treats at a summer potluck, where one of my friends surprised everyone with a dessert that was both nostalgic and adventurous. Combining the richness of sweet potatoes with ice cream felt like a cozy hug on a warm day. Trust me, once you’ve had one, you’ll be dreaming of them long after the last bite disappears!
What’s in Sweet Potato Ice Cream Sandwiches?
Let’s break down the ingredients that make these vibrant sandwiches so special:
Sweet Potatoes: The star of the show! Sweet potates add a natural sweetness and creaminess, plus they’re packed with vitamins. I usually bake them before mashing to bring out their rich flavor.
Flour: All-purpose flour is what gives the cookies structure. You can also experiment with gluten-free alternatives if that’s your jam!
Brown Sugar: For that deep, molasses-like sweetness that pairs so beautifully with the natural flavors of the sweet potato.
Cinnamon: Ah, the warm hug of spice! A sprinkle of cinnamon brings a cozy flavor profile, making these cookies perfect for any season.
Butter: A bit of melted butter adds richness to the cookies. If you want a healthier twist, coconut oil can work here too!
Ice Cream: A creamy ice cream flavor of your choice – the world is your oyster! Vanilla, caramel, or even a salted caramel ice cream shines beautifully with the sweet potato cookies.
Is Sweet Potato Ice Cream Sandwiches Good for You?
Now, you might be wondering, “Are these as indulgent as they sound or is there a health benefit?” Let’s dive in!
Sweet Potatoes: Packed with fiber and vitamins A and C, sweet potatoes are an excellent way to add nutrients to your desserts. You can feel a tad less guilty about indulging!
Butter: While butter adds flavor, it’s good to keep in mind that it also adds saturated fat. Moderation is key, and swapping in alternatives can help if dietary restrictions apply.
Ice Cream: While delicious, ice cream can be high in sugar and fat. Opting for a lower-sugar or dairy-free version is a fantastic way to lighten things up!
Ingredients List
– 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes (about 1 large sweet potato)
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– ¾ cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– ½ cup butter, melted (or coconut oil)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– ½ teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– 1 pint of your favorite ice cream (vanilla, caramel, or your choice)
This recipe makes about 8 sandwiches.
How to Make Sweet Potato Ice Cream Sandwiches?
Ready to whip up something magical? Here’s how to do it:
1. **Prepare the Sweet Potatoes**: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake a sweet potato for about 45-60 minutes until it’s tender. Let it cool, then peel and mash it until smooth.
2. **Make the Cookie Dough**: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until creamy. Stir in the mashed sweet potato, vanilla extract, flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and baking soda. Mix until just combined – it’s okay if it looks a bit thick and sticky!
3. **Shape and Bake**: Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a lined baking sheet, leaving enough space between them. Gently press the dough down with your palm. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cookies are lightly golden. Let them cool completely on a wire rack.
4. **Assemble the Sandwiches**: Once the cookies have cooled down, take your favorite ice cream and scoop a generous amount onto the flat side of one cookie. Place a second cookie on top and gently press down.
5. **Freeze and Enjoy**: For the best experience, pop your ice cream sandwiches in the freezer for about 30 minutes to firm up before diving in.
Sweet Tips for Sweet Potato Ice Cream Sandwiches
– **Try Different Flavors**: Switch things up by adding mini chocolate chips or nuts to the cookie dough for an extra crunch!
– **Dairy-Free Delight**: Want to make this vegan? Substitute the butter for coconut oil and use a dairy-free ice cream.
– **Serve with Toppings**: Drizzle some chocolate sauce or caramel on top for an extra indulgent treat!
Now, my friend, it’s time for you to give these Sweet Potato Ice Cream Sandwiches a try! I promise they will leave a warm, happy smile on your face and perhaps even create some special memories worth sharing. Dive in, enjoy the creamy goodness, and let me know how they turned out for you! Happy baking!