Walnut shortbread dulce de leche ice cream sandwich

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that brings joy to any gathering, then this Walnut shortbread dulce de leche ice cream sandwich is the perfect choice! This recipe is a cherished favorite in my home, combining buttery walnut shortbread with rich dulce de leche ice cream. It’s the kind of sweet treat that makes busy weeknights feel special or family gatherings extra memorable. Plus, who can resist the combination of crunchy cookies and creamy ice cream?

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to whip up and customize. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself after a long day, these sandwiches will surely bring smiles all around!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple preparation: With straightforward steps, this recipe is easy enough for anyone to tackle.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet and nutty flavors packed into each bite.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the components ahead of time so you can assemble them just before serving.
• Deliciously versatile: Feel free to switch things up with different flavors or toppings to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For these scrumptious sandwiches, you’ll need simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll gather:

For the Cookies

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chopped walnuts
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Ice Cream

• 1 cup milk
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 2/3 cups dulce de leche
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chopped walnuts (for rolling)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to get creative! Here are some fun variations you might consider:

• Change up the nuts: Instead of walnuts, try pecans or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
• Add some spice: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg in the cookie dough can add a warm touch.
• Swap the ice cream flavor: Use caramel or chocolate ice cream instead of dulce de leche for a fun twist.
• Use different toppings: Roll the sides in mini chocolate chips or shredded coconut for added texture and sweetness.

How to Make Walnut shortbread dulce de leche ice cream sandwich

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

To start off, sift together your flour and salt in a large bowl. Mixing in those chopped walnuts now helps ensure their rich flavor infuses into every bite. Set this mixture aside while you work on creaming your butter and sugar.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a stand mixer bowl, cream together your softened butter and powdered sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This step is important because it incorporates air into the mixture, giving your cookies a lovely texture. After that, beat in the vanilla extract — trust me, this adds an irresistible aroma!

Step 3: Combine Mixtures

Now, reduce the mixer speed to low and gently fold in your flour mixture until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cookies tender!

Step 4: Chill Your Dough

Gather your dough into a disk shape. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and pop it into the fridge for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps solidify the butter again, which leads to perfectly crispy edges when baked.

Step 5: Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Trays

While waiting for your dough to chill, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking trays with parchment paper so that nothing sticks during baking.

Step 6: Roll Out & Cut Cookies

On a lightly floured surface, roll out your chilled dough until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. Use a floured cookie cutter to cut out rounds (about 3 inches). Place them on your prepared trays and chill again for about 15 minutes — this helps maintain their shape while baking!

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Bake those beautiful cookies for about 8 to 10 minutes or until they are lightly browned around the edges. Let them cool on the tray for a few minutes before transferring them onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Prepare Ice Cream

For that delicious dulce de leche ice cream, combine milk, heavy cream, salt, and dulce de leche in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Bring it just to simmering; this ensures everything combines smoothly without scalding.

Step 9: Cool & Process Ice Cream

Once dissolved, strain your mixture into another bowl and let it cool over ice water or chill it in the fridge while stirring occasionally. This cooling step is key for achieving creamy ice cream later!

Step 10: Churn Your Ice Cream

Process this cooled mixture in an ice cream maker according to its instructions. Once churned, transfer it into a baking pan (9 x 13 inches works great!), level it out nicely, cover it up tight with plastic wrap or foil, and freeze until firm—about four hours should do.

Step 11: Assemble Sandwiches

Once everything’s ready—yay!—take out that frozen ice cream and use a cookie cutter again to cut out discs of ice cream. Place one on top of each cookie and then top with another cookie; give them a gentle press together so they stick well.

Step 12: Add Toppings & Serve

Finally, roll or sprinkle those sides with more chopped walnuts for an extra crunch! Enjoy these immediately if you’re feeling impatient like I often do—or wrap them up individually in plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for later indulgence.

And there you have it—a delightful Walnut shortbread dulce de leche ice cream sandwich that’s sure to impress! Enjoy every last bite!

Pro Tips for Making Walnut Shortbread Dulce de Leche Ice Cream Sandwich

Creating these delicious ice cream sandwiches is a delightful process, and a few handy tips can help ensure they turn out perfectly!

• Chill the dough well: Allowing the dough to chill for at least 30 minutes makes it easier to roll out and cut into perfect shapes, resulting in beautifully formed cookies that hold their shape during baking.
• Use fresh walnuts: Freshly chopped walnuts bring a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor to your shortbread. Toasting them lightly before adding can enhance their aroma and taste even further.
• Monitor baking time closely: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. You want them to be lightly browned but not overcooked; this will ensure they are tender and melt-in-your-mouth delightful.
• Make the ice cream a day ahead: Preparing the dulce de leche ice cream a day prior allows it to fully firm up in the freezer, making assembly much easier and ensuring each bite is creamy and satisfying.
• Wrap sandwiches tightly for storage: If you’re making these ahead of time, wrap each sandwich individually in plastic wrap before placing them in the freezer. This keeps them fresh and prevents freezer burn.

How to Serve Walnut Shortbread Dulce de Leche Ice Cream Sandwich

Presenting your walnut shortbread dulce de leche ice cream sandwiches can make them even more enticing! Here are some fun ways to serve them up:

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some extra chopped walnuts on top or around the plate for added texture and visual appeal.
• Chocolate drizzle: A light drizzle of melted dairy-free chocolate sauce can elevate the dessert, adding richness and a touch of elegance.
• Fresh fruit: Serve with slices of fresh berries or bananas on the side for a pop of color and refreshing contrast to the sweet ice cream sandwich.

Side Dishes

• Fruit salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the ice cream sandwich. Consider using berries, melons, or citrus fruits for variety.
• Mint tea: A warm cup of herbal mint tea complements the rich flavors nicely while providing a soothing finish to your dessert experience.
• Coconut whipped cream: Light and airy coconut whipped cream serves as a lovely accompaniment, adding another layer of flavor without overshadowing your main treat.
• Granita: A fruity granita made from pureed fruit frozen into icy shards offers a light, refreshing counterpoint that cleanses the palate between bites.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your walnut shortbread dulce de leche ice cream sandwiches will not only be delicious but also visually stunning! Enjoy making this delightful treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

This walnut shortbread dulce de leche ice cream sandwich is perfect for meal prep! You can make the cookies and ice cream ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy this delightful treat whenever you desire.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover ice cream sandwiches in an airtight container in the freezer.
• If wrapping individually, use plastic wrap or parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Consume within one month for the best taste and texture.

Freezing

• After assembling, wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped sandwiches in a freezer-safe bag for extra protection against freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to three months. Thaw slightly before serving for easier enjoyment.

Reheating

• These sandwiches are best enjoyed frozen; however, if you prefer a softer texture:
• Allow the sandwiches to sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving.
• Avoid using a microwave, as it may alter the texture of the cookie and ice cream.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making walnut shortbread dulce de leche ice cream sandwiches.

Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts depending on your preference. Each nut will add its unique flavor to this delicious dessert.

How long does it take to make walnut shortbread dulce de leche ice cream sandwiches?

The entire process takes about 2-3 hours, including chilling and freezing times. However, it’s well worth the wait for this delightful treat!

Can I make the ice cream without an ice cream maker?

Yes! If you don’t have an ice cream maker, simply pour the mixture into a shallow dish and freeze. Stir every 30 minutes until fully frozen to achieve a creamy texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope this walnut shortbread dulce de leche ice cream sandwich recipe brings joy to your kitchen! It’s not only a delightful dessert but also a fantastic way to impress family and friends. Enjoy making these sweet treats, and feel free to get creative with flavors and toppings. Happy baking!