Introduction

Keto ice cream sandwiches are a delightful treat for anyone following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. These sandwiches combine two delicious, low-carb cookies with creamy, homemade keto ice cream in between. Not only are they a satisfying dessert, but they are also a guilt-free way to indulge in your sweet tooth. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, nutritional information, and tips for making the best keto ice cream sandwiches.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

  • 1 cup almond flour: A low-carb alternative to traditional flour.
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds a rich chocolate flavor while keeping carbs low.
  • 1/4 cup erythritol or your preferred keto sweetener: A sugar substitute that doesn’t spike blood sugar.
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor.
  • 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together.
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened almond butter: Adds moisture and a nutty flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: For extra flavor.

For the Ice Cream:

  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream: The base for creamy ice cream.
  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk: Low in carbs and gives a lighter texture.
  • 3/4 cup erythritol or your preferred keto sweetener: Sweetens the ice cream without adding carbs.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: For flavor.
  • A pinch of salt: Balances sweetness.

Equipment Needed

  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Electric mixer or whisk
  • Ice cream maker (optional but recommended)
  • Cookie cutter or round cutter

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

  1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies will bake evenly.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, cocoa powder, erythritol, baking powder, and salt. Whisk them together until well blended.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, almond butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  4. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. Stir until a cohesive dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, let it sit for a few minutes to firm up.

Step 2: Shape the Cookies

  1. Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  2. Form Cookies: Using a cookie scoop or your hands, portion out the dough onto the baking sheet. Flatten each portion slightly with your hands to form round cookie shapes.
  3. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are firm. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Ice Cream

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, almond milk, erythritol, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. If you have an electric mixer, use it for a few minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
  2. Chill the Mixture: Place the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to cool. This step enhances the texture of the ice cream.
  3. Churn the Ice Cream: If you have an ice cream maker, pour the chilled mixture into it and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into a shallow container and freeze it. Stir every 30 minutes for 2-3 hours until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.

Step 4: Assemble the Sandwiches

  1. Scoop the Ice Cream: Once the ice cream is ready, take two cookies and place a generous scoop of ice cream between them.
  2. Press Together: Gently press the cookies together to create a sandwich. You can roll the edges in chopped nuts or unsweetened coconut for added texture if desired.
  3. Freeze the Sandwiches: Place the assembled ice cream sandwiches back in the freezer for at least 30 minutes to firm up before serving.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Serving Suggestions: Serve the sandwiches chilled, and enjoy them on a warm day. They also make an excellent treat for parties or family gatherings.

Nutritional Information

  • Serving Size: 1 sandwich
  • Calories: 250
  • Total Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Net Carbohydrates: 7g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Sweetener (Erythritol): 0g net carbs

SmartPoints

  • WW Blue: 7 points per sandwich
  • WW Green: 7 points per sandwich
  • WW Purple: 5 points per sandwich

Tips for Success

  • Storage: Keep leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two weeks.
  • Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different flavors of ice cream by adding cocoa powder, instant coffee, or extracts like mint or almond.
  • Make Ahead: The cookies can be made a few days in advance, and the ice cream can be stored for weeks, making this a convenient treat.

Conclusion

Keto ice cream sandwiches are a versatile and delicious dessert option that allows you to satisfy your cravings while adhering to a low-carb lifestyle. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up a batch of these treats in no time. Perfect for summer days, parties, or simply as a special treat, these keto ice cream sandwiches are sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the joy of a classic dessert without the guilt!