Fourth of July Inspired: Sourdough Ice Cream Sandwiches

Nothing screams summer celebration quite like an ice cream sandwich. But when you add the tangy goodness of sourdough discard and a festive Fourth of July twist, you get a dessert that’s as memorable as the fireworks. These Sourdough Ice Cream Sandwiches are soft, chewy, chocolate chip cookies perfect for layering with your favorite red, white, and blue ice creams or toppings. Whether you're hosting a backyard BBQ or just chilling with sparklers, these are the ultimate patriotic dessert.

In this post, we’ll break down how to make sourdough chocolate chip cookies, customize them for the 4th, fill them with color-themed ice cream, and decorate the edges with celebratory toppings. Expect full baking tips, freezer instructions, make-ahead guidance, and fun serving ideas for your holiday bash.

Ingredients

For the Sourdough Chocolate Chip Cookie Base:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup sourdough discard (unfed)

• 1 large egg

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/2 tsp baking soda

• 1/4 tsp baking powder

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or red, white & blue M&M's for a festive flair)

For Filling & Decoration:

• Vanilla ice cream, strawberry ice cream, or blueberry sorbet

• Red, white & blue sprinkles or mini M&Ms

• Crushed freeze-dried berries for natural color accents

Instructions

1. Cream the Butter & Sugars
In a large bowl, beat the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 3–5 minutes).

2. Add Wet Ingredients
Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and sourdough discard. Beat until fully incorporated.

3. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add to the wet mixture and stir until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips or festive M&Ms.

4. Scoop and Shape
Using a 2-tablespoon scoop, portion dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Flatten slightly to help them bake evenly.

5. Bake
Bake at 350°F for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden but centers still soft. Let cool completely.

6. Prep for Sandwiching
Freeze the cooled cookies for 15–20 minutes to make assembling easier.

7. Assemble the Sandwiches
Scoop your choice of ice cream onto the flat side of one cookie. Top with another cookie and press gently.

8. Decorate
Roll the edges of the sandwich in sprinkles, crushed berries, or M&M’s. Freeze for at least 1 hour before serving.

4th of July Variations

• Red Option: Use strawberry or cherry ice cream + red sprinkles

• White Option: Stick with vanilla ice cream and white chocolate chips

• Blue Option: Try blueberry sorbet or vanilla ice cream with blue swirl

• Firecracker Combo: Chocolate chip cookies with red and blue swirled ice cream and white sprinkles

• Star Spangled: Use festive M&M's and red, white, and blue toppings for a full patriotic look

Make Ahead & Storage

Make Ahead:
Cookies can be baked and frozen up to 1 week ahead. Assemble the sandwiches the day before your event for best texture.

Storage:
Wrap each sandwich in wax paper or plastic wrap. Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.

Transporting:
Pack them in a cooler with dry ice or ice packs if bringing to a party.

Tips for Success

• Use firm ice cream for cleaner sandwiching.

• Freeze cookies first so they don’t break or melt the ice cream.

• Roll gently to avoid cracking the cookies.

• Get creative with fillings—even layered flavors or swirled mixes.

• Add food-safe glitter or edible stars for sparkle.

Why Sourdough Discard?

Using sourdough discard in cookies adds a slight tang that enhances the sweetness of the dough. It also boosts the texture, making the cookies soft but sturdy enough to hold their shape under a layer of cold ice cream. Plus, it’s a smart way to reduce food waste while making a nostalgic treat with a modern twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve on a red, white, and blue platter with sparklers or mini flags

• Pair with lemonade, sparkling water, or berry soda for a full dessert station

• Make mini versions for a cookie sandwich sampler tray

• Add a DIY bar so guests can roll their own in toppings

• Serve them in cupcake liners for easy grab-and-go treats

Final Thoughts

Fourth of July Sourdough Ice Cream Sandwiches are the perfect marriage of festive fun and thoughtful baking. With soft, tangy chocolate chip cookies, cool creamy centers, and celebratory sprinkles, every bite is a firework of flavor.

They’re simple to prepare, easy to personalize, and destined to be the hit of your Independence Day spread. Whether you use strawberry, vanilla, or blueberry—or all three!—this patriotic dessert promises to keep spirits high and hands happily sticky.

So grab your discard, chill your ice cream, and get ready to sandwich some summer joy.