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This colorful paleo funfetti ice cream sandwich recipe brings joy to special occasions while staying true to clean eating principles. The combination of almond flour cookies studded with natural sprinkles and creamy dairy-free ice cream creates a treat that feels indulgent yet aligns with paleo dietary guidelines.
I created these after my daughter requested something "rainbow colored" for her birthday but still wanted to maintain our family's commitment to avoiding artificial ingredients. The natural sprinkles provide that festive look without compromising our values.
Ingredients
- Fine almond flour: Forms the base of our cookie layers creating a tender texture while keeping these grain free
- Tapioca starch: Helps bind the cookies and adds the perfect chewiness
- Natural sprinkles: Provide the signature funfetti look without artificial colors; choose plant based varieties for true paleo adherence
- Sea salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the vanilla flavor
- Grade A amber maple syrup: Sweetens naturally with complex flavor that refined sugar cannot match
- Ghee or butter: Adds richness to the cookie layers; coconut oil works perfectly for dairy free and vegan versions
- Vanilla extract: Provides that classic cookie flavor profile essential for that homemade taste
- Dairy free ice cream: Fills these sandwiches; choose coconut based varieties for the most authentic paleo option
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the cookie dough:
- Thoroughly mix the dry ingredients almond flour, tapioca starch, sprinkles, and sea salt in a medium bowl. Pour in the wet ingredients maple syrup, melted fat of choice, and vanilla extract. Stir just until combined avoiding overmixing which can make the cookies tough.
- Shape and freeze dough:
- Line half a cookie sheet with parchment paper and press the cookie dough into an even rectangle approximately 9 by 10 inches and about half an inch thick. Ensure even thickness throughout for consistent baking. Place in freezer for 30 minutes which firms the dough for easier handling while you allow your ice cream to soften in the refrigerator.
- Assemble the layers:
- Remove the firmed dough from the freezer and cut precisely into two equal rectangles. Spread softened ice cream carefully across one rectangle creating an even layer about half an inch thick. Position the second cookie rectangle directly on top of the ice cream pressing gently to adhere without squeezing out the filling.
- Smooth and freeze:
- Use a spatula to carefully smooth any ice cream that escapes around the edges creating a neat appearance and ensuring every bite contains the perfect ratio of cookie to ice cream. Return the assembled sandwich to the freezer for 3 to 4 hours until completely solid.
- Cut and decorate:
- For best results remove from freezer after about 1 hour when partially frozen and cut into bars of desired size. Roll one end of each bar in additional sprinkles for that classic ice cream sandwich look then return to freezer to complete hardening for 2 to 3 more hours.
- Store properly:
- Once fully frozen transfer the completed ice cream sandwiches to an airtight container separating layers with parchment if stacking. They will maintain optimal quality for up to three weeks in the freezer.
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The natural sprinkles truly transform this dessert from simple to special. I remember watching my daughter's eyes light up when she saw the rainbow colors knowing everything was made with ingredients that aligned with our values. That moment of pure joy while maintaining our commitment to clean eating made this recipe an instant family treasure.
Making Perfect Natural Sprinkles
Finding truly paleo compliant sprinkles can be challenging but worth the effort. Look for brands that use fruit and vegetable extracts for coloring rather than artificial dyes. Alternatively make your own by coloring unsweetened shredded coconut with beet juice for pink, turmeric for yellow, and spirulina for green. Dehydrate the colored coconut until crisp then chop finely for a homemade sprinkle that adds both color and subtle flavor.
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Storage Success
These ice cream sandwiches benefit from proper storage technique. After cutting and decorating wrap each sandwich individually in parchment paper before placing in an airtight container. This extra step prevents freezer burn and keeps the sprinkles vibrant. When serving allow the sandwiches to temper at room temperature for 3 to 5 minutes for the ideal soft yet firm texture that showcases both the cookie and ice cream components perfectly.
Flavor Variations
Experiment with different dairy free ice cream flavors to create unique combinations. Chocolate ice cream creates a cookies and cream effect, strawberry brings a fruity brightness, and coffee ice cream offers sophisticated contrast to the sprinkled cookies. You can also add a layer of dairy free caramel between the ice cream and cookie for added decadence or fold chopped freeze dried fruit into the ice cream layer for bursts of intense flavor and additional color.
Entertaining Magic
These colorful treats make spectacular desserts for gatherings. For parties cut them into smaller two bite squares and arrange on a platter for an impressive dessert board. The make ahead nature means no last minute dessert stress and the eye catching colors create an instant festive atmosphere. I serve these at summer barbecues and winter holiday gatherings alike where both paleo followers and conventional eaters reach for seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use regular sprinkles instead of natural ones?
Yes, you can use regular sprinkles if you're not strictly following a paleo diet. However, natural sprinkles are recommended for those avoiding artificial colors and preservatives commonly found in conventional sprinkles.
- → What dairy-free ice cream works best in this dessert?
Coconut milk-based ice cream works exceptionally well due to its creamy texture and neutral flavor that complements the almond flour cookies. Almond, cashew, or oat-based ice creams are also good alternatives based on your dietary preferences.
- → Can I make these ahead of time for a party?
Absolutely! These ice cream sandwiches can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 weeks, making them perfect for advance preparation. Just take them out about 5 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
- → What can I substitute for tapioca starch?
Arrowroot powder works as a 1:1 substitute for tapioca starch in this recipe. Cornstarch can also work if you're not strictly paleo, though the texture may be slightly different.
- → How do I prevent the ice cream from melting while assembling?
Work quickly and keep your cookie bases frozen until the last minute. If the ice cream becomes too soft during assembly, pause and return everything to the freezer for 15-20 minutes before continuing.
- → Can I make smaller sandwich portions?
Yes, instead of cutting into bars, you can use cookie cutters to create smaller, shaped sandwiches. Just be sure to work quickly to prevent the ice cream from melting during the cutting process.