By Georgia Peanut Commission | Contributor 

When the sun is shining and you need to beat the heat, cool down with a little shade and a nutty, frozen treat. This kid-favorite is a childhood classic you can customize with favorite toppings, too.

Made with the protein power of peanuts, these Peanut Butter Ice Cream Sandwiches are easy to prepare on hot days that call for a cold dessert.

Visit GAPeanuts.com for more delicious dessert ideas.

Peanut Butter Ice Cream Sandwiches

Recipe courtesy of Peanut Butter Lovers and the Georgia Peanut Commission

Yield: 12

24        fresh baked chocolate chip cookies (about 3 inches in diameter), cooled 

1 1/2    cups creamy or crunchy peanut butter

1 1/2    quarts vanilla ice cream, slightly softened

            chopped peanuts, for topping (optional)

mini chocolate chips, for topping (optional)

toasted coconut, for topping (optional)

On 12 cookies, top sides down, spread layer of peanut butter. Add one scoop of ice cream to each. Create sandwiches by topping with remaining cookies.

Roll edges of ice cream in chopped peanuts, mini chocolate chips or toasted coconut, if desired. Place on baking sheet in freezer and freeze until firm.

Serve slightly frozen.