Dissecting the Original Chocolate Chunk Cookie Sandwich
When you bite into an original Cookie Time ice cream sandwich, you are enjoying a specific blend of ingredients that deliver its classic taste. The composition is divided into two main parts: the cookies and the ice cream.
The Cookies (54%)
The cookies are a significant part of the overall flavor and texture. Key components include wheat flour, brown sugar, and sugar to provide the base and sweetness. For the fatty component, a vegetable oil spread containing soybean oil, water, salt, and various emulsifiers and antioxidants is used. The signature chocolate chunks are made from sugar, cocoa solids, and soy lecithin as an emulsifier. Other ingredients, such as modified rice starch and corn starch, contribute to the texture. Leavening agents, like raising agents 500 and 450, give the cookie its desired lift. Natural flavor and salt round out the ingredient list.
The Ice Cream Filling (46%)
The creamy filling is an essential contrast to the chewy cookie. This vanilla ice cream is built on a base of skim milk, cream (milk), and sugar. Glucose syrup and skim milk powder are used for sweetness and body. Emulsifiers (471) and stabilizers (410, 412, 407) are added to create a smooth, consistent texture and prevent ice crystals from forming.
The Plant-Based Double Chocolate Chunk Cookie Sandwich
For those with dietary restrictions or who prefer a plant-based option, Cookie Time offers a Double Chocolate Chunk variety. This alternative swaps dairy products for a coconut-based filling, yet maintains the classic double cookie format. The cookies themselves are also plant-based.
Cookies for the Plant-Based Version
The cookies contain many similar ingredients to the original, including wheat flour, brown sugar, and vegetable oil spread with soy. The chocolate chunks are made from sugar and cocoa solids, and soy lecithin is again used as an emulsifier.
Frozen Dessert Filling
Instead of dairy ice cream, this version uses a frozen dessert made from coconut cream, water, sugar, and cocoa powder. Other ingredients like glucose syrup, pea protein isolate, corn fiber, and maltodextrin are included. Emulsifiers and stabilizers (471, 410, 412, 407) are still used to achieve the desired frozen texture, along with modified maize starch and salt.
Allergens and Cross-Contamination Information
It is crucial for consumers with allergies to be aware of the ingredients and potential cross-contamination. The Original Chocolate Chunk sandwich contains wheat, gluten, soy, and milk. The Double Chocolate Chunk variety contains wheat, gluten, and soy. Both products are made in facilities that also process eggs, peanuts, sesame, and tree nuts, so there is a risk of cross-contact for those with severe allergies.
Comparison Table: Original vs. Plant-Based
| Feature | Original Chocolate Chunk | Double Chocolate Chunk (Plant-Based) |
|---|---|---|
| Cookies | Wheat flour, brown sugar, chocolate (sugar, cocoa solids), vegetable oil spread (soy), raising agents | Wheat flour, brown sugar, chocolate (sugar, cocoa solids), vegetable oil spread (soy), raising agents |
| Filling | Ice cream (skim milk, cream, sugar, glucose syrup, skim milk powder) | Frozen dessert (coconut cream, water, sugar, cocoa powder, pea protein isolate) |
| Dairy | Yes, contains milk and cream | No, dairy-free. Uses coconut cream |
| Allergens | Contains wheat, gluten, soy, milk | Contains wheat, gluten, soy |
| Vegan Friendly | No, due to milk ingredients | Yes, certified plant-based |
Understanding the Stabilizers and Emulsifiers
The stabilizers and emulsifiers mentioned in the ingredient list are important food additives that impact the product's quality. For instance, emulsifier 471 helps to mix oil and water-based ingredients, preventing separation and creating a smooth texture. Stabilizers like 410 (locust bean gum), 412 (guar gum), and 407 (carrageenan) are all commonly used to prevent ice crystal formation in ice cream, ensuring a creamy, uniform consistency.
Conclusion
Understanding what are the ingredients in Cookie Time ice cream sandwiches reveals a product carefully crafted for taste and texture. From the original's rich dairy ice cream to the plant-based version's coconut cream filling, each component is selected to deliver a specific flavor profile. Consumers should always be mindful of the allergen warnings, especially regarding milk, soy, and potential cross-contamination with nuts and eggs. This detailed breakdown ensures you know exactly what to expect from this popular frozen treat. For additional information on Cookie Time's products, visit their official website at cookietime.co.nz.
