Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the diced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Let sit for 30 minutes to macerate.
Step 2: Pulse half of the macerated strawberry mixture in a blender until smooth, then stir back into the remaining chunky mixture.
Step 3: Place the vanilla ice cream in a large bowl and allow it to soften slightly at room temperature for 5-10 minutes.
Step 4: Gently fold the whipped heavy cream and vanilla extract into the softened ice cream to create a lighter base for the strawberry ice cream sandwiches recipe.
Step 5: Swirl the strawberry mixture into the ice cream, being careful not to over-mix so you keep distinct ribbons of fruit.
Step 6: Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper and spread the ice cream mixture evenly inside.
Step 7: Freeze the ice cream sheet for at least 4 hours or until very firm.
Step 8: Using a round cookie cutter that matches the size of your cookies, cut out 12 circles of ice cream.
Step 9: Place one ice cream circle on the flat side of a cookie and top with a second cookie.
Step 10: Gently press down to adhere and immediately place the sandwich back in the freezer.
Step 11: Repeat for all sandwiches and freeze for an additional hour before serving.
Step 12: Wrap individually in plastic wrap for long-term storage.