Cereal Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe
If you’re looking for the ultimate mash-up of childhood comfort and playful sweet indulgence, these Cereal Ice Cream Sandwiches will steal your heart—and your tastebuds. Imagine crisp, chewy cereal bars hugging your favorite creamy ice cream, all in one seriously fun, hand-held treat. Whether you’re hosting a summer get-together or just looking for a quick way to boost your dessert game, this recipe brings a burst of color, flavor, and nostalgia right to your kitchen. Get ready to transform a few pantry staples into something truly spectacular!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Cereal Ice Cream Sandwiches is in their delightful simplicity. Every ingredient has a special role: from the crispness of your chosen cereal to the dreamy smoothness of your favorite ice cream, each one adds its own magic to this dessert.
- 4 cups crispy cereal: Pick your favorite—Fruity Pebbles, Cocoa Pebbles, or Rice Krispies all lend their own texture and pop of color.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter: Melts down to give the cereal bars richness and hold.
- 1 (10-ounce) bag mini marshmallows: These melt into a sticky dream, binding the cereal together into chewy, irresistible layers.
- 1 ½ quarts vanilla ice cream (or flavor of choice): This is your creamy center—get adventurous with flavors like chocolate, strawberry, or even birthday cake!
- Nonstick spray or butter for greasing: Helps keep everything from sticking, making assembly and serving a total breeze.
How to Make Cereal Ice Cream Sandwiches
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over for easy removal later. Lightly grease the parchment with nonstick spray or a little butter; this step keeps things from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Trust me, it’s a tiny step that will save you frustration when it’s time to serve.
Step 2: Make the Cereal Mixture
Set a large pot over medium heat and melt the unsalted butter, swirling it around until it’s beautifully golden and fragrant. Add the mini marshmallows, then stir steadily until they’re completely melted into a glossy, smooth mixture. Quickly stir in your cereal, using a spatula to toss and coat every last piece—this is where the crunchy fun begins!
Step 3: Form the First Layer
Working swiftly (the mixture sets fast!), divide the cereal concoction in half. Press one half firmly and evenly into your prepared pan to form the bottom base. If you lightly grease your hands or spatula, spreading is easy and mess-free. Pop the pan in the freezer for 10 to 15 minutes, letting the layer cool and set for perfect assembly.
Step 4: Add the Ice Cream
While you’re waiting on the bottom layer, let your ice cream stand at room temperature until it softens just enough to spread. Once the cereal base is chilled and firm, use a spatula to evenly spread the softened ice cream right over it—take your time and create an even, fluffy layer.
Step 5: Top and Freeze
Gently press the remaining cereal mixture on top of the ice cream, creating a sandwich effect. Don’t worry if it’s not perfectly neat—rustic means homemade! Now, freeze the entire dish for at least 2 hours, until the Cereal Ice Cream Sandwiches are set, sturdy, and ready to slice.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Lift the whole dessert out using your parchment “handles.” Use a sharp knife (dipped in warm water for neat edges) to cut into rectangles or squares—whatever shape says “summer treat” to you. Serve immediately or wrap each Cereal Ice Cream Sandwich individually for a grab-and-go freezer stash.
How to Serve Cereal Ice Cream Sandwiches
Garnishes
Dress your Cereal Ice Cream Sandwiches up with a drizzle of hot fudge, a scattering of rainbow sprinkles, or a dusting of powdered sugar for a playful, party-ready finish. For a pop of color, edible glitter or even extra cereal pressed onto the sides will make every bite extra special.
Side Dishes
Pair your sandwiches with tall glasses of icy-cold milk or fruity lemonade—classic complements that turn snack time into a full-on treat. If you’re feeling fancy, serve alongside a bowl of fresh berries for a bright, tangy contrast to all the sweet.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your dessert table into a rainbow extravaganza: stack Cereal Ice Cream Sandwiches in a pyramid, skewer mini sandwiches on popsicle sticks, or wrap them in parchment and tie with ribbon for an adorable, party-perfect look. Set up a “decorate-your-own” station so everyone can roll their sandwiches in chopped nuts, mini chips, or candies.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any extra Cereal Ice Cream Sandwiches can be easily stored in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Simply wrap each individual sandwich in plastic wrap or parchment to keep them from sticking together and to lock in maximum freshness.
Freezing
These sandwiches freeze like a dream and can last up to 2 weeks. To avoid freezer burn, make sure they’re tightly wrapped and consider double-bagging or using an airtight container. You’ll have a ready-made treat waiting any time a craving strikes!
Reheating
No need to reheat—just let your frozen treasures sit at room temperature for three to five minutes before serving. The short wait softens the cereal layers just enough to make each bite as dreamy and chewy as the first day you made them.
FAQs
Can I use any type Dessert
Absolutely! This recipe is endlessly adaptable—whether you’re a fan of fruity, chocolatey, or classic cereals, you can mix and match to suit your mood or the season. Just make sure you use a crunchy, sturdy cereal for the best results.
How do I keep the sandwiches from getting soggy?
The key is to freeze the assembled Cereal Ice Cream Sandwiches thoroughly and wrap them tightly. Avoid letting them sit out too long at room temperature, and always stash leftovers in the freezer immediately after serving.
Can I make these dairy-free or vegan?
Definitely! Swap in your favorite plant-based butter and marshmallows, and use a non-dairy ice cream. Many cereals are naturally vegan, so this sweet is super friendly for friends with dietary restrictions.
What’s the best way to cut the sandwiches neatly?
Run your knife under hot water, wipe it dry, and then slice—the heat makes quick work of cold, frozen treats. Re-warm and clean the knife between cuts for those picture-perfect edges!
Can I halve or double the recipe?
You sure can! Simply use a smaller or larger dish, and adjust your ingredient quantities accordingly. This recipe is perfect for making just a few treats or enough to feed a whole party.
Final Thoughts
Ready to create some serious smiles? Cereal Ice Cream Sandwiches are the ultimate nostalgic treat—easy to make, impossible to resist, and full of sunny-day fun. Whip up a batch soon and watch everyone dive in for seconds (or thirds!). You’re going to love every last crunchy, creamy bite.
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Cereal Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes (including freezing)
- Yield: 8 sandwiches 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a fun and easy-to-make frozen treat with these Cereal Ice Cream Sandwiches. Crispy cereal and creamy ice cream come together to create a delightful dessert that’s perfect for hot summer days or a sweet snack any time of year.
Ingredients
Cereal Mixture:
- 4 cups crispy cereal (such as Fruity Pebbles, Cocoa Pebbles, or Rice Krispies)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 1 (10-ounce) bag mini marshmallows
Ice Cream Layer:
- 1 ½ quarts vanilla ice cream (or flavor of choice)
- Nonstick spray or butter for greasing
Instructions
- Prepare Cereal Layer: Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper and lightly grease it. Melt butter in a pot, add marshmallows, stir until smooth, remove from heat, mix in cereal, and press half into pan. Freeze.
- Layer with Ice Cream: Soften ice cream, spread over cereal base, top with remaining cereal mixture, and freeze until set.
- Serve: Cut into sandwiches and enjoy immediately or store in the freezer.
Notes
- You can use any cereal and ice cream combo—get creative with colors and flavors.
- For easier cutting, dip your knife in warm water between slices.
- Store sandwiches in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 weeks.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Freezing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 160 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
