A sunny afternoon spent whipping up a batch of Rice Krispie Treat Ice Cream Sandwiches brings back a wave of nostalgia. This delightful treat combines the crispness of Rice Krispies with the creamy goodness of ice cream, creating a balance of crunchy and soft textures. In just about 30 minutes, you can craft this fun dessert, which not only satisfies a sweet tooth but also adds a playful twist to classic ice cream sandwiches.
This recipe is perfect for families, kids’ parties, or warm summer days. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the freezer for a quick dessert whenever cravings strike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The crispy Rice Krispie base offers a satisfying crunch.
- The ooey-gooey marshmallow blend adds a rich flavor.
- Layering ice cream creates a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- It’s a fun recipe that kids can help make!
What You’ll Need
Gather the following ingredients to create these delicious ice cream sandwiches:
For the Base
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cups mini marshmallows
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
For the Filling
- 1 gallon Dreyer’s Grand or Slow Churned ice cream, softened
For Garnish
- Sprinkles or other flourish
Use any ice cream flavor you prefer to customize!
Substitutions & Swaps
- Butter: margarine for a dairy-free option
- Mini marshmallows: regular marshmallows, cut up
- Rice Krispies: any rice cereal brand
- Ice cream: frozen yogurt for a lighter dessert
How to Make It
Get ready to indulge in a fun, layered treat!
Melt butter
Melt the butter in a pan over low heat, ideally using a cast iron pot for even heating.
Add marshmallows
Add mini marshmallows to the melted butter and stir until fully melted, then incorporate the vanilla extract.
Stir in Rice Krispies
Gradually stir in the Rice Krispies until everything is evenly coated. Turn off the heat to keep the mix warm.
Shape the bottom layer
Scoop half of the cereal mixture into the prepared cake pan and press it down into an even shape. Cover the pot with a lid to keep the remaining mix warm.
Freeze the base
Place the cake pan in the freezer for about 5 minutes to allow the base to firm up.
Add ice cream
Once firm, spread a layer of softened ice cream over the cereal mix to your desired thickness. Return the pan to the freezer for an additional 5-10 minutes to set.
Top with cereal mix
Scoop the remaining Rice Krispie Treat mixture on top of the ice cream and press it into shape.
Freeze and serve
Place the entire pan into the freezer for several hours or ideally overnight. Cut into squares and serve chilled.
How to Store It
Fridge: up to 2 days in an airtight container
Freezer: yes, keeps well for longer storage
Reheat: not applicable, best served cold
Tips for Best Results
- Ensure the butter is fully melted before adding marshmallows for a smoother mix.
- Press down firmly on the layers to avoid crumbling when cutting.
- Allow the ice cream to soften a bit for easier spreading.
- Experiment with different ice cream flavors to change up the taste!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce.
- Serve at birthday parties or summer barbecues.
- Enjoy with a side of fresh fruit for a balanced treat.
