Rice krispie treat ice cream sandwiches are the summer dessert you didn’t know you needed. These viral copycat bars have taken over social media, and after trying them myself, I can say they live up to the hype. With just a few ingredients and no baking required, this treat combines the nostalgic crunch of marshmallowy cereal with creamy vanilla ice cream for a dessert that’s simple to make and hard to resist. Whether you’re serving them at a backyard gathering or just treating yourself, this recipe is going to become a go-to favorite in your freezer.
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Why Rice Krispie Treat Ice Cream Sandwiches Are the Ultimate Summer Copycat Treat
The Viral Inspiration Behind This Dessert
Hi, I’m Emily. I grew up learning to bake from my grandma Eleanor, where I discovered that love and sweetness come from shared moments in the kitchen. During the 2020 lockdown, baking became more than a hobby. It became a way to find peace and comfort while the world slowed down. That’s when I started creating my own recipes and sharing the memories behind them.
So when I saw rice krispie treat ice cream sandwiches trending online, I knew I had to make a homemade version. My kids and I had the best time melting marshmallows, pressing cereal into pans, and building these chilly, crunchy treats together. It reminded me of summers spent at Grandma’s, licking sticky fingers and laughing over melting ice cream.
This copycat dessert is more than just a sweet snack. It’s a fun activity, a cool treat on a hot day, and a little trip down memory lane.
A Texture Lover’s Dream Come True
These rice krispie treat ice cream sandwiches are everything you want in a handheld dessert. The cereal layers are soft yet chewy, hugging the creamy vanilla ice cream in the center. Each bite gives you that marshmallow sweetness and cold comfort that hits just right on a warm day.
The best thing? It’s all incredibly easy to make. You don’t need any fancy equipment. Just a stovetop, a baking pan, and your freezer. This is the kind of treat you can prep in advance, stash in the freezer, and have ready to enjoy anytime. Making them is just as delightful as digging in.
How to Make Rice Krispie Treat Ice Cream Sandwiches at Home
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Sandwich
Begin by greasing a 9×13-inch pan and lining it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. This makes it much easier to lift everything out once it’s set.
Begin by preparing the first Rice Krispie layer. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the 16 ounces of marshmallows and stir continuously until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Place 6 cups of rice cereal in a large bowl, then pour the warm marshmallow mixture over it. Mix thoroughly until fully coated.
Transfer this mixture into the prepared pan and use wet hands to press it into an even layer. Let it chill in the freezer for 15 minutes. After it sets, use the parchment overhang to lift it from the pan and transfer it to the fridge to chill.
Repeat the same process for the second Rice Krispie layer using the remaining butter, marshmallows, and cereal. Press this second batch into the re-lined pan and allow it to cool in the fridge for 15 minutes.
While the second layer chills, let your ice cream soften slightly in the fridge for about 15 to 20 minutes. When ready, scoop the softened vanilla ice cream over the second Rice Krispie layer and use a silicone spatula to spread it into an even layer.
Carefully place the first cereal layer on top and press it gently to form the sandwich. Place the whole pan in the freezer for a minimum of 4 hours, or leave it overnight to fully set before cutting into bars.
Tips for Easy Assembly and Best Results
Work quickly once the ice cream is out, since it melts fast. Chill your layers well before assembling to keep things firm. Wet your hands before pressing cereal to avoid sticky fingers. Letting the ice cream soften slightly makes spreading much easier and helps avoid breaking the cereal layer.
Customizing Rice Krispie Treat Ice Cream Sandwiches for Any Occasion
Fun Ingredient Variations to Try
Print
The Best Rice Krispie Treat Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 sandwiches 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Chewy marshmallow cereal meets creamy vanilla ice cream in these easy, no-bake rice krispie treat ice cream sandwiches. A freezer-friendly summer dessert everyone loves.
Ingredients
6 Tbsp. unsalted butter
32 oz. jet-puffed marshmallows
12 cups rice Krispies cereal
1.5 qt vanilla ice cream
Instructions
1. Lightly grease and line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper.
2. Melt 3 Tbsp. butter over medium heat in a large saucepan.
3. Add 16 oz. marshmallows and stir until melted.
4. Pour over 6 cups cereal in a large bowl and mix until coated.
5. Press into the pan using wet hands. Freeze for 15 minutes.
6. Lift the layer out and chill in fridge.
7. Repeat with remaining butter, marshmallows, and cereal for second layer.
8. Spread softened vanilla ice cream over second layer.
9. Top with first layer and press gently.
10. Freeze entire pan for at least 4 hours or overnight.
11. Slice into sandwiches and serve or store.
Notes
Work quickly with softened ice cream.
Wet hands prevent sticking.
Wrap individually for freezer storage up to 2 weeks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
One of the best things about making your own rice krispie treat ice cream sandwiches is how easily you can customize them. You can keep things classic with vanilla, or get adventurous with new textures and flavors.
Start with the ice cream. Vanilla is timeless, but don’t stop there. Chocolate, strawberry, cookies and cream, or even caramel swirl all make incredible fillings. Let the flavor of your cereal bars guide your pairing. If you can find flavored marshmallows like strawberry or chocolate, swap them in for a playful twist.
For the Rice Krispie layers, mix-ins are where the magic happens. Add mini chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or rainbow sprinkles right into the cereal before pressing it into the pan. It gives each bite something extra and adds a fun visual pop, especially for birthday parties or themed treats.
Flavored cereal also works well. Try a chocolate version of the classic puffed rice or mix in a handful of Fruity Pebbles for a colorful upgrade.
Creative Finishing Touches That Impress
After the sandwiches are frozen and sliced, you can take the presentation to another level. Dip half of each sandwich in melted chocolate and let it harden on a baking sheet. This adds a crisp texture and makes them look extra fancy, like something from a boutique ice cream shop.
Want even more flair? Press the exposed ice cream sides into crushed nuts, colorful sprinkles, or mini M&Ms. It’s a fun way to add texture, flavor, and eye-catching flair.
A few easy tweaks can turn your classic rice krispie treat ice cream sandwiches into something totally one-of-a-kind. Whether you’re prepping for a family BBQ or a summer birthday celebration, this treat adapts beautifully to every crowd
Storing, Serving, and Answering Top Questions About Rice Krispie Treat Ice Cream Sandwiches
How to Store and Serve These Frozen Treats
Once your rice krispie treat ice cream sandwiches are fully frozen, it’s important to store them the right way to keep their texture and flavor just right. The best method is to wrap each sandwich individually in plastic wrap or parchment paper. This helps prevent them from sticking and shields them from freezer burn.
Place the wrapped sandwiches in an airtight container and store them in the coldest part of your freezer. They’ll stay fresh for up to two weeks. If you’re making them ahead for a party, this method makes serving super easy. Just unwrap and enjoy.
When you’re ready to eat, take them out of the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for a minute or two before serving. This softens the ice cream slightly without making it melty, which helps you get that perfect creamy bite every time.
These rice krispie treat ice cream sandwiches are at their best when served slightly softened and enjoyed right away.
💡 If you enjoyed these rice krispie treat ice cream sandwiches, you’ll love what I share on Pinterest and Facebook too!
Conclusion
Rice krispie treat ice cream sandwiches are the kind of dessert that brings joy with every bite. Whether you’re making them for your kids, a summer party, or just because you’re craving something sweet and cool, these treats hit the spot. The chewy layers of cereal and marshmallow wrapped around creamy vanilla ice cream create a texture and flavor combo that’s hard to beat. For more cool treats like this one, explore our collection of no-bake dessert recipes and get inspired. With simple steps and easy ingredients, this is one rice krispie treat you’ll want to make again and again.
FAQ: Common Questions About This Treat
Why do lifters eat rice krispie treats?
Rice krispie treats are a quick source of simple carbohydrates, making them a favorite pre-workout snack. They deliver fast energy without feeling too heavy.
What kind of cookie is used for ice cream sandwiches?
Traditional ice cream sandwiches use soft chocolate wafers, but this recipe swaps those for chewy cereal treats, giving a fun and nostalgic twist.
What is the nickname for ice cream sandwiches?
They’re sometimes called “chilly willys” or “frozen sammies,” but no matter what you call them, they’re always a hit in summer.
How to jazz up an ice cream sandwich?
Add sprinkles, dip in chocolate, or roll the sides in crushed nuts or candy. You can also switch up the ice cream flavors or use different cereals.
