Craving a dessert that’s both nostalgic and refreshing? This Rice Crispy Treats Ice Cream Sandwich brings together two iconic favorites in one handheld delight. Imagine biting into a creamy, cold scoop of ice cream nestled between chewy, buttery rice crispy treats. It’s the perfect summer dessert—easy to make and fun to customize. In this article, you’ll learn how to make these from scratch, store them, and even explore flavor twists like using fruity cereal. Whether you’re throwing a party or just treating yourself, this guide makes sure your sandwich stays crispy, creamy, and unforgettable. A Rice Crispy Treats Ice Cream Sandwich is the kind of dessert that makes summer extra special
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Rice Crispy Treats Ice Cream Sandwich: A Sweet Childhood Upgrade
PrintEasy Rice Crispy Treats Ice Cream Sandwich for Summer Fun
These Rice Crispy Treats Ice Cream Sandwiches are the perfect no-bake summer dessert—chewy, creamy, and endlessly customizable for any flavor combo you love.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 9 sandwiches 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
6 cups crispy rice cereal
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 bag (10 oz) mini marshmallows
1.5 quarts ice cream (any flavor)
Optional mix-ins: mini chocolate chips, peanut butter swirls, sprinkles
Instructions
1. Line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Add marshmallows and stir until fully melted and smooth.
3. Remove from heat and fold in the cereal until coated.
4. Divide the mixture in half. Press one half evenly into the bottom of the pan.
5. Scoop slightly softened ice cream over the base and spread evenly.
6. Top with remaining cereal mixture, pressing gently to flatten.
7. Cover and freeze for at least 2-3 hours, until firm.
8. Remove from pan using parchment edges and slice into squares.
9. Wrap individually and store in freezer.
Notes
Let the rice crispy base cool completely before layering with ice cream to avoid melting.
Use a warm knife to cut clean slices.
Try rolling edges in sprinkles or crushed cookies for added texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
A memory baked in marshmallows
The very first time I made a Rice Crispy Treats Ice Cream Sandwich was during a summer playdate for my daughter. I wanted something fun, quick, and cool—but also homemade. I remembered how much joy rice crispy treats brought me as a kid. That crispy, gooey combo was always magic. So, I added vanilla ice cream in the middle, froze it, and served it to the kids like store-bought sandwiches. The look on their faces? Pure joy. That’s when I knew this Rice Crispy Treats Ice Cream Sandwich would become a family tradition.
Since then, this recipe’s become a go-to in our house, especially during hot Carolina summers. It’s a nostalgic treat that even grownups can’t resist. That buttery crunch paired with sweet, creamy ice cream makes for the ultimate crowd-pleaser.
You’ll love how simple it is. No baking required, just a bit of patience to let them freeze just right. And if you’re already a fan of classics like my brown butter rice crispy treats or my marshmallow fluff bars, this ice cream twist will hit the spot.
The magic of textures and temperature
What makes a Rice Crispy Treats Ice Cream Sandwich so special is the blend of textures. The marshmallow-bound cereal has just the right chew to hold ice cream without breaking or crumbling. And because the treats are chilled but not frozen solid, they stay slightly soft while the ice cream remains firm.
That balance is the secret. Soft and crunchy, cold and gooey—it’s the kind of contrast that keeps you going back for just one more bite. Plus, you can easily match different ice cream flavors with various cereals or even stir-ins like sprinkles or mini chocolate chips. It’s an invitation to play in the kitchen.
In our no-bake dessert section, we highlight recipes just like this—low effort, big payoff. That’s exactly what this sandwich delivers.
The fun of making a homemade Rice Crispy Treats Ice Cream Sandwich is that you’re not locked into one flavor. Sure, vanilla is a go-to—it complements the buttery marshmallow treat beautifully. But once you try mixing it up, the combinations are endless. Chocolate chip, cookies and cream, or even strawberry shortcake? All winners.
Want something with a little twist? Use caramel swirl, pistachio, or mint chocolate chip for a unique flavor that still blends well with the chewy cereal base. These bold choices turn a simple treat into a standout dessert.
What really makes each bite memorable is the way the cold, creamy ice cream melts just slightly into the soft, chewy cereal bars. It’s that contrast of temperature and texture that keeps it interesting and satisfying.
If you’re planning a get-together, make a few different flavors ahead of time. Let the ice cream sit out for about 5 minutes so it’s spreadable, then sandwich it between two rice crispy layers. Wrap them up tight and freeze until firm. For even more inspiration, check out our frozen desserts section for ideas.
Fun ways to remix your cereal layers
Swapping out the cereal base is where the real creativity shines. Classic puffed rice is perfect for that nostalgic feel, but why not try Fruity Pebbles for a pop of color or Cocoa Krispies for a chocolatey twist?
You can even add mini marshmallows, mini chocolate chips, or crushed cookies to the mix before pressing it into the pan. Want something salty-sweet? Stir in crushed pretzels or peanut butter chips while the marshmallow is still warm.
Flavored cereals also give your sandwiches a whole new personality. It’s amazing how a simple Rice Crispy Treats Ice Cream Sandwich can be transformed with a splash of color or crunch. Try cinnamon toast cereal for a snickerdoodle vibe or peanut butter cereal for a rich, nutty finish.
Our creative cereal bar ideas offer more of these tasty upgrades. Just make sure your crispy layers are fully cooled before you layer in the ice cream—otherwise, it’ll melt before it even hits the freezer.
How to stack and slice your sandwiches cleanly
Once the marshmallow cereal base is cool to the touch and your ice cream is slightly soft but not runny, you’re ready to assemble your Rice Crispy Treats Ice Cream Sandwich. Start by spreading half of the cereal mixture into a parchment-lined square pan (an 8×8 or 9×9 pan works great). Press it into an even layer using a spatula or the back of a spoon.
Scoop your ice cream onto the bottom layer and use a flat tool to distribute it evenly without pushing too hard. You’re aiming for a smooth, level surface across the entire pan. Then take the rest of your rice crispy mixture and press it gently over the top to form your second layer.
Wrap the entire pan snugly with food-safe wrap or foil to prevent ice crystals from forming. Transfer it to the freezer and let it chill undisturbed for 2 to 3 hours, or until everything is solid and set.
When it’s time to serve, grab the sides of the parchment and lift the entire block out of the pan in one motion. Using a long, sharp knife heated under warm water, slice the block into squares or rectangles. Wipe the blade between cuts to keep the edges neat and tidy.
We love this technique in other recipes too, like our layered no-bake bars, where structure and presentation matter just as much as taste.
Keeping them fresh for the freezer
To make sure your Rice Crispy Treats Ice Cream Sandwiches stay delicious and easy to grab, These Rice Crispy Treats Ice Cream Sandwiches are also great for make-ahead prep, especially when you want something quick and homemade. wrap each one tightly in wax paper or plastic wrap. This keeps them from drying out and locks in their creamy texture.
Once wrapped, place the sandwiches in a reusable freezer container or a large zip-top bag made for cold storage. If you’re stacking multiple layers, separate them with pieces of parchment or wax paper to prevent sticking. Label each package with the flavor and date, especially if you’re making a batch with different ice cream varieties.
Properly stored, these treats maintain their best taste and texture for up to two weeks. After that, they’re still safe to enjoy, though you might notice a slight change in crunch or flavor.
Need more freezer-friendly storage hacks? Head over to our frozen treat care guide for extra advice on how to keep homemade desserts at their best.
Unique mix-and-match ideas to try
Once you’ve mastered the basics, the fun begins with creating flavor combinations that make your Rice Crispy Treats Ice Cream Sandwich uniquely yours. There’s no need to stick to just vanilla and plain rice cereal. Let your creativity run the show.
If you’re craving something colorful and playful, try a vibrant cereal with a berry-flavored ice cream for a fun twist that tastes just as bold as it looks. For a rich and indulgent option, pair a cocoa-based cereal with a chocolate or mocha ice cream. Want a nostalgic vibe? Mix cinnamon-flavored cereal with a scoop of vanilla bean or snickerdoodle ice cream.
Layer in some peanut butter or chocolate spread for an extra boost between the cereal and the ice cream, or roll the sandwich edges in crushed graham crackers, sprinkles, or chopped nuts before freezing.
We share more of these outside-the-box pairings in our creative summer dessert ideas to help you build a treat that’s exciting, tasty, and totally original.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do you keep rice crispy treats from getting soggy with ice cream?
Make sure the treat layers are fully cooled before adding any ice cream. This helps avoid melting and soaking, keeping everything firm. Quick assembly and immediate freezing are key to preserving texture.
Can you make ice cream sandwiches with homemade rice crispy treats?
Yes, and in fact, homemade versions work better than packaged ones. You can shape and size them exactly how you want, and the fresh texture holds up nicely once frozen.
How do you store rice crispy ice cream sandwiches?
Once cut, wrap each sandwich tightly in wax paper or food-safe wrap. Then store them in a hard-sided container or large freezer bag to protect them from freezer burn. For best taste, enjoy within two weeks.
Can I use flavored cereal for rice crispy ice cream sandwiches?
Definitely. Using different cereals is one of the easiest ways to personalize your sandwiches. From chocolate to cinnamon to fruity blends, these cereals add extra taste and texture layers that make every bite exciting.
Final Thoughts
The Rice Crispy Treats Ice Cream Sandwich is more than just a dessert—it’s a customizable, no-bake treat that makes everyone smile. It brings together chewy cereal layers and creamy ice cream into one simple, handheld sweet. Whether you go classic or adventurous with flavors, this recipe gives you plenty of ways to play and share.
Perfect for summer cookouts, birthday parties, or even a solo treat on a sunny afternoon, these sandwiches are proof that sometimes, the most nostalgic ideas bring the most joy.
For more easy, family-friendly dessert ideas like this, head to our no-bake dessert collection where flavor, ease, and fun all come together.