PB&J Puffed Cereal Ice Cream Sandwiches are a fun, nostalgic treat that brings together the classic flavors of peanut butter and jelly with the satisfying crunch of puffed cereal. Sandwiched around creamy vanilla ice cream, these no-bake desserts are perfect for hot summer days or anytime you’re craving something sweet and playful.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Kid-friendly: A whimsical take on a PB&J that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
- No-bake simplicity: Requires no oven, making it a breeze to prepare.
- Crunchy and creamy: A delightful contrast of textures with every bite.
- Customizable: Easy to switch up the flavors to match your preferences.
- Perfect for sharing: Fun for parties, picnics, or as an after-school treat.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Puffed rice or puffed wheat cereal
- Peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
- Honey or corn syrup
- Jelly or jam (your favorite flavor)
- Vanilla ice cream (softened slightly for easy spreading)
Directions
- Prepare the cereal mixture:
- In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the peanut butter and honey or corn syrup.
- Microwave for 30 seconds, then stir until smooth and well combined.
- Add the puffed cereal and mix until fully coated.
- Form the sandwich bases:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Press half of the cereal mixture into an even layer on the baking sheet, about ½ inch thick.
- Spread a thin layer of jelly or jam over the cereal layer.
- Freeze for 10 minutes to firm up.
- Add the ice cream:
- Remove the base from the freezer and spread softened vanilla ice cream evenly over the jelly layer.
- Top with the remaining cereal mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Freeze and cut:
- Freeze the assembled sandwiches for at least 2 hours or until firm.
- Slice into individual sandwich portions using a sharp knife.
- Serve and enjoy:
- Serve immediately or wrap each sandwich individually in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 1 week.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8–10 sandwiches
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Freezing Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 20 minutes
Variations
- Nut-free option: Use sunflower seed butter or cookie butter instead of peanut butter.
- Different cereals: Swap puffed rice for puffed quinoa, cornflakes, or granola.
- Flavor twist: Try strawberry, grape, or apricot jam for a unique take.
- Chocolate touch: Add mini chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the top layer.
- Dairy-free: Use dairy-free ice cream for a vegan-friendly treat.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Wrap each sandwich in plastic wrap or wax paper and store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 week.
- Reheating: Not required—these are served frozen! Allow to soften slightly at room temperature before enjoying.
FAQs
1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, crunchy peanut butter adds a delightful texture to the cereal mixture.
2. What type of cereal works best?
Puffed rice or puffed wheat is ideal, but other cereals like cornflakes or granola can work as well.
3. Can I make these sandwiches smaller?
Absolutely! Use a smaller baking dish and cut into bite-sized portions.
4. How do I prevent the sandwiches from sticking?
Line your baking dish with parchment paper and use a sharp knife to cut clean slices.
5. Can I use homemade jam?
Yes, homemade jam adds a personal touch and delicious flavor.
6. What if the cereal mixture is too sticky?
Lightly grease your hands or a spatula with non-stick spray when pressing the cereal layers.
7. Can I make this without freezing the layers in between?
Freezing the layers helps them set and makes assembly easier, so it’s recommended.
8. Can I use chocolate ice cream instead?
Yes, chocolate or even peanut butter ice cream pairs wonderfully with the PB&J flavors.
9. How do I keep the sandwiches from melting too quickly?
Serve them straight from the freezer and work quickly when slicing and wrapping.
10. Can I add extra toppings?
Yes, sprinkle crushed peanuts or drizzle caramel sauce over the top for added flair.
Conclusion
PB&J Puffed Cereal Ice Cream Sandwiches are a delightful, easy-to-make dessert that takes a nostalgic favorite to a whole new level. The combination of creamy ice cream, sweet jam, and crunchy cereal makes every bite a treat. Perfect for kids, adults, or anyone looking for a playful twist on a classic, these ice cream sandwiches are sure to become a favorite in your dessert lineup!
Print
PB&J Puffed Cereal Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 9 sandwiches 1x
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Description
These PB&J Puffed Cereal Ice Cream Sandwiches are a nostalgic yet playful twist on the classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Featuring crispy puffed cereal bars as the “bread” and creamy vanilla ice cream with a swirl of jelly in the middle, they’re a fun frozen treat for all ages!
Ingredients
For the Cereal Bars:
- 4 cups puffed rice cereal (e.g., Rice Krispies or similar)
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup honey or light corn syrup
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
For the Filling:
- 1 pint vanilla ice cream, softened slightly
- 1/3 cup strawberry or grape jelly (or your favorite flavor)
Instructions
1. Make the Cereal Bars:
- In a large saucepan, melt the peanut butter, honey (or corn syrup), and butter over medium heat. Stir until smooth and well combined.
- Remove from heat and gently fold in the puffed rice cereal until fully coated.
- Line a 9×9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper. Press half of the cereal mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the pan to form the base layer.
- Place the pan in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to set. Reserve the remaining cereal mixture for the top layer.
2. Prepare the Ice Cream Filling:
- Spread the softened vanilla ice cream evenly over the chilled cereal layer.
- Drizzle or dollop the jelly on top of the ice cream and gently swirl it using a knife or spoon for a marbled effect.
3. Add the Top Layer:
- Press the remaining cereal mixture evenly over the ice cream layer, ensuring it’s smooth and compact.
- Cover the pan with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until fully firm.
4. Slice and Serve:
- Once frozen, remove the pan from the freezer and lift the sandwich block out using the parchment paper.
- Cut into squares or rectangles using a sharp knife. Serve immediately or store in the freezer until ready to enjoy.
Notes
- Make Ahead: These sandwiches can be made up to a week in advance. Wrap individually in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container in the freezer.
- Variations: Swap the jelly for Nutella, caramel, or your favorite fruit preserves. Add mini chocolate chips or crushed peanuts to the cereal layers for extra texture.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free ice cream and a plant-based butter substitute.