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
Units
Scale
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.