When summer rolls in and the freezer’s stocked with ice cream, the craving for a fun, nostalgic treat becomes real. That’s exactly when a rice krispie treat ice cream sandwich hits the spot. It started as a playful twist in a home kitchen one hot weekend — combining two favorite desserts into one glorious, hand-held delight. These sandwiches bring a crispy-chewy contrast to creamy ice cream, making them a go-to for parties, playdates, or late-night indulgence. You don’t need to be a pastry chef, just a craving and a few pantry staples. And yes, it’s as easy (and tasty) as it sounds.
How to Make Rice Krispie Treat Ice Cream Sandwiches
Classic method for homemade rice krispie ice cream sandwiches
The beauty of a rice krispie treat ice cream sandwich lies in its simplicity. Start by melting butter and marshmallows in a large pot over low heat. Once smooth, stir in the Rice Krispies cereal until fully coated. Line a 9×13 pan with parchment paper and firmly press half the mixture into the bottom. Let it cool, then add a layer of softened vanilla ice cream — or any flavor you love — and top it with the remaining cereal mix. Gently press, freeze until firm, and slice into bars.
“This is one of those desserts that feels fancy but comes together in minutes. Kids and adults both go wild for it.”
— Sarah James, Home Baking Expert
You’ll find that the sticky-sweet cereal shell holds the ice cream beautifully while offering a satisfying crunch. To keep the rice krispies crispy, avoid over-packing them and always store the sandwiches in an airtight container in the freezer.
Did You Know? Rice Krispie treats date back to 1939 and were originally invented as a fundraiser by two Kellogg’s employees!
Naturally, this playful dessert complements other family-favorite ideas from our breakfast and kid-friendly collections like pink salt recipe for weight loss and the ultimate guide to perfect pancakes.
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Rice Krispie Treat Ice Cream Sandwich – Easy Frozen Dessert Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours
- Yield: 12 sandwiches 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These copycat Rice Krispie Treat Ice Cream Sandwiches combine crispy, gooey cereal bars with layers of rich vanilla ice cream. Perfect for summer and made with just a few ingredients.
Ingredients
6 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 bags (10 oz each) mini marshmallows
12 cups Rice Krispies cereal
1 gallon vanilla ice cream
Instructions
- Line two 9×13-inch pans with parchment paper.
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth.
- Remove from heat and fold in Rice Krispies until evenly coated.
- Divide the mixture evenly between the two prepared pans and press down firmly.
- Let cool completely, then remove from pans.
- Place one layer of Rice Krispie treat on a baking sheet and top with softened vanilla ice cream.
- Spread evenly and gently place the second treat layer on top.
- Freeze for at least 4–6 hours or overnight.
- Slice into sandwiches and store in the freezer.
Notes
To slice cleanly, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water.
For easier spreading, let the ice cream soften slightly before assembly.
Wrap individual sandwiches in parchment for mess-free serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 28mg
Best ice cream flavors for your rice krispie base
While vanilla is a classic match, the real fun starts when you experiment. Try cookies and cream, strawberry swirl, or even salted caramel to cut the sweetness. Fruity sorbets give a fresh twist, especially when paired with cocoa-infused rice krispies. If you’re making these for a crowd, offer a platter with a variety of flavors and let guests pick their favorite.
To make your sandwiches extra special, press mini chocolate chips or rainbow sprinkles into the edges of the ice cream before freezing.
For more ice cream-based creations, check out our homemade rice krispie ice cream recipe and discover how to turn classic cereal into a frozen masterpiece.
Tips for Freezing & Keeping Rice Krispie Ice Cream Sandwiches Fresh
How to freeze rice krispie treat ice cream sandwiches the right way
Freezing rice krispie treat ice cream sandwiches might seem simple, but doing it the right way makes all the difference in texture and taste. Once assembled, wrap each sandwich tightly in parchment or wax paper. Then place them in a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container. This prevents freezer burn and stops the rice krispie treats from getting soggy.
You’ll want to freeze your rice krispie treat ice cream sandwich for at least 4 hours before serving. For best results, let them sit at room temperature for about 3 minutes before biting in — this softens the ice cream just enough to enjoy without breaking the krispie layer.
Pair them with other cool treats like our pink salt weight loss recipe or cottage cheese bagel twist for a fun party platter.
Nutritional Breakdown
| Nutrient | Value (per sandwich) |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~280–320 |
| Sugar | 18g–22g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fiber | <1g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g–40g |
This makes it a relatively light dessert compared to traditional ice cream cakes — and easier to portion.
Mistake to Avoid: Don’t skip the cooling step before adding ice cream. If the rice krispie base is still warm, it’ll melt the ice cream and ruin the sandwich texture.
How long do rice krispie ice cream sandwiches last?
Stored correctly, your rice krispie treat ice cream sandwich will last up to two weeks in the freezer. The key is airtight wrapping and avoiding temperature changes. Use a sharp knife to cut sandwiches cleanly and only slice what you’ll serve immediately. Every time the sandwich thaws and re-freezes, the rice krispie layer loses more of its crispness.
Want to elevate flavor? Drizzle a little melted chocolate before freezing — it hardens beautifully between layers and locks in texture. For inspiration, check out our pink salt recipe — surprising ingredients like that can also work magic here when used creatively.
Gluten-Free, Crispy, and Party-Ready Variations
Are rice krispie treat ice cream sandwiches gluten-free?
Yes — but it depends on the ingredients. While the base cereal itself is typically made from rice, not all brands are truly gluten-free. Many contain malt flavoring derived from barley. To make a gluten-free rice krispie treat ice cream sandwich, use certified gluten-free puffed rice cereal and marshmallows. Brands like One Degree or Nature’s Path are excellent for this.
Ice cream also needs a double-check. Many commercial varieties are gluten-free, but cookie dough, brownie, or cereal-inspired flavors may contain hidden wheat. When preparing for guests with dietary restrictions, label your ice cream sandwiches clearly and prepare them separately from gluten-containing ones.
And remember — this dessert isn’t just safe for gluten-free diets when done right. It’s also portable, mess-free, and wildly popular with kids, making it perfect for gatherings or lunchbox surprises.
Comparison Table
| Traditional Version | Gluten-Free Version |
|---|---|
| Regular Rice Krispies cereal | Certified gluten-free cereal |
| Marshmallows (any brand) | Marshmallows labeled GF |
| Store-brand ice cream | Ice cream with GF label |
| No cross-contamination | Must avoid shared surfaces |
Pro Tip: Freeze sandwiches on a flat tray before individually wrapping them. This prevents sticking and keeps them uniform — ideal for party trays and portioning.
Explore other gluten-conscious snack options from Bethenny Frankel’s cottage cheese bagel recipe — a brilliant combo of protein and flavor for those avoiding gluten.
How to keep rice krispie treat ice cream sandwiches crispy
The #1 challenge with a rice krispie treat ice cream sandwich is maintaining that signature crunch. The trick? Avoid too much moisture from the ice cream. Let the ice cream soften slightly for spreading, but never allow it to melt.
Another tip: add a thin chocolate coating between the krispie layer and the ice cream. It creates a moisture barrier and adds a little snap with every bite. You can also use freeze-dried fruit crumbles in the cereal mix for texture without extra moisture.
If you’re prepping for a party, assemble the sandwiches the night before. This gives just enough time for everything to set, while keeping the krispies crispy and the ice cream firm.
Looking for more fun recipes for kids and gatherings? Dive into our family-friendly breakfast recipe collection to find simple ideas that everyone will love.
Serving, Storing & Impressing With Rice Krispie Treat Ice Cream Sandwiches
Best way to serve rice krispie treat ice cream sandwiches at parties
When you’re hosting a gathering — whether it’s a birthday party, summer BBQ, or school celebration — the key is serving treats that are mess-free, loved by all ages, and easy to grab. That’s where the rice krispie treat ice cream sandwich truly shines.
Prep them the night before, slice into individual squares, and wrap each in parchment with a little twine or colorful tape for a charming touch. Keep them on a tray in the freezer until just before serving. They’ll hold their shape for about 10 minutes, giving everyone time to enjoy them without dripping.
Want to customize for different guests? Try layering with strawberry, mint chip, or dairy-free coconut ice cream for variety. Add sprinkles or mini chocolate chips to the edges for extra visual flair.
“Presentation matters. I always wrap rice krispie ice cream sandwiches individually—it keeps them fresh, easy to handle, and adds that wow factor when guests pick them up.”
— Rachel Woods, Event Caterer
Pro Tip: Use a hot knife (run under warm water) to slice clean, sharp-edged sandwiches without cracking the krispie layer.
Combine these sweet treats with other fun finger foods or healthy twists like our pink salt recipe for weight loss, or explore easy frozen desserts like this 3-ingredient ice cream cake for a freezer-friendly party table that’s stress-free and crowd-pleasing.
How long do rice krispie treat ice cream sandwiches last?
In a well-sealed container, your rice krispie treat ice cream sandwich will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. But taste-wise, they’re at their best within the first 5–7 days. After that, the texture can slightly degrade, especially if the krispies are exposed to freezer air.
Here’s a quick look at how to store:
Storage Tips Table
| Storage Method | Lifespan |
|---|---|
| Individually wrapped & airtight | Up to 14 days |
| Unwrapped in open container | 2–3 days |
| Softened at room temp | 10 minutes max |
Label with the freeze date, and store in the back of the freezer where the temperature is more stable. If you’re prepping large batches for events, freeze in layers with wax paper in between.
Pro Tip: Don’t freeze sandwiches that are already partially melted. Re-freezing ruins the ice cream texture and can make the krispie layer chewy.
Pair these with other fun creations like our creamy rice krispie ice cream or colorful no-bake snacks for an unforgettable treat table.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you make rice krispie treat ice cream sandwiches?
Start by making a classic rice krispie treat base with melted butter, marshmallows, and puffed rice cereal. Press half into a lined baking pan, add softened ice cream, then top with the remaining cereal mixture. Freeze until firm, slice into bars, and enjoy. You can check out our full method above to craft the perfect rice krispie treat ice cream sandwich at home.
Can you freeze rice krispie ice cream sandwiches?
Yes, and they freeze beautifully. Just wrap each rice krispie treat ice cream sandwich in parchment or wax paper, then store in an airtight container. This keeps the texture fresh and prevents freezer burn. They last up to two weeks when properly sealed.
What ice cream goes best with rice krispie treats?
Vanilla is the go-to choice, but feel free to experiment. Strawberry, mint chocolate chip, cookies and cream, or even dairy-free coconut work wonderfully. Pair the ice cream flavor with the event theme or guest preferences to create a truly special rice krispie treat ice cream sandwich.
Are rice krispie ice cream sandwiches gluten-free?
They can be! Use certified gluten-free rice cereal and marshmallows. Make sure the ice cream is gluten-free too. With a few smart swaps, your rice krispie treat ice cream sandwich can be safely enjoyed by guests with gluten sensitivity.
How to keep rice krispies crispy in ice cream?
Cool your rice krispie layer fully before adding ice cream. You can also spread a thin layer of melted chocolate to act as a barrier. This keeps the cereal from absorbing moisture, preserving the crunch in your rice krispie treat ice cream sandwich.
Do rice krispie ice cream sandwiches melt quickly?
Like any ice cream treat, they’ll start to soften after 10 minutes at room temperature. For best texture and flavor, serve them straight from the freezer and eat promptly.
Can I use homemade rice krispies for ice cream sandwiches?
Absolutely. Homemade rice krispie treats often taste fresher and let you control ingredients, especially for dietary needs. Just follow the traditional method and shape them to fit your ice cream layer.
How long do rice krispie ice cream sandwiches last in the freezer?
Properly wrapped and stored, they last up to 2 weeks. For peak crunch and flavor, enjoy your rice krispie treat ice cream sandwich within 5–7 days of freezing.
Are rice krispie ice cream sandwiches good for parties or kids?
Yes! They’re fun to eat, easy to hold, and endlessly customizable. Wrap each rice krispie treat ice cream sandwich in parchment for mess-free serving at birthdays, BBQs, or family gatherings.
Conclusion
There’s something timeless and joyful about biting into a rice krispie treat ice cream sandwich — the crackle of cereal, the creamy chill of ice cream, and the playful feel of eating with your hands. Whether you’re making them for a backyard birthday party, a summer afternoon treat, or just to stock your freezer with something special, this dessert always delivers.
With just a few pantry staples, you can create a dessert that’s easy to customize, naturally gluten-friendly, and beloved by kids and adults alike. Wrap each sandwich individually to keep them crisp, and experiment with different ice cream flavors or toppings to match the mood or season.
If you’ve enjoyed learning how to build your perfect rice krispie treat ice cream sandwich, don’t miss more delicious inspiration like our rice krispie ice cream or explore sweet breakfast twists in our recipe hub. When it comes to fun, simple treats that win smiles every time — this one’s a keeper.