Oh my goodness, if you’re looking for a fun and delicious treat, you’ve hit the jackpot with these pbj puffed cereal ice cream sandwiches! Seriously, it’s like a nostalgic childhood dream come true. Imagine that crunchy, airy puffed cereal perfectly mingling with creamy peanut butter and sweet jelly, all wrapped around a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s a delightful explosion of flavors and textures that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance!
What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to whip up, and it’s a fantastic way to get the kids involved in the kitchen. Trust me, the joy on their faces when they assemble their own sandwiches is priceless! Plus, these ice cream sandwiches are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a hot summer day, a birthday party, or just a sweet pick-me-up after a long day. You’ll find yourself reaching for these again and again, and your friends and family will be begging you for the recipe. Let’s dive into the deliciousness together!
Ingredients List
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups puffed cereal: This is the star of the show! Choose your favorite kind—rice, corn, or even a fun mix. Puffed cereal gives that light crunch that we all love.
- 1/2 cup peanut butter: Use creamy or crunchy, depending on your preference. I like creamy for a smooth bite, but crunchy adds a lovely texture contrast!
- 1/4 cup jelly: Go with your favorite flavor! Grape is classic, but strawberry or raspberry can add a delightful twist. It’s all about what makes your heart sing.
- 1 pint vanilla ice cream: The creamy goodness that ties everything together! Feel free to swap in your favorite ice cream flavor if you’re feeling adventurous.
How to Prepare pbj puffed cereal ice cream sandwiches
Step 1: Mix Ingredients
Let’s kick things off by mixing our puffed cereal with the peanut butter. In a big bowl, throw in your 2 cups of puffed cereal and 1/2 cup of peanut butter. Now, the key here is to really get in there and mix it up until everything is well combined. You want that peanut butter to coat the cereal evenly, creating a sticky, delicious base for our sandwiches. Don’t be shy—use your hands if you need to!
Step 2: Prepare Baking Sheet
Now that your mixture is ready, it’s time to spread it out! Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper—this will make it super easy to lift the mixture out later. Pour the cereal and peanut butter mix onto the baking sheet and use a spatula or your hands to flatten it down into an even layer. Aim for about half an inch thick. This will be the foundation for our ice cream sandwiches, so make sure it’s nice and compact!
Step 3: Chill the Mixture
Next up, we need to chill that mixture. Pop the baking sheet into the refrigerator and let it chill for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial because it helps the mixture firm up, making it easier to cut into rectangles later. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this part—your sandwiches will thank you!
Step 4: Cut into Rectangles
Once the mixture has chilled and set, it’s time to cut it into rectangles. Carefully remove the baking sheet from the fridge and use a sharp knife to slice it into even rectangles. I usually go for about 2 inches by 4 inches, but you can make them any size you like! Just make sure to keep them consistent so your sandwiches look nice and neat.
Step 5: Assemble Sandwiches
Now for the fun part—assembling our ice cream sandwiches! Take one rectangle and spread a generous layer of jelly on top. Then, scoop out a nice dollop of vanilla ice cream and place it right on top of the jelly. Finally, grab another rectangle and gently press it down on top to create your sandwich. Repeat this process until you’ve used up all your ingredients—wow, it’s looking delicious already!
Step 6: Freeze Sandwiches
We’re almost there! The last step is to freeze these delightful creations. Arrange your sandwiches back on the baking sheet and pop them into the freezer for at least 2 hours. This will ensure they’re nice and firm when it’s time to serve them. I know it’s tough to wait, but trust me, the anticipation will make that first bite even sweeter!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Seriously, these sandwiches come together in no time! With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch that will impress everyone.
- Kid-Friendly: This recipe is perfect for getting the little ones involved in the kitchen! They’ll love mixing, spreading, and assembling their own sandwiches. It’s a fun activity that ends with a tasty treat!
- Customizable: You can switch up the jelly flavors or even try different ice cream! From grape to strawberry, or cookies and cream to mint chocolate chip, the possibilities are endless!
- No Baking Required: I love how this is a no-bake dessert! Just mix, chill, and freeze. It’s perfect for hot days when you don’t want to turn on the oven.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a backyard barbecue, a birthday party, or just a cozy night in, these sandwiches fit right in. They’re a hit with kids and adults alike!
- Make Ahead: You can prepare these sandwiches in advance and store them in the freezer. They’re ready whenever you need a sweet treat or surprise dessert!
Tips for Success
- Toast the Cereal: For an extra crunch, consider lightly toasting the puffed cereal before mixing it with the peanut butter. Just spread it out on a baking sheet and pop it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes, keeping an eye on it so it doesn’t burn. This adds a lovely roasted flavor that elevates the whole sandwich!
- Experiment with Jelly Flavors: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your jelly! While grape is classic, try using raspberry, apricot, or even a spiced apple jelly for a fun twist. Each flavor brings a new dimension to the sandwiches, and you might just discover a new favorite!
- Use Different Ice Creams: The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. Swap out the vanilla ice cream for chocolate, caramel swirl, or even a fruity sorbet for a refreshing change. Each combination offers a unique taste experience!
- Keep Everything Cold: When assembling your sandwiches, make sure your ice cream is just soft enough to scoop but not melted. If it’s too warm, the sandwiches can get a bit messy. If you need to, let the ice cream sit out for just a couple of minutes before scooping.
- Make Them Ahead: These sandwiches are perfect for prepping in advance. If you know you’ll have guests over or want to treat your family, make them a day ahead and keep them in the freezer. Just remember to cover them with plastic wrap or foil to prevent freezer burn!
- Use a Sharp Knife: When cutting your chilled mixture into rectangles, use a sharp knife to ensure clean cuts. This helps keep your sandwiches looking neat and makes for a better presentation!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each delicious pbj puffed cereal ice cream sandwich. Keep in mind, these values are based on typical ingredients and can vary depending on specific brands or variations you choose!
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
So, whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends, you can enjoy these tasty sandwiches knowing exactly what’s in them. They’re a sweet and satisfying dessert that won’t break the calorie bank! Enjoy every bite!
FAQ Section
Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?
Absolutely! These sandwiches are perfect for making in advance. Just prepare them, freeze them, and they’ll be ready for whenever you need a sweet treat. I recommend wrapping them in plastic wrap or foil to keep them fresh!
What kind of jelly can I use?
Get creative with your jelly! While grape is a classic favorite, you can use any flavor you like—strawberry, raspberry, or even a unique flavor like peach or apricot. It’s all about what you enjoy!
Can I use a different type of cereal?
Oh, definitely! If you have a different puffed cereal you love, go for it! You could even try using granola for a different texture, just keep in mind it will change the overall crunchiness.
What if my ice cream melts while assembling?
Don’t worry if your ice cream gets a bit too soft! Just pop it back in the freezer for a few minutes to firm it up again. It’s better to work with slightly firmer ice cream to avoid a messy situation!
How long can I store these sandwiches in the freezer?
These sandwiches can be stored in the freezer for up to two weeks. Just make sure to keep them wrapped well and enjoy them while they’re still fresh and tasty!
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Absolutely! Natural peanut butter works great in this recipe. Just keep in mind that it might be a little runnier than processed peanut butter, so you may need to adjust the amount slightly to get the right consistency.
Can I make these sandwiches dairy-free?
Yes! You can easily make these sandwiches dairy-free by using a non-dairy ice cream alternative. There are so many delicious options out there now that you won’t miss the regular stuff!
What’s the best way to cut the chilled mixture?
For clean cuts, use a sharp knife and a gentle sawing motion. If you find it’s sticking, you can run the knife under hot water and dry it off before cutting to help make it easier!
pbj puffed cereal ice cream sandwiches you can’t resist
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 sandwiches 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and fun ice cream sandwiches made with puffed cereal and peanut butter and jelly.
Ingredients
- 2 cups puffed cereal
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup jelly
- 1 pint vanilla ice cream
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix puffed cereal and peanut butter until well combined.
- Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
- Remove from the fridge and cut into rectangles.
- Spread jelly on one rectangle, add a scoop of ice cream, and top with another rectangle.
- Repeat until all ingredients are used.
- Freeze sandwiches for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
- Use any flavor of jelly you prefer.
- For a crunchier texture, toast the puffed cereal lightly before mixing.
- These sandwiches can be made ahead of time and stored in the freezer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: pbj, cereal, ice cream, sandwiches
