Hey y'all! If you're searching for the ultimate summer treat, look no further than these PBJ puffed cereal ice cream sandwiches you can’t resist. The crisp peanut butter cereal base, creamy vanilla ice cream, and sweet strawberry jam combine to make a nostalgic dessert that's perfect for parties, snacks, or just satisfying that sweet tooth at home. Each bite delivers ooey-gooey, crunchy, fruity goodness you’ll want on repeat. Let’s get cooking!
Why You'll Love This PBJ Puffed Cereal Ice Cream Sandwiches You Can’t Resist Recipe
- Combines childhood PB&J flavors with creamy ice cream and crunchy cereal for pure joy.
- No baking required—easy enough for kids to help with assembling.
- Freezer-friendly so you can have a batch ready for impromptu dessert cravings.
- Perfect handheld size for backyard BBQs, parties, and potlucks.
- Customizable with your favorite jam or ice cream flavors!
Ingredients for PBJ Puffed Cereal Ice Cream Sandwiches You Can’t Resist
- 3 cups peanut butter puffed cereal (like Peanut Butter Cheerios or Puffins)
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ¼ cup honey or light corn syrup
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 quart (4 cups) vanilla ice cream, softened
- ¾ cup strawberry jam (or your choice of fruit preserves)
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for extra richness)
How to Make PBJ Puffed Cereal Ice Cream Sandwiches You Can’t Resist
Step 1: Prepare the Cereal Base
- Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium saucepan, combine peanut butter, honey (or corn syrup), and optional butter over low heat. Stir until smooth and fully melted, about 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and a pinch of salt.
- Add the peanut butter puffed cereal to the saucepan and mix until the cereal is evenly coated.
- Press half the mixture into the bottom of your prepared pan, making an even layer. Place the pan in the freezer for 10 minutes to set.
Step 2: Assemble the Ice Cream & Jam Layer
- Spread softened vanilla ice cream in an even, thick layer (about 1 inch) over the chilled cereal base. Return to the freezer for 15 minutes until the layer is semi-firm.
- Evenly spread the strawberry jam over the ice cream layer and return the pan to the freezer for another 10 minutes.
Step 3: Finish the Sandwiches
- Pat the remaining cereal mixture over the jam layer, pressing gently but firmly.
- Freeze the entire pan for 3–4 hours (or until very firm and set).
- Lift out using parchment, cut into 9–12 sandwiches, and serve immediately or store for later.
Notes & Tips for Making PBJ Puffed Cereal Ice Cream Sandwiches You Can’t Resist
- Try using a serrated knife dipped in warm water for cleaner cuts through the frozen layers.
- If your ice cream is too hard, let it sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes to soften before layering (see tip here).
- Read more about the nutritional benefits of peanut butter in this Healthline article.
Variations on PBJ Puffed Cereal Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Almond Bliss: Substitute almond butter and almond puffed cereal for a nutty twist.
- Chocolate Dream: Use chocolate ice cream and a dark chocolate drizzle for an indulgent option.
- Berry Blast: Swap the strawberry jam for raspberry or blueberry preserves.
Required Equipment for PBJ Puffed Cereal Ice Cream Sandwiches You Can’t Resist
- 8x8-inch square baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing spoon and spatula
- Sharp or serrated knife
Storage Instructions for PBJ Puffed Cereal Ice Cream Sandwiches You Can’t Resist
- Wrap sandwiches individually in wax paper or plastic wrap and store in an airtight container.
- Keep frozen for up to 2 weeks for best texture and flavor.
- Let sit at room temperature for 2–3 minutes before serving for easiest eating.
Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations
- Serve these sandwiches with a cold glass of milk or homemade iced coffee.
- Add fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries on the side for a fruity contrast.
- For parties, cut sandwiches into bite-size squares and serve in mini cupcake liners!
Pro Tips for PBJ Puffed Cereal Ice Cream Sandwiches You Can’t Resist
- Always freeze between each layer to keep them distinct and easy to cut (learn more on layering desserts).
- Don’t over-press the top layer—keep a gentle touch so the shape stays pretty.
- Dip your knife in hot water for extra-smooth sandwich slicing!
FAQ: PBJ Puffed Cereal Ice Cream Sandwiches You Can’t Resist
- Can I make these gluten-free?
- Yes! Use gluten-free peanut butter puffed cereal and double-check your ice cream and jam labels for gluten.
- What if I don’t like peanut butter?
- Try almond butter or sunflower seed butter as a substitute, and use a cereal that matches.
- How do I prevent melting during cutting?
- Work quickly with a sharp knife and return any uncut sandwiches to the freezer between slices.
With these PBJ puffed cereal ice cream sandwiches you can’t resist, you’ll have an irresistibly easy, crowd-pleasing dessert on hand all summer long. Happy snacking!
Ingredients
- 3 cups puffed rice cereal
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 pint vanilla ice cream, slightly softened
- ⅓ cup creamy peanut butter
- ⅓ cup strawberry jam
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
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1Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a saucepan, melt unsalted butter and honey together over low heat until smooth.
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2Stir in puffed rice cereal and salt until evenly coated. Let the mixture cool slightly.
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3Scoop heaping tablespoons of the cereal mixture and press into 12 flat rounds on the prepared baking sheet. Chill in the freezer for 10 minutes to set.
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4Spoon peanut butter and strawberry jam onto the flat side of 6 cereal rounds. Top each with a generous scoop of softened vanilla ice cream and spread evenly.
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5Place the remaining cereal rounds on top to form sandwiches. Gently press together and freeze for at least 1 hour before serving.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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