introduction

Peanut Butter & Jelly Ice Cream Sandwiches are a delightful treat that combines the nostalgia of childhood with the coolness of ice cream. This recipe is perfect for hot summer days or as a fun dessert to enjoy any time of the year. The combination of creamy peanut butter, sweet jelly, and smooth vanilla ice cream, all between soft bread, makes it a favorite for both kids and adults. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, requiring minimal ingredients and time!

why make this recipe

There are countless reasons to make Peanut Butter & Jelly Ice Cream Sandwiches. First, they are incredibly versatile. You can use any type of bread, ice cream, and jelly or jam. This allows you to customize each sandwich to suit your taste. It’s a great way to use up leftovers from your pantry, making it both economical and fun.

Additionally, this recipe is straightforward and quick, making it a fantastic choice for busy families or those new to cooking. You can involve kids in the preparation, making it a fun bonding activity. These ice cream sandwiches are also a perfect addition to summer gatherings, birthday parties, or simply as a refreshing afternoon snack.

how to make Peanut Butter & Jelly Ice Cream Sandwiches

Making Peanut Butter & Jelly Ice Cream Sandwiches is an easy and rewarding process. With just a few simple steps, you can create a dessert that is both fun to eat and delicious. Here’s how to do it.

Ingredients:

2 slices of bread
2 tablespoons peanut butter
2 tablespoons jelly or jam
1 cup vanilla ice cream
Optional: crushed nuts or sprinkles for coating

Directions:

Spread Peanut Butter: Start by spreading about 2 tablespoons of peanut butter on one slice of bread. Make sure to cover the slice evenly for a consistent flavor in every bite.
Spread Jelly: On the other slice of bread, spread 2 tablespoons of your favorite jelly or jam. Choose a jelly flavor that you love to ensure it complements the peanut butter.
Add Ice Cream: Now, take a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream and place it in the center of the jelly-covered slice. The ice cream should be thick enough to create a satisfying sandwich but not so much that it overflows.
Assemble the Sandwich: Carefully place the peanut butter slice on top of the ice cream and gently press down. Be cautious not to squeeze out the filling too much.
Coat (optional): If you want to add extra flavor and texture, you can roll the edges of the sandwich in crushed nuts or colorful sprinkles. This step is optional but adds a fun touch to your sandwiches.
Freeze: Place the assembled sandwich in the freezer for about 30 minutes to firm up the ice cream. This will make the sandwich easier to cut and eat without making too much mess.
Serve: When you are ready to enjoy your sandwich, allow it to sit at room temperature for a minute. This will soften the ice cream just enough for easy slicing.
Slice and Enjoy: Cut the sandwich in half or quarters, depending on your preference, and enjoy your delicious Peanut Butter & Jelly Ice Cream Sandwich!

how to serve Peanut Butter & Jelly Ice Cream Sandwiches

Serving Peanut Butter & Jelly Ice Cream Sandwiches is simple and straightforward. You can place them on a plate and enjoy them as they are, or you can add some garnishes for a more appealing presentation. Here are some suggestions:

Serve with a side of fresh fruit, like strawberries or banana slices, to add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sandwich.
Drizzle chocolate or caramel sauce over the top for an extra treat.
Offer a scoop of extra ice cream on the side for those who want even more sweetness!

how to store Peanut Butter & Jelly Ice Cream Sandwiches

If you find that you have leftover Peanut Butter & Jelly Ice Cream Sandwiches, storing them is easy. Here’s how to do it properly:

Freezing: If you plan to save them for later, wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the freezer. They can usually last for up to two weeks.
Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy a sandwich, remove it from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes. This will soften the ice cream, making it easier to bite into.

Avoid storing them in the fridge, as this can cause the bread to become soggy and the ice cream to melt.

tips to make Peanut Butter & Jelly Ice Cream Sandwiches

Here are some helpful tips to perfect your Peanut Butter & Jelly Ice Cream Sandwiches:

Bread Selection: Choose your bread wisely. Soft white bread works well, but you can also use whole grain, pumpkin bread, or even gluten-free options depending on your dietary needs.
Ice Cream Consistency: If your ice cream is too hard, let it sit out for 5-10 minutes before scooping. This will make it easier to scoop and spread.
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to mix and match flavors! Try almond butter instead of peanut butter or use different jellies like raspberry or grape jelly. You can even use chocolate ice cream for a decadent twist!
Use Cookie Cutters: For fun shapes, consider using cookie cutters to cut your sandwich into fun designs, making them more appealing for kids’ birthday parties or special occasions.
Add Texture: Besides nuts and sprinkles, you can roll the edges in crushed cookies or granola to enhance the texture and flavor.

variation

The beauty of Peanut Butter & Jelly Ice Cream Sandwiches is in their versatility. Here are a few variations to try:

Chocolate Lovers: Swap out vanilla ice cream for chocolate ice cream, and use Nutella instead of peanut butter for a rich, decadent version.
Fruit Additions: Add slices of bananas or strawberries between the PB, jelly, and ice cream for added fruitiness and texture.
Frozen Yogurt: For a healthier twist, replace vanilla ice cream with frozen yogurt. This can also make the treat lighter on calories.
Waffle Sandwich: Instead of bread, use waffles for a different texture. They add a crispy element and are a great way to change things up.

FAQs

Can I use whole grain or gluten-free bread for this recipe?

Absolutely! Whole grain bread adds a nutty flavor, and gluten-free bread can work just as well for those with dietary restrictions. Choose what you love and what suits your needs!

How long do these ice cream sandwiches last in the freezer?

When properly stored in airtight containers or wrapped tightly, these sandwiches can last up to two weeks in the freezer.

Can I substitute other nut butters instead of peanut butter?

Yes! Almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter can be excellent alternatives. Just choose the one that suits your taste and dietary restrictions.

Is it possible to make these sandwiches in advance for a party?

Definitely! You can assemble them a day or two in advance and keep them in the freezer until you are ready to serve. Just remember to allow them to soften slightly before serving.

What type of jelly or jam works best?

You can use any jelly or jam flavor you prefer. Traditional options like grape or strawberry are popular, but feel free to experiment with unique flavors like raspberry, apricot, or even lemon curd!

These easy-to-make Peanut Butter & Jelly Ice Cream Sandwiches are a delightful treat that brings together beloved flavors in a fun and simple way. Whether for a party, a hot summer day, or just a simple dessert, they are sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces!

Peanut Butter & Jelly Ice Cream Sandwiches

Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 2 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A nostalgic treat combining creamy peanut butter, sweet jelly, and smooth vanilla ice cream between soft bread, perfect for summer gatherings or a delightful snack any time of year.

Ingredients

Scale

2 slices of bread
2 tablespoons peanut butter
2 tablespoons jelly or jam
1 cup vanilla ice cream
Optional: crushed nuts or sprinkles for coating

Instructions

Spread peanut butter on one slice of bread.
Spread jelly on the other slice of bread.
Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream to the jelly-covered slice.
Assemble by placing the peanut butter slice on top of the ice cream.
Coat the edges with crushed nuts or sprinkles if desired.
Freeze the sandwich for about 30 minutes.
Serve and let it sit at room temperature for a minute before slicing.
Slice in half or quarters and enjoy!

Notes

Use different types of bread, ice cream, and jelly for variety.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Freezing
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 sandwich
Calories: 300
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 280mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: ice cream sandwiches, dessert, peanut butter, jelly, summer treats