Name: Ice Cream Sandwich Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 min
Total time: 3 h 21 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 ice cream sandwiches; 16 oz Whipped Topping; ½ cup Miniature chocolate chips; ¾ cup mini M&M's; ⅓ cup fudge sauce

Indulge in the ultimate treat with this ice cream sandwich cake. It's a delightful layered dessert combining creamy ice cream sandwiches, fluffy whipped topping, and crunchy candies.

Photos of Ice Cream Sandwich Cake Recipe

Most of the ingredients are easy to find, but make sure you pick up ice cream sandwiches, whipped topping, miniature chocolate chips, mini M&M's, and fudge sauce when you visit the supermarket.

Ingredients For Ice Cream Sandwich Cake Recipe

ice cream sandwiches: These are the base of the cake, bringing the ice cream component in a convenient sandwich form.

whipped topping: Adds a light, fluffy layer between the ice cream sandwiches.

miniature chocolate chips: Provides a crunchy contrast and extra chocolate flavor.

mini M&M's: Adds color and a candy-coated crunch.

fudge sauce: Drizzled on top for a rich, chocolatey finish.

One reader, Corinne Cox says:

This ice cream sandwich cake recipe is a delightful treat! It's easy to make and absolutely delicious. The layers of ice cream sandwiches, whipped topping, and candies create a perfect balance of flavors and textures. A definite crowd-pleaser for any occasion!

Corinne Cox

Mastering the Techniques for Perfect Results

Yes.

How to use a piping bag: Fit the piping bag with a large star tip, fill it with whipped topping, and pipe dollops over the ice cream sandwiches. How to freeze layers: Place the assembled layers in the freezer until firm before adding the next layer. How to drizzle fudge sauce: Use a spoon or a squeeze bottle to drizzle the fudge sauce evenly over the top of the cake.

How To Make Ice Cream Sandwich Cake

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 1 minute

Freeze Time: 3 hours

Total: 3 hours 21 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

12ice cream sandwichesunwrapped
16ozwhipped toppingthawed
½cupMiniature chocolate chips
¾cupmini M&M’s
⅓cupfudge sauce

Instructions

Place 4 ice cream sandwiches in a row on a serving plate.
Use a piping bag fitted with a large star tip to pipe dollops of whipped topping over the ice cream sandwiches.
Sprinkle chocolate chips and M&M’s over the layer of whipped topping.
Freeze until firm.
Repeat the process with the remaining ice cream sandwiches, whipped topping and candies until you have 3 layers of ice cream sandwiches and 3 layers of whipped topping and candies. Freeze each layer until firm before proceeding with the next layer.
Freeze the whole cake for at least 1 hour and until firm.
Drizzle the fudge sauce over the top of the cake. Cut into slices then serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 225.46kcal
Fat: 13.98g
Saturated Fat: 8.55g
Trans Fat: 0.02g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3.25g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.41g
Carbohydrates: 22.72g
Fiber: 0.70g
Sugar: 17.50g
Protein: 2.79g
Cholesterol: 38.09mg
Sodium: 54.32mg
Calcium: 78.55mg
Potassium: 112.86mg
Iron: 0.30mg
Vitamin A: 90.90µg
Vitamin C: 0.19mg

Pro Tip for Achieving the Perfect Texture

To ensure the ice cream sandwiches stay firm and easy to work with, place them in the freezer for about 15 minutes before you start assembling the cake. This will make them less likely to melt and easier to handle when layering with the whipped topping and candies.

Time-Saving Hacks for Preparing This Dessert

Use pre-made whipped topping: Save time by using store-bought whipped topping instead of making it from scratch.

Layer in a baking dish: Assemble the ice cream sandwiches in a baking dish to keep them aligned and make freezing easier.

Pre-chill ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are pre-chilled to speed up the freezing process between layers.

Simplify toppings: Mix miniature chocolate chips and mini m&m's together beforehand to quickly sprinkle over each layer.

Use a squeeze bottle: Pour the fudge sauce into a squeeze bottle for easy and precise drizzling over the cake.

Substitute Ingredients For Ice Cream Sandwich Cake Recipe

ice cream sandwiches - Substitute with cookie dough ice cream sandwiches: Adds a different texture and flavor profile, making the dessert more interesting.
whipped topping - Substitute with whipped cream: Provides a fresher and richer taste compared to store-bought whipped topping.
miniature chocolate chips - Substitute with chopped dark chocolate: Offers a more intense chocolate flavor and a slightly different texture.
mini m&m's - Substitute with crushed candy-coated chocolates: Adds a similar crunch and color, but with a different brand or type of candy.
fudge sauce - Substitute with chocolate ganache: Provides a richer and more luxurious chocolate flavor.

Impress Your Guests: Presentation Tips

Use a rectangular platter: Arrange the ice cream sandwiches in a neat, aligned row on a sleek, white rectangular platter to create a clean and elegant base.
Pipe with precision: Utilize a piping bag fitted with a large star tip to pipe perfectly symmetrical dollops of whipped topping over each layer, ensuring uniformity and visual appeal.
Layer with finesse: Carefully sprinkle miniature chocolate chips and mini m&m's over the whipped topping, distributing them evenly for a balanced and colorful presentation.
Freeze for stability: Freeze each layer until firm to maintain the structural integrity of the cake, ensuring it holds its shape when sliced.
Create height: Build three layers of ice cream sandwiches and whipped topping, freezing each layer to achieve a towering, impressive dessert that showcases the multiple textures and flavors.
Drizzle with elegance: Warm the fudge sauce slightly and use a spoon to drizzle it artfully over the top of the cake, allowing it to cascade down the sides for a dramatic effect.
Garnish with flair: Add a final touch by placing a few extra mini m&m's and miniature chocolate chips on top, creating a visually appealing garnish that hints at the flavors within.
Slice with precision: Use a sharp knife to cut the cake into even slices, wiping the blade clean between cuts to ensure each piece is pristine and professional-looking.
Serve with sophistication: Present each slice on individual dessert plates, perhaps with a small dollop of whipped topping and a drizzle of fudge sauce on the side for added elegance.

Essential Equipment for Making Ice Cream Sandwich Cake

Serving plate: A flat dish used to arrange and serve the ice cream sandwiches.
Piping bag: A bag used to pipe the whipped topping onto the ice cream sandwiches.
Large star tip: An attachment for the piping bag to create decorative dollops of whipped topping.
Freezer: An appliance to freeze each layer of the cake until firm.
Spatula: A tool to help spread the whipped topping evenly if needed.
Measuring cups: Used to measure the chocolate chips, mini m&m's, and fudge sauce accurately.
Knife: For cutting the ice cream sandwiches and the final cake into slices.
Spoon: To drizzle the fudge sauce over the top of the cake.

Preserving Freshness: Storage and Freezing Guidelines

Once the ice cream sandwich cake is fully assembled and frozen, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn and to keep it fresh.
For best results, store the wrapped ice cream cake in an airtight container or a large freezer bag. This will help to prevent any unwanted odors from seeping into the cake and will also protect it from getting crushed by other items in the freezer.
Label the container or freezer bag with the date you made the cake, so you can keep track of how long it has been stored.
The ice cream sandwich cake can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. After that, the quality may start to deteriorate, and the cake may develop ice crystals or freezer burn.
When you're ready to serve the cake, remove it from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to soften slightly. This will make it easier to slice and serve.
If you have any leftover ice cream cake, wrap the individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Consume within 1-2 weeks for best quality.

Surprising Trivia About Ice Cream Sandwich Cake

A fun fact about this ice cream sandwich cake recipe is that it combines the nostalgic flavors of ice cream sandwiches with the fun and colorful addition of mini m&m's, making it a delightful treat for both kids and adults.

Budget-Friendly: Making Ice Cream Sandwich Cake at Home

This ice cream sandwich cake recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as ice cream sandwiches, whipped topping, and miniature chocolate chips, are relatively inexpensive and can be found at most grocery stores. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20 USD. Given its simplicity and affordability, this dessert scores a solid 8 out of 10 in terms of cost-effectiveness.

Is This Decadent Dessert Healthy or Unhealthy?

The ice cream sandwich cake recipe is undeniably delicious, but it's far from being a healthy treat. This indulgent dessert is loaded with sugar, fat, and calories, making it an occasional indulgence rather than a regular part of a balanced diet. Here's why:

High sugar content: The ice cream sandwiches, whipped topping, chocolate chips, M&M's, and fudge sauce all contribute to a significant amount of added sugar in this recipe. Consuming excessive amounts of sugar can lead to weight gain, tooth decay, and an increased risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease.
Saturated fat: The ice cream and whipped topping are likely high in saturated fat, which can raise LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease when consumed in excess.
Low nutritional value: This dessert is lacking in essential nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It's primarily composed of empty calories that provide little to no nutritional benefit.

While it's okay to enjoy a slice of this cake occasionally, it's important to balance it with a healthy, nutrient-dense diet and regular physical activity.

To make this recipe a bit healthier, consider the following modifications:

Use low-fat or non-dairy ice cream sandwiches to reduce the saturated fat content
Opt for a lighter whipped topping made with skim milk or a plant-based alternative
Reduce the amount of chocolate chips and M&M's, or replace them with chopped nuts or fresh fruit for added nutrients and fiber
Drizzle the cake with a homemade chocolate sauce made with cocoa powder, a touch of sugar, and milk instead of using store-bought fudge sauce

Remember, the key to enjoying treats like this is moderation. Savor a small slice, and balance it with plenty of nutrient-rich foods and an active lifestyle to support overall health and well-being.

Editor's Take: Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This ice cream sandwich cake recipe is a delightful and straightforward dessert that combines convenience with indulgence. The layering of ice cream sandwiches with whipped topping, chocolate chips, and mini m&m's creates a visually appealing and texturally diverse treat. Freezing each layer ensures a firm and cohesive structure, while the final drizzle of fudge sauce adds a rich, decadent touch. It's perfect for casual gatherings or a fun family treat, though it might benefit from a touch of personalization, such as adding crushed cookies or a variety of sauces to elevate the flavor profile.

Enhance Your Ice Cream Sandwich Cake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Fruit Salad: Elevate your dessert experience with a vibrant fruit salad. Imagine a medley of berries, kiwi, and mango drizzled with a hint of honey and a splash of lime juice. This refreshing side dish adds a burst of color and a tangy contrast to the creamy sweetness of the ice cream sandwich cake.

Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: Complement the ice cream sandwich cake with a plate of chocolate-dipped strawberries. The juicy strawberries coated in rich dark chocolate create a luxurious pairing that enhances the dessert experience. The combination of textures and flavors is simply irresistible.

Mint Lemonade: Quench your thirst with a refreshing glass of mint lemonade. The zesty lemon and cool mint flavors provide a delightful contrast to the rich and creamy ice cream sandwich cake. This invigorating drink is perfect for cleansing the palate between bites.

Caramel Popcorn: Add a touch of whimsy to your dessert spread with a bowl of caramel popcorn. The crunchy, sweet popcorn offers a playful texture that pairs wonderfully with the smooth layers of the ice cream sandwich cake. It's a fun and unexpected treat that will delight guests of all ages.

Berry Compote: Serve a luscious berry compote alongside the ice cream sandwich cake. The warm, syrupy berries create a delightful contrast to the cold, creamy dessert. This elegant side dish adds a touch of sophistication and a burst of fruity flavor to your dessert table.

Craving Something Different? Try These Alternatives

Brownie Ice Cream Cake: Indulge in layers of fudgy brownies and creamy ice cream, topped with a generous drizzle of chocolate ganache and a sprinkle of crushed nuts. This decadent dessert is perfect for any sweet tooth craving.

Frozen Yogurt Bark: A refreshing and healthy treat made with Greek yogurt, swirled with honey and topped with a colorful array of fresh fruits and granola. Freeze it until firm and break into pieces for a delightful snack.

Chocolate Chip Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches: Combine the classic chocolate chip cookie with your favorite ice cream flavor to create a nostalgic and delicious dessert. Roll the edges in mini chocolate chips or sprinkles for an extra touch of fun.

Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake: Layers of graham crackers, whipped cream, and fresh strawberries come together in this no-bake dessert. Let it chill in the fridge until the crackers soften into a cake-like texture, creating a refreshing and fruity treat.

Peanut Butter Cup Ice Cream Pie: A chocolate cookie crust filled with peanut butter ice cream and topped with chocolate syrup, peanut butter cups, and a drizzle of peanut butter. This pie is a dream come true for peanut butter lovers.

Appetizers and Entrées to Serve Alongside This Treat

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these delectable stuffed mushrooms. Imagine cremini mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The mushroom caps are then baked to perfection, creating a crispy, golden-brown top that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a dash of parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any gathering, offering a burst of umami in every mouthful.

Bruschetta: Transport your guests to the heart of Italy with this classic bruschetta. Start with slices of toasted baguette, rubbed with garlic and drizzled with extra virgin olive oil. Top each slice with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella pearls. A splash of balsamic glaze adds a sweet and tangy finish, perfectly balancing the fresh, zesty flavors. This simple yet elegant appetizer is sure to impress, offering a taste of the Mediterranean with every bite.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Elevate your dinner with this succulent chicken dish marinated in a zesty lemon and herb mixture. The chicken is grilled to perfection, ensuring a juicy and flavorful bite every time. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal that’s both healthy and satisfying. The citrusy notes combined with aromatic herbs make this dish a standout choice for any occasion.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed Bell Peppers: Delight your taste buds with these colorful bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and a medley of spices. Baked until the peppers are tender and the filling is perfectly cooked, this dish offers a comforting and hearty option for dinner. Top with melted cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an extra layer of flavor. Pair with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad to round out the meal.

Why trust this Ice Cream Sandwich Cake Recipe:

This ice cream sandwich cake recipe is a delightful treat that's both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Using ice cream sandwiches as the base ensures a consistent and delicious flavor in every bite. The layers of whipped topping, miniature chocolate chips, and mini m&m's add texture and fun, while the fudge sauce drizzle on top brings everything together. It's a no-bake dessert that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum enjoyment, making it perfect for any occasion.

Share your thoughts on this delectable Ice Cream Sandwich Cake recipe in the Baking and Desserts forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

How do I keep the ice cream sandwiches from melting while assembling the cake?

I like to work quickly and keep the ice cream sandwiches in the freezer until I'm ready to use them. If they start to melt, just pop them back in the freezer for a few minutes to firm up.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping?

Absolutely! Homemade whipped cream works great. Just make sure it's whipped to stiff peaks so it holds up well between the layers.

How long should I freeze each layer before adding the next one?

I usually freeze each layer for about 30 minutes to an hour, just until it's firm enough to handle without squishing. It helps keep everything neat and stable.

Can I add other toppings or mix-ins to the cake?

Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your toppings. Crushed cookies, nuts, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce would be delicious additions.

How far in advance can I make this ice cream sandwich cake?

You can make it up to a day in advance. Just keep it well-covered in the freezer to prevent any freezer burn or unwanted flavors from seeping in.