Name: PB and J Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 9
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups regular or low-fat vanilla ice cream; ½ cup peanut butter; 9 full-size graham crackers; ¼ cup your favorite jam or jelly

These PB&J ice cream sandwiches are bound to become your new summertime treat. The creamy peanut butter and vanilla ice cream layered with your favorite jam or jelly, sandwiched between crunchy graham crackers, will have kids and adults alike asking for more. This fun twist on the classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich is a perfect way to cool down on a hot day.

Photos of PB and J Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe

This recipe uses ingredients that most people will already have in their pantry: peanut butter, jam, graham crackers, and vanilla ice cream. If you don't, these ingredients are easily found in the supermarket. The peanut butter adds a creamy, nutty taste that pairs well with the sweet jam and vanilla ice cream. Choose your favorite flavor of jam or jelly for this recipe - strawberry or grape would work well.

Ingredients for PB and J Ice Cream Sandwiches

Vanilla ice cream: This is the base of your ice cream sandwich. The vanilla flavor serves as a blank canvas to the rich peanut butter and sweet jam.

Peanut butter: Gives the ice cream a creamy, nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the jam and ice cream.

Graham crackers: These will form the 'bread' of your ice cream sandwich. They add a crunchy texture to the creamy ice cream.

Jam or jelly: This ingredient adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the ice cream sandwich. You can use any flavor you like.

One reader, Isidro Coulter says:

This PB and J ice cream sandwich recipe is a game-changer! The combination of creamy vanilla ice cream, rich peanut butter, and sweet jam between graham crackers is pure bliss. It's a delightful treat that's easy to make and perfect for satisfying those sweet cravings. Highly recommend trying it out!

Isidro Coulter

Techniques Required for Making PB and J Ice Cream Sandwiches

How to soften ice cream: Leave the ice cream out on the counter for 10 minutes to soften it, making it easier to mix with the peanut butter.

How to spread the peanut butter-ice cream mixture: Line a baking dish with waxed paper and spread the peanut butter-ice cream mixture on the waxed paper, then cover it with another sheet of waxed paper before placing it in the freezer.

How to cut the frozen mixture: Once the mixture is frozen, turn it out onto a cutting board, peel off the waxed paper, and use a chef’s knife to cut it into nine squares, the same size as the graham crackers.

How to assemble the sandwiches: Spread the jam or jelly on a graham cracker, add a square of peanut butter-ice cream mixture, and top with another graham cracker to create the ice cream sandwiches.

How to store the sandwiches: Once assembled, place each finished sandwich in the freezer immediately to prevent melting. Alternatively, wrap each sandwich in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag in the freezer.

How To Make PB and J Ice Cream Sandwiches

Two childhood favorites come together in these fun and delicious ice cream sandwiches! Enjoy bites of peanut butter, ice cream, and jelly all in one snack.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking:

Freeze Time: 45 minutes

Total: 1 hour

Serves:

Ingredients

2cupsvanilla ice cream,regular or low-fat vanilla ice cream
½cuppeanut butter,creamy or crunchy
9graham crackers,full-size
¼cupjam,or jelly, any desired flavor

Instructions

Spoon the ice cream into the mixing bowl. Soften it by leaving the ice cream out on the counter for 10 minutes.
Mix the peanut butter into the ice cream with the rubber spatula.
Line the baking dish with waxed paper and spread the peanut butter- ice cream mixture on the waxed paper.
Cover the mixture with another sheet of waxed paper, and then put the mixture in the freezer for 20 to 45 minutes, or until solid.
Turn the frozen mixture out onto the cutting board, and peel off the waxed paper. Use the chef’s knife to cut the mixture into nine squares the same size as the graham crackers.
With the table knife, spread the jam or jelly on a graham cracker, add a square of peanut butter-ice cream mixture, and top with another graham cracker.
Put each finished sandwich in the freezer immediately. Alternatively, wrap each sandwich in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag in the freezer.
Serve and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 231.34kcal
Fat: 12.08g
Saturated Fat: 3.70g
Trans Fat: 0.02g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.94g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.68g
Carbohydrates: 27.11g
Fiber: 1.50g
Sugar: 15.52g
Protein: 5.18g
Cholesterol: 12.91mg
Sodium: 93.01mg
Calcium: 57.13mg
Potassium: 169.00mg
Iron: 0.85mg
Vitamin A: 34.61µg
Vitamin C: 0.96mg

Crucial Technique Tip for PB and J Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe

To ensure a smooth and even spread of the peanut butter and ice cream mixture, consider warming up the peanut butter slightly before mixing it in. This can be done by placing the peanut butter in a microwave-safe bowl and heating it for about 20-30 seconds. This will make the peanut butter more pliable and easier to mix into the ice cream, resulting in a more uniform flavor throughout your pb and j ice cream sandwiches.

Time-Saving Tips for PB and J Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe

Preparation: Gather all ingredients and equipment before starting to make the recipe. This will help streamline the process and prevent any last-minute scrambling.

Organization: Keep your workspace clean and organized to avoid any unnecessary clutter and confusion while preparing the recipe.

Multi-tasking: Look for opportunities to multi-task, such as softening the ice cream while preparing the other components, to save time and increase efficiency.

Chilling: Place the assembled sandwiches in the freezer immediately to prevent melting and ensure they set properly.

Make-ahead: Consider making the peanut butter-ice cream mixture in advance and storing it in the freezer, so it's ready to use when assembling the sandwiches.

Substitute Ingredients For PB and J Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe

vanilla ice cream - Substitute with coconut milk ice cream: Coconut milk ice cream can provide a similar creamy texture and a hint of coconut flavor, which can complement the peanut butter and jelly flavors well.
peanut butter - Substitute with almond butter: Almond butter can provide a similar nutty flavor and creamy texture, while also offering a slightly different taste profile to the ice cream sandwiches.
graham crackers - Substitute with gluten-free graham crackers: For those with gluten sensitivities, using gluten-free graham crackers can provide a suitable alternative without compromising the overall texture and flavor of the ice cream sandwiches.
jam or jelly - Substitute with fruit compote: Fruit compote can offer a similar fruity sweetness and texture, while also providing a more natural and less processed alternative to traditional jam or jelly.

How to Beautifully Present PB and J Ice Cream Sandwiches

Elevate the ice cream sandwich: To elevate the presentation of the ice cream sandwich, consider using a tempered chocolate garnish. Create a thin layer of tempered chocolate and cut it into elegant shapes to place on top of the sandwich.
Garnish with fresh fruit: Add a touch of sophistication by garnishing the plate with fresh berries or edible flowers. This will not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Incorporate a drizzle: Create an artistic drizzle on the plate using a fruit coulis or a chocolate sauce. This will add a professional touch to the presentation and create an inviting visual appeal.
Utilize a dusting of powdered sugar: Lightly dust the plate with powdered sugar using a fine-mesh sieve to add a delicate and elegant finish to the presentation.
Consider plating on a chilled serving dish: Present the ice cream sandwich on a chilled serving dish to maintain the integrity of the dessert and create a visually appealing contrast between the cold dish and the vibrant colors of the sandwich.
Add a touch of gold leaf: For an extra touch of luxury, consider adding a delicate, edible gold leaf to the presentation. This will add a shimmering, luxurious element to the dish.
Use a custom stencil for powdered cocoa: Create a custom stencil with a culinary design and use it to dust powdered cocoa onto the plate, adding an artistic and professional touch to the presentation.
Incorporate a mirror glaze: Consider incorporating a mirror glaze to add a glossy, professional finish to the presentation. The reflective surface will enhance the visual appeal of the dish.
Present on a slate or marble board: For a modern and elegant presentation, serve the ice cream sandwich on a sleek slate or marble board. This will create a sophisticated and stylish presentation.
Utilize microgreens as a garnish: Add a touch of finesse to the presentation by using delicate microgreens as a garnish. The vibrant green color and delicate texture will elevate the overall visual appeal of the dish.

Essential Tools for Making PB and J Ice Cream Sandwiches

Mixing bowl: A large, round bowl used for combining and mixing ingredients.
Rubber spatula: A flexible spatula used for scraping and mixing ingredients.
Baking dish: A rectangular or square dish used for baking and freezing the ice cream mixture.
Waxed paper: Used for lining the baking dish and for wrapping the ice cream sandwiches.
Cutting board: A sturdy board used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Chef’s knife: A versatile knife used for cutting the frozen ice cream mixture into squares.
Table knife: A small knife used for spreading the jam or jelly on the graham crackers.
Plastic wrap: Used for wrapping and storing the finished ice cream sandwiches in the freezer.

Storing and Freezing PB and J Ice Cream Sandwiches

Once you've assembled the pb and j ice cream sandwiches, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn and to keep them fresh.
Place the individually wrapped sandwiches in a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
Label the container or bag with the date you made the sandwiches, so you can keep track of how long they've been in the freezer.
Store the ice cream sandwiches in the freezer for up to 1 month for the best quality and flavor.
When you're ready to enjoy a sandwich, remove it from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to soften slightly, making it easier to bite into without breaking the graham crackers.
If you've made a large batch and don't plan on consuming all the sandwiches within a month, consider double-wrapping them in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for extra protection against freezer burn.
Alternatively, you can store the peanut butter ice cream mixture separately in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you're ready to assemble the sandwiches, simply thaw the mixture slightly, cut it into squares, and assemble the sandwiches with the graham crackers and jam as directed in the recipe.

Interesting Trivia About PB and J Ice Cream Sandwiches

Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are a classic American favorite, with the average American consuming 1,500 of them before graduating high school.

Is Making PB and J Ice Cream Sandwiches at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this pb and j ice cream sandwiches recipe is quite high. The ingredients are simple and easily accessible, making it budget-friendly for a household. The combination of peanut butter, jam or jelly, and vanilla ice cream creates a delightful treat that is both affordable and satisfying. Rating: 9/10. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10, making it an economical dessert option.

Are PB and J Ice Cream Sandwiches Healthy?

The PB&J ice cream sandwich recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not the healthiest treat. Here's why:

High in sugar: The combination of ice cream, peanut butter, and jelly results in a significant amount of added sugar, which can contribute to obesity, diabetes, and other health issues when consumed in excess.
Saturated fat: Regular ice cream and peanut butter contain saturated fats, which can raise LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease.
Refined carbohydrates: Graham crackers are made with refined flour, which lacks fiber and essential nutrients found in whole grains.
Calorie-dense: The combination of high-fat ingredients like ice cream and peanut butter makes this treat calorie-dense, meaning it's easy to overeat and consume more calories than needed.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Opt for a low-fat or non-dairy ice cream alternative, such as those made with almond milk, coconut milk, or Greek yogurt, to reduce the saturated fat content
Choose a natural, unsweetened peanut butter to minimize added sugars and oils
Replace graham crackers with a whole-grain alternative, such as whole-wheat digestive biscuits or oat crackers, to increase the fiber content
Use a reduced-sugar or fruit-only jelly to decrease the overall sugar content
Portion control is key: cut the sandwiches into smaller sizes to encourage mindful eating and reduce the likelihood of overindulging

Editor's Opinion on the PB and J Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe

This recipe for PB&J ice cream sandwiches is a delightful twist on a classic treat. The combination of creamy vanilla ice cream, rich peanut butter, and sweet jam sandwiched between graham crackers creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The simple steps make it easy to prepare, and the end result is a refreshing and indulgent dessert that will surely impress your guests. It's a fun and delicious way to enjoy the nostalgic flavors of a PB&J sandwich in a new and exciting form.

Enhance Your PB and J Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Vegetables: Try serving a side of grilled vegetables to complement the sweet and creamy pb&j ice cream sandwiches. The smoky flavor of the vegetables will provide a nice contrast to the richness of the dessert.

Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad would be a perfect accompaniment to the pb&j ice cream sandwiches. The combination of fresh fruits will add a burst of natural sweetness to the meal.

Chicken Skewers: For a savory option, consider serving chicken skewers alongside the pb&j ice cream sandwiches. The juicy and flavorful chicken will provide a satisfying contrast to the sweet dessert.

Delicious Alternatives to PB and J Ice Cream Sandwiches

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This creamy tomato basil soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy texture makes this soup a crowd-pleaser.

Grilled Peach Salad with Goat Cheese: This grilled peach salad with goat cheese is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. The juicy grilled peaches, creamy goat cheese, and tangy balsamic vinaigrette create a refreshing and satisfying salad.

Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon: This honey garlic glazed salmon is a mouthwatering dish that is both healthy and delicious. The sweet and savory glaze pairs perfectly with the tender and flaky salmon, making it a standout meal for any occasion.

Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with PB and J Ice Cream Sandwiches

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. They are the perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Indulge in this creamy and cheesy spinach and artichoke dip, served with crispy tortilla chips or warm bread. It's a crowd-pleasing appetizer that will have everyone coming back for more.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Creamy, indulgent, and comforting, this dish is perfect for a cozy night in. The rich and savory alfredo sauce pairs perfectly with tender chicken and al dente pasta, creating a satisfying and delicious meal.

Beef Stir Fry: A flavorful and colorful dish that is both healthy and satisfying. The tender beef, crisp vegetables, and savory sauce come together to create a balanced and delicious meal that is sure to please the whole family.

Why trust this PB and J Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful twist on a classic treat, combining the creamy goodness of vanilla ice cream with the rich flavor of peanut butter. The addition of jam or jelly adds a burst of fruity sweetness, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. With the use of quality ingredients such as peanut butter and vanilla ice cream, this recipe promises a delectable indulgence that's sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. The careful freezing process ensures a perfect, firm texture, making it a reliable and enjoyable dessert option for all.

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FAQ:

Can I use a different flavor of ice cream?

Yes, you can definitely use a different flavor of ice cream to customize the sandwiches to your liking. Chocolate, strawberry, or even cookie dough ice cream would all work well with the peanut butter and jelly flavors.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add a nice texture to the ice cream sandwiches, and the small peanut pieces will provide a delightful crunch.

Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?

Yes, you can make these sandwiches ahead of time. Simply wrap each sandwich in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag in the freezer. They will keep well for a few days.

Can I use a different type of cracker?

While graham crackers work well for this recipe, you can certainly experiment with different types of cookies or crackers to create unique flavor combinations.

Can I use homemade jam or jelly?

Of course! Using homemade jam or jelly will add a personal touch to the sandwiches. Just make sure the consistency is spreadable for easy assembly.