The warm sun beat down as I stood in my backyard, watching kids giggle and dash about—the perfect summer backdrop for indulging in something cool and delightful. Enter the Super Easy M&M Ice Cream Sandwich Cake, a no-bake wonder that epitomizes summertime joy. With soft ice cream sandwiches holding layers of creamy ice cream and vibrant M&M’s, this dessert is not just visually stunning; it’s refreshingly simple to make. What’s even better? You can customize it to your heart’s content with your favorite ice cream flavors and toppings, making it a guaranteed hit at any gathering. Plus, it requires minimal effort, leaving you more time to bask in the warm weather. Ready to dive into your next delicious adventure? Let’s make some magic in the kitchen!
Why is this dessert a summer must-try?
Simplicity at its Core: This M&M Ice Cream Sandwich Cake is delightfully easy to assemble, requiring no baking and minimal prep time.
Endless Customization: Tailor it to your taste! Choose your favorite ice cream flavors and even swap out M&M’s for other candies, creating a unique experience every time.
Refreshing Treat: Perfect for hot summer days, this no-bake dessert will keep you cool while impressing friends and family at barbecues or gatherings.
Visual Appeal: With its vibrant layers and creamy textures, it’s a feast for the eyes as much as it is for the palate. Each slice reveals colorful M&M’s peeking through, sure to bring smiles all around.
Family-Friendly Fun: Kids love helping to assemble this cake, making it a fun family activity during summer break. Plus, it brings back memories of simpler times spent enjoying ice cream treats together.
Why not pair it with some fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra touch? If you’re in the mood for more no-bake ideas, check out our delicious Coconut Dream Cake or Healthy Carrot Cake.
M&M Ice Cream Sandwich Cake Ingredients
• Indulge in this no-bake delight with the perfect mix of creamy and crunchy.
For the Cake Base
- Ice Cream Sandwiches – These soft, sweet treats form the foundation, so choose flavors that excite your taste buds.
For the Ice Cream Layers
- Ice Cream – Go for your favorites; whether it’s vanilla, chocolate, or a fun cookies & cream, they make the cake deliciously creamy.
For the Crunch
- M&M’s – Add colorful fun and a delightful crunch; feel free to swap in your preferred candies if desired.
For Whipped Topping
- Whipped Cream – This light and airy topping not only enhances the dessert’s look but also adds a luxurious creaminess on top.
For Extra Flair
- Extra Candies – Optional but recommended for sprucing up your creation and adding additional texture and flavor.
With this list, you’re all set to assemble your M&M Ice Cream Sandwich Cake, a delightful treat that promises to bring joy to any summer gathering!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for M&M Ice Cream Sandwich Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Begin by laying a single layer of ice cream sandwiches in a 9×13-inch dish, placing them side by side with no gaps. Ensure the sandwiches are aligned neatly to form a solid base for your M&M Ice Cream Sandwich Cake, creating a sturdy foundation for the delightful layers to come.
Step 2: Add Ice Cream
Next, take your softened ice cream, allowing it to sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes. Using a spatula, spread a generous layer of the ice cream about 1 inch thick evenly over the layer of ice cream sandwiches. Aim for a smooth and creamy surface that will blend beautifully with the M&M’s in the following steps.
Step 3: Layer M&M’s
Sprinkle a generous handful of M&M’s over the ice cream layer, ensuring they are evenly distributed for delightful color and crunch in every bite. Use your fingers to gently press the candies down into the ice cream, encouraging them to nestle in place and adding an extra layer of fun to your M&M Ice Cream Sandwich Cake.
Step 4: Repeat Layers
Carefully place another layer of ice cream sandwiches on top of the M&M’s, pushing them gently into the ice cream below. Follow with another layer of softened ice cream, spreading it evenly once again, and repeat the sprinkle of M&M’s. Continue this process until you reach your desired height, making sure each layer is well-formed and visually appealing.
Step 5: Chill
Cover your assembled cake tightly with plastic wrap, ensuring it is sealed well to prevent ice crystals from forming. Place the dish in the freezer for 4 to 6 hours, allowing the M&M Ice Cream Sandwich Cake to set completely. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s firm to the touch and holds its shape when you remove it from the dish.
Step 6: Serve
After chilling, let the cake sit at room temperature for about 5 to 10 minutes before slicing to make it easier to cut through the layers. Using a sharp knife, cut the cake into squares, revealing the colorful M&M’s and creamy layers that make this dessert so enticing. Serve and watch everyone enjoy!
Make Ahead Options
These M&M Ice Cream Sandwich Cake is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the entire cake up to 24 hours in advance, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or summer gatherings. To prepare ahead, simply layer the ice cream sandwiches, ice cream, and M&M’s as instructed, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to serve, just allow the cake to sit at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing, which helps maintain its delightful texture. This way, you’ll savor each bite just as delicious as if it were freshly made, freeing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones.
What to Serve with M&M Ice Cream Sandwich Cake
Brighten up your summer gatherings with delightful dishes that perfectly complement this indulgent dessert.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add a burst of natural sweetness and freshness, creating a balanced dessert experience. Their tartness beautifully contrasts the richness of the cake, making each bite refreshing.
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Chocolate Sauce: A drizzle of warm chocolate sauce enhances the decadence of the M&M Ice Cream Sandwich Cake. The silky texture blends wonderfully with the creamy ice cream, adding an extra layer of indulgence.
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Whipped Cream: Serve a fluffy dollop alongside your cake for a light, airy touch. The sweet creaminess of whipped cream perfectly complements the colorful layers, giving every slice a sumptuous finish.
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Ice Cream Sundae Toppings: Elevate your cake experience with an assortment of toppings like crushed nuts, caramel sauce, or sprinkles. These add varied textures and flavors, transforming each bite into a delightful surprise.
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Lemonade or Iced Tea: Refresh everyone with a chilled glass of homemade lemonade or iced tea. The citrusy or herbal notes provide a light, refreshing contrast to the sweet dessert, balancing out the flavors beautifully.
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Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad featuring melons, oranges, and pineapple brings brightness and vibrancy to the table. This fresh medley lightens the meal, inviting everyone to savor the juicy flavors as a palate cleanser.
M&M Ice Cream Sandwich Cake Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this dessert to fit your taste buds and occasion!
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Flavor Swaps: Experiment with different ice cream flavors like mint chocolate chip or strawberry to add a new twist to your cake’s flavor profile.
Each variation creates a unique taste adventure, making it feel fresh and exciting, even on repeat. -
Candy Change-Up: Use crushed Oreos or chopped nuts instead of M&M’s for a different textural experience.
The crunchiness along with the creamy layers creates a delightful contrast that’s sure to wow your guests! -
Sauce Additions: Drizzle chocolate or caramel sauce between layers for a rich, luxurious flavor.
These sweet touches add a touch of decadence that can make this dessert even more indulgent. -
Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute ice cream and whipped topping for dairy-free options for a lactose-free version.
You’ll still enjoy all the creamy textures without any dairy, perfect for guests with dietary restrictions. -
Mexican Chocolate: Use a cinnamon or spicy chocolate ice cream for a little heat.
This unexpected twist can transform your cake into an exotic treat, sure to surprise and delight those who try it! -
Fruit Infusion: Incorporate fresh fruit like sliced bananas, strawberries, or even mango to bring a refreshing burst of flavor.
The fruit adds a sweet and tangy twist, bringing a delightful contrast to the creaminess of the dessert. -
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or almonds as an additional layer for a delightful crunch.
Nuts not only add flavor but also bring wholesome nutrition to this fun dessert, making it a little more satisfying for everyone.
And if you’re looking for more easy recipes, don’t forget to check out our Bacon Cream Cheese or the delectable Free Cookies Cream. Enjoy your homemade goodness!
Expert Tips for M&M Ice Cream Sandwich Cake
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Soften Ice Cream: Allow your ice cream to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. This makes spreading it easier and prevents ice cream sandwiches from cracking.
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Choose Wisely: Pick high-quality ice cream sandwiches and ice cream that you genuinely enjoy. The flavors will shine through for an unforgettable M&M Ice Cream Sandwich Cake.
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Layering Technique: Use a spatula to evenly spread the ice cream and keep layers consistent. This helps ensure each slice is visually appealing and delicious.
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Chill Completely: Be patient during the freezing step. Freezing for the full 4 to 6 hours ensures the cake holds its shape when served and enhances the texture.
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Cut with Care: When slicing, use a sharp knife and cut straight down to maintain the integrity of the layers. This will showcase those beautiful colors!
How to Store and Freeze M&M Ice Cream Sandwich Cake
- Fridge: Store any leftover M&M Ice Cream Sandwich Cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, covered tightly with plastic wrap, to maintain its texture and flavor.
- Freezer: For longer storage, keep the cake in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a week. This preserves freshness and prevents freezer burn.
- Assembling Ahead of Time: You can assemble the cake up to 24 hours in advance; simply ensure it’s well-covered in the freezer to keep it good until serving.
- Reheating: There’s no need for reheating; simply allow the cake to sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before serving for easy slicing.
M&M Ice Cream Sandwich Cake Recipe FAQs
What types of ice cream are best for this cake?
Absolutely! The best choices are those that have a creamy texture and flavors you love. Vanilla and chocolate are classic options, but feel free to get adventurous with cookie dough or pistachio. Just make sure the ice cream is softened for easy spreading—let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes.
How should I store leftover cake?
To keep your leftover M&M Ice Cream Sandwich Cake fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to store it longer, pop it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a week. Be sure to let it sit out for about 5-10 minutes at room temperature before serving again to soften slightly.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Very! You can assemble the M&M Ice Cream Sandwich Cake up to 24 hours in advance. Just make sure it’s tightly covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the freezer to maintain its consistency and flavor until you’re ready to serve.
What if my ice cream sandwiches crack while assembling?
Don’t worry; it happens! If that’s the case, try letting your ice cream sit out a bit longer to soften, which makes spreading easier and helps prevent cracking. Alternatively, if cracks do occur, simply use some whipped cream to patch them up between layers. A little creativity can still yield a beautiful cake!
Is this dessert suitable for kids and those with allergies?
Definitely! This M&M Ice Cream Sandwich Cake is a fun, family-friendly treat. However, if you’re making it for someone with allergies, make sure to check the ingredients in your ice cream sandwiches, ice cream, and candies as they may contain common allergens like nuts or gluten. Always opt for allergy-friendly alternatives when necessary.
Can I freeze this cake, and for how long?
Yes, you can freeze the M&M Ice Cream Sandwich Cake! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to avoid freezer burn. It will keep well for up to a week. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes before cutting and serving to make slicing easier.
Tempting M&M Ice Cream Sandwich Cake That's No-Bake Fun
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by laying a single layer of ice cream sandwiches in a 9x13-inch dish, placing them side by side with no gaps.
- Next, take your softened ice cream and spread a generous layer about 1 inch thick over the layer of ice cream sandwiches.
- Sprinkle a generous handful of M&M's over the ice cream layer, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Carefully place another layer of ice cream sandwiches on top of the M&M's, then add another layer of softened ice cream and repeat with M&M's until desired height is reached.
- Cover the assembled cake tightly with plastic wrap and place in the freezer for 4 to 6 hours to set completely.
- After chilling, let the cake sit at room temperature for about 5 to 10 minutes before slicing into squares.
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