This Easy M&M Ice Cream Sandwich Cake is the ultimate no-bake dessert for any occasion! Made with layers of soft ice cream sandwiches, whipped topping, and colorful M&Ms, this treat is as fun to make as it is to eat. Perfect for birthdays, summer parties, or a quick family dessert, this cake comes together in minutes and requires minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No baking required – Perfect for hot days when you don’t want to use the oven.
- Super easy to make – Assembles in just 10 minutes with store-bought ingredients.
- Customizable – Use your favorite ice cream sandwiches and toppings.
- Fun and colorful – M&Ms add a festive and crunchy touch.
- Make-ahead dessert – Ideal for prepping in advance for parties or gatherings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Ice cream sandwiches (vanilla or chocolate chip)
- Whipped topping (like Cool Whip, thawed)
- M&Ms (regular or mini)
- Chocolate syrup (optional, for drizzling)
- Sprinkles (optional, for extra decoration)
Directions
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- Prepare the base layer:
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, lay a single layer of ice cream sandwiches side by side to cover the bottom. You may need to cut some sandwiches to fit.
- Add whipped topping:
- Spread a generous layer of whipped topping over the ice cream sandwiches using a spatula to create an even layer.
- Repeat the layers:
- Add a second layer of ice cream sandwiches on top of the whipped topping, followed by another layer of whipped topping.
- Decorate the cake:
- Sprinkle M&Ms evenly over the top layer of whipped topping.
- Drizzle with chocolate syrup and add sprinkles for extra flair (optional).
- Freeze:
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until the cake is firm and easy to slice.
- Serve:
- Remove from the freezer 10 minutes before serving for easier slicing. Cut into squares and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12–16 servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Freeze Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate Lover’s Cake: Use chocolate ice cream sandwiches and add mini chocolate chips along with M&Ms.
- Peanut Butter Crunch: Add a drizzle of peanut butter sauce and use peanut M&Ms for extra flavor.
- Mint Chip Delight: Use mint ice cream sandwiches and sprinkle with crushed Oreo cookies.
- Fruity Fun: Top with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or banana slices for a refreshing twist.
- Birthday Cake Version: Add rainbow sprinkles inside the layers for a festive touch.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 week.
- Reheating: No reheating needed—serve straight from the freezer after letting it soften slightly for 5–10 minutes.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the cake the day before and keep it frozen until ready to serve.
FAQs
Can I use homemade ice cream sandwiches?
Yes, homemade ice cream sandwiches will work, but store-bought ones are quicker and easier for this recipe.
What’s the best whipped topping to use?
Cool Whip or any store-bought whipped topping works well. You can also use homemade whipped cream but ensure it’s stabilized.
Can I use different candies instead of M&Ms?
Absolutely! Try using crushed Oreos, Reese’s Pieces, or chocolate chips for different flavors and textures.
How long does this cake need to freeze?
At least 4 hours, but overnight freezing will give the best results.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free ice cream sandwiches and double-check the labels on your toppings to ensure they’re gluten-free.
How do I cut the cake cleanly?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water, wiping between cuts for neat slices.
Can I add fruit to the layers?
Yes, fresh or frozen berries can be added between layers for a fruity twist.
Will the M&Ms get hard in the freezer?
Yes, they will harden but soften slightly after sitting at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Can I use dairy-free ingredients?
Yes, use dairy-free ice cream sandwiches and whipped topping to make the recipe vegan-friendly.
What’s the best way to serve this cake for a party?
Cut the cake into small squares and serve on a tray with extra chocolate drizzle and sprinkles for a festive presentation.
Conclusion
This Easy M&M Ice Cream Sandwich Cake is the perfect no-bake dessert for any celebration or casual get-together. With layers of creamy ice cream sandwiches, fluffy whipped topping, and colorful M&Ms, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Quick to assemble, fun to customize, and perfect for making ahead, this cool treat will become your go-to dessert for summer parties and beyond!
PrintEasy M&M Ice Cream Sandwich Cake Recipe
This Easy M&M Ice Cream Sandwich Cake is the ultimate no-bake dessert! Layers of ice cream sandwiches, whipped topping, chocolate sauce, and colorful M&Ms come together for a fun and festive treat that’s perfect for kids and adults alike.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake, Freezing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 12 ice cream sandwiches (vanilla or any flavor you like)
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 cup mini M&Ms (plus extra for garnish)
- ½ cup chocolate syrup (plus extra for drizzling)
- ¼ cup caramel sauce (optional)
- Sprinkles (optional, for extra fun)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Base Layer:
- Arrange 6 ice cream sandwiches in a single layer on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish or on a serving platter. You may need to trim the sandwiches slightly to fit.
-
Add Layers:
- Spread half of the whipped topping evenly over the ice cream sandwiches.
- Drizzle half of the chocolate syrup over the whipped topping and sprinkle half of the mini M&Ms on top.
-
Repeat Layers:
- Add another layer of the remaining 6 ice cream sandwiches on top.
- Spread the remaining whipped topping over the second layer.
- Drizzle with the rest of the chocolate syrup (and caramel sauce if using).
- Sprinkle the remaining M&Ms and sprinkles over the top for decoration.
-
Freeze:
- Cover the cake with plastic wrap or foil and freeze for at least 2-3 hours, or until firm.
-
Serve:
- Remove from the freezer 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly for easier slicing.
- Slice, serve, and enjoy!
Notes
- Swap out vanilla ice cream sandwiches for chocolate, strawberry, or cookies & cream for variety.
- Add crushed Oreos, chopped nuts, or toffee bits between layers for extra crunch.
- Store leftovers in the freezer for up to 1 week.