Peppermint Ice Cream Bars are the easiest holiday treat! Ice cream sandwiches make the cakey layers in this simple, show-stopping dessert.
Peppermint Ice Cream Bars
One of my most viral recipes on social media is this Ice Cream Sandwich Cake—and for good reason! It takes just minutes to assemble but tastes like you spent hours making it. When my kids requested it in the middle of winter (after debating if ice cream in the cold of December was allowed), I decided to make a holiday version with peppermint ice cream.
Let me tell you, it did not disappoint—it might just be my favorite version yet! If you’re looking for a quick and easy dessert during the holiday rush, this recipe is for you.
Peppermint Ice Cream Bars
- Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use a sharp knife to trim sandwiches for a perfect fit.
- Peppermint Ice Cream: Let it soften slightly for easier spreading.
- Whipped Topping: Make sure it’s fully thawed for easy spreading.
- Crushed Oreos (Optional): Sprinkle just before serving to keep the crunch.
- Peppermint Bark or Crunch Candies (Optional): Chop finely for an even sprinkle across the topping.
Quick Tip
Choose a brand of peppermint ice cream that you already enjoy! Not sure which one to pick? Check out this helpful article.
How To Make Peppermint Ice Cream Bars
- Prep pan: Line a 9×9-inch pan with parchment.
- First layer: Arrange nine ice cream sandwiches in the pan.
- Second layer: Spread half the ice cream on top.
- Third layer: Add another nine sandwiches on top, and press down.
- Fourth layer: Cover with remaining ice cream.
- Top layer: Spread whipped topping; add optional toppings if desired.
- Freeze: Cover and freeze.
- Serve: Use the parchment overhang to lift out, cut, and serve.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer. Best enjoyed within 1 month.
More Peppermint Treats
- Peppermint Popcorn with white chocolate
- Peppermint Cookies only 4-ingredients
- Chocolate Peppermint Cookies fudgy and delicious
- Peppermint Bark Muddy Buddies the best snack mix
- Peppermint Bark Pretzels only 3-ingredients
Peppermint Ice Cream Bars
Equipment
- Baking pan 9 x 9-inch
- Parchment paper
Ingredients
- 18 regular-sized vanilla ice cream sandwiches unwrapped
- 48 ounces peppermint ice cream
- 8 ounces frozen whipped topping thawed to room temperature
- 3 to 4 Oreos crushed, optional
- Finely chopped peppermint bark or peppermint crunch candies, optional
Instructions
- Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal. Allow peppermint ice cream to soften slightly at room temperature, but don’t let it become too soft or melty.
- 1st Layer: Unwrap and place 9 ice cream sandwiches in the bottom of the pan. Trim 2 sandwiches to fit (see pictures in post).
- 2nd Layer: Evenly spread half the softened peppermint ice cream over the layer of sandwiches.
- 3rd Layer: Add another layer of 9 ice cream sandwiches on top of the ice cream layer. Press down firmly to create a compact layer.
- 4th Layer: Spread remaining peppermint ice cream over the top, smoothing it into an even layer.
- 5th Layer: Cover the ice cream with thawed whipped topping. If desired, sprinkle crushed Oreos and peppermint crunch candies over the whipped topping.
- Cover the pan tightly and freeze for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, until layers are firm.
- Remove the ice cream bars from the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Use a knife warmed under hot water (and dried) for clean cuts. Slice into bars and serve immediately.
Video
Recipe Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
