When it comes to summer desserts that scream fun, nostalgia, and total indulgence, these S’mores Ice Cream Sandwiches with Colored Marshmallows are an absolute showstopper. They take everything you love about classic campfire s’mores—gooey marshmallows, melty chocolate, crunchy graham crackers—and mash it up with rich vanilla ice cream. The twist? We’re using vibrant, pastel-colored marshmallows for a playful pop, making them not only a hit in flavor but also in looks. Whether you’re putting together a 4th of July party food for a crowd or just want something extra fun for a sunny backyard day, this is a must-make. Think of them as one of those perfect red white and blue desserts—but with a rainbow flair!
S’mores Ice Cream Sandwiches with Colored Marshmallows
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Freezing 1 hour hr 45 minutes mins
Total Time 2 hours hrs
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Baking sheet or tray (to assemble and freeze the sandwiches)
Microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan (for melting chocolate)
Parchment paper or silicone mat (to prevent sticking)
Freezer-safe container (for storing sandwiches)
Spoon or offset spatula (for spreading ice cream)
- 12 graham cracker squares or more for a bigger batch
- 1 pint vanilla ice cream or swap for chocolate, strawberry, or even cookies and cream
- 1 ½ cups colored marshmallows mini size works best
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or butter for smoother chocolate melting
- Optional toppings: sprinkles crushed peanuts, shredded coconut, or red, white, and blue candy bits
Prep your tray
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place it in the freezer to chill. This helps prevent melting when assembling the sandwiches.
Soften the ice cream
Leave your pint of vanilla ice cream at room temp for about 5–10 minutes so it’s easier to spread.
Assemble the base
Break your graham crackers into squares and lay half of them out on the cold tray.
Spread the ice cream
Use a spoon or spatula to spread about 2 tablespoons of ice cream on each cracker. Don’t overdo it or they’ll be too messy to eat!
Add the marshmallows
Press colored marshmallows gently into the top of the ice cream. Go wild here—this is where the fun really starts.
Top it off
Place another graham cracker on top of each one to form sandwiches. Press lightly to secure.
Freeze
Stick the tray in the freezer for at least 1.5 hours, or until the sandwiches are firm.
Top with chocolate
Once the sandwiches are frozen, melt the chocolate chips with coconut oil in the microwave (30-second intervals, stirring in between). Spoon or spread a layer of melted chocolate over the top graham cracker of each sandwich, letting it gently drip down the sides. If desired, immediately add sprinkles or candy bits on top while the chocolate is still wet.
Final freeze
Return to the freezer for 15 more minutes to set the chocolate.
Pairings
These sandwiches go hand-in-hand with chilled fourth of July drinks like berry lemonade, sparkling water with frozen fruit cubes, or even a fizzy strawberry soda float. They also balance out savory 4th of July appetizer ideas like mini sliders or grilled corn dip beautifully. You could even serve them after a table full of easy 4th of July food for a crowd—think hot dogs, pasta salads, and BBQ skewers. Talk about rounding out your patriotic food spread!
FAQs
1. Can I use different ice cream flavors?
Absolutely! Vanilla is classic, but chocolate, marshmallow swirl, or even strawberry add fun flavor layers.
2. What type of marshmallows work best?
Mini colored marshmallows are easiest to press into the ice cream, but you can also cut larger ones into pieces. Look for pastel rainbow packs or make your own red white and blue marshmallow mix to tie into other 4th of July desserts.
3. Can I make them ahead?
Yes! These sandwiches keep well in a freezer-safe container for up to a week. They’re ideal for prepping as a make-ahead fourth of July food dessert.
4. Can I make this dairy-free?
Sure can. Use your favorite dairy-free ice cream and vegan chocolate chips to keep it plant-based.
