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Cinnamon Roll Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe

I absolutely love how this Cinnamon Roll Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe brings together the warm, soft sweetness of cinnamon rolls with the cool, creamy comfort of vanilla ice cream. It’s one of those treats that feels indulgent yet incredibly simple to whip up, perfect for impressing guests or just treating yourself on a sunny afternoon.

When I first tried making these, I was amazed at how easily store-bought cinnamon rolls transform into a fun, dessert sandwich that pleases every age group. You’ll find the contrast between the gooey cinnamon layers and smooth ice cream makes every bite a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making this recipe worth every minute.

❤️

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple Ingredients: Uses easy-to-find store-bought cinnamon rolls paired with classic vanilla ice cream for a fuss-free dessert.
  • Quick to Prepare: From start to finish, it takes under an hour, making it ideal for last-minute get-togethers.
  • Perfect Texture Contrast: Warm, fluffy cinnamon rolls paired with frozen ice cream create an irresistible bite.
  • Family Favorite: My loved ones go crazy for this, especially those who adore cinnamon rolls and ice cream alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Cinnamon Roll Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe, I stick to the basics because the magic is in the combo. A quality store-bought cinnamon roll works wonders, and creamy vanilla ice cream rounds it out perfectly.

  • Unbaked cinnamon rolls: I usually grab Pillsbury Grands! for their soft, fluffy texture and reliable taste that bakes beautifully every time.
  • Vanilla ice cream: Choose your favorite brand or homemade vanilla ice cream; smoother ice cream melts less quickly and holds up nicely.
  • Icing packet: Comes with the cinnamon rolls—perfect for drizzling on top to add that classic, sweet finish.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love to switch things up based on what I have at home or who I’m sharing these with. This Cinnamon Roll Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe is pretty forgiving, so feel free to customize away!

  • Different Ice Cream Flavors: Sometimes I swap vanilla for cinnamon swirl or caramel ice cream, adding another layer of flavor that my family enjoys.
  • Healthier Options: Using light or dairy-free ice cream can satisfy cravings while accommodating dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
  • Add Nuts or Chocolate Chips: Mixing in a handful of chopped pecans or mini chocolate chips inside the ice cream layer brings delightful crunch and extra sweetness.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe

Step 1: Bake Your Cinnamon Rolls Perfectly

First things first, arrange a rack in the center of your oven and preheat it to 375°F. Place those unbaked cinnamon rolls on a baking sheet, making sure they’re spaced just right so they bake evenly. Pop them in for about 20 minutes until they’re golden and cooked through—keep an eye to avoid overbaking, as you want that tender, fluffy texture that pairs so well with ice cream. Once out, let them cool completely before moving on.

Step 2: Slice and Chill the Rolls

Once your rolls are cool, slice each one in half horizontally, like cutting a sandwich. This trick is key because it creates two flat surfaces that hold the ice cream perfectly. Lay the halves on a clean baking sheet and freeze them for 15 to 20 minutes. I learned this freezing step helps the ice cream stay firm longer when you assemble the sandwiches—game changer for clean bites!

Step 3: Prepare Your Icing and Ice Cream

While your cinnamon roll halves chill, let that delicious packet of icing sit out at room temperature—it’s easier to drizzle that way. Also, take your vanilla ice cream out of the freezer about 5 minutes before scooping to soften just enough to spread smoothly without melting too fast.

Step 4: Assemble Your Cinnamon Roll Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe

Scoop about half a cup of slightly softened ice cream onto the bottom half of each cinnamon roll. Using a spoon or an offset spatula, spread the ice cream evenly but gently. Top with the roll’s other half and then drizzle the icing over the sandwich. If you want to get fancy, giving the icing a little zigzag pattern looks so inviting!

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Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Roll Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe

  • Don’t Skip Freezing the Roll Halves: Freezing them helps the ice cream hold its shape and prevents soggy sandwiches.
  • Choose Full-Flavor Vanilla Ice Cream: The richer, the better—lighter ice creams sometimes lose their punch against the cinnamon.
  • Use an Offset Spatula: It’s perfect for spreading ice cream evenly without tearing the cinnamon roll halves.
  • Avoid Overbaking Rolls: Watch the oven closely to keep the rolls soft and tender, not crusty.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe

The image shows a cinnamon roll with three main layers placed on a white plate on a white marbled surface. The top layer is golden-brown, swirled dough with a slightly shiny texture and light brown cinnamon spots. It is decorated with thin, white icing lines drizzled evenly across the surface. The middle layer is a thick, creamy, white frosting filling that looks smooth and soft, some of which is melting out from the sides. The bottom layer is a slightly darker golden-brown bread base holding the roll together. There are a few small crumbs scattered on the plate near the roll. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I usually keep the garnish simple—just that classic icing drizzle that comes with the cinnamon rolls. Occasionally, I sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon sugar or chopped toasted pecans on top for an extra touch of crunch and flavor. It makes the sandwiches look gorgeous and adds a subtle flavor boost.

Side Dishes

Since this dessert is already on the sweeter side, I love serving it with fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or a small bowl of mixed berries. It adds freshness and balances the indulgence perfectly. For a fun twist, a drizzle of warm caramel sauce on the side can be irresistible.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday parties or birthdays, I’ve served these sandwiches on a platter lined with parchment paper and topped each with a colorful sprinkle or a tiny edible flower. Wrapping the sandwiches in parchment paper tied with a ribbon also makes for a cute gift or grab-and-go treat that guests love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cinnamon Roll Ice Cream Sandwiches are best stored in an airtight container in the freezer. I place a sheet of parchment paper between sandwiches to stop them from sticking together. This keeps them fresh and ready whenever a sweet craving hits.

Freezing

Freezing is a lifesaver here—I always make a batch ahead of time and freeze the assembled sandwiches for up to a week. When you want to enjoy one, just let it sit out for a few minutes to soften slightly before digging in. It’s a perfect no-stress dessert.

Reheating

I generally don’t reheat these because the ice cream is best served cold, but if you want a warm cinnamon roll base, just microwave the bottom halves before assembly for about 10-15 seconds. Then add the ice cream and top—this way, the rolls stay tender and the ice cream doesn’t melt too fast!

FAQs

  1. Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls for this Cinnamon Roll Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe?

    Absolutely! Homemade cinnamon rolls work beautifully, and you can control the sweetness and spice level. Just be sure they’re fully cooled before slicing and freezing for best results.

  2. What’s the best way to prevent the ice cream from melting too quickly?

    Freezing the sliced cinnamon rolls before assembling is key. Also, working quickly to spread the slightly softened ice cream and placing assembled sandwiches back in the freezer until serving helps keep everything firm and neat.

  3. Can I make these vegan or dairy-free?

    Yes! Look for vegan cinnamon roll brands or make your own vegan rolls. Substitute vanilla dairy-free ice cream and use a dairy-free icing or glaze to keep it plant-based and delicious.

  4. How long do Cinnamon Roll Ice Cream Sandwiches last in the freezer?

    Stored properly in an airtight container, they’ll maintain great taste and texture for up to one week in the freezer. After that, the ice cream may start developing ice crystals and the rolls can get a bit tough.

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Roll Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe has become one of my go-to desserts whenever I want something that feels special without a ton of fuss. It’s perfect for warm weather, celebrations, or simply because cinnamon rolls and ice cream are two of life’s best comfort foods combined. I hope you enjoy making and sharing these as much as my family and I do—they really are a sweet surprise your taste buds will thank you for!

Print
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Cinnamon Roll Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.5 from 106 reviews
  • Author: Megane
  • Prep Time: 5 mins
  • Cook Time: 20 mins
  • Total Time: 45 mins
  • Yield: 10 sandwiches
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Delight in these Cinnamon Roll Ice Cream Sandwiches featuring warm, freshly baked cinnamon rolls paired with creamy vanilla ice cream. Soft, gooey cinnamon rolls are sliced and frozen briefly to hold a generous scoop of ice cream, then topped off with the classic icing drizzle for a perfect warm-and-cold treat.


Ingredients

Cinnamon Rolls

  • 10 large store-bought unbaked cinnamon rolls with icing packet (such as Pillsbury Grands!)

Ice Cream

  • 1 1/2 gallons vanilla ice cream


Instructions

  1. Preheat and Bake: Arrange a rack in the center of the oven and preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Place the unbaked cinnamon rolls on a baking sheet spaced evenly, then bake for about 20 minutes until cooked through and golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
  2. Slice and Freeze Rolls: Once cooled, slice each cinnamon roll horizontally through the middle to create top and bottom halves. Arrange these halves cut-side up on a clean baking sheet and place in the freezer for 15 to 20 minutes until they are firm and slightly hardened, which helps the ice cream stay in place.
  3. Prepare Ice Cream and Icing: While the rolls freeze, leave the icing packet at room temperature to soften for easy drizzling. Also let the vanilla ice cream sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes to soften slightly for easier scooping and spreading.
  4. Assemble Sandwiches: Scoop approximately 1/2 cup of softened vanilla ice cream onto the bottom half of each cinnamon roll. Using a spoon or offset spatula, spread the ice cream evenly over the roll. Then top with the corresponding roll half. Finally, drizzle the softened icing over the top of each sandwich for that signature sweet glaze finish.

Notes

  • Freezing the cinnamon roll halves before assembling helps prevent the ice cream from melting too quickly.
  • Softening the ice cream slightly makes it easier to spread and creates a smooth sandwich texture.
  • Use any favorite vanilla ice cream brand to customize sweetness or texture.
  • These sandwiches are best served immediately after assembly but can be stored briefly in the freezer.
  • To make portioning easier, use an ice cream scoop for consistent amounts.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 sandwich
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 30g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg

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