A colorful assortment of ice cream parfaits with various toppings in individual serving cups, ready for a picnic.

Sandwiches

ice cream picnic

By Willow Creek

Published: 16 Mar 2025

This recipe is all about creating fun, individual ice cream parfaits that are perfect for any summer picnic. Think individual cups or jars, loaded with layers of creamy ice cream, crunchy cookie crumbles, and your favorite sweet toppings. It's a delightfully simple treat that's sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It's so easy, even I can do it, and trust me, I'm not the best baker in the world. I once tried to make a cake that looked more like a deflated basketball.
Close up shot of layered ice cream parfait in a clear cup with cookie crumbs, chocolate syrup, and strawberries.
But trust me, this is easier. It's also completely customizable to your preferences. Love chocolate? Load up on chocolate chips and fudge sauce! More of a fruit person? Go wild with berries and a little whipped cream. The great thing about it is it’s a super simple but very customizable dessert.
Various types of cookies and ice cream flavors displayed together alongside various toppings like sprinkles, chocolate syrup, fruit, etc.

Required Equipments

  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • Freezer-safe container

Ice-Cream-Picnic

These delicious and customizable ice cream parfaits are the perfect treat for a summer picnic, easy to make and transport for a stress-free gathering.

⏳ Yield & Time

Yield: 1 servings

Preparation Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 0 minutes

Total Time:

🍽 Ingredients

📖 Instructions

  1. First, let's tackle the cookie crumbles. Grab your favorite cookies—chocolate chip is classic, but really, anything goes! I'm partial to shortbread or maybe a really tasty ginger snap. Crushed them into small pieces, like really small—think almost powder, but with some texture! You can do this in a ziploc, or by hand— whatever works for you.
  2. Next up, the ice cream! Grab your favorite flavor of ice cream—I’m personally obsessed with mint chocolate chip, don't judge me. Or you can use a mix of flavors. Seriously, just get creative! Make sure it is nice and soft for easy scooping.
  3. Now, the fun part—assembling the parfaits! Start by sprinkling a layer of cookie crumbs into small cups or jars, about 1/4 inch deep. Then, add a scoop of ice cream, a dollop of chocolate syrup (or your choice of topping!) and repeat the layers.
  4. Keep layering until your cups are almost full. Top off each parfait with another sprinkle of crumbs, maybe a cute strawberry, or a drizzle of caramel. You're allowed to get creative!
  5. Once they’re built, pop them in the freezer for at least 30 minutes to allow them to set up a bit. This is important, it helps keep your creations neat. Otherwise, you might end up with a sticky mess. I speak from experience.
  6. Finally, pack them up in a cooler for your picnic! Bring along some napkins, because let's be honest, it might get messy. Oh and maybe some extra spoons just in case someone accidentally drops theirs (I once knew a guy named Bob who did that...poor Bob).
  7. That's it, you're picnic-ready! Enjoy your sweet and delightful ice cream picnic parfaits with friends and family. Be warned though, they might vanish quickly, I know mine do!

📝 Notes

  • Feel free to experiment with different cookie and ice cream combinations.
  • Ensure your ice cream is soft before scooping. If it is too hard, let it soften slightly before using.
  • For a more visually appealing parfait, use clear cups or jars.

🍎 Nutrition

Calories: 250 kcal

Protein: 5 g

Fat: 10 g

Carbohydrates: 30 g

Fiber: 2 g

Calcium: 50 mg

Frequently Asked Questions

"The best way to enjoy the sunshine is with a spoon in hand and ice cream in your heart." - Willow Creek

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