How to keep ice cream best in the freezer

Homemade ice cream is best fresh from the counter – but with a little care, it also tastes delicious after being in the freezer at home for a couple of days. Here are our best tips.

1. Bring a cooler bag

If you have a long way home, bring a cooler bag when you pick up your ice cream box. The less time the ice cream spends out of the freezer, the better it will maintain its texture.

2. Place it at the back of the freezer

Ice cream keeps best at −18 °C or colder. Place the box at the back of the freezer, where the temperature is most stable – not in the door, where it fluctuates every time it is opened.

3. Avoid ice crystals

After you have scooped your ice cream, press a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap against the surface before putting the lid on. This protects it from air and ice crystals.

4. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving

Take the ice cream out 5–10 minutes before you serve it. This makes it softer and easier to scoop – and the flavour comes through better. Dip the ice cream scoop in warm water between each scoop.

5. Do not refreeze thawed ice cream

If the ice cream has melted completely, it should not be frozen again. Better to eat it – or make a milkshake.

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