Discover essential ice cream storage solutions and tips to keep your homemade ice cream fresh and creamy. Learn how to prevent freezer burn and maintain perfect texture!
There’s something undeniably special about savouring a scoop of creamy, delicious homemade ice cream – it’s a flavour-packed moment of enjoyment, but for those who cherish this frozen treat, a crucial aspect is often overlooked: the art of proper storage.
Storing ice cream isn’t just about tossing a tub into the freezer. It’s about preserving its quality, ensuring that each scoop retains its rich, creamy texture and flavour, free from unpleasant ice crystals.
As a devoted ice cream lover, I can tell you that the way you store your homemade ice cream is as important as making it in the first place.
Poorly stored ice cream leads to a disappointing experience – gritty texture, icy build-up, or even a loss of taste. What’s needed in this instance is the right ice cream container. Choosing the best container can prevent these storage issues and ensure every spoonful is delicious.
Let’s explore how the right choice of storage container can elevate your homemade ice cream treats.
Ice Cream Containers: More Than Just a Box
When it comes to ice cream containers, it’s not a simple case of “one size fits all.” Their design, material, and construction can significantly impact the quality of your ice cream over time.
I once stored my homemade chocolate chip ice cream in a regular plastic container. A week later, I eagerly opened it only to find that it tasted like everything else in my freezer! That taught me the value of using proper, airtight ice cream containers.
Broadly speaking, containers come in two main types: commercial and personal.
Commercial containers, the large tubs you see at your local ice cream parlour, are built to hold large quantities and withstand frequent use. They’re durable and efficient, but typically not available, nor practical for home use.
On the other hand, personal containers come in a vast range of materials and designs, each with specific benefits. From plastic to stainless steel to insulated options, the variety is vast.
Insulated containers are ideal if you prefer your mint choc chip to stay cold and creamy right down to the last scoop, while plastic or stainless-steel options are great if you prefer your caramel fudge a little softer.
The real magic of a good ice cream container, however, lies in the details.
Look for features like an airtight lid to prevent freezer burn, a non-stick surface to ensure every last spoonful can be enjoyed, and firm clasps that keep the lid secure even during late-night rummages in the freezer, – you know what I’m talking about, lol.
Choosing the right container is key to keeping your ice cream in its best condition — let’s detail how to use it effectively to maintain your ice cream’s quality.
Efficient Ice Cream Storage: A How-To Guide
Once you’ve picked the perfect container, proper storage is the next step to preserving that creamy, dreamy goodness.
Here’s how to ensure your ice cream stays as delectable days later as it was when fresh from the churner:
Ideal Temperature
Temperature is the most important factor in keeping ice cream fresh. The optimal storage temperature is around -15°C (5°F), which is slightly colder than most freezers are set. Adjusting your freezer to this temperature will help prevent ice crystals from forming, keeping your ice cream smooth and creamy.
Proper Positioning
Where you store your ice cream in the freezer matters. Storing it near the door exposes it to frequent temperature changes as the door opens and closes, which accelerates melting.
For best results, store your ice cream in the centre-back of your freezer, where the temperature remains more stable.
Airtight Sealing
Ensuring a tight seal on your ice cream container is crucial. A proper seal keeps air out and traps in moisture, preventing freezer burn and maintaining that all-important creamy texture. Even the best container can’t do its job if it isn’t sealed properly.
For more information on Freezer burn, check out our article – How To Store Homemade Ice Cream To Prevent Freezer Burn
Top Ice Cream Containers: Our Cool Picks
Following is a selection of our coolest picks for ice cream storage:
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means that we may receive a commission if you make a purchase using these links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
ACME 4 Litre Ice Cream Tubs with Lids
These high-quality rectangular food-grade plastic containers come with their own lids. Suitable for fresh food, and also freezer-safe. Ideal for raw ingredients prepared foods, salads and general storage. Popular with Ice Cream manufacturers, caterers, kitchens, restaurants and takeaway food outlets alike.
Dimensions: 221(H) x 158(W) x 150(D) mm
===> Click here to see a selection of ACME Ice Cream tubs.
We Can Source It Ltd 2 Litre Ice Cream Storage Container Tubs with Lids
These reusable airtight containers are made from high-grade heavy-duty plastic which can be placed in a fridge or freezer and can be washed and reused in commercial dishwashers. By adding the snap-on lids, items inside will be airtight and kept fresh. A date label/food label can be stuck to the front of the container identifying the contents inside.
Dimensions: 22 x 16 x 8 cm (L x W x H)
===> Click here to see a selection of We Can Source It Ltd Ice Cream containers.
Lakeland Stack-a-Boxes Plastic Food Containers & Lids (400ml)
These airtight, stackable containers from Lakeland are great for ice cream storage. With a practical size for home use and a secure seal to prevent air from entering, they help keep your ice cream creamy and fresh while saving space in your freezer. Offering excellent value for money, airtight Stack-a-Boxes for use all around the home. Dishwasher, microwave & freezer safe. BPA free.
===> Click here to see a selection of Lakeland Stack-a-Boxes Plastic Food Containers.
CateringBase Ltd Essential Food Safe 4 Litre Ice Cream Containers with Lids
Made from premium food-safe plastic, the tubs offer essential protection for your frozen desserts, whilst also preserving their delicious tastes and creamy textures. So by storing your sweet treats in these containers, you’ll reduce the amount of damaged food you throw away
Dimensions 221(H) x 158(W) x 150(D)mm
===> Click here to see a selection of CateringBase Ltd Ice Cream Containers.
All of these options provide durability, insulation, and airtight features, helping you preserve your homemade ice cream’s texture and flavour for longer periods.
Cream of the Crop Tips for Storing Ice Cream
Beyond choosing the right container, there are a few extra tips to help extend the life of your favourite ice cream:
- Consistent Freezer Placement: Assign your ice cream a regular spot in the back of the freezer, where temperatures are most consistent. This will prevent exposure to warm air and keep it fresh for longer.
- Know Your Flavours: Each type of ice cream may have specific storage needs. Whether it’s vegan, dairy-based, or a specific flavour like strawberry or mint-choc-chip, take a moment to understand the ideal conditions for your particular treat.
- Scoop Hygiene: Always use a cold scoop when serving ice cream. A warm scoop can cause melting and introduce bacteria into the container. A cold scoop ensures clean, easy servings and helps preserve your ice cream’s integrity.
Common Ice Cream Storage Problems and Solutions
Ice Crystals Forming
- Problem: Ice cream becomes grainy or icy.
- Solution: Ensure your freezer is set to the correct temperature (-18°C or below). Store ice cream in the back of the freezer, away from the door to avoid temperature fluctuations.
Freezer Burn
- Problem: Ice cream develops a dry, discoloured surface
- Solution: Always use an airtight container and press a piece of cling film directly onto the ice cream’s surface before sealing.
Melting and Refreezing
- Problem: Ice cream becomes too soft or develops an uneven texture.
- Solution: Minimise the time ice cream spends out of the freezer. Use a cold scoop and work quickly when serving.
Absorbing Freezer Odours
- Problem: Ice cream takes on the flavours of other foods in the freezer.
- Solution: Use a well-sealed, airtight container. Consider double-wrapping the container in cling film for extra protection.
Eco-Friendly Ice Cream Storage Options
As we become more environmentally conscious, it’s important to consider sustainable options for ice cream storage.
Here are some eco-friendly alternatives:
- Glass Containers: Durable and infinitely reusable, glass containers are an excellent choice for storing ice cream. Look for ones with tight-fitting lids to prevent freezer burn.
- Stainless Steel Containers: These are long-lasting, recyclable, and don’t leach chemicals into food. Many come with silicone lids for an airtight seal.
- Silicone Storage Bags: Reusable silicone bags are freezer-safe and can be a great option for storing smaller portions of ice cream.
- Beeswax Wraps: Instead of plastic wrap, consider using beeswax wraps to cover your ice cream container. They’re reusable and biodegradable.
- Repurposed Containers: Give a second life to large yoghurt or butter containers by using them to store your homemade ice cream.
- Compostable Paper Containers: For short-term storage, look for paper-based ice cream containers that are compostable.
By choosing these alternatives, you can enjoy your homemade ice cream while reducing plastic waste. Remember, the most environmentally friendly option is often the one you already own and can reuse multiple times.
Care for Your Homemade Ice Cream so You Can Savour Every Scoop
Ice cream is more than just a dessert to us, it’s a little piece of happiness!
By choosing the right container and following a few simple storage practices, you can ensure that each scoop is as delicious as the first. After all, your ice cream deserves care and attention to stay at its best.
We hope that you have enjoyed our article – How To Store Homemade Ice Cream – A Guide To Storage Containers And Preservation – and that you can take away some vital tips for storing your homemade ice cream to ensure it remains perfect every scoop!
If you have any questions, please drop us a comment below and we’ll happily get back to you.
Share your ice cream storage tips or favourite containers in the comments below, and don’t forget to tag us on social media with #frostedfusions to show off your homemade creations.
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Hello Cherie,
I’m really enjoying reading this article because it reminds me of a lesson my mom taught me about proper ice cream storage! She loves making homemade ice cream, and I remember her once making a delicious batch of vanilla bean. After a few days in the freezer, though, it had that awful icy texture, and I asked her what happened. That’s when she explained how the right container and freezer placement can make all the difference in keeping the ice cream smooth and flavorful.
Since then, she’s always used good-quality airtight containers and made sure to store them at the back of the freezer. Her ice cream stays creamy, and I’ve never tasted any strange freezer flavors again! I’m curious—do any of you have a specific storage trick or favorite container that’s worked wonders for keeping your ice cream fresh?
Hey Macfais,
Again thanks for dropping by. I am beginning to look out for new updates from one of your family’s ice cream making endeavours! lol.
Your mom sounds like she knows what shes talking about in regards proper storage for ice cream, it is essential if you want to keep your homemade ice cream in top-notch condition!
I have a few favourite ideas for storage containers – I aim for storage containers that have clicking lids, with airtight seals, then you can be more confident that there’s a good seal, rather than the ones with lids that just press on, as if knocked whilst in the freezer the press on lids can inadvertently be opened and the dreaded freezer burn can get to your ice cream.
There are some listed in the article with easy links.
Glad you appreciated our article and thanks for sharing your experiences.
Cheers
Cherie 🍦🙂