How to Store Ice Cream
- Store ice cream in the freezer below 0 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Use an airtight container while storing ice cream for a long period to prevent ‘freezer burn.’
- Store ice cream at the back of the freezer.
- Do not store ice cream with foods that have strong odor.
- Press the top of ice cream with a plastic wrap to drive out air if you decide to take a few scoops for enjoyment.
- Avoid putting warm items directly into the freezer close to the ice cream.
- Buy ice cream last when you go shopping at the store.
Why store in the freezer? – The ideal place for storing ice cream is in the freezer. The correct temperature for the process should be below 0 degrees Fahrenheit.
Why use an airtight container? – Using airtight storage bag or container keeps the air out of the ice cream and prevents ‘freezer burn.’ A lidded plastic container meant for freezing will make this process easy.
Store ice cream at the back of the freezer – Avoid keeping ice cream in the door of the freezer because this zone is likely to have fluctuating temperatures as you repeatedly open and shut the door.
Retaining the flavor – To protect the flavor of the ice cream, avoid storing ice cream close to foods with strong smell. The odor of those foods could penetrate the packaging and affect the flavor of your ice cream.
Drive out air when replacing the lid – If you happen to take out a few scoops for enjoyment and you want to keep the rest, press a piece of plastic wrap directly over the ice cream before replacing its lid. This reduces the likelihood of ice crystals forming.
No warm items directly in the freezer – avoid placing warm items directly in your freezer, especially close to the ice cream. Cool them first, then transfer to the refrigerator and then the freezer.
At the store – While shopping, ensure that the ice cream aisle is the last place you visit to reduce the time the product will spend outside the freezer.
Ice cream is quite perishable and needs proper storage and handling. When exposed to temperatures above 10°F, the texture and flavor of the ice cream will change.
The IDFA recommends that storing ice cream should follow the steps above.
Avoid leaving the ice cream out of the freezer for a long time if this is something not necessary, for instance, you’re not repairing the freezer.
In the event that your handmade ice cream is only half-melted, you’re better off allowing it to melt completely and churning it once again.
Ice cream should be stored at or below 0°F. In case you have an ideal freezer thermometer at home, you can modify the settings on your freezer to keep it at this temperature.
If you don’t already have one, go out and get one.
Alternatively, you can take the simple way out and set your freezer to the coldest setting available. Your ice cubes will definitely put up with the temperature.