How Long Does Homemade Ice Cream Last In Freezer? Solved

Last Updated on August 29, 2023 by Shari Mason

Have you ever made your ice cream? It’s a tasty treat, but you might wonder how long homemade ice cream lasts in the freezer. No worries—I’ve got you covered.

Stick around, and I’ll spill the beans on how to make your icy creations last longer, so you can enjoy your homemade frozen goodness whenever you’re in the mood.

How Long Can Homemade Ice Cream Stay In The Freezer?

Homemade ice cream [1] is a delightful treat that can maintain its peak flavor and quality in the freezer for approximately 2 weeks. 

“When I’m not longer rapping, I want to open up an ice cream parlor and call myself Scoop Dogg.”

– Snoop Dogg, American Rapper

During this time, you can enjoy its creamy goodness and luscious taste. However, keeping an eye on the clock is essential, as ice cream tends to lose its optimal texture and flavor beyond this period. 

To savor the best of your homemade creation, aim to indulge within this window of time and relish every spoonful of frozen delight.

Also Read:

• Soft Serve Ice Cream Recipe For Machine
• How To Tell When Ice Cream Is Done Churning?
• How Much Salt Is In Ice Cream?
• How Long To Freeze Cuisinart Ice Cream Bowl?
• Substitute For Xanthum Gum In Ice Cream

How To Store Homemade Ice Cream To Make It Last Longer

1. Airtight Containers: Transfer your freshly made ice cream into airtight containers. These containers should be appropriately sized, leaving minimal space for air. A tight seal prevents ice crystals from forming and maintains the creamy texture.
2. Plastic Wrap Trick: Before sealing the container, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the ice cream. This prevents excess air from reaching the ice cream and helps maintain its quality.
3. Layer of Plastic Wrap: If using a container with a lid, place a layer of plastic wrap over the ice cream before closing the lid. This extra barrier further minimizes air exposure and ice crystal formation.
4. Avoid Fluctuating Temperatures: Place the ice cream container in the coldest part of the freezer, away from the freezer door. This helps prevent temperature fluctuations that can degrade the texture and flavor.
5. Minimal Freezer Opening: Limit how often you open the freezer door. Frequent openings can introduce warm air, causing temperature fluctuations that affect the ice cream’s quality.
6. Seal Tightly: Always ensure the container lid is securely closed to prevent air from entering. An airtight seal is your ally in preserving the ice cream’s freshness.
7. Don’t Refreeze Thawed Ice Cream: Once the ice cream has thawed, avoid refreezing it. The melting and refreezing process can lead to undesirable ice crystal formation and affect taste and texture.
8. Use Freezer-Safe Containers: Opt for containers designed for freezing. They are less likely to allow air or moisture to seep in, preserving the ice cream’s quality.

Can I Keep Opening The Freezer Without Harming The Ice Cream?

Frequent freezer door openings can affect your ice cream’s quality. When you open the freezer door often, warm air rushes in, causing temperature fluctuations. 

These changes can lead to the formation of ice crystals on the ice cream’s surface, making it lose its creamy texture and possibly affecting its taste. 

To ensure your homemade ice cream remains as delicious as possible, try to minimize the number of times you open the freezer door and keep your frozen treats tucked away in a spot that’s easily accessible without causing too much temperature variation.

Can I Make My Homemade Ice Cream Last Longer With Special Methods?

1. Add Corn Syrup or Alcohol: Adding a small amount of corn syrup [2] or alcohol, like vodka or rum, to your ice cream mixture before churning can help reduce ice crystal formation. These ingredients lower the freezing point, resulting in a smoother texture.
2. Use Stabilizers: Incorporate guar gum or xanthan gum into your ice cream base. These natural additives can enhance texture and prevent ice crystals from forming over time.
3. Mix-In Layers: If your ice cream has mix-ins like cookies or fruit, layer them between scoops of ice cream in the container. This can help reduce air exposure when serving and make the ice cream last longer.
4. Wrap the Container in Plastic Wrap: Before sealing the container, wrap it with an additional layer of plastic wrap. This creates an extra barrier against air and moisture, maintaining freshness.
5. Vacuum Sealing: If you have a vacuum sealer, remove excess air from the ice cream container before sealing. Less air means fewer ice crystals.
6. Freeze in Smaller Portions: Instead of freezing the entire batch in one container, freeze ice cream in smaller portions. This reduces the need to repeatedly expose the entire batch to air and temperature changes.

What Happens If I Eat Ice Cream That’s Been In The Freezer For Too Long?

If you indulge in ice cream in the freezer for an extended period beyond its prime, you might notice changes in its texture and flavor. 

“Savor the sweet moments – just like homemade ice cream, they’re best enjoyed within their perfect time frame.”

– Eat Pallet restaurant & Food Advice

Ice crystals can develop, making the ice cream slightly icier and less creamy. Additionally, the taste might not be as vibrant as when freshly made. 

While it’s generally safe to eat, keep an eye out for any off smells or tastes, as that could be a sign that the ice cream has passed its prime and might not provide the optimal enjoyment you’re seeking.

FAQs

Key Takeaways

In frozen delights, homemade ice cream has a limited but delightful lifespan. Proper storage techniques and airtight containers allow you to extend its prime flavor and texture for about 2 weeks. 

Beyond that, while it might not be unsafe to eat, ice crystals could form, affecting the creamy texture and vibrant taste you love. 

So, whether crafting classic flavors or inventing new ones, remember to savor your homemade ice cream within its optimal timeframe and revel in every chilly, delicious bite.

References:

1. https://www.thespruceeats.com/what-is-ice-cream-1328784
2. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/food-science/corn-syrup