Amazing Recipes Using Ice Cream – 10 Delicious Dessert Ideas
Looking for creative ways to use ice cream beyond the bowl? You’re in the right place! These recipes using ice cream will transform your dessert game. Whether you want to make show-stopping cakes or fun frozen treats, we’ve got you covered.
Ice cream isn’t just for cones anymore. With these ice cream uses, you can create:
- Decadent layered desserts
- Fun party treats
- Impressive no-bake cakes
- Creative flavor combinations
Table of Contents
- Ice Cream Sandwich Cake
- Fun Ice Cream Treats
- Best Homemade Ice Cream Flavors
- Creative Ice Cream Uses
Easy Ice Cream Sandwich Cake Recipe
Instructions
- Get all the ingredients.
- Layer ice cream sandwiches in a 9x13-inch dish. Add whipped topping, hot fudge, and caramel sauce on top.
- Layer the remaining ice cream sandwiches, whipped topping, hot fudge, and caramel, finishing with whipped topping on top. Add pecans as a garnish.
- Cover the dish with foil and freeze until firm, around 30 minutes. Cut into slices and top as desired.
Nutrition
1. Ice Cream Sandwich Cake
This crowd-pleaser is one of the easiest recipes made with ice cream. Layers of ice cream sandwiches, whipped topping, and sauces create a dessert that looks impressive but takes minimal effort.
The beauty of this dessert is its versatility. You can use any flavor of ice cream sandwiches and customize the toppings. Try these variations:
- Use chocolate ice cream sandwiches with peanut butter sauce
- Try mint chocolate chip sandwiches with hot fudge
- Use strawberry sandwiches with white chocolate sauce
For more delicious dessert ideas, check out our dessert recipes collection.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe solves the problem of what to make with ice cream when you want something special but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. It’s perfect for:
- Summer parties
- Birthday celebrations
- Potluck desserts
- Last-minute guests
2. Fun Ice Cream Treats
Ice cream fun doesn’t have to be complicated. These simple ideas will bring joy to kids and adults alike:
Ice Cream Cookie Sandwiches
Take your favorite cookies and sandwich a scoop of ice cream between them. Press gently and freeze for 30 minutes. Try these combinations:
- Chocolate chip cookies with vanilla ice cream
- Oatmeal cookies with cinnamon ice cream
- Peanut butter cookies with chocolate ice cream
Ice Cream Tacos
Use waffle cones bent into taco shapes while warm. Fill with ice cream and top with sprinkles, chocolate chips, or fruit.
For more inspiration on things to make with ice cream, follow our Pinterest board.
3. Best Homemade Ice Cream Flavors
Creating your own ice cream recipes allows for endless creativity. Here are some crowd-pleasing flavors to try:
Salted Caramel Pretzel
This sweet-salty combination is always a hit. The crunch of pretzels adds wonderful texture.
Berry Cheesecake
Swirl berry sauce through cheesecake-flavored ice cream with graham cracker pieces.
Cookies and Cream
A classic for good reason – chunks of chocolate cookies in vanilla ice cream.
Discover more dessert recipes to satisfy your sweet tooth.
4. Creative Ice Cream Uses
Beyond desserts, icecream uses extend to many surprising applications:
Ice Cream Floats
Combine with root beer, cola, or even coffee for a refreshing treat.
Ice Cream Bread
Yes, you can make bread with ice cream as the main ingredient – it’s surprisingly delicious!
Ice Cream Pancake Topping
Instead of syrup, top warm pancakes with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
These recipes using ice cream prove that this frozen treat is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re making a showstopping cake or simple weeknight dessert, ice cream delivers delicious results every time.
Final Thoughts
We’ve shown you how to take your ice cream beyond the bowl with these creative recipes. From impressive cakes to fun treats, there’s something for every occasion. The best part? Most of these ideas require minimal effort for maximum flavor.
Ready to try more delicious creations? Explore our collection of dessert recipes for more inspiration. Don’t forget to pin your favorite ideas from our Pinterest board!
What’s your favorite way to use ice cream? Share your creations in the comments below!
Creative Recipes Using Ice Cream for Every Occasion
Ice cream isn’t just for cones and bowls—it’s a versatile ingredient that can transform ordinary desserts into extraordinary treats. Whether you’re looking for quick fixes or show-stopping creations, these recipes using ice cream will delight your taste buds.
1. Ice Cream Bread (Yes, It’s Real!)
This two-ingredient wonder is perfect for beginners. Simply mix:
- 2 cups softened ice cream (vanilla or chocolate work best)
- 1½ cups self-rising flour
Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes. The result? A moist, slightly sweet loaf that pairs perfectly with coffee.
2. Fried Ice Cream Bites
A restaurant favorite you can make at home:
- Scoop ice cream into 1-inch balls, freeze solid (4+ hours)
- Roll in crushed cornflakes mixed with cinnamon
- Quick-fry in 375°F oil for 10 seconds
- Serve with honey drizzle
3. Ice Cream Pancake Stack
Take weekend brunch to new heights:
- Make fluffy buttermilk pancakes
- Alternate layers with softened vanilla ice cream
- Top with caramelized bananas
- Finish with whipped cream and toasted pecans
Unexpected Savory Things to Make With Ice Cream
4. Balsamic Ice Cream Dressing
Whisk together:
- ¼ cup melted vanilla ice cream
- 2 tbsp aged balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Pinch of sea salt
Drizzle over arugula salads with fresh berries.
5. Ice Cream Glazed Ham
For your next holiday centerpiece:
- Score spiral-cut ham
- Mix 1 cup melted butter pecan ice cream with ½ cup brown sugar
- Glaze ham during last 30 minutes of baking
Decadent Ice Cream Recipes for Chocolate Lovers
6. Molten Ice Cream Lava Cakes
Individual desserts with a surprise center:
- Prepare chocolate cake batter
- Fill ramekins halfway, add scoop of frozen chocolate ice cream
- Cover with more batter
- Bake at 425°F for 12 minutes
7. Ice Cream Chocolate Bark
An easy no-bake treat:
- Melt 2 cups dark chocolate
- Spread on parchment paper
- Dot with small scoops of various ice cream flavors
- Freeze until solid, then break into pieces
Frozen Cocktails: Adult Recipes Using Ice Cream
8. Espresso Martini Float
Combine in a chilled glass:
- 1 shot vodka
- 1 shot coffee liqueur
- 1 shot freshly brewed espresso
- Top with coffee ice cream scoop
9. Piña Colada Ice Cream Punch
Blend until smooth:
- 2 cups coconut ice cream
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- ½ cup white rum
- 1 cup crushed ice
Breakfast Things to Make With Ice Cream
10. Ice Cream French Toast
For the ultimate indulgence:
- Whisk 2 eggs with ½ cup melted vanilla ice cream
- Dip thick brioche slices in mixture
- Cook on buttered griddle until golden
- Serve with maple syrup
11. Ice Cream Smoothie Bowl
A nutritious(ish) start:
- Blend 1 frozen banana with ½ cup vanilla ice cream
- Top with granola, chia seeds, and fresh fruit
No-Churn Ice Cream Recipes (Without a Machine)
12. 3-Ingredient Strawberry Ice Cream
Simply mix:
- 2 cups whipped cream
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup mashed strawberries
- Freeze overnight
13. Cookies and Cream Magic
Layer in a loaf pan:
- Crushed Oreos
- Sweetened whipped cream
- Repeat layers
- Freeze 6 hours
Creative Ice Cream Sandwiches
14. Brownie Ice Cream Tacos
Shape chewy brownies into taco shells while warm, fill with ice cream, then freeze.
15. Macaron Ice Cream Sliders
Sandwich small scoops between colorful macaron shells.
Frozen Dessert Bars
16. Ice Cream Candy Bar
Press chopped candy bars into softened ice cream, freeze in bar molds.
17. Tropical Ice Cream Pops
Layer coconut ice cream with mango puree in popsicle molds.
Ice Cream Cakes That Impress
18. Neapolitan Ice Cream Layer Cake
Alternate layers of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry ice cream with sponge cake.
19. Ice Cream Drip Cake
Cover ice cream cake with ganache drips and sprinkles.
Bonus: Ice Cream Hacks
- Make instant affogato by pouring hot espresso over any ice cream
- Use ice cream instead of milk in your cereal
- Create ice cream “croutons” for dessert salads
