Single Serving Ice Cream – The Perfect Quick Treat
Craving ice cream but don’t want a whole tub? This single serving ice cream recipe is your perfect solution! Ready in just 5 minutes, it’s the ideal treat when you want ice cream without leftovers.
Quick Single-Serving Ice Cream in a Bag (5-Minute Recipe)
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup whole milk half and half, or cream
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 6 tbsp sea salt
- 2 cups of ice
- sandwich sized ziplock bag
- quart sized ziplock bag
Instructions
- Put milk, sugar, and vanilla in a sandwich-sized ziplock bag. Close the bag securely.
- Put ice and salt into the quart-sized bag.
- Put the smaller bag into the bigger bag and close it securely.
- Shake the bag vigorously for 5 minutes, ensuring it doesn't burst, until the mixture thickens like ice cream.
- Take out the smaller bag and rinse it briefly to eliminate salt residue. Rinse the opening too.
- Open the ice cream and scoop it directly from the container with a spoon.
Nutrition
Why You’ll Love This Single Serving Ice Cream
This recipe solves the “I want ice cream” craving instantly. No more half-eaten pints going to waste! You get fresh, creamy ice cream in individual portions whenever the mood strikes.
The Science Behind the Magic
The salt lowers the freezing point of ice, creating an ultra-cold environment that freezes your milk mixture quickly. It’s like having your own mini ice cream maker!
Customizing Your 1 Pint Ice Cream Recipes
This basic recipe works for countless variations. Try these ideas:
- Chocolate: Add 1 tbsp cocoa powder
- Strawberry: Mix in 2 tbsp mashed berries
- Cookies & Cream: Crush 2 Oreos into the mix
For more creative ice cream individual recipes, check out our complete guide to homemade frozen treats.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This single serving ice cream isn’t just for hot days. It’s great for:
- After-school treats
- Movie nights
- Stress relief (we won’t judge!)
Tips for Perfect Results Every Time
Follow these pro tips for the best single serving ice cream:
- Use whole milk or cream for richest texture
- Seal bags tightly to prevent leaks
- Wear gloves – the bag gets very cold!
Discover more brilliant kitchen hacks in our expert guide.
Nutritional Benefits
While it’s a treat, this ice cream individual portion has some perks:
- Portion control built in
- No artificial preservatives
- Customizable sweetness
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make dairy-free versions?
Absolutely! Coconut milk works beautifully in this single serving ice cream recipe.
How long does it keep?
It’s best eaten immediately, but you can freeze for up to 2 hours if needed.
Share Your Creations!
We’d love to see your single serving ice cream variations! Share them on Pinterest and tag us.
Ready for more delicious ideas? Check out our ultimate dessert collection for more inspiration!
Single Serving Ice Cream: The Perfect Treat for One
Craving something sweet but don’t want to commit to a whole tub? Single serving ice cream is the answer. Whether you prefer classic flavors or unique combinations, individual portions let you indulge without guilt or waste. Here’s everything you need to know about enjoying ice cream, one perfect scoop at a time.
Why Choose Single Serving Ice Cream?
Single serving ice cream is ideal for portion control, reducing food waste, and satisfying cravings without overindulging. Many brands now offer mini tubs, bars, or cups designed for solo enjoyment. Here are some top reasons to love individual ice cream servings:
- No Waste: Enjoy fresh ice cream every time without leftovers melting in the freezer.
- Portion Control: Perfect for those watching calories or sugar intake.
- Variety: Try multiple flavors without committing to a full pint.
Best Store-Bought Single Serving Ice Cream Options
If you’re looking for convenience, these brands offer delicious individual ice cream servings:
- Halo Top Mini Cups: Low-calorie, high-protein options in flavors like Birthday Cake and Chocolate.
- Ben & Jerry’s Mini Tubs: Classic favorites like Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough in single servings.
- Yasso Greek Yogurt Bars: Creamy, protein-packed bars in flavors like Mint Chocolate Chip.
1 Pint Ice Cream Recipes for Homemade Single Servings
Prefer making your own? These easy 1 pint ice cream recipes let you customize flavors while keeping portions small.
1. Classic Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
Ingredients:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 vanilla bean (or 1 tsp vanilla extract)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Split the vanilla bean and scrape seeds into a saucepan.
- Add cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat until sugar dissolves (do not boil).
- Chill mixture for 4 hours, then churn in an ice cream maker.
- Freeze for 2 hours before serving.
2. Dairy-Free Chocolate Ice Cream
Ingredients:
- 1 can full-fat coconut milk
- ¼ cup cocoa powder
- ⅓ cup maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Blend all ingredients until smooth.
- Churn in an ice cream maker or freeze, stirring every 30 minutes.
- Serve once firm.
3. Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream
Ingredients:
- 1 cup chopped strawberries
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup graham cracker crumbs
Instructions:
- Blend strawberries, cream cheese, and condensed milk until smooth.
- Whip cream to stiff peaks, then fold into the strawberry mixture.
- Layer with graham cracker crumbs in a container and freeze for 4 hours.
Creative Ways to Serve Individual Ice Cream
Make your single serving ice cream even more special with these fun ideas:
- Ice Cream Sundae Cups: Layer mini scoops with toppings in small jars.
- Waffle Cone Bowls: Bake tiny waffle cones for single servings.
- Frozen Yogurt Bark: Spread flavored yogurt on a tray, add toppings, and freeze.
Tips for Storing Single Serving Ice Cream
Keep your ice cream fresh with these storage hacks:
- Use airtight containers to prevent freezer burn.
- Press parchment paper against the surface before sealing.
- Label homemade batches with dates to track freshness.
Final Thoughts
Single serving ice cream is a game-changer for dessert lovers. Whether store-bought or homemade, these individual treats offer convenience, variety, and portion control. Try the recipes above or explore your own 1 pint ice cream creations—indulgence has never been so perfectly sized.
