3 Quick Ways to Soften Hard Ice Cream When You're in a Rush

Why Should You Soften Ice Cream?

Ice cream is a beloved treat worldwide, and softening it makes it easier to scoop and enjoy. Thawing ice cream also enhances its sweetness, as research suggests. Additionally, softening ice cream is essential when using it in other frozen desserts, like ice cream sandwiches, cakes, pies, and sundaes.

Choosing the wrong method to soften ice cream can leave you with a soggy mess around the edges and a frozen center. To avoid this, learn how to properly thaw and soften your ice cream for smooth, scoopable perfection every time.

Why is Ice Cream So Hard Straight from the Freezer?

Many people store their ice cream alongside other frozen foods in the freezer, typically set to zero degrees. However, this temperature is often too low for easy scooping.

Good-quality ice creams, with their high butterfat content and low air volume, become very hard at freezing temperatures. You might struggle to twist your scooper deep into the carton, and even if you manage to get some out, it could be too solid to enjoy.

How long does it take for ice cream to soften or thaw?

There are several methods to thaw or soften ice cream. If you leave it on the counter, depending on its fat and air content, ice cream may take anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes to soften. The time required will depend on factors like the carton size, ice cream's hardness, and the surrounding air temperature.

Quick Guide: 3 Methods to Soften Ice Cream

These clever techniques will have your frozen ice cream scoopable or spreadable in no time.

1. How to Soften Ice Cream in the Refrigerator

One of the best ways to soften ice cream is by placing it in the refrigerator. While it may take longer than leaving it on the counter, thawing it in the fridge ensures even temperature distribution throughout the carton, preserving its smooth texture.

1. Place your ice cream in the fridge for 30 minutes. (You may want to put it on a tray to catch any moisture.)
2. Remove the ice cream and let it sit on the counter. After this time, it should reach around 8 degrees all the way through.
3. If you can press gently in the center to make a ¼-inch indentation, it’s ready to scoop.

2. How to Soften Ice Cream by Cutting It

What if you’re short on time and can't wait for your ice cream to thaw? You can quickly soften it by cutting it into smaller pieces with just a few simple steps:

1. Run a sharp knife under hot water to warm it up.
2. Cut your ice cream crosswise.
3. Next, slice it lengthwise.
4. Warm your ice cream scoop the same way as the knife.
5. Use the heated scoop to easily dig into your ice cream slices.

3. How to Soften Ice Cream Using the Microwave

Using the microwave is a fast way to soften your favorite ice cream:

1. Move the ice cream from the freezer to the microwave.
2. Set the microwave to 30% power and heat for about 30 seconds.

Tips for Making Ice Cream Easier to Scoop

If your ice cream is too hard, here's a simple technique to prevent the ice cream from sticking to your scoop:

1. Fill a bowl or cup with cold water (make sure it's not hot!).
2. Dip your ice cream scoop into the water, then give it a gentle shake.
3. Now, use the scoop to serve your ice cream effortlessly.

The reason for dipping your scoop in water before each use is that ice cream tends to cling to a dry scoop. By keeping a bowl of cold water (not hot!) nearby, you can easily scoop clean portions of ice cream without the mess. This technique ensures a smooth, hassle-free experience every time.