Is there anything better than a big bowl of ice cream as a reward for getting through another scorching summer day? Luckily, we've found 11 ideas that are about to make this quintessential summertime treat so much more exciting to eat. So grab a bowl of your favorite flavor, and prepare to be dazzled by these clever ice cream tricks.

1. Make brownie bowls for your ice cream.

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This brilliant idea from Dreyer's Ice Cream turns brownies into sweet, tiny bowls that are the perfect size for one scoop of ice cream.

2. Use a knife for hard-to-scoop-out ice cream in containers...

Ever thought to use a knife to help dish out ice cream? Run hot water over a knife blade, then slice into an ice cream container to make scooping out your dessert so much easier.

3. ...and for making easy, single-serve slices.

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Cut a large container of ice cream in half, peel off the wrapping, then use two knives to serve up slices.

4. Keep ice cream cold while it's on display.

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Fill an ice tub with, well, ice and place your carton of ice cream in the middle. This way, you can keep your dessert cold throughout a party.

See more at A Spotted Pony.

5. Go big or go home.

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Similar to a big-batch cocktail or a giant sub, this epic 10-foot-long banana split will be the star of your backyard bash.

Get the recipe at Oh Happy Day.

6. Try ice cream frosted cupcakes.

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Scoop ice cream into a piping bag, then layer on top of a cupcake for the ultimate summer treat.

Get the recipe at Dreyer's.

7. Get creative with ice cream sandwiches.

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By freezing ice cream in a cup, then slicing it into small circles with a knife, you'll wind up with perfectly sized filling for an ice cream sandwich.

Get the recipe at The Pinning Mama.

8. Make your own Magic Shell.

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Sure, the store-bought stuff is easy, but making your own is so much more fun.

Get the recipe at Wanna Be a Country Cleaver.

9. Combine cookie dough and ice cream.

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Does a better combination exist?

10. Make your own!

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Your days of pining for an ice cream maker are over. From strawberry shortcake to cookies and cream, these delicious no-churn recipes will change everything about how you scoop.

Get the recipes here.

11. Make easy-to-serve scoops for parties.

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To save time and effort at kids' parties, blogger Rachel Hollis suggests scooping ice cream into cupcake liners, placing on a cookie tray, then sticking in the freezer. When it's time to serve dessert, all the work will already be done.

See more at The Chic Site.

More: 5 Totally Over-the-Top Ice Cream Floats


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From: Country Living US