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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Does a better combination exist?
10. Make your own!
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.
11. Make easy-to-serve scoops for parties.
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