How to Freeze Ice Cream (And Stop It From Getting Icy)

It sounds redundant, how to store ice cream freezer? It's already frozen! But we have all opened a half-eaten pint only to find the surface covered in crunchy, flavorless ice crystals. This is freezer burn, caused by air and temperature fluctuation.

The Wax Paper Shield

The air gap inside the carton is the enemy.

1. Press: Take a piece of wax paper, parchment, or plastic wrap. Press it firmly against the surface of the ice cream, not just over the lid.
2. Seal: Put the lid back on tight. By eliminating the air gap, crystals cannot form on the treat.

Location, Location, Location

• Worst Place: The door. It is the warmest part of the freezer.
• Best Place: The very back of the freezer, buried under other items. This area has the most stable temperature.

The Upside Down Trick

Some people swear by storing the pint upside down (lid on tight!). This causes any melting drops to refreeze on the lid rather than the ice cream surface. Whatever method you choose, keep air away from your sweets!