Homemade Ice Cream: Kid-Friendly Ziplock Bag Method

Summer is here, and with it comes the perfect opportunity to create some sweet memories with your kids. What better way to beat the heat than by making your very own homemade ice cream? Today, we’re sharing a fun and easy recipe for Ziplock Bag Ice Cream that you can whip up in no time. Plus, we’ll be adding some delicious topping ideas that will give this delicious dessert a nutritious twist!

This method is not only a fun kitchen experiment, but it also allows your kids to get hands-on with the process. They’ll love shaking the bags and watching the ingredients transform into creamy ice cream right before their eyes! 

What You’ll Need…

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Ice
• Salt (rock salt or kosher salt works best)

Equipment:

• 1 quart-sized Ziplock bag
• 1 gallon-sized Ziplock bag
• A towel (for shaking)

What You’ll Do…

1. In a bowl, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Pour the ice cream mixture into the quart-sized Ziplock bag. Seal it tightly, making sure to remove as much air as possible.
3. Fill the gallon-sized Ziplock bag halfway with ice and add about 1/2 cup of salt. Place the smaller bag with the ice cream mixture inside the larger bag and seal it tightly.
4. Now comes the fun part! Wrap the bag in a towel (to protect your hands from the cold) and shake it vigorously for about 5-10 minutes. Your kids will love getting involved in this step!
5. After shaking, carefully remove the smaller bag from the larger one. Wipe off any saltwater before opening it. If the mixture is thick and creamy, congratulations—you’ve made ice cream!
6. Scoop the ice cream into bowls and let your kids go wild with toppings!

Topping Ideas

Now, let’s talk toppings! Here are our favorite healthy toppings to give this ice cream recipe a good-for-you glow up!

1. Crushed Remy’s Grahams: Crumble some of Remy’s Grahams on top of your ice cream for a deliciously crunchy texture. The sweet graham flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy ice cream, making it a delightful treat reminiscent of s’mores!
2. Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Granola: For a classic twist, add chunks of Safe + Fair’s Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough. The rich chocolatey goodness will elevate your ice cream experience and satisfy any sweet tooth!
3. Strawberry Shortcake Granola: If you’re looking for a fruity and crunchy topping, sprinkle some Strawberry Shortcake Granola on top. The strawberry flavor adds a refreshing touch, and the granola provides a satisfying crunch that your kids will love.
4. Birthday Cake Granola: For a festive flair, add some Birthday Cake Granola to your ice cream. The fun sprinkles and cake flavor will make every scoop feel like a celebration, perfect for summer birthdays or just because!
5. Chopped Fresh and Frozen Fruit: For a boost of vitamins and minerals (and who doesn’t love nature’s candy?).
6. Dark Chocolate Chips: For a pop of antioxidants and delicious chocolaty flavor!
7. Puffed Brown Rice Cereal: For some fiber and light and crispy crunch.