When it comes to storing ice cream, finding the right container is crucial for keeping it fresh and preventing freezer burn. The ideal ice cream storage container should do a good job of protecting the ice cream from absorbing off-flavors while also preventing ice crystals from forming. There are a few different factors to consider when choosing which type of container is best for storing ice cream.
Ice Cream Storage Container Materials
The most common materials used to make ice cream containers include:
- Plastic
- Glass
- Aluminum
- Cardboard
Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages when it comes to ice cream storage.
Plastic
Plastic containers are the most ubiquitous option for ice cream. They are inexpensive, lightweight, and easy to find. The main types of plastic used are:
- Polypropylene – This is a hard, durable plastic often used for pint-sized cartons or tubs of ice cream. It resists stains and odors.
- Polystyrene – Polystyrene is found in disposable bowls and cups. It insulates well but can absorb odors over time.
- Polyethylene – Freezer bags and squeezable tubes are made from polyethylene. It is flexible and resilient.
The downside to plastic is it can become brittle and crack over time in the freezer. Low quality plastic may also warp or leak.
Glass
Glass containers are nonporous and impermeable, making them excellent at blocking outside aromas and preventing freezer burn. They are also reusable and recyclable. On the downside, glass containers are much heavier than plastic and can break if dropped. They are also typically more expensive.
Aluminum
Aluminum ice cream containers are able to conduct cold exceptionally well while also completely blocking outside odors and flavors. Pure aluminum can sometimes give ice cream a slight metallic taste, so containers are often coated with plastic or enamel on the inside. Aluminum is prone to denting and is reactive to acidic and salty foods.
Cardboard
Cardboard is rarely used on its own for ice cream containers due to its porous nature. However, coated cardboard or cardboard laminated with aluminum foil is an inexpensive option used by many brands for single-serve ice cream. It requires an inner plastic liner or bag to fully contain the melted ice cream.
Shape of the Ice Cream Container
The shape of the container can also impact how well it stores ice cream. Here are some common ice cream container shapes and their characteristics:
| Shape | Description | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rectangular carton or tub | Standard pint, quart, half-gallon or gallon tub or carton shape | Stacks and stores easily, wide opening for scooping | Large surface area can lead to more freezer burn |
| Round tub | Cylindrical in shape | Minimizes surface area exposed to air | Can be tricky to scoop out of narrow opening |
| Novelty/specialty shape | Unique molded shapes like ice cream sandwiches or cones | Fun, eye-catching appeal for consumers | Not space efficient, prone to breaking/cracking |
Rectangular containers are the most common, as they make efficient use of freezer shelf space. Round containers minimize surface area, limiting freezer burn. Novelty shapes can be fun but aren’t as functional for storage.
Closure Type
The lid or closure is one of the most important parts of an ice cream container. It should create an airtight seal to prevent freezer burn and lock in freshness. Here are some common ice cream container closure types:
- Press-on lid – A plastic lid that snaps tightly onto the lip of a container. Offers a decent seal.
- Pull-off lid – A foil or plastic lid that peels back completely. Not resealable.
- Screw-top lid – Twist-on plastic lids provide the best airtight seal.
- Zip-top bags – Resealable polyethylene bags let you press out all excess air.
- Cardboard tops – Waxed cardboard lids with inner plastic liner help insulate.
In general, screw-on or twist-off lids form the best seal for preventing freezer burn over extended storage. They also allow for easy resealing. Press-on lids can work almost as well and are convenient. Zip-top bags are great for homemade or bulk ice cream.
Capacity
Ice cream containers come in a range of capacities suitable for different purposes:
- Single-serve: 3-6 oz plastic cups or cardboard tubs
- Pint: 16 oz plastic tub or rectangular carton
- Quart: 32 oz plastic tub
- Half gallon: 64 oz plastic tub or rectangular carton
- Gallon: 128 oz plastic or cardboard tub
- Multi-gallon: Plastic buckets or aluminum canisters for 5+ gallons
If you don’t eat much ice cream, opt for smaller single-serve portions you can finish quickly. Buying larger bulk sizes can save money if your household goes through a lot of ice cream. Just be sure to divide it into smaller airtight containers if storing for more than a few days.
Opacity
Clear or translucent ice cream containers look nice but expose the ice cream to more light. Light can cause faster flavor deterioration and iciness. That’s why most purpose-made ice cream containers are opaque or heavily tinted.
If storing ice cream in a clear glass or plastic container, wrap it in an outer layer of aluminum foil or place it in an opaque bag. This blocks light while still letting you see the contents.
Insulating Ability
Better insulation slows melting and recrystallization during temperature fluctuations when removing ice cream from the freezer. Plastic and aluminum are naturally poor insulators. Here are some ways containers can provide better insulation:
- Thicker plastic walls retain more cold.
- Foil lining helps reflect cold.
- Cardboard outer packaging adds insulation.
- Double walled vacuum insulation is best.
If your container lacks insulation, you can create your own by slipping it inside an insulated cooler bag or wrapping it with towels/newspaper when transporting ice cream.
Ease of Use
Look for an ice cream container with a shape and opening that makes it easy for you to scoop out. Consider:
- Wide mouth allows scooping with a proper ice cream scoop.
- Shallow square cartons provide access from multiple sides.
- Rounded corners and edges make scooping easier.
- Individual serving sizes eliminate need to scoop.
Narrow openings and very deep, narrow containers can make it hard to get at the ice cream. Flimsy containers may collapse or crack when scooping. Prioritize easy access.
Conclusion
The ideal ice cream storage container blocks outside odors, moisture, and light while insulating against temperature changes. Airtight plastic containers with screw-top or snap-on lids work great, as do coated cardboard pint cartons. For durability, glass and aluminum are good choices if stored in opaque bags. Shape, closure, and capacity should suit your household’s needs and allow easy scooping. With the right container, you can keep ice cream tasting fresh for months in the freezer.