Ice Cream Bread Recipe – A Surprisingly Simple Sweet Treat

Ice cream bread recipe is one of those rare baking treasures that sounds too good to be true—but it’s real, it’s ridiculously easy, and it’s ridiculously good. With just two ingredients—yes, really—you can whip up a moist, tender loaf that feels like a cake but slices like bread. This article explores how to make it, customize it, and store it, plus answers to top questions you might have. You’ll also find internal links to other comforting, creative recipes from BestEverRecipes.com, so you’re never far from your next kitchen win. Let’s dive in.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

A Sweet Memory and How Ice Cream Bread Won My Heart

Baking Magic from Grandma’s Spirit

I first stumbled onto ice cream bread on a snowy Sunday afternoon when my pantry was nearly empty—but my craving for something sweet was sky-high. I remembered my grandma’s way of “making do” with what we had, and it sparked a memory of her mixing melted ice cream into pancakes once, just for fun. That’s when I searched ice cream bread recipe, and what I found blew me away. The idea that just melted ice cream and self-rising flour could make something so remarkable seemed like kitchen magic.

It felt like a baking rebellion, and I loved it.

That day, I used a pint of vanilla bean and had my doubts. But what came out of the oven was this golden, gently sweet loaf with a soft crumb and a warm aroma that reminded me of cake and childhood. I sliced it warm, added a smear of butter, and immediately knew it was going to be a staple in our home.

I’ve made it dozens of times since, from strawberry swirl to pistachio, and it never fails. It’s perfect for brunch, snacking, or late-night cravings. You don’t need baking skills—just a bowl, a spoon, and a sense of adventure.

Check out this cheesy garlic parm potato balls recipe if you’re in the mood for more easy comfort foods, or pair your sweet loaf with this light avocado cottage cheese toast for balance.

Why It Works with Just Two Ingredients

Ice cream isn’t just flavor—it’s fat, sugar, and liquid, all blended and churned. When you combine it with self-rising flour, the flour’s built-in leavening agents activate during baking. The result? A perfectly risen, soft-textured loaf that’s equal parts moist and structured.

This recipe is especially great for those avoiding eggs or complex ingredients. Bonus: it’s a fun way to use up leftover ice cream or try something new when you’re short on groceries. Stay tuned as we dive into ingredients, tips, and delicious variations!

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Choosing Ingredients for the Perfect Ice Cream Bread

The Best Ice Creams to Use (and a Few to Avoid)

Not all ice creams are created equal when it comes to baking. For your ice cream bread recipe to work like a charm, full-fat, dairy-based ice cream is your best bet. Think classic vanilla, butter pecan, or cookies & cream—those rich, creamy varieties melt beautifully and deliver consistent results.

Avoid ice creams labeled as “light,” “low-fat,” or those made with sugar substitutes. They don’t have the fat and sugar content needed to create the tender crumb you want. Also, steer clear of sorbets or non-dairy desserts unless you’re specifically adapting the recipe, like in our mango sorbet Ninja Creami or ninja creami strawberry sorbet—delicious in their own right but not for this loaf.

Stick with about 1.5 cups of softened ice cream (roughly a pint) to 1.25 cups of self-rising flour. That ratio gives the batter the moisture and lift it needs.

If you’re using chunkier flavors (like cookie dough or rocky road), just give it a quick stir after softening so the mix-ins distribute evenly in the batter.

Self-Rising Flour: Your Secret Weapon

Self-rising flour is a game changer here—it contains all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt, making this a true two-ingredient recipe. You’ll get just the right rise and structure without having to fuss with multiple leavening agents.

If you don’t have self-rising flour on hand, you can make your own: combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1½ teaspoons of baking powder and ¼ teaspoon of salt. But if you can snag a bag of the pre-mixed kind, it saves time and ensures consistency.

Need a creative, protein-packed follow-up? Try the cottage cheese keto pancakes for a savory balance or check out our baked cottage cheese eggs for a cozy brunch companion.

How to Make Ice Cream Bread Step-by-Step

Simple Steps, Stunning Results

Making your first loaf of ice cream bread is as easy as turning on your oven and grabbing a mixing bowl. Here’s the step-by-step method that delivers reliable results every single time.

You’ll need:

• 1½ cups of full-fat ice cream, softened (not melted)
• 1¼ cups of self-rising flour

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard 8×4-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the softened ice cream and self-rising flour. Stir just until the batter is smooth and no dry bits remain. Don’t overmix—it should look like thick pancake batter.
3. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
4. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
5. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

That’s it! Two ingredients, one bowl, zero stress—and a warm, tender loaf that tastes like dessert.

Add-ins? Sure! You can fold in sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or chopped nuts before baking. Try crushed cookies for an Oreo version or swirl in fruit preserves for a jammy touch.

Tips for Perfect Texture Every Time

• Soften, don’t melt. The ice cream should be soft enough to stir but not liquid. Overly melted ice cream can water down your batter.
• Don’t overmix. Like with most quick breads, too much mixing = tough texture.
• Use the right pan. An 8×4 or 9×5 loaf pan works best. Mini loaf pans work too—just reduce the baking time.
• Flavor balance. If your ice cream is super sweet (like birthday cake), consider adding a pinch of salt to balance the flavor.

Want more easy, protein-packed recipes? Pair this with our popular crack burger recipe or a quick bite like the easy air fryer chicken tenders no breading for a sweet-savory combo.

Ice Cream Bread Recipe Variations to Try

Flavor Combos That’ll Blow Your Mind

One of the most exciting things about this ice cream bread recipe is how easily you can change it up with different ice cream flavors. Since the base is so simple, every pint you try brings a totally new result. Let’s get creative with some surprising combinations that truly shine.

• Strawberry Ice Cream + White Chocolate Chips: Think strawberry shortcake in a slice. Light, fruity, and rich.
• Mint Chocolate Chip: Refreshing with a hint of nostalgia, perfect for serving cold with a drizzle of chocolate.
• Butter Pecan + Crushed Pecans: For a southern-inspired loaf that tastes like dessert and breakfast rolled into one.
• Cookies & Cream: A kid-favorite that bakes up like a soft Oreo loaf. Want extra crunch? Top with crushed cookies before baking.
• Coffee Ice Cream + Mini Chocolate Chips: Great for brunch or late-night cravings—moist, sweet, and caffeine-kissed.

You can even use multiple ice cream flavors in the same batch—half vanilla, half chocolate, swirled together with a butter knife for a marbled effect.

Want a high-protein twist? Swap out your regular breakfast and enjoy a slice with our cottage cheese bagel recipe. Or for a cold, fruity follow-up, check out this cottage cheese ninja creami bowl—it pairs beautifully with a warm slice.

Toppings and Mix-ins to Customize

Want to boost flavor and texture? Toss in ¼ to ½ cup of these tasty extras:

• Chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, almonds)
• Mini chocolate chips or white chocolate
• Crushed graham crackers or Oreos
• Cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom
• Swirls of peanut butter or Nutella
• Dried fruits like cherries or cranberries

Toppings: Before baking, sprinkle sugar, streusel, or even a handful of granola on top for a crunchy finish.

How to Store and Keep Ice Cream Bread Fresh

Best Practices for Storing Your Ice Cream Bread

After baking your delicious ice cream bread recipe, the next step is keeping it fresh—because once you slice into it, that texture is gold, and you want to preserve it. Here’s how to make your loaf last while maintaining that soft, tender crumb.

Room Temperature:
If you’re planning to eat it within 2–3 days, store the loaf at room temperature in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap. Keep it away from direct sunlight or heat. It stays moist and tasty without refrigeration for a couple of days.

Refrigerator:
To extend the shelf life up to 5 days, store the bread in the fridge. Just make sure it’s wrapped tightly to prevent it from drying out. When ready to serve, microwave a slice for 10–15 seconds to soften it up—this brings back the fresh-from-the-oven feel.

Freezer:
Yes, ice cream bread freezes well. Slice it first, wrap the slices individually in plastic wrap, then pop them into a zip-top bag or freezer container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. To thaw, just leave a slice on the counter or microwave it for a quick warm-up.

Pair this smart storage method with one of our hearty comfort dishes like crock pot corned beef or prep for later with cheesy garlic parm potato balls. Great for meal preppers and snack lovers alike!

How to Refresh It Like New

If your bread starts to feel a little dry after a few days, try this trick:

• Wrap a slice in a damp (not wet) paper towel.
• Microwave it for about 10 seconds.
• Boom—steam helps rehydrate the crumb, giving you that “just baked” magic.

Serving Ideas for Ice Cream Bread – From Brunch to Dessert

How to Serve Ice Cream Bread (Sweet & Savory Ideas)

This ice cream bread recipe isn’t just a fun baking trick—it’s also surprisingly versatile when it comes to how you serve it. Whether you’re pulling it fresh from the oven or warming up frozen slices, there are so many ways to make it feel like something extra special.

For breakfast or brunch:

• Toast slices and top with butter, fruit preserves, or a dollop of whipped ricotta
• Serve alongside scrambled eggs or cottage cheese bagel recipe for protein-packed balance
• Use it as a base for French toast—just soak slices in a quick egg mixture and pan-fry

For dessert:

• Top with ice cream (yes, double the fun!), whipped cream, or chocolate syrup
• Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with toasted nuts or granola
• Layer slices with fresh berries and yogurt for a mini trifle

For snacking:

• Enjoy plain with coffee or tea
• Spread with Nutella or peanut butter for a quick, satisfying bite
• Add a scoop of our cottage cheese ninja creami for a sweet and creamy pairing

This loaf is ideal for serving warm or cold. If you’re entertaining, slice it into small squares, dust it with powdered sugar, and watch it disappear!

Turn It Into Something Totally New

Leftover slices? Here are a few clever ways to reimagine them:

• Bread pudding: Cube it up, pour over a custard base, and bake
• Mini ice cream sandwiches: Slice thin, fill with softened ice cream, and freeze
• Croutons for dessert parfaits: Toasted cubes add a crunchy twist to layered sweets

It’s the kind of flexible, fuss-free treat that always earns compliments. Whether you serve it straight from the pan or get creative with toppings, ice cream bread fits effortlessly into breakfast, brunch, or dessert tables.

Kid-Friendly Twists & Party-Perfect Ice Cream Bread

Making Ice Cream Bread Fun for Kids

Ice cream bread is a magical recipe for kids because it combines two things they already love: sweet treats and easy, hands-on fun. Whether you’re baking with little ones or surprising them with a sweet snack, this recipe is guaranteed to bring smiles.

Kid-friendly flavor ideas:

• Birthday Cake Ice Cream + Sprinkles – Add rainbow sprinkles right into the batter or on top before baking.
• Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream – Fold in extra mini chips for extra fun.
• Cotton Candy or Bubblegum Ice Cream – A colorful twist that makes snack time feel like a celebration.

For little bakers, this is an ideal recipe to get them involved—measuring, stirring, and watching their creation rise in the oven. It’s foolproof, mess-friendly, and bakes quickly enough to keep attention spans intact.

Pair with a healthy side like our cottage cheese keto pancakes or a fun dip made with cream cheese and fruit for a balanced snack plate.

Entertaining Made Easy with Ice Cream Bread

Hosting brunches, showers, or casual family get-togethers? Ice cream bread is your secret weapon. You can make it in advance, freeze it, and slice just before serving—no stress, no mess.

Party-perfect ways to serve it:

• Cut into mini loaves or muffin-sized bites for finger food
• Create an “ice cream bread bar” with toppings like syrups, sprinkles, and fruit
• Pair with creamy dips or spreads for a DIY dessert board

Want to serve something savory on the side? Try these easy air fryer chicken tenders no breading or the indulgent, crowd-pleasing crack burger recipe.

FAQ for Ice Cream Bread Recipe