Why You’ll Love This Ice Cream Bread Recipe
If you’ve ever craved something sweet yet simple, you’re going to love this ice cream bread recipe. It’s a delightful twist on traditional bread, combining the rich creaminess of ice cream with the fluffy goodness of freshly baked bread.
I appreciate how quick and easy it’s to whip up; in just a few steps, I’ve got a warm loaf ready to enjoy. Plus, the flavors are endlessly customizable—imagine chocolate, vanilla, or even fruity variations!
Each bite is a treat that brings nostalgia, making it perfect for any occasion. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients of Ice Cream Bread
When it comes to making ice cream bread, the ingredients are super simple, which is part of what makes this recipe so appealing. You don’t need a ton of fancy stuff hanging around your kitchen. In fact, you probably already have most of these ingredients on hand.
So, let’s explore what you’ll need to whip up this delightful treat.
- 1 pint ice cream (softened, about 2 cups)
- 1 ½ cups self-rising flour
That’s it! Just two main ingredients.
Now, if you’re like me, you might find yourself standing in front of the freezer, contemplating life choices while eyeing that tub of ice cream. Should you go with chocolate chip cookie dough or stick with the classic vanilla?
The beauty of ice cream bread is that you can truly let your inner food artist shine. You can mix and match flavors. Want to throw in some sprinkles? Go for it! Feeling fancy? Add a splash of vanilla extract or a handful of chocolate chips.
Just remember, the ice cream you choose will largely dictate the final flavor of your bread, so choose wisely. Trust me, this isn’t the time to use that old tub of mint-chocolate-chip you forgot about in the back of the freezer. Your taste buds will thank you.
How to Make Ice Cream Bread

Making ice cream bread is one of those delightful experiences that makes you wonder why you haven’t tried it sooner. It’s so easy, you might just find yourself making it on a whim, like I did last week when I’d a pint of soft vanilla ice cream lying around.
So, grab your 1 pint of softened ice cream—yes, about 2 cups of that creamy goodness—and let’s get started.
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F. You want it nice and toasty for our bread to bake to perfection. While that’s heating up, grab a mixing bowl and toss in your 1 ½ cups of self-rising flour.
Here’s where the magic begins: slowly fold in the softened ice cream to the flour. It’s really that simple. Just stir it together until the flour is moistened. Be careful not to overmix; we want a lovely, fluffy texture, not a dense loaf that could double as a doorstop.
Once you’ve got a nice, gooey batter, spoon it into a greased and floured 8×4 inch loaf pan.
Now comes the waiting game—cue the suspenseful music. Pop that pan into the oven and bake it for about 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
And let me tell you, the smell wafting through your kitchen will have you pacing like a kid waiting for Christmas morning. Once you pull it out, let it cool in the pan for a bit before transferring it to a wire rack.
Just try not to eat it all in one sitting, even though you’ll definitely want to. Enjoy the fruits of your labor; it’s a sweet treat that’s as simple as it’s delicious.
Ice Cream Bread Substitutions & Variations
While ice cream bread is delicious as-is, experimenting with substitutions and variations can take it to the next level. I love using different flavors of ice cream, like chocolate or mint, to create unique tastes.
You can also swap out self-rising flour for all-purpose flour and add a teaspoon of baking powder if you prefer. For a fun twist, try mixing in chocolate chips, nuts, or fruit pieces.
If you want a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla or almond extract. The possibilities are endless, and each variation makes for a delightful treat!
Additional Tips & Notes
Have you ever wondered how to guarantee your ice cream bread turns out perfectly every time? First, make sure your ice cream is fully softened before mixing; this helps the batter combine smoothly.
I often use a sturdy spatula for stirring—don’t overmix! For added flavor, consider mixing in chocolate chips or nuts. If you want a sweeter loaf, choose a dessert flavor like cookies and cream.
Always check for doneness with a toothpick; every oven varies. Finally, let it cool completely on a wire rack for the best texture. Trust me, these tips will elevate your ice cream bread game!