Have you ever made ice cream in a bag? It really is easy to do with just a few supplies and two sizes of zip bags. Kids will be able to tackle this entire recipe on their own and can be proud to say they made their own ice cream. Take a look at these easy step-by-step instructions.

This post may contain affiliate links, view my full disclosure policy.

Kids and ice cream go hand in hand. And unlike adults, kids seem to enjoy ice cream year round, even if it is freezing outside!

This easy recipe is a great way for kids to practice a little independence and make a dessert they will be proud of. They can add their own creative touches with colors, flavors and toppings.

Pick up a set of pretty ice cream dishes or look around at your local thrift store. Kids will enjoy plating and styling their dessert almost as much as they will enjoy eating it.

Have fun making ice cream

Not only is this ice cream delicious, it’s really fun to make. Get more than 1 person involved for the shaking part of this recipe.

The ice cream freezes as it moves around inside the bag. This movement can be created by shaking the bag, or tossing it gently between 2 people. Be sure to wear a thin pair of gloves to keep your hands warm.

Make a game of it and have fun making ice cream in a bag.

How to Make Ice Cream in a Bag in Less Than 15 Minutes

Name: How to Make Ice Cream in a Bag in Less Than 15 Minutes
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 2
Ingredients: 1 cup half-and-half; 2 Tbsp. sugar; ½ tsp. vanilla; Quart zip bag; Gallon zip bag; 3 cups ice; ⅓ cup salt

Yield: 2

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

A simple recipe for creamy and delicious ice cream.

Ingredients

1 cup half-and-half
2 Tbsp. sugar
½ tsp. vanilla
Quart zip bag
Gallon zip bag
3 cups ice
⅓ cup salt

Instructions

In a quart-size zip bag, add half-and-half, sugar, and vanilla. Seal well. In the gallon-size bag, add about 3 cups of ice. Put the smaller bag in the larger bag, sprinkle with salt, and seal.
Double check those seals, and then start shaking. If it gets gold to the touch, you can use gloves or wrap the bag in a towel. You can even encourage your kids to do this step together—tossing and shaking it back and forth.
Take the smaller bag out of the big bag and open it up. You should have ice cream! If it's not quite solidified, keep shaking. You might have to add a bit of ice and salt if too much has melted. Keep in mind that the outside of the small bag will be salty, it’s best to put the ice cream in a bowl so kids don’t get that salty taste in their mouth.

Notes

You have the option to add food coloring or flavoring to the mix. You can also add in extra treats like cookie dough, sprinkles, or chocolate chips.

Nutrition Information:

Yield: 2 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 200Total Fat: 13gSaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 42mgSodium: 18751mgCarbohydrates: 18gFiber: 0gSugar: 18gProtein: 4g

If you are looking for more kids friendly recipes, be sure to check out mason jar ice cream. This simple recipe uses the same ingredients as ice cream in a bag with a different mixing and freezing method.

Let your kids experiment with simple ingredients in the kitchen and see what they can create. Try mixing in peppermint flavor and chocolate chips, or adding fresh fruit to the bag before mixing.

Like this simple recipe? Pin and share it.