Who doesn’t love ice cream? Ice cream in a bag is such a fun activity to do especially during the hot summer months!

Ice cream in a bag is such a fun science experiment for preschoolers. This activity includes both an activity and free shape tracing printable (if you’re looking for it, it’s towards the bottom) for a good combination of learning, experimenting, and ice cream.
Not only is this a fun science experiment but the ice cream tastes good too! Personally, I think it tastes kind of like soft serve.
Jump to:
Ingredients needed
To make ice cream in a bag, you will need:
- Heavy cream: You can also use canned coconut milk (be sure to use canned coconut milk and not the milk alternative type).
- Ice: To make the ice cream cold.
- Kosher salt: I’ve been asked a lot if you can substitute regular salt but unfortunately you will need kosher salt for this recipe. I do not recommend subbing regular.
- Vanilla extract: To give the ice cream a yummy flavor.
Equipment needed
- A quart sized zip lock bag
- A heavy duty freezer gallon zip lock bag
- Oven mitts (to keep hands warm while shaking the ice cream)
How to make this recipe
In the smaller bag, add the heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla.
Seal the bag and remove as much excess air as possible.
In the larger bag, add the kosher salt and ice. Add the smaller bag inside the larger bag.
Using oven mitts (to keep your hands warm), shake the bag for about 10 minutes.
Remove from the bag and serve with optional toppings if desired.
How to store leftovers
Store any leftovers in your freezer.
Tips
- Use oven mitts to keep little hands warm.
- Use high quality plastic storage bags, cheaper ones may leak.
Other activities that you might like:
- Unbreakable Bubbles Recipe
- How to Dye Spaghetti
- Side Walk Chalk Paint Recipe
- Cinnamon Raisin Bread in a Bag
Ice Cream in a Bag for Kids
Equipment
- Large gallon size ziplock bag
- Quart size ziplock bag
- Oven mitts (to keep hands warm)
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons white sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups ice
- ⅓ cup kosher salt
Toppings (optional)
- fresh fruit
- sprinkles
- chocolate syrup
- caramel syrup
Instructions
- In the smaller bag, add the heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla.
- Seal the bag and remove as much excess air as possible.
- In the larger bag, add the kosher salt and ice. Put the smaller bag inside the large bag and seal.
- Using oven mitts (to keep your hands warm), shake the bag for about 10 minutes.
- Remove from the bag and serve with optional toppings if desired.
- If needed, freeze for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Nutrition
How to download the tracing printable
To download and print this free printable simply click the black download button below. It will download as a PDF file for you to print. This printable is for personal and single classroom use only. No commercial reproduction is allowed.
Holly
I absolutely love this! I had no idea you could easily make homemade ice cream in a bag. We will absolutely be doing this in my house on the next super hot day. Thanks for sharing!! 🍦
Marie
Great recipe! What an awesome idea! Thanks for sharing!
Kelly
Oh how fun! I’m looking for activities to do with my daughter and I think she’ll love this one! 🙂
Patricia Chamberlain
My daughter would love this activity! We are going to have to try it soon.