Ice Cream Leftovers Can Become Sweet Summer Treats

A little extra ice cream in the freezer can go a long way. Whether there is a full carton waiting to be used or just a few scoops left, ice cream can be turned into simple desserts, drinks, and summer treats with very little effort.

One easy idea is a homemade affogato. Add a scoop of ice cream to a cup of hot coffee and let the flavors melt together. Vanilla, chocolate, caramel, or coffee-flavored ice cream all work well.

Ice cream sandwiches are another classic option. Spread a thick layer of ice cream between two large cookies, then freeze briefly until firm. Chocolate chip, oatmeal, sugar cookies, or brownies can all be used as the base.

For a quick milkshake, blend ice cream with milk and fruit such as strawberries or bananas. Other mix-ins, including chocolate syrup, peanut butter, or crushed cookies, can make it even richer.

Ice cream can also become the filling for a cool summer tart. Spoon softened ice cream into a graham wafer piecrust, smooth the top, and freeze until firm. Add toppings such as fruit, nuts, chocolate sauce, caramel, or whipped cream before serving.

For adults, ice cream can even be used in a festive summer cocktail. Blend it with fruit puree and a small amount of alcohol for a creamy frozen drink. The flavor combinations are nearly endless.

Local supermarkets and ice cream shops offer many flavors to try, from traditional vanilla and chocolate to fruit, nut, coffee, and specialty varieties. Home cooks can also make ice cream from scratch, with or without an ice cream maker, using recipes from cookbooks or online sources.

With a little creativity, even leftover ice cream can become something new and memorable.