Best Ice Cream Scoops
We happen to be of the opinion that there’s never a bad time for ice cream. And when that craving strikes, you’d better be prepared.
Some might think that an ice cream scoop is an ice cream scoop, but if you’ve ever tried to serve up ice cream with a sub-par implement, you know that’s simply not the case. The best ice cream scoops are capable of carving out an enticingly rounded serving of ice cream and dropping it into your bowl or on top of your cone intact.
So say goodbye to unwieldy scoops and see-you-later to bending all your spoons on a rock-hard tub of ice cream. Based on our research, these are the 10 best ice cream scoops you can buy.
Our Top Pick For Best Ice Cream Scoop
Sumo Ice Cream Scoop
We picked the Sumo Ice Cream Scoop because of its unyielding stainless-steel construction and non-slip handle, offering a blend of durability and comfort.
- EASY SCOOPING. Our stainless steel ice cream scoop is heavy duty solid metal which effortlessly scoops your icecream, gelato or sorbet
- ICE CREAM SCOOP BUILT TO LAST. Indestructible durable and sturdy design that’ll never chip or break like a trigger
- DISHWASHER SAFE. Incredibly quick and easy cleanup of your ice cream scooper
- COMFORTABLE. Soft rubber handle and chiseled tip for scooping rock-solid frozen ice cream. Dip into warm water for a heated scoop and easier nonstick scooping
- TRUSTED FOR OVER 8 YEARS. Used by commercial kitchen professionals. Recommended as best rated by BuzzFeed and Serious Eats
Of all the scoops on this list, this is our favorite. It wasn’t just me that thought so, but all my kids of ice cream scooping age agreed! As a dad of nine kids, we eat AND scoop a lot of ice cream in this house! This si the one to buy. While others on the list were also awesome, the smaller handle was preferred by the little ones.
The aptly-named Sumo ice cream scoop is one of the heaviest-duty ice cream scoops we came across. It tips the scales at a chunky 11.2 ounces thanks to its generous proportions and solid stainless steel construction. This scoop also has a handy chiseled shape, allowing it to scoop ice cream out of hard-to-reach corners.
The handle of the Sumo ice cream scoop is covered with BPA-free food-grade rubber, which provides a comfortable and effective grip. It’s dishwasher safe, and four different grip colors are available. The only potential downside of this scoop, as some users have noted, is that ice cream tends to stick to it, making for a somewhat less picturesque dessert.
Pros:
- Durable: Made with solid stainless steel, which is rust-resistant and dishwasher-safe.
- Comfortable grip: Features a non-slip rubber handle that fits comfortably in your hand.
- Easy to use: Scoops ice cream without it sticking.
Cons:
- Not as effective with very hard ice cream: Might require some effort to scoop ice cream directly from the freezer.
- Weight: Slightly heavier than some other models.
Zeroll Original Ice Cream Scoop
The Zeroll Original Ice Cream Scoop made our list due to its unique heat-conductive liquid design, which facilitates effortless scooping, especially with harder ice creams.
- ICE CREAM SCOOP QUALITY: Offering great quality Zeroll has been the ice cream scoop of choice in homes and ice cream parlors since 1935 This handy kitchen tool carves out plump round scoops of ice cream
- UNIQUE ZEROLL DESIGN: The unique heat-conductive liquid in the handle uses the natural warmth of your hand to make for smooth and effortless scooping and easy release
- KITCHEN ESSENTIAL: The improved aluminum alloy helps resist oxidation and corrosion
- SCOOPING MADE EASY: The easy-to-use one-piece design has no springs to replace and is designed for right or left-hand use
- CREATING THE BEST SCOOP: Color-coded gold end cap is a portion size of 2 oz/ounces 40 scoops per gallon Zeroll scoops create a bigger looking portion by eliminating compression which gives you 20 percent more volume of ice cream per gallon
We happen to be of the opinion that there’s never a bad time for ice cream. And when that craving strikes, you’d better be prepared.
- Conductive liquid in the handle: This liquid conducts heat from your hand to the scoop to make scooping easier.
- Portion control: Creates consistent, attractive scoops.
- Simple design: No moving parts, which means less chance of something breaking.
Vollrath 4 oz. Stainless Steel Disher
The Vollrath Disher was chosen for its precise portion control and comfortable grip, making it ideal for both home and commercial use.
- NSF certified dishers has molded one-piece handle improves durability, makes cleaning easy and prevents handle from coming apart
- Stainless steel bowl and components to prevent corrosion and insure longer life; blade extends beyond bowl to prevent sticking
- Color-coded handle for no-guess size selection; extended grooved handle provides a sure grip for comfortable use
- Coated handles are equipped with Agion antimicrobial protection for food safety
- 4-Ounce capacity and gray handle.Intended for Commercial/Restaurant Use
The 4-ounce stainless steel disher from Vollrath is a perfect example of the trigger-style ice cream scoop, which makes releasing a portion of ice cream into your dish quite effortless. It’s durable and easy to clean, with a molded handle that’s nice and grippy. The handle also has an all-natural antimicrobial coating for safety.
Vollrath stainless steel dishers are designed for commercial and restaurant use, where they’re commonly used not only for ice cream, but also for doling out rounded portions of everything from mashed potatoes to mac n’ cheese. It’s a great all-around scooper for home use as well, especially for those who prefer their ice cream in extra-large servings.
- Consistent size: Great for portion control due to its disher design.
- Comfortable grip: Designed to reduce fatigue with repeated use.
- Dishwasher safe: Easy to clean.
OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Ice Cream Scoop
We selected the OXO Good Grips Scoop due to its combination of a sturdy stainless-steel construction and a comfortable, pressure-absorbing handle.
- Solid stainless steel won’t chip, pit or discolor
- Curved head design easily scoops hard ice cream
- Flat edges scrape sides of container clean
- Handle has a comfortable grip that won’t slip
It’s no surprise, considering its name, that the standout feature of the OXO Good Grips ice cream scoop is its comfortable grip. The handle’s rubberized coating is soft, non-slip, and also keeps your hands from getting cold while scooping, making this one of the most comfortable ice cream scoops to use.
It also has an efficient scoop shape, with a slightly pointed top and flattened sides that make it easy to get every last morsel from the corners and sides of the carton, so you won’t waste any of your precious ice cream. The OXO Good Grips ice cream scoop is dishwasher safe, and has a solid stainless steel scoop that won’t stain, pit or impart off-flavors to your ice cream.
- Comfortable non-slip handle: Absorbs pressure while you scoop.
- Pointed design: Easily digs into hard ice cream.
- Sturdy construction: Made of solid stainless steel.
Hafan Food Grade 304 Stainless Steel Ice Cream Scoop
The Hafan Scoop was selected for its quality materials, combining food-grade stainless steel with an easy-to-clean, dishwasher-safe design.
Easily one of the best-looking ice cream scoops on the market, this wood handled stainless steel ice cream scoop from Hafan looks great alongside all your other kitchen gadgets. If you’re trying to maintain a certain rustic-chic look in your kitchen, this is a great choice.
But this ice cream scoop isn’t just a pretty face. The rounded-out bowl and trigger-style design make it easy to get a perfect scoop of ice cream every time, and the wood handle, in addition to being eye-catching, is also slip-resistant and comfortable to grip. The Hafan scoop is dishwasher safe (though hand washing will maintain the luster of the wood better) and comes in three different sizes.
- Quality materials: Made from food-grade stainless steel, rust-resistant and durable.
- Easy to clean: Dishwasher safe.
- Simple design: No moving parts, reducing the chance of breakage.
Zyliss Right Scoop
The Zyliss Right Scoop made our list due to its sharp edge and comfortable grip, making it a powerful tool for scooping hard ice cream.
With its stainless steel head and soft-gripped BPA-free plastic handle, the Zyliss Right Scoop offers the best of both worlds in terms of durability and user-friendliness. It’s dishwasher-safe, and well-balanced for effortless scooping. One minor criticism might be that the scoop is a little bluntly shaped, potentially making it tough to get all the ice cream out of the bottom of certain containers.
Its compact size makes the Zyliss Right Scoop ideal for folks with smaller hands. But it’s also surprisingly heavy at 7.7 ounces, giving the user plenty of leverage to dig out a well-rounded scoop of hard frozen ice cream.
- Digs easily: Designed with a sharp edge that cuts into hard ice cream.
- Comfortable grip: The handle is designed to be ergonomic.
- Durable: Made with heavy-duty steel.
Norpro Anti-Freeze Ice Cream Spade
The Norpro Spade was chosen for its anti-freeze capabilities and wide spade design, offering versatility for scooping and mixing.
An ice cream spade is a little different from a typical ice cream scoop. It has a broader, shovel-like blade that makes it more adept at scooping out broad, flat sheets of ice cream, as opposed to the more traditional rounded scoops. This particular ice cream spade from Norpro is a great one, with one-piece aluminum alloy design and defrosting fluid inside the handle much like a Zeroll scoop.
Ice cream spades aren’t for everyone, but they’re a fun alternative for serving larger portions or layering different ice cream flavors together. They’re also great for making ice cream sandwiches at home, and are ideally shaped for scraping out the sides of the carton.
- Anti-freeze sealed inside the handle: Makes scooping hard ice cream easier.
- Wide spade: Great for serving large amounts and also useful for mixing flavors or toppings.
- Easy to clean: Can be cleaned in the dishwasher.
GoodCook Smart Scoop
We picked the GoodCook Smart Scoop because of its innovative push-button release mechanism, making it easier to deliver perfect scoops every time.
The inventive design of the GoodCook Smart Scoop is immediately apparent. Made of lightweight cast aluminum with a non-stick coating, this novel ice cream scoop works differently than any other scoop we researched, and it’s a perfect option if you’re looking for something that’s easy to use and very much unlike a typical ice cream scoop.
The GoodCook Smart Scoop has two pieces that are hinged at the center; you squeeze it while scooping, and then release to open the scoop and drop the ice cream into your bowl. It makes well-rounded scoops, and offers good leverage for scooping ice cream hard ice cream. Hand-wash to keep the finish from coming off.
- Unique design: Features a push button for easy release of ice cream.
- Comfortable grip: Has a soft touch handle.
- Dishwasher safe: Easy to clean.
Thrifty Old Time Ice Cream Scooper
The Thrifty Scooper was selected for its nostalgic design and reliable push mechanism, offering a perfect blend of style and functionality.
This one might not be for everybody, but the unique design of the Thrifty Old Time Ice Cream Scooper makes it a fun kitchen gadget. Unlike most scooping tools, this one creates cylindrical scoops instead of round ones.
To make it work, you press the scooper straight down into your carton of ice cream, rotate 90 degrees as you remove it, and then pull the trigger to release the perfectly-measured scoop of ice cream onto the top of a cone. It’s fun and easy, especially if you have kids who like to help out. You may find that the novelty of cylinder-shaped scoops wears off in time, but it can still be fun to bring out at parties.
- Retro design: Unique and nostalgic look.
- Good for hard ice cream: The push mechanism allows for scooping hard ice cream.
- Consistent scoops: Great for portion control.
YasTant Premium Ice Cream Scoop with Trigger
We chose the YasTant Scoop due to its ergonomic handle and trigger mechanism, which provide ease of use and effortless release of ice cream.
The YasTant Premium ice cream scoop is a twist on the trigger scoop concept. This one has a simple thumb lever that easily pops the ice cream out of the scoop. It’s available in medium and large sizes, and has a perfectly spherical spoon head that results in a picture-perfect scoop of ice cream.
This scoop is made of stainless steel, and has a hollow handle that makes it quite lightweight. It’s dishwasher safe as well. Some users have noted that ice cream tends to stick to the scoop, but running the spoon head under warm water right before use will alleviate that problem. The trigger makes this scoop ideal for other uses too, like cookie dough and melon balls.
- Trigger mechanism: Allows for easy release of the ice cream.
- Comfortable grip: Features an ergonomic handle.
- Quality materials: Made from food-grade stainless steel.
The Art of Scooping Ice Cream: Tips and Techniques for Perfect Scoops Every Time
Why Scooping Ice Cream Correctly is Important
When it comes to serving up delicious ice cream, the scoop can make all the difference. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving a bowl of your favorite flavor, knowing how to scoop ice cream properly is essential for both presentation and taste. When scooped correctly, ice cream should be smooth and free from any cracks or crevices that could cause it to melt more quickly.
One of the main reasons why scooping ice cream correctly is so important is because it affects the overall presentation. No one wants a lumpy, misshapen scoop of ice cream in their bowl!
By using the right tools and techniques, you can ensure that each scoop looks picture-perfect and appetizing. In addition to appearance, scooping techniques also affect how quickly your ice cream will melt.
If you use too much force or don’t scoop evenly, you’ll create cracks and air pockets that will cause the ice cream to melt more quickly. This is especially important if you’re serving your homemade creation at an event or party – no one wants a bowl full of melted dessert!
Basic Equipment Needed for Scooping Ice Cream
Before diving into the actual scooping process, it’s important to have all the necessary equipment on hand. First and foremost, you’ll need a good quality ice cream scoop. There are many different types available – some are designed specifically for certain flavors or textures – so do some research before choosing one that suits your needs.
Other basic equipment includes an appropriately sized container (if not serving immediately), pre-chilled bowls or cones (if desired), warm spoons (for smoothing out any rough edges), and toppings (optional). It’s also important to make sure your hands are clean and dry before handling the ice cream to avoid any contamination.
By having all of these tools on hand and ready to go, you’ll be setting yourself up for scooping success. With your equipment in place and an understanding of why scooping techniques are so important, you’re now ready to start scooping up some delicious ice cream!
Preparing to Scoop
Allow ice cream to soften slightly
Before diving into scooping, it’s important to let the ice cream sit out at room temperature for a few minutes. This allows the ice cream to soften, making it easier to scoop and creating a smoother texture.
However, don’t let it soften too much – you want it soft enough for easy scooping but not so soft that it melts or becomes soupy. If you’re in a rush and can’t wait for the ice cream to soften on its own, try using a warm scoop.
Simply run your scoop under hot water for 10-15 seconds before scooping. This will help the scoop glide through the ice cream more easily.
Select the appropriate size scoop for the desired portion
The size of your scoop will determine how big each serving of ice cream will be. Generally, scoops come in various sizes ranging from small (1-1/4 inch diameter), medium (1-3/4 inch diameter) and large (2 inch diameter). The smaller the scoop size, the more servings you’ll get out of a container of ice cream.
To determine what size scoop is right for you, consider how many servings you need and what portion size is appropriate. If serving kids or if part of a larger dessert spread, smaller scoops may be ideal.
Larger scoops may be more fitting if making bowls or sundaes as standalone desserts. By allowing your ice cream to soften slightly before diving into scooping and selecting an appropriately sized tool for your project – your finished product will look beautiful and taste delicious!
Scooping Techniques
Use a Firm Grip on the Scoop Handle
The first step to mastering the art of scooping ice cream is to use a firm grip on the scoop handle. This will give you better control over the scoop and allow you to apply the right amount of pressure when scooping. A loose grip can cause your scoop to slip or bend, resulting in an uneven or messy scoop.
When holding the scoop, make sure your hand is positioned near the top of the handle for maximum leverage. This will help you exert more pressure when needed without straining your wrist or fingers.
Press Scoop into Ice Cream at a Slight Angle
Once you have a good grip on your scoop, it’s time to press it into the ice cream. To do this, hold your scoop at a slight angle and press down firmly into the ice cream.
This technique helps you create a smooth and even surface for each scoop. The angle also allows for maximum contact between the scoop and ice cream so that it’s easy to get just enough ice cream in each serving without making a mess.
Twist and Lift Motion to Release Scoop
After pressing down with your angled scoop, use a twisting motion to release it from the ice cream. This ensures that you get a clean release without any excess bits hanging onto your scoop.
To do this, gently twist your wrist while lifting up on the handle until it pops out of the ice cream. Be careful not to twist too hard or lift too quickly as this can cause uneven scoops or force air into the ice cream. Incorporating these three techniques will help you perfect your scooping skills in no time!
Presentation and Serving Tips
Place Scoops in a Pre-Chilled Bowl or Cone
Now that you’ve mastered the art of scooping the perfect ice cream, it’s time to think about presentation. After all, we eat with our eyes first! To keep your ice cream looking and tasting its best, it’s important to serve it in a pre-chilled bowl or cone.
This will help prevent the ice cream from melting too quickly, and it will also provide a nice contrast between the cold ice cream and the warm toppings. Make sure to use a scoop that is appropriate for the size of your bowl or cone to ensure that you get just the right amount of ice cream in each serving.
Use a Warm Spoon to Smooth Out Any Rough Edges
After placing your scoops of ice cream into their bowls or cones, take a moment to smooth out any rough edges using a warm spoon. This will not only make your presentation look more appealing but will also give you an even surface on which to add toppings.
To warm up your spoon, simply run it under hot water for a few seconds before using. Then use the back of the spoon to lightly press against any rough edges until they’re smoothed out.
Add Toppings Such as Sprinkles or Chocolate Syrup
Last but not least, let’s talk toppings! Adding fun and flavorful toppings is one of the best parts about eating ice cream. From sprinkles and chopped nuts to chocolate syrup and whipped cream – there are endless options!
When adding toppings, be sure to sprinkle them evenly over each scoop of ice cream so that every bite has a little bit of everything. You can also get creative with your topping choices by adding fresh fruit, cookie crumbles, or even hot fudge sauce!
With these simple tips for presentation and serving, you can make any scoop of ice cream look and taste like a work of art. So go ahead, get creative and have fun with your toppings!
Cleaning Up
Rinse scoop with warm water after each use
After scooping ice cream, it’s important to clean your scoop before putting it away. The best way to do this is by rinsing it off with warm water.
The warm water will help melt any excess ice cream that’s stuck to the scoop, making it easier to clean. You can also use a sponge or brush to scrub the scoop if needed.
Avoid using hot water as this could damage the coating on your scoop and cause it to rust over time. Once you’ve rinsed off all the ice cream, make sure to dry your scoop thoroughly before storing it away.
Store scoop in a dry place
Storing your ice cream scoop correctly is just as important as cleaning it properly. After drying your scoop, find a dry and cool place in your kitchen where you can store it until next time. Avoid storing your scoop in an area where it could get wet or damp, like near a sink or dishwasher.
This could cause bacteria growth and make your next batch of ice cream taste funny. Consider purchasing a container specifically designed for storing kitchen utensils like an ice cream scoop.
This will help keep your kitchen organized and prevent any cross-contamination between utensils. Overall, taking care of your ice cream scooper will ensure that you can enjoy perfect scoops every time you indulge in this sweet treat!
Fun Facts About Ice Cream Scooping
The World’s Largest Ice Cream Scoop Weighed 3,010 Pounds!
Did you know that the world’s largest ice cream scoop was created in 1985 and weighed a whopping 3,010 pounds? The creation of this scoop required six people to lift it and was made out of plastic and fiberglass. This enormous scoop was used to create the world’s largest ice cream sundae in Gloucester, Massachusetts.
It measured 12 feet long and contained over four tons of ice cream! This epic feat took over eight hours to complete and used up more than 100 gallons of chocolate syrup.
The sundae was served to thousands of people who were able to indulge in this delicious treat for free. Considering a typical scoop of ice cream is around four ounces, imagine how many scoops you could get out of that giant scoop!
The First Mechanical Ice Cream Scooper Was Invented in 1897
Before the mechanical ice cream scooper was invented, scooping ice cream was a tiresome task. Imagine having to manually dig into a rock-hard brick of frozen solid dairy! Fortunately, in 1897 Alfred L. Cralle invented the first mechanical ice cream scooper.
Cralle saw the need for an easier way to serve up frozen treats and created a metal scoop with an innovative mechanism that allowed it to easily release each scoop without sticking or freezing shut. He patented his invention on February 2nd, 1897 and called it the “Ice Cream Mold and Disher.” This invention revolutionized the way we enjoy our favorite frozen treats today.
Thanks to Cralle’s invention, we can now quickly serve up perfectly portioned scoops without struggling through layers of frozen dessert. Whether you prefer your ice cream served in a bowl or cone, one thing is for sure – we have Alfred L. Cralle to thank for making our lives a whole lot easier!
By now, you have learned the importance of preparing your ice cream and selecting the right equipment for the job. You’ve also gained valuable insight into scooping techniques that will allow you to produce perfect scoops every time.
And let’s not forget about presentation and serving tips that’ll make your scoops look as good as they taste. Remember that practice makes perfect when it comes to scooping ice cream.
Don’t be discouraged if your first few attempts don’t turn out exactly as planned. With time and practice, you’ll soon be able to scoop with confidence and impress everyone with your skills.
We hope you found this article helpful and informative. Whether you’re a seasoned ice cream lover or just starting out, we’re confident that our tips will help take your ice cream game to the next level.
