To soften ice cream without melting it, scoop it into the bowl of an electric mixer. Make the scoops relatively small, about 6 per pint. Beat with a paddle attachment until the ice cream is soft but still holds its shape, about 2 minutes. Alternatively, soften the ice cream by heating it in a microwave on high for 15 to 20 seconds, then mixing with a wooden spoon. Working quickly, use a spatula to remove the ice cream from the bowl.

Recipes

• Cupcakes With Vanilla Ice Cream Frosting (shown)
• Ice Cream Sandwich  
• Ice Cream Truffles  
• Lemon Soda Float  
• Malted Ice Cream  
• Strawberry Ice Cream Cake  
• Tiramisu   
• Vanilla Ice Cream With Chocolate Sauce and Pretzels  
• Vanilla-Orange Freeze