Tin-Can Ice Cream

Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 1 cup whipping cream
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 (1-pound) coffee can with tight-fitting lid (or similar-sized metal container)
  • 1 (#10 size) large can with tight-fitting lid (or large ice cream bucket with lid)
  • 8-pound bag of crushed ice or ice cubes
  • 3/4 cup rock salt
  • A cement slab or flat driveway surface for rolling

No ice cream maker? No problem! This tin-can ice cream recipe turns basic ingredients into creamy vanilla ice cream — using just two cans, some ice, and a little elbow grease.

It’s a great outdoor activity for families, especially at summer cookouts or camping trips. Kids love rolling the can around and watching it magically turn into ice cream!

Cooking Steps

  • 1
    In the small (1-pound) can, mix together milk, cream, sugar, and vanilla. Seal tightly with the lid.
  • 2
    Place the sealed can inside the large (#10) can. Pack crushed ice all around the smaller can.
  • 3
    Sprinkle about 1/2 cup rock salt evenly over the ice. Seal the large can with its lid.
  • 4
    Roll the can back and forth on a flat surface (like a patio or driveway) for 10 minutes.
  • 5
    Open the large can, remove the small can, and stir the semi-frozen mixture with a table knife, scraping the sides.
  • 6
    Drain water from the large can and add more ice and the remaining salt.
  • 7
    Replace the small can, seal again, and roll for 5 more minutes.
  • 8
    Open and serve immediately or place in the freezer for firmer texture.

Makes about 3 cups of ice cream.

Tips & Variations:

  • Add mini chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or chopped fruit after the first stir.

  • Use flavored extracts like peppermint or almond for a twist.

  • For chocolate ice cream, add 2 tablespoons cocoa powder to the mix.

  • Store leftovers in a freezer-safe container with lid.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • No electricity or ice cream maker needed

  • Fun hands-on activity for kids and families

  • Customizable flavors

  • Ready in about 20 minutes

Perfect For:

  • Camping trips

  • Family reunions

  • Backyard BBQs

  • Summer science experiments

This tin-can ice cream isn’t just delicious — it’s a memory-making experience. You get cold, creamy results and big smiles from everyone who helps.

Roughing It Easy

Take all of Dian’s tips & tricks with
you on your next outdoor adventure!