The 5 Best Ice Cream Scoops

Ice scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream. But, before you can dish up any ice cream, you need an ice cream scoop. These special kitchen utensils glide more easily through frozen ice cream. They're strong enough that they won't bend, like regular spoons tend to do. And, you can use one to create classic ice cream cones, adding however many scoops you would prefer. If you're ready to buy a new ice cream scoop, try one of these. They're five of the bes

Spring Chef Ice Cream Scoop with Comfortable Handle

Heavy Duty Ice Cream Scoop

This ice cream scoop is built to last.

Best Overall

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If you’re tired of buying ice cream scoops only to have them break, check this one out. It is built to last. It’s a heavy duty scoop, made from zinc alloy. It will go effortlessly through your ice cream, even if it’s straight out of the freezer. The scoop part features design elements from spades, letting you reach all corners of the carton. This prevents you from wasting any ice cream. The scoop is shaped perfectly to roll ice cream, allowing you to create beautiful scoops each and every time. The thick handle is comfortable to grip, and the metal of the handle has been covered so you won’t freeze your hand. On the handle, you’ll also find a notch that you can use to help lift the lids off the ice cream cartons.

Pros

Built to last – very heavy duty
Great scoop design
Thick handle

Cons

Pricier than most ice cream scoops

OXO 1191000 Good Grips Solid Stainless Steel Ice Cream Scoop, 8-Inch

Special Scoop Design

This stainless steel ice cream scoop has a special design to reach the corners of the carton.

Runner Up

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This ice cream scoop is strong and durable. It’s made of strong stainless steel, with a comfortable non-slip handle for easy scooping. You can really apply pressure while you grip, making it easier to scoop. The end has a pointed tip, which digs into the ice cream no matter how frozen it is. The sides of the scoop are flat. This shape allows you to easily reach the ice cream along the edges of the carton. It’s dishwasher safe, so when you’re finished with your dessert, you can let the dishwasher do the cleanup.

Pros

Comfortable handle
Pointed tip
Flat sides

Cons

You can poke the pointed end through the ice cream carton if you aren’t careful

Professional Stainless Steel Ice Cream Scoop by BALCI

Colorful Ice Cream Scoops

Add a nice touch of color to your ice cream parties.

Best Color Options

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Do you prefer a colored ice cream scoop? This one is available in six different color options including purple and green. The colorful handle isn’t the only reason to buy this item. With solid stainless steel running all the way down the handle, this ice cream scoop is tough. It’s covered by an easy to hold rubber handle. The scoop is shaped like a chisel, so it’ll easily get down into the frozen ice cream. This means no more letting your ice cream sit out to thaw a bit before you dig in. Built with safety in mind, this product is BPA free. It also doesn’t contain any plastic.

Pros

Colorful handle
Chisel scoop design
BPA and plastic free

Cons

A little heavy

Norpro 683 Nonstick Anti-Freeze Ice Cream Scoop, 7in/18cm

An Inexpensive Ice Cream Scoop

Here's an ice cream scoop that won't blow the budget.

Most Budget Friendly

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Ice cream scoops don’t need to cost a lot. Here’s an inexpensive one that will get the job done well. It’s non-stick, so you don’t have to worry about ice cream sticking to it. The handle has defrosting fluid sealed inside, so you can easily scoop out the ice cream even when it’s frozen solid. Made from heavy duty aluminum, this ice cream scoop will hold up to a lot of use. You will need to hand wash it when you’re done.

Pros

Defrosting fluid sealed inside
You can scoop with either hand
Non-stick

Cons

Not dishwasher safe

Stainless Steel Ice Cream Scoop by Midnight Scoop – Ergonomic Ice Cream Scooper for Hard Ice Cream

Really Comfortable to Hold

This ice cream scoop was designed with comfort in mind.

Most Ergonomic

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If you want to scoop ice cream without having your hand start hurting, you need to try this one. The ergonomic handle curves, which helps you have better control over it. Even people with weak wrists from carpal tunnel or arthritis can use it. The scoop section is spear-shaped, so you can plow through hard ice cream with ease. It’s built to easily release perfect balls of ice cream onto your cone or dish. The scoop is dishwasher safe, so you can easily clean it. It arrives in a nice gift box, so it is a great choice for a wedding or housewarming party.

Pros

Unique design
Really comfortable
Dishwasher safe

Cons

Large in size

Frequently Asked Questions

What else can you use ice cream scoops for?

While ice cream scoops are typically used for ice cream, that is not their only purpose. You can scoop out cookie dough instead of ice cream. You can also dollop out a scoop of frosting to drop on top of cupcakes, cakes, or cookies. They are a great size for scooping out meatballs from the raw meat mixture. The scoop gives you uniform balls. With a little creativity, you can also take ice cream scoops out of the kitchen. The kids may discover it makes beautiful sand castles at the beach. They also are fun for digging with, especially if you purchase the spade style that will easily cut through the top layer.

What size ice cream scoop do I need?

Ice cream scoops come in several different sizes, though most hold about 1/2 cup of ice cream. Before purchasing, decide how large of a scoop you would like. If you have young kids, you may consider purchasing a smaller size to help them with portion control.

Do I need to let my ice cream thaw?

Most ice cream scoops cannot cut through solidly frozen ice cream. The ice cream is just too strong. If your ice cream scoop isn’t up to task, you have a couple of options. First, you can let it sit out on the counter for a while. This will allow the ice cream to naturally thaw and become softer. But, it does take time. If you prefer, here is a faster method. Get a cup of warm water and set it near the ice cream. Dunk the scoop end of your ice cream scoop into the towel. Then, dip the warmed scoop into the ice cream. Scoop some out, and then dip it in the water again. Continue dipping as needed. You will need to apply a fair amount of pressure to help the scoop go through the frozen dessert.