Instructions

1. Scoop ice cream with a sturdy, stainless steel scooper. Look for a round scooper with a comfortable handle and a thin, sharp edge to cut through hard ice cream. You can also use a scooper with an anti-freezing solution in the handle.

2. Scoop ice cream in a circle around the inside edge of the container, then work toward the center, scooping a layer at a time. Don't scoop a deep hole in the center of the container. Scooping the ice cream evenly from the top protects the outer edge of the ice cream from exposure to higher temperatures, which decreases flavor and quality.

3. Rinse the scooper in hot, running water after every scoop. You can also fill a bowl or glass with hot water, then dip the scooper quickly in the water. Shake the scooper quickly to remove excess water. The scooper should be damp but not dripping.