We've all been there. You buy a pint (or two) of your favorite ice cream or hire an ice cream truck for rent for your next party, only to find that it's melted into a soupy mess by the time you get it home from the store. All you can do is scoop out a sad little bowlful and mourn the loss of what could have been.

But there's no need to despair—with proper storage, you can keep your ice cream delicious for longer. Read on for our tips on how to store ice cream so that it lasts.

How to Store Ice Cream

Assuming you don't live in a walk-in freezer, the best place to store ice cream is in the back of your fridge, in the coldest part. This will help slow down the melting process and keep your ice cream fresh-tasting for longer.

But… How long does ice cream last in the freezer?

The answer, it would seem, is that it depends. Some say that ice cream can last up to two months in the freezer, while others say that it only lasts a week or two. So what's the truth?

Well, as it turns out, the answer isn't so simple. It depends on a variety of factors, such as the kind of ice cream you're freezing and how you store it. Generally speaking, though, ice cream will last anywhere from one to four months in the freezer. So if you're not sure whether or not you'll be able to finish a tub of ice cream before it goes bad, just pop it in the freezer and you'll have plenty of time to decide.

Once you've scooped out however much you want to eat, it's important to put the lid back on tightly and return the ice cream to the freezer as quickly as possible. Every time you open the lid, air enters the container and speeds up the melting process. So resist the temptation to dip in for "just a little taste"—it'll be worth it when you have a scoop of creamy, delicious ice cream later on.

Another tip?

If your ice cream is starting to get hard and difficult to scoop, let it sit out on the counter for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will make it easier to scoop and also give it a more velvety texture. Just be sure not to let it sit out for too long, or you'll be left with another melty mess!

Wrap up!

By following these simple tips, you can enjoy your ice cream for longer. And who doesn't love a little extra time with their favorite dessert?