How Long to Thaw Ice Cream Cake Before Serving

Ice cream cake is delicious, but trying to take a bite out of a rock-hard ice cream cake is anything but enjoyable. To make sure your ice cream cake is ready to be eaten by party guests, stick it into the fridge for 30 minutes or set it on the counter for 15 minutes.

Hey, there! My name is Michelle, and I love ice cream cake. The combination of ice cream and cake is something that dreams were made of. Of course, you want your ice cream cake to be the perfect consistency for consumption, and sometimes that can be tricky.

If you’re gearing up for a big bash with an ice cream cake, it is imperative to know how long to take ice cream cake out of the freezer before serving. Well, you will find out all of this information and more below. 

Who’s ready to enjoy perfectly thawed ice cream cake?

How Long Does Ice Cream Cake Need to Thaw?

Have you ever tried to cut an ice cream cake straight out of the freezer? It’s near impossible and certainly isn’t delectable. While it’s important to keep your ice cream cake in the freezer before the party, you must thaw it before serving. 

But how long is long enough for thawing? There are two ways to do it: the fridge and the counter. Each method will take less than 45 minutes.

In the Refrigerator

Sometimes a low and slow method is the way to go. If you’re not in a rush to defrost the ice cream cake, then you can place it in the refrigerator for around 30 to 40 minutes. If you keep your fridge under 40F, you may need a few additional minutes for thawing.

Using the fridge is ideal because it will come to just the right temperature for slicing and eating. Plus, you don’t have to worry about heat, humidity, or lighting disturbing the cake and melting it prematurely. 

On the Counter

If you’re looking for a quicker thaw, then you can always resort to thawing your ice cream cake on the counter (or table). When thawing at room temperature, it will take around 15 minutes to thaw the ice cream cake.

However, you need to be extra careful when thawing on a countertop or table. If you’re in an area where there is extreme heat or humidity, the ice cream cake may thaw quicker and melt faster. 

Keep the ice cream cake out of light sources, especially direct sunlight. Doing so will create a melted mess that will ruin the party cake entirely. If you’re outside, consider placing the cake in a cooler.

FAQs

Most people love ice cream cake, but certainly not rock-hard ice cream cake. Thawing is simple; just stick it in the fridge or on the counter. Still have some questions about ice cream cake thawing? Don’t worry – these frequently asked questions below are here to help.

When should you take ice cream cake out of the freezer?

Don’t take it out until it’s almost time to be served! If you’re placing it in the fridge, take it out around 30 to 40 minutes before go time. If storing on a table or counter, just 15 minutes beforehand.

Will ice cream cake melt in the fridge?

Eventually, yes. Ice cream cake needs to be stored in the freezer for long periods. However, a few hours in the fridge won’t do too much damage. Don’t let it sit in the fridge overnight, or it will become a melted mess, though. 

How do I keep my ice cream cake from melting?

Obviously, the best way to keep an ice cream cake from melting is to stick it in the freezer and don’t take it out until you’re ready for it to thaw. If you’re traveling with your ice cream cake, the best option is to place it in a cooler with ice, dry ice, or ice cream cartons to keep it cold enough.

Can you put candles on an ice cream cake?

Yes! Don’t think that just because you’re dealing with an ice cream cake you have to go sans candles. The key is to make sure the cake is melted enough so you can stick the candles inside. Once lit, blow the candles out as soon as possible. You don’t want too much heat!

Final Thoughts

Ice cream cake fanatics should keep their ice cream cake in the freezer until it’s almost ready to be sliced and served. In the fridge, ice cream cakes typically thaw within 40 minutes. On a table or counter at room temperature, it can thaw in about 15 minutes, depending on heat and light.

How long do you thaw your ice cream cake before serving? Do you use the fridge or countertop? Let us know your thawing adventures below!

I have been a lover of sweets since day one. This led me on a self-taught baking journey starting at the age of 13. It's been over 10 years since the start of my baking adventures, and I’ve learned a lot along the way. Now, people rave about my delectable treats, whether it’s a chocolate cake or a strawberry crepe.