I have to say I was a skeptic about what the result of this experiment would be. Apparently my mother-in-law had tried this before. But when we were getting ready to go in 80s weather and she told me we were going to make homemade ice cream in our backpacks as we hiked, I definitely thought, "No way is this going to work. It's just too hot." Well I should have known better as my mother-in-law is the expert on all things camping (especially on food)! It was amazing. So, here are the instructions. Give it a try-it makes a hot hike very worthwhile!

BACKPACK ICE CREAM

1 c cream

1 c milk

1/3 c sugar

1/2 tsp vanilla

Mix-ins, if desired (ie: broken cookie or candy bar pieces, nuts, etc.)

Ice

1/2 c rock salt

2 quart-size zipper lock bags

1 gallon-size zipper lock bag

Newspaper

Tape (preferably electrical or duct tape)

In one quart-size bag, put cream, milk, sugar, vanilla, and desired mix-ins. Let all air out and seal bag. Gently massage and shake bag to mix ingredients. Place in second quart-size bag and press out air and seal. Place in gallon-size bag and fill with salt and ice. Press out air and seal. Wrap in several layers of newspaper and tape securely. Place in your backpack and go for a hike. Don't forget the spoons! This amount was perfect for 2 adults and 2 children to have a snack at the end of the hike. If you want more, don't double the recipe inside the bag, just make more bags and make everyone carry one! Thanks Holly!