Recipes from Scotland 1680s to 1940s

Desserts and baking


Constructing an ice house

Ice cream made from cream or milk, sweeteners and flavourings, came to Britain in the 18th century and was first made in buckets buried in the ground.

Later, special ice-houses were constructed in the grounds of country estates.

The Kinfauns Castle receipt book gives precise 'Directions for constructing an ice house', including dimensions and a diagram.

Handwritten page with outline drawing of an ice house

'Directions for constructing an ice house' from Kinfauns Castle receipt book.
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Kinfauns Castle 'Family Receipts', 19th century. [Library reference: MS.24778]

'Mock ice' and 'Ginger cream'   |   Desserts and baking