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Everything You Need to Know About Sprinkles

Sprinkles are one of the best and most colorful toppings out there, and they continue to be incredibly popular, to boot! But have you ever wanted to know more about your favorite ice cream topping? Read on to find out where sprinkles came from and the different names for the treat across the United States.

The history of sprinkles

Exactly who invented the topping we know (and love) is up for debate. Recipes that include vague references to what we today call sprinkles date back to the eighteenth century in France, where bakers used “nonpareils” to decorate cakes, desserts and other sweets. Today, confectioners still use the term “nonpareils,” though it typically refers to a specific type of sprinkle, rather than the topping as a whole. 

Despite the French name “nonpareils” pointing to a French origin of the decadent dessert topping, the origin is still up for debate. There is just as much evidence that sprinkles could have in fact been created by the Dutch or be an American invention. 

One thing we do know is that it took famous Dutch chocolatiers, whose chocolate is renowned around the world, until 1936 to perfect the chocolate sprinkle. The topping wasn’t even used for desserts originally, though, instead chocolate sprinkles were used as a topper for artisan breads and even toast.

The different names for sprinkles

Depending on where you live, sprinkles might have a different name!

If you live in New England, there’s a different name for sprinkles that might just throw you for a loop if you’re from out of town. Sprinkles in this part of the United States are referred to as “jimmies.” 

The history of this quirky name for our favorite ice cream topping comes from 1920s Brooklyn, NY where an entrepreneur named Samuel Born started a candy company called Just Born. One of the employees of Just Born named James Bartholomew (nicknamed, you guessed it, Jimmy) worked on a machine at the candy company that created Just Born’s newest confectionary invention—what we know today as sprinkles. The urban legend says that the invention was coined “jimmies” after the operator of the machine that created the candies!

Oddly enough, though, there is an alternative origin story to the name “jimmies” that is up for debate, just like the original creators of sprinkles altogether are up for debate (Dutch? French? American? We may never truly know.)

In this alternative history of the “jimmies” sprinkle name-origin, the name still became popular thanks to Brigham’s Ice Cream Shop serving up jimmies on each and every scoop, but the name didn’t come from Just Born’s employee, Jimmy. Instead, the name is said to have come from Dr. Sidney Farber. Dr. Farber was a well-known researcher and doctor in the Boston area who co-founded the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. According to this version of sprinkles history, Dr. Farber founded a cancer charity named after one of his child patients, The Jimmy Fund. This version of the story goes that this is the reason sprinkles came to be known as “jimmies,” and that the name just stuck!

So now that you know a bit more about one of the best ice cream toppings around, all that’s left to do is get yourself a scoop of delicious ice cream and top it off with some sprinkles! Stop by Besties Ice Cream today to get your favorite flavor and some colorful sprinkles to accompany the treat.

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Your Personality According to Ice Cream

Did you know that your ice cream flavor of choice says even more about you than it does about the ice cream? You might be thinking “how can that be? Surely wacky flavored ice cream says more about...the flavor itself than about those who consume it!” But that doesn’t seem to be the case. Dr. Alan Hirsch of the Smell and Taste Treatment and Research Foundation even conducted a study, to determine how a person’s ice cream flavor of choice reflected their personality traits.

When presented with numerous ice cream flavor options, the one that you choose actually says a lot about who you are as a person, especially when it comes to your absolute, all-time favorite flavor. What will you pick? Choose wisely, and then read on to find out how your choice may in fact be indicative of your personality!

Vanilla

If you chose vanilla, you’re actually anything but vanilla! Those who chose vanilla in Hirsch’s study were shown to be more impulsive, easily suggestible, and idealistic, of all things. It's an interesting combination of traits, to be sure, and anything but boring as some might suspect.

Strawberry

Those who favor strawberry were found in Hirsch’s study to be tolerant, devoted, and even introverted. Lovers of strawberry ice cream are the type to be passionate about those they care about and perhaps happiest when their nose is buried deep in a good book!

Chocolate

If you’re a fan of chocolate ice cream, than you are more likely to be flirtatious and seductive, according to Hirsch. Along with those character traits, Hirsch found chocolate lovers to be dramatic, lively, and charming. It seems like those who like chocolate ice cream are likely to have a variety of fun and outgoing personality traits, perhaps making them the life of the party!

Mint Chocolate Chip

Apparently, mint chocolate chip lovers can be a bit argumentative. According to Hirsch, though, they can also be frugal and cautious. Quite an interesting combination of personality traits that could perhaps be said to balance each other out and make for a great personality profile.

Chocolate Chip

People who like chocolate chip ice cream in Hirsch’s research were generous and competent. Lovers of this classic combination of both chocolate and vanilla were also found to be go-getters. The bits of chocolate in their ice cream put a bit of pep in their step, we suppose!

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough

The final flavor Hirsch studied was chocolate chip cookie dough, a well-loved favorite to be certain. Those who chose chocolate chip cookie dough as their favorite ice cream flavor were found more likely to be ambitious and competitive. While these traits might sound like a recipe for success, but also a few bumps in the road, lovers of chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream were also found to be visionaries—a nice trait to balance out their competitive tendencies.

So what’s your favorite flavor of ice cream? If it’s one of the ice cream flavors listed above, it might just say something about your personality! And if you’re not sure which of these flavors is your favorite, you’re always welcome to stop by Besties Ice Cream and try out the flavors for yourself to decide!

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Why Is Some Ice Cream Sold in Pints?

You’re at your local grocery store, strolling through the frozen food aisles and searching through the many flavors of ice cream. It’s been a rough week—you’re looking to drown your feelings in cold, creamy goodness. The only problem is that you can’t decide on which flavor to get. If you’re in the mood for a lot of ice cream, you could always go for one of the many gallon tubs available, but if you go for one of those options your only options are really chocolate, strawberry, or vanilla (or if you’re in the mood for Neopolitan, all three in one big plastic container.)

If you still want a large amount of ice cream but you’re looking for some more flavor options, there’s always the trusty cardboard carton of ice cream. The size varies from brand to brand, but with more diverse flavor options like mint chocolate chip or the tried and true classic, moose tracks, your sorrows might be drowned in a little more flavor (plus mix-ins) if you go for this option.

The problem lies herin—your favorite Ben & Jerry’s flavor is staring you down from its blue cylindrical packaging, and your hand is immediately drawn to the shiny metal freezer door. The only problem? You can’t purchase a bigger container filled with the perfect combination of creamy ice cream, unique mix-ins, and a fudgy swirl.

So why do some ice cream brands and flavors only come in pint-sized containers? Why can’t you purchase a big reusable gallon-sized tub of Chunky Monkey ice cream? Why does gelato only come in prettily packaged small containers?

The reason might not be what you think.

Good things come in small packages.

At least, that’s what your favorite ice cream brand wants you to think. Pints of ice cream tend to cost more money at the grocery store, even if the ingredients inside aren’t that much more luxurious than your run-of-the-mill ice cream ingredients. Despite this, brands that sell ice cream primarily in pint-sized containers often tout their ice cream as artisan and hand-crafted, leading many to believe the extra cost is worth it.

For some ice cream connoisseurs, the trade is worth it—if you’re on the hunt for a new or unique flavor, after all, you’re less likely to waste your pint of ice cream if it doesn’t turn out to be your new favorite flavor. It’s less wasteful in those cases for both the ice cream lover and for the ice cream maker.

Innovative flavors often come in small batches.

There are some even more unique reasons why some ice cream brands come primarily in pint-sized containers, and that has to do with the experimental flavors and finessing of certain varieties that come with the territory of creating unique ice cream flavors. Certain ice cream mix-ins like fruit sauces and other less-traditional add-ins don’t freeze as well in large batches. When creating new flavors, especially those with a variety of mix-ins, creating small batches and, consequently, small containers of ice cream, makes for better, more flavorful results.

When chunks of chocolate or swirls of sauces are added to a basic ice cream mixture, there is a risk of the ice cream collapsing in on itself. One of the key ingredients in ice cream is air, after all, which gives it the creamy texture that everyone knows and loves. When other, more dense ingredients like those in many specialty ice cream brands are added, the mixture becomes less stable—particularly when it’s placed in large containers that are often brought in and out of the freezer numerous times during transport and once the ice cream is consumed at home.

Some especially innovative ice cream flavors, like those involving layers or a core down the center of the ice cream, really only work in a pint-sized container. In order to get the ratio of the ingredients included in the layers or core right with the ratio of the ice cream and other mix-ins, a pint-sized container works the best.

The best flavors come in easy-to-divy-up serving sizes.

Another reason many ice cream brands go for pints, especially those with nutritional and dietary needs at the forefront like those that are low carb, high protein, or dairy-free, is because the pint can be simply divided up into one or two serving sizes.

For some ice cream lovers, a full pint is a serving size, which makes calculating your nutritional facts from the back label particularly easy. For others, the whole pint might be a bit too much, but one half or one-third of the container is perfect. Even in those cases where a whole pint isn’t the entire serving, it does make for easier calculations when figuring out nutritional values. Determining those same values with a scoop or two (or three) of your favorite ice cream from a larger carton is doable, but a bit more complicated as you attempt to measure out each scoop—let’s face it, ice cream doesn’t exactly scoop easily and uniformly into a measuring cup.

But what if you just want a lot of ice cream?

The reasons some ice cream brands, and consequently some ice cream flavors, are only served up in pint-sized containers might be logical, but what’s a person to do when they’re in the mood to drown their troubles in ice cream and can only find a pint of their favorite flavor? The solution, it seems, is to either opt for another variety of ice cream or buy out your grocery store’s stock of your favorite pint! While it might cost you a bit more than that gallon of vanilla ice cream, it will ensure that you won’t run out just when you’re starting to feel a bit better, but also need a bit more ice cream.

So keep this in mind the next time you’re contemplating which type of ice cream to purchase at the store. While we’d all love to have a big ole bucket of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream sometimes, there are actually some valid reasons, not every flavor can be produced in that large of a quantity. So now it’s up to you to choose how you want your ice cream—in a pint, or sold with a handle?

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Events Where Ice Cream is A Hit

Oh, ice cream. We all know and adore the creamy, cold, sweet treat, and many of us are constantly looking for excuses to get ourselves a scoop! Whether it’s sunny or cloudy, hot or cold, or just an overall good day (or a bad one), ice cream is the perfect treat. It’s a winning dessert because it’s so versatile—there’s a flavor and type for everyone, after all—and is sure to brighten up anyone’s day.

That’s why ice cream makes such an excellent addition to any event or any occasion. There’s nothing that screams celebration as much as some ice cream, and with our Ice Cream Truck catering service, here at Bestie’s, we’re here to help make sure your event is pulled off without a hitch.

So what types of events pair well with ice cream? We’re pretty confident that our delicious ice cream will pair with virtually any event, but if you’re feeling a little stumped, here are some ideas of the types of events where ice cream is sure to be a hit amongst all of your guests.

Birthday Parties

Each year everyone in your life turns a year older, so why not celebrate the occasion with some ice cream? Whether your loved one is turning 5 or 50, they’re sure to enjoy everything that comes along with hitting another life milestone with a scoop of ice cream. Even if you’re not throwing a big birthday party, you can always grab some Bestie’s Ice Cream just for you and the birthday person—it’s sure to be a hit.

Graduation Parties

When you or your student’s final semester rolls around, the last thing you’re probably thinking about is ice cream! With exams, senior year events, and the actual graduation ceremony to plan for, why not take one thing off the list by enlisting Bestie’s Ice Cream to cater the graduation celebration? A scoop of ice cream is the perfect way to celebrate such a momentous occasion.

Baby Showers

If you’re going to be showering the parents-to-be with gifts, why not take it a step further and shower them with a delicious treat? Ice cream is the perfect addition to a baby shower—you can even go for pink or blue ice cream flavors to fit with your theme.

Bridal Showers

Another kind of shower that doesn’t revolve around babies is still a great setting for ice cream! When you’re celebrating the bride-to-be, don’t forget about her sweet tooth. Our ice cream truck catering service is a super fun way to liven up any bridal shower. We’ll even bring everything you need to serve ice cream and put a smile on the face of everyone in attendance—guaranteed!

Bachelorette & Bachelor Parties

There are a lot of events that revolve around a wedding, including the sometimes wild and raucous bachelorette and bachelor parties. With the added deliciousness of ice cream, your bachelor or bachelorette party is sure to leave behind lasting memories (and hopefully nothing more than a bit of a hangover the next day—which ice cream might just help you get over a bit quicker!)

Rehearsal Dinners

This is another wedding event that could probably use a hefty dose of fun in the form of some ice cream! The rehearsal dinner is an important part of any bridal party’s schedule, but it can also be a time where anxiety is running high as the big day finally approaches. What better way to let off some steam and relax than with a scoop of ice cream from our world-famous blue ice cream truck?

Anniversaries

In a way, anniversaries are another wedding-related event, but quite different than those previously mentioned! Anniversaries are a time of celebrating love and commitment that has lasted any number of years, so why not commemorate the occasion with some ice cream? It’s the perfect way to celebrate your steadfast love or the love of some dear friends or family members.

Fundraisers

When many people hear the word “fundraiser,” they think of uptight charity balls where everyone is dressed to the nines, but that doesn’t always have to be the case! Sometimes the best fundraisers are where everyone is having fun and coming together to support your cause, and ice cream is the perfect way to make sure that everyone is having a good time and ready to help!

Holiday Parties

There are so many reasons to throw a party throughout the year from birthdays to anniversaries, and even more reasons when you take holidays into consideration! Whether you celebrate Christmas or are more of a 4th of July person, there’s no doubt that the addition of ice cream to your next holiday gathering will make everyone smile.

Family Reunions

A family reunion only happens every so often, so it’s important to make memories with family that will last! What better way to bring everyone together for a time of catching up, fun, and games than with ice cream? Whether your family reunion is going to be a packed barbeque or a smaller, indoor affair, we can bring some of our ice creams straight to you to add some pizzazz to the event.

Office Events

What could be more important than increasing employee morale and rewarding your hard working colleagues every once in a while? Bring the Besties Ice Cream Truck to your next office event for a treat that everyone will love and you’ll be the boss of the year.

Any Other Event You Can Think Of!

These events are truly just the tip of the iceberg—there are more events and parties out there that just might be the perfect backdrop for some ice cream!

If you’re in the throes of planning your next event and wondering what you can do to make sure everyone has a good time, look no further than the Besties Ice Cream Truck. We’ll bring some of our delectable ice cream flavors straight to your event complete with utensils, cups and cones, and sprinkles. Contact us today for more information and to schedule a free consultation.

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The Banana Split: A History

Ice cream is definitely one of the best desserts around. If you’re familiar with the treat, you undoubtedly love everything about this delectable, creamy, refreshing way to end your meal. With so many ice cream flavors out there, including almost any flavor you could imagine (even some crazy flavors that you might not ever think of when it comes to ice cream), ice cream can satisfy almost anyone’s sweet tooth or craving.

There’s even one particular ice-cream-centric dessert that adds fruit to the mix for an even more unique, yet classic, ice cream dish. That dessert is none other than the banana split!

Whether you’re a fan of bananas, ice cream, or both, this treat is sure to hit the spot. Banana splits have been a classic way to eat ice cream for decades, and they continue to be popular—especially at classic diners and soda fountains across the United States of America.

But just where did this dessert idea come from? Who had the brilliant plan to serve ice cream with a banana, and how did the concept become such an American staple? Read on to find out!

A Controversial Past

Surprisingly enough, the banana split has a bit of a controversial past. Seeing that might make you think of something scandalous that occurred when the banana split was first created, but controversial in this case simply means that the origins of the banana split—and more specifically, exactly who created the dessert—is where the controversy has come up.

As with many culinary delights, there are multiple parties who lay claim to the original banana split recipe but no definitive proof of exactly where the banana split was first created. Nevertheless, there are some strong cases that hail from many different areas of the US, including Latrobe, Pennsylvania; Boston, Massachusetts; and Wilmington Ohio. 

The Home of the Banana Split

While we can’t say for certain which town is the originator of the banana split, one of the stronger cases comes from Latrobe, Pennsylvania which boasts that it is home to the original banana split. The oldest mention of the banana split comes from Latrobe, and there is compelling evidence to support the town’s claim.

David Strickler, also known as Doc Strickler, worked at a local drugstore in Latrobe, Tassell Pharmacy, in 1904 while attending the University of Pittsburgh. Tassell Pharmacy, like many drugstores and pharmacies at the time, had a soda fountain that served up delicious and refreshing floats, sundaes, and ice cream varieties. Stickler reportedly came up with the idea to split a banana down the middle (lengthwise, of course) and top the fruit with a scoop of strawberry, a scoop of vanilla, and a scoop of chocolate ice cream. Strickler then topped the ice cream with three different varieties of toppings and sauces, then finished the concoction with a hefty dose of whipped cream.

The idea was an ingenious one but was difficult to serve at first. Most ice cream shops and soda fountains didn’t use dishes that could fit an entire banana plus all that ice cream. This is why Strickler asked for help from a glassmaker in a neighboring town, Grapeville, to create an ice cream dish that could hold all the sweet, creamy goodness of the banana split easily.

The story goes that Strickler started serving the banana concoction to the public when a college student walked into Tassell Pharmacy one day and asked for a unique treat. The combination of ice cream, banana, and toppings apparently went over quite well and became a hit with everyone in town. Strickler even continued to work at the pharmacy as time went on and eventually purchased the place and continued to serve his creation.

The Other Contenders

As previously mentioned, while the oldest reported creator of the banana split hailed from Pennsylvania, there are other contenders in Boston, Massachusetts, and Wilmington, Ohio, though both of these cities are credited with the invention later than Strickler’s invention.

In Boston, the banana split reportedly debuted during an ice cream convention (sounds like a delicious convention to attend if you ask us!) The inventor who debuted his version of the banana split at said conference in 1905 was Stinson Thomas. As you may have already noticed, 1905 is a year after Stickler reportedly created the banana split back in Pennsylvania.

The other location, Wilmington, Ohio, which claims to be the home of the banana split says it was created in the city at an even later date—1907. In Wilmington, the creation of the banana split is credited to Ernest Hazard. Even though the date is later, Wilmington holds fast to their assertion that they are the home of the original banana split, claiming that Hazard created the treat before 1907—and before Strickler in 1904—but that it merely debuted at a later date. They even throw an annual Banana Split Festival in celebration of being the home of the banana split.

Differences in Banana Splits

Regardless of the birthplace of the banana split, there are some ingredients all banana split recipes have in common, and some that differ between the reported homes of the banana split.

In Latrobe, the banana split features a banana sliced in half with chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry ice cream on top. To top everything off, chocolate sauce, nuts, whipped cream, and a maraschino cherry are added on top of the ice cream.

In Boston, the same banana base is featured, but the only ice cream flavor on top of the banana is vanilla—and only two scoops, not three. To top off the dessert, cherries go on each scoop of ice cream and peaches divide each scoop from the next. Crushed nuts are a common topper in Boston, too.

Finally, in Wilmington, the banana, chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla are the same, but crushed pineapple is added as a topping. An additional note on the Wilmington banana split is that the ice cream flavors can vary quite a bit, too, and often include caramel sauce as a topping.

Wherever the banana split originated, and whichever version of the banana split is your favorite, there’s no doubt that it’s an American classic. 

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Unique Ice Cream Toppings

When it comes to ice cream toppings, there are a variety of incredible options that can add some fantastic tried and true flavor to a scoop of your favorite ice cream variety. While chocolate, nuts, caramel, whipped cream, and sprinkles are all excellent options when you're looking to top off your scoop, sometimes a more unique topping is called for.

Whether you’re craving something salty to top off your sweet ice cream scoop, something crunchy to switch up the texture, or something sweet that will simply complement the ice cream perfectly, we’ve got you covered. Here are some unique ice cream toppings that can kick your ice cream scoop up a notch:

French Fries

Have you ever heard of dipping french fries in a milkshake? If you haven’t, you might want to give it a try! The combination of salty, hot, crispy french fries with sweet, cool, creamy ice cream simply works, so why not top your ice cream with some fries fresh out of the fryer? It will give you the same effect as dipping your fries in a shake but with the added benefit of eating everything with a spoon!

Balsamic Vinegar

Vinegar might seem like a strange topping for ice cream, but then again, balsamic vinegar reductions and dressings often have a slightly sweet flavor to them. Pair balsamic vinegar with strawberries to top off your ice cream for a tangy, unique flavor combination that’s sure to pack a punch.

Bacon

Sweet bacon recipes have become more and more popular in recent years, ever since the discovery of the maple syrup from your pancakes actually tasting great with bacon, too. It’s no wonder, then, that bacon on top of ice cream works surprisingly well with a variety of ice cream flavors.

Caramel Corn

If you’re looking for a sweet topping to add to your ice cream, why not give caramel corn a try? This sweet, buttery topping will give you all the benefits of topping your scoop with homemade caramel sauce with the added bonus of the crunch from the popcorn. If you’re a fan of integrating different textures into your food, you’ll undoubtedly love this combination!

Crackers

Crackers are another option that can add some crunch to your ice cream—plus some salt, which as we know from the french-fry-milkshake-combo is a win-win. Crumble some Ritz crackers (or your personal favorite variety) onto your ice cream to give your scoop some saltiness and some subtle crunch.

If you’re a die-hard ice cream fan, then you’ve probably tried almost every traditional ice cream topping under the sun. Sometimes, though, the best options are a bit less conventional. Give one of these unique (and flavorful) ice cream toppings a try to spice up your dessert routine, and don’t forget Besties Ice Cream as the stop for your next scoop while you’re at it! With one-hundred and fifty ice cream flavor options, we’re sure to have something to perfectly complement your favorite topping of choice.

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Favorite Ice Cream Flavors in Each State

Did you know that each state has its favorite ice cream flavor? We've covered the most popular ice cream flavors in America, but it gets even more specific than that when you look at the most popular ice cream flavors in each state!

The Daily Meal recently compiled a list of the top ice cream flavors in every state according to the flavors that were most frequently Googled by the residents of each state. The compilation makes for an interesting look at the popularity of different flavors across the United States—as well as some of the surprising similarities between states.

Some of these state’s most popular ice cream flavors might be fitting given what the state is known for, but others might surprise you or seem downright random. Regardless of whether each state’s favorite ice cream is expected or unexpected, here are the top ice cream flavors by state:

Starting with the top of the alphabet, Alabama’s favorite ice cream flavor is peach ice cream. 

Next up, Alaska reportedly loves peach ice cream, too!

Third on the list is Arizona with a bit of a curveball—the Grand Canyon state loves bubblegum ice cream.

Arkansas, like the first two ‘A’ states on the list, reportedly loves peach ice cream.

Californians like their boba ice cream just as much as they like their boba tea! At least, according to Google, they do.

Our home state of Colorado had all the flavors in the world to choose from, but the most popular flavor searched for in the state was vanilla ice cream. 

Connecticut liked the same flavor as some of the first states on the list but with a creamy twist. The state’s favorite and most-searched-for flavor was peaches and cream ice cream.

The only state to start with the letter ‘D,’ Delaware reportedly favors fruity blueberry ice cream.

If any of the states on the list were a shoo-in for favoring a tropical and fruity flavor, Florida’s the one. They didn’t go for orange, though, like the state is known for, instead favoring mango ice cream.

Georgia, in line with their famous Georgia peaches, favored peach ice cream. We’d almost be disappointed if the state searched any other flavor more frequently!

Like California, Hawaii likes boba ice cream the best!

Idaho—the land of potatoes—has chosen the not-so-popular (but oh-so-delicious) cherry ice cream as their favorite.

In Illinois (and, as you’ll see, in much of the midwest), blue moon ice cream is the favorite. Unless you’re from the midwest, you have likely never heard of the flavor, but it’s a popular one and is called blue moon because—you guessed it—it’s bright blue! The flavor is a bit hard to define but has notes of marshmallow and vanilla.

Like many of the other states before it, Indiana favors peach ice cream.

Iowa steers clear of the blue flavor many of its midwest counterparts have chosen and goes with a classic: rocky road ice cream.

Another classic ice cream flavor is the favorite of Kansas residents: good old-fashioned chocolate ice cream.

The surprising frontrunner in several states, peach ice cream is Kentucky’s favorite ice cream, too.

Of all the states to have a favorite ice cream in common with Colorado, we would have never guessed Louisiana! Vanilla ice cream is this southern state’s most Googled flavor.

Fresh strawberry ice cream is Maine’s favorite flavor—and one of America’s top three flavors to boot!

Maryland’s favorite flavor is a less popular flavor on its own but a crucial ingredient in a banana split. The state favors banana-flavored ice cream!

Another unique flavor that is also blue, Massachusetts’ most favorite flavor is cookie monster ice cream. This flavor is bright blue and features, like you might have guessed based on the name, chocolate cookie chunks and cookie dough.

Michigan is another state that loves bright blue ice cream but sticks with the midwest's favorite blue moon ice cream.

For three ‘M’ states in a row, the favorite ice cream is blue! Minnesota’s favorite ice cream is cookie monster ice cream.

Another southern state that has its favorite flavor in common with Colorado is Mississippi. The state favors vanilla ice cream above all other flavors.

Missouri’s favorite flavor is also vanilla ice cream.

Montana likes fruit ice cream with a bit of a unique twist and favors huckleberry ice cream.

Nebraska’s favorite isn’t blue, but it’s a classic. The state loves vanilla ice cream the most!

Nevada’s most beloved ice cream flavor isn’t an ice cream flavor at all but strawberry shortcake.

New Hampshire’s favorite is another fruity twist—black raspberry ice cream.

Chocolate chip ice cream is New Jersey’s favorite ice cream flavor!

New Mexico loves vanilla ice cream just like some of its neighbors. 

New York has the same favorite flavor as New Hampshire—black raspberry ice cream.

North Carolina, in true southern fashion, favors classic peach ice cream.

Coconut milk ice cream is North Dakota’s favorite.

Ohio keeps in tune with some of its fellow midwest states and favors blue moon ice cream.

Oklahoma loves Neapolitan ice cream.

Oregonians are fans of spumoni ice cream.

In Pennsylvania, they love an ice cream modeled after a popular candy bar—milky way ice cream.

Rhode Island also loves Neapolitan ice cream like Oklahoma.

South Carolina sticks with its Northern counterpart and goes for peach ice cream.

South Dakota is unique and likes butter brickle ice cream—filled with bits of toffee.

Tennessee keeps things simple with vanilla ice cream.

Texas is aligned with its fellow ‘T’ state and also favors vanilla ice cream.

Utah’s favorite is spumoni ice cream.

Vermont adores classic chocolate ice cream.

Virginia stays true to its southern roots and favors peach ice cream.

Washington follows in Utah’s footsteps and goes for spumoni ice cream.

Washington D.C. loves butter pecan ice cream.

West Virginia favors a classic ice cream flavor that is loved all over the country, rocky road ice cream.

Wisconsin is a true midwestern state and favors blue moon ice cream.

And finally, Wyoming sticks with vanilla ice cream. How could you go wrong with that?

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The Best Fruit-Flavored Ice Creams

Fruit and ice cream have gone together almost since the invention of the sweet, creamy dessert. There’s something about cold, sugary, luscious ice cream that suits fruit so well. The addition of sweet, though sometimes tart, fruit kicks ice cream up a notch. Fruit is a favorite topping for ice cream, whether it’s berries, citrus, or the most exotic of fruits available, and ice cream is known to be a good topping for fruit in the form of a scoop of vanilla accompanying cobblers, pies, and crisps.

These days, there is a plethora of options available when it comes to fruit-flavored ice cream, too. You don’t have to top your ice cream with fruit to get the flavors of nature's candy with the flavors of ice cream—many ice cream flavors have the pairing already built-in.

But what ice cream and fruit combos make the best flavors? Read on to find out some of the most popular—and some of the most unique—fruit-flavored ice cream out there.

Strawberry

There’s no denying that this classic fruity ice cream flavor is a hit! Fresh strawberries mixed into vanilla ice cream make for a sweet treat with a slight twist as chunks of decadent strawberry are sprinkled throughout the flavor. It’s a tried and true favorite for a reason!

Peach

You might be a fan of a scoop of vanilla ice cream accompanying your peach cobbler, but did you know that you can take it a step further and actually make your ice cream with chunks of ripe, juicy peach throughout? This is a more unique fruit-flavored ice cream, but still a winning combination.

Raspberry

The often-tart flavor of raspberries pairs especially well with ice cream! The strong raspberry flavor is complemented by creamy, sugary ice cream and makes for a delectable scoop.

Blueberry

Blueberries may not be your first choice when it comes to ice cream flavors, but don’t count out the small, sweet berry! Berries pair especially well with ice cream that incorporates other flavors—like cheesecake or other berries.

Mango

Mango has long been a favorite for its tropical and unique flavor. It works well when paired with ice cream because the ice cream complements the mango’s flavor rather than overpowering it.

Cherry 

Cherry pie is another one of those desserts that simply tastes better with a scoop of ice cream, so it’s no wonder that cherry ice cream is a winning combination! Tart cherries work particularly well when paired with ice cream as the sour flavor is tamed down by the sweet, creamy ice cream.

Kiwi

One of the more unique fruit flavors out there, kiwi pairs surprisingly well with ice cream. The sometimes sour, sometimes mellow flavor of kiwi works well with the creamy, sugary goodness of ice cream. It’s a combo you won’t want to miss!

If you’re ready to try some fruit-flavored ice cream but aren’t in the mood to make it yourself, look no further than Besties Ice Cream. With over 150 flavors to choose from, there’s no doubt that you can find your favorite fruit-flavored treat and walk away with a smile.

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The History of the Ice Cream Sundae

If you’re a fan of ice cream, there’s a strong chance you’ve consumed a hot fudge sundae at some point in your life. The hot fudge sundae is about as iconic of an ice cream treat as you can get! This delicious treat consists of ice cream—traditionally vanilla—smothered in rich hot fudge and topped with whipped cream and a maraschino cherry. It’s an ice cream classic, and one you can get almost anywhere (even at McDonald’s!)

But just where did this classic American dessert come from? Who originally thought of the idea to put molten chocolate on top of creamy, cool ice cream? And why has it prevailed as one of our favorite ways to eat ice cream for so long?

It All Started With Toppings

Ice cream was simply made for toppings. The cold, creamy dessert is good on its own, but a scoop of your favorite vanilla ice cream is taken to new heights when toppings are added. People have been putting toppings on their ice cream for decades. Thomas Jefferson, for example, reportedly topped his ice cream with maple syrup.

As time went on, toppings continued to be added to ice cream, including when cherry syrup and a cherry was added a scoop of vanilla by Chester Platt—the owner of a drugstore in New York. The addition of the toppings was a hit, and in 1892, Platt started selling Sundays—initially named after the day of the week the dessert was created on. Soon the name was changed to Sundae, and that’s where we get the iconic name for one of our favorite ice cream treats!

Then it Morphed Into Hot Fudge

Before long, sundaes were popular all over with toppings like pineapple, marshmallow cream, and a plethora of other options. In 1906, C.C. Brown’s ice cream parlor supposedly created the hot fudge sundae (according to the ice cream parlor itself, at least) by serving ice cream with warm chocolate sauce. The combination of the ice cream and the fudge, paired by C.C. Brown’s ingenious owner, Clarence Clifton Brown, soared in popularity, and soon the combo was the most popular ice cream sundae flavor requested.

And Now It’s a Classic

The hot fudge sundae grew in popularity not only at C.C. Brown’s, but it spread like wildfire across the country. Soon hot fudge sundaes were for sale at every diner and soda shop in town.

The hot fudge sundae continued to be very popular throughout the twentieth century, and now there’s even a National Hot Fudge Sundae day celebrated every year on July 25th—as if you need an excuse to indulge in one of America’s favorite ice cream treats.

While the origins of the hot fudge sundae may not be particularly shocking or famous, they resulted in a dessert beloved by millions—so that’s a win, no matter how obscure. Now, we know you’ve been craving a sundae! Go get yourself a treat. And, while you’re at it, check out Besties Ice Cream for all of your ice cream needs.

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Everything You Need to Know About Dairy-Free Ice Cream

When most people think of ice cream, their mind conjures up images of rich whole milk mixed with eggs and sugar, then slowly churned at a low temperature to create a deliciously creamy dessert. For some people, though, the thought of consuming ice cream is a dream that will never be realized (or at least will never be enjoyed) due to a dairy allergy or lactose intolerance. 

If you’re one of those people who can’t tolerate dairy for health, dietary, or moral reasons (vegans, for example, might choose to abstain from consuming dairy for reasons other than an allergy or intolerance), then you may have struggled to come to terms with the fact that the delectable frozen dessert isn’t something you can consume regularly.

For years there were few alternatives to traditional ice cream made with cow’s milk, but with the popularity of alternative plant-based milks in recent years—and incredible developments in food production that have made for creamier and more delicious dairy-free milks—there are more ice cream options out there than ever before. With approximately 65% of adults suffering from some sort of dairy or lactose intolerance, demand for ice cream alternatives has never been higher—and food manufacturers have responded accordingly!

If you’ve ever wondered about how dairy-free ice cream differs from regular ice cream, or wondered how such ice cream is made given the different amounts of fats and proteins in plant-based dairy products, we’ve got all the answers for you. After reading this blog, you’ll be able to make an informed decision when it comes to your next dairy-free scoop!

What’s with the different labels?

When it comes to purchasing dairy-free ice cream products at the grocery store, you might run into a few different labels on different brands and types. Dairy-free ice cream, for example, simply means that the ice cream is just that—free of dairy. Vegan ice cream, on the other hand, means that the ice cream is completely made from plant-based ingredients and contains no animal products. Then, of course, there’s lactose-free ice cream which might contain dairy that does not have lactose (which is a common culprit when it comes to dairy intolerances.)

Depending on your reasons for seeking out dairy-free ice cream, you might choose to go with a certain label, so pay attention to what the ingredients are and what exactly that pint is made of!

Will dairy-free ice cream taste different?

It all depends on your personal preferences and taste buds, but dairy-free ice cream often does have a different flavor profile and texture. Certain plant-based milks—like coconut milk, for example—might lend a different flavor to your scoop. Similarly, the fat content of different non-dairy milks will result in a different texture than ice cream made with whole milk. Typically, the more fat content in the milk, the creamier the ice cream, but that isn’t always the case due to different add-ins and ingredients that can increase the silky texture of any sort of ice cream.

Dairy-free ice cream is a great option if you are looking to cut dairy out of your diet due to necessity or a personal preference. Luckily the popularity of non-dairy milks in the past decade has made finding dairy-free ice cream easier than ever—though it’s important to pay attention to labels and go into your dairy-free ice cream experience knowing the flavor and texture of your ice cream might be different. Now, go get all the diary-free ice cream from the store and have a tasting!

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Crazy Ice Cream Flavors That You Need to Try

When it comes to ice cream flavors, there can be quite a variety. With everything from the classic chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry (which just so happen to also be the most popular ice cream flavors in America) to flavors full of mix-ins and unique flavorings, there’s a flavor of ice cream for pretty much everyone. Some flavors, however, are a bit crazier than others (and, depending on your flavor preferences, might just be a bit tastier than others.)

If you’re feeling adventurous, or simply looking for a new flavor combo to snag first place in your favorite ice cream flavor lineup, here are some of the craziest ice cream flavors from across the United States.

Macaroni and Cheese Ice Cream

One of the more unexpected flavors out there, Van Leeuwen Ice Cream’s Kraft Macaroni & Cheese flavored ice cream is actually quite popular! This fluorescent orange ice cream is reminiscent of the boxed mac and cheese powder that many people grew up on. If you’re a mac and cheese addict, this ice cream flavor might be just for you! You can try out this crazy flavor in NYC, LA, or Houston.

Hot Cheetos Ice Cream

Another fluorescent treat that many people enjoyed growing up is the iconic Flamin’ Hot Cheeto. This crunchy version of Chester Cheetah’s favorite snack is covered in a bright red powder that packs a noticeable punch. If you’re a fan of spicy flavors—especially when contrasted with something sweet and creamy—then this might be the perfect flavor for you. Find Flamin’ Hot Cheetos ice cream at your local Marble Slab Creamery.

Olive Oil Ice Cream

You’ve undoubtedly used olive oil in your favorite savory recipes or maybe dipped freshly baked bread in the rich oil, maybe you’ve even consumed an olive oil cake, but have you ever thought about olive oil ice cream? The oil used in this ice cream flavor makes for a delectable combination and a creamy texture, and is super popular at OddFellows ice cream in Brooklyn.

Avocado Ice Cream

Avocado has become the star of the show in recent years. Whether your favorite way to eat this healthy fat is on your avocado toast or in your favorite guacamole recipe, it’s undoubtedly a favorite for many. Do you think it could become your new favorite ice cream flavor, though? At Rococo Creamery in Maine, you can try a scoop of sweet avocado and cayenne ice cream. It’s extra creamy with the addition of the avocado with a nice spicy kick from the cayenne pepper, and the best part? It’s bright green—just like a perfectly ripe avocado.

Thanksgiving Dinner Ice Cream

Turkey, green beans, and stuffing, oh my! For many Americans, Thanksgiving dinner is the best meal of the entire year, but have you ever thought about eating Thanksgiving dinner flavored ice cream? At the Ice Cream Store in Delaware, you can do just that! This flavor comes complete with tomatoes, potatoes, and green beans topped with hot sauce and sugar. It might sound like a wacky combination, but it’s reportedly one of the shop’s most well-known flavors (although who’s to say if that’s because it tastes good or because it’s just weird enough that everyone is tempted to try it?)

Sriracha Ice Cream

If there’s one thing we know for sure, it’s that spicy and sweet can be the perfect combination. It’s no wonder, then that vegan vanilla ice cream with sriracha flavoring and an actual drizzle of the hot sauce on top is a hit. The creamy ice cream with the sharp kick from the sriracha is sure to be an experience for your tastebuds. Try out this crazy flavor combination at Mason’s Creamery in Cleveland, Ohio.

Strawberry Balsamic Ice Cream

It’s no surprise that strawberries and ice cream just go together, but how about adding vinegar into the mix? Balsamic vinegar, to be precise! This interesting flavor combination can be found here in Denver at Sweet Action Ice Cream and brings together sweet strawberries, ice cream, and tangy balsamic vinegar. Another flavor combination that might sound a little wacky but might just leave your tastebuds singing happily.

Sweet Potato Casserole Ice Cream

While this might seem a little unusual at first thought, sweet potatoes and creamy ice cream actually compliment each other quite well! This ice cream flavor from Comfy Cow Creamery is made with brown sugar, pecans, marshmallow, and roasted sweet potatoes. It’s everything you love about this Thanksgiving side dish without the risk of burning the marshmallows!

Ghost Pepper Ice Cream

Speaking of the contrast between spicy and sweet, have you ever thought about trying ghost pepper ice cream? The ghost pepper is one of the spiciest peppers out there, and even a cool and creamy peppermint ice cream can’t tame it down. The ghost pepper and peppermint ice cream from Mallard Ice Cream in Bellingham, Washington is not for the faint of heart! If you’re wary of spice, be forewarned.

Dill Pickle Ice Cream

Dill pickles and ice cream are always joked about as being a pregnant woman’s cravings remedy, but did you ever think about trying the combo yourself? In Stanley, North Dakota at Dakota Drug Co., you can do just that! This famous soda fountain is famous for mixing up almost any flavor with its unique machinery, so mixing salty pickles with sweet ice cream is right up their alley.

If you’re a tried and true ice cream fan, you’ve probably tried almost every popular flavor out there. Have you ever tried any of these crazy flavors across the country? If not, you might just need to plan a road trip to try out every single one and report back!

Or, if you’re more in the mood for a regular ice cream flavor, look no further than the Besties Ice Cream truck! We serve world-class ice cream flavors straight from our blue ice cream truck. We’re sure to have a flavor that will quench your craving and leave you happy at the end of the day.

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Reasons Why Everyone Loves Ice Cream

Everyone loves ice cream. It’s pretty much a fact—no debate necessary. Even those who can’t have ice cream for dietary or health reasons often love the treat, and with so many non-dairy ice creams and ice cream alternatives on the market, there’s really no reason for many people to avoid the much-loved treat.

But why exactly is ice cream so popular? The fact of the matter is that ice cream is a worldwide favorite, beloved by millions—even billions—of people around the globe, so what exactly is it that makes ice cream such a universal favorite?

There’s a flavor of ice cream for everyone.

While not all desserts can be everyone’s cup of tea, ice cream is a lot more likely to please everyone with so many flavors available! It’s easy to find a flavor that will suit everyone, from those with the most sophisticated of palates (try earl grey ice cream or balsamic swirl, if that’s you) to those with a tendency to go for classic flavors (you can never go wrong with chocolate, strawberry, or vanilla). With so many flavor options out there, ice cream is sure to please everyone.

You can eat ice cream in many ways, and in many places!

The many different types of ice cream treats, and the many different ways to eat ice cream, means that it can be enjoyed virtually anywhere. If you’re on the go in the middle of a warm day, for example, an ice cream cone might be the perfect pick-me-up to cool you off. Or if you’re more inclined to stay in for an evening of movie watching, you can eat ice cream from a cup (or straight from the carton—we won’t judge!) There’s an endless array of options, and that’s not even including the many ice cream bars, sandwiches, and other hand-held varieties that continue to be popular.

Ice cream is the perfect accompaniment to every occasion (and every dessert.)

What’s better than celebrating that new promotion, another birthday, or any of life’s milestones together with friends and family? Celebrating with ice cream, of course! Ice cream is a great way to mark special occasions in your life and make your next party a total win. You can even book the Besties Ice Cream Truck to make your next occasion extra special. The best part is that ice cream not only goes with every occasion, but it also goes with every other type of dessert out there. Ice cream smooshed between two cookies? Incredible! Ice cream on top of warm apple pie? An absolute must. A scoop of vanilla accompanied by that fluffy piece of birthday cake? The perfect pairing! Ice cream is a great (and delicious) way to celebrate, that’s for sure.

Ice cream is a beloved dessert around the planet, and there’s truly no wonder why. With the diverse variety of flavors out there, the ability to take ice cream with you on your next adventure (big or small), and the fact that ice cream is the perfect celebratory treat, it’s no need to wonder any longer why everyone loves ice cream so much.

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Why Eating Ice Cream During the Colder Months is Superior

Many people think of ice cream as a purely warm-weather treat, but does that really need to be the case? Ice cream is a great dessert (or snack, or meal, if your sweet tooth is the one planning dinner) to cool off when the temperature outside is soaring, but that doesn’t mean you need to wait to enjoy your favorite ice cream flavor when the sun is shining down.

Ice cream is a year-round dessert, and that’s especially true if you simply love the cold, creamy treat!

Here are some reasons why eating ice cream year-round (yes, even when it’s chilly outside) is actually an excellent decision:

Less of a crowd at your favorite ice cream parlor.

It might seem trivial, but this seems like a good enough reason to take a trip to your local ice cream shop if you ask us! Some of the most famous ice cream shops in your town are probably pretty packed when warmer weather rolls around. A great way to beat the crowd and consume some delicious ice cream is to go to said ice cream shop when there’s a nip to the air. That line that goes around the block on a sunny, sweltering day will probably be a lot shorter, or have all but disappeared, during a crisp or snowy day.

You don’t need to worry about your ice cream melting.

One of the most frustrating things about eating ice cream when it’s hot outside is that your ice cream may very well start to melt all over your hands before you even finish it. The beauty of ice cream is that cold and creamy texture, so consuming your favorite flavor of ice cream once it’s turned into a puddle is simply never as good as when the treat is frozen. There’s no need to worry about your ice cream melting when the temperature is hovering right around the freezing mark outside, though! Whether you’ve just got your favorite ice cream to-go from the local ice cream parlor or purchased a pint of that flavor you’ve been craving from the grocery store, it’s a lot less likely to melt when it’s cold outside.

Your favorite limited-edition ice cream flavors are available.

When you only consider eating ice cream during the summer, you leave out all the incredibly holiday-themed flavors that your favorite ice cream brand produces throughout the year! Whether that’s pumpkin-flavored ice cream for the fall months leading up the Thanksgiving, candy cane ice cream for the month of December, or red velvet flavored ice cream for Valentine’s Day, there’s no doubt that the winter months allow ample opportunity for celebrating a variety of holidays with some delectable ice cream flavors.

When it comes to eating ice cream, there’s no need to be confined by the temperature outside. Ice cream is a year-round treat and one that we wholeheartedly endorse consuming no matter the weather here at Besties Ice Cream. So whatever the weather, be sure to stop by and get a scoop of your favorite ice cream flavor!

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The Best Ice Cream Toppings to Kick Your Scoop Up a Notch

Ice cream is a delicious, creamy, and sweet treat all on its own, but it’s also no secret that ice cream is the perfect blank canvas for mix-ins, flavorings, and toppings galore. Whether you choose vanilla ice cream to start or a flavor that already packs a punch, there’s an endless assortment of candies, sauces, eye-catching colors, and mouth-watering flavors that, when added to your ice cream, can kick your scoop up a notch. Read on for some of the best ice cream toppings out there!

Hot Fudge

Hot fudge is a classic ice cream topping for a reason! This rich, warm, and gooey topping is probably the best topping out there when paired with creamy, cold ice cream. Hot fudge is an absolute staple in one of the more popular ways to eat ice cream out there—an ice cream sundae. The contrasting temperatures between the hot fudge itself and the ice cream are what make for such a delectable treat.

Sprinkles

You already know that sprinkles are one of our favorite ice cream toppings, and for good reason! They come in many shapes and flavors, from the color-coordinated to an all-out rainbow-hoopla, and everything in between. If you’re looking for a sweet, aesthetically pleasing way to bring your ice cream game to the next level, look no further than sprinkles. They’re anything but run-of-the-mill and are a surefire way to kick your scoop of ice cream up a notch.

Caramel

Caramel sauce, like hot fudge, is a decadent ice cream topper that is a classic accouterment to virtually any ice cream flavor. Caramel as a topping can vary, too, depending on the type of caramel sauce you’re interested in. There’s the classic caramel sauce that comes in a bottle and adds a light, but flavorful punch to your scoop. Or there are caramel candies that can be chopped up and added to your ice cream or melted into a rich sauce. Or there’s hot, homemade caramel sauce—like the less chocolaty sibling of hot fudge. Whichever caramel topping you choose, it’s bound to make your ice cream irresistible.

Crushed Cookies

Another stable in not only ice cream flavors but in ice cream toppings is crushed cookies. The most popular type of cookie to use as a topping is the Oreo—sweet, sugary cream sandwiched between two chocolate wafer cookies—but almost any cookie will do! Oreos in particular add a great twist to your regular old scoop of ice cream because they add both sweetness, from the filling, and chocolate, from the cookies. If you’re a fan of cookies ‘n’ cream ice cream, then you’ll undoubtedly enjoy crushed cookies as a topping on your next scoop!

Peanut Butter Cups

Another winning combination when it comes to ice cream toppings is chocolate and peanut butter. We all know and love chocolate peanut butter cups due to the perfect combination of two favorite ingredients, but they make excellent ice cream toppings, too. Simply take a few peanut butter cups and roughly chop them (or purchase some mini peanut butter cups to avoid the extra work) and sprinkle them over your favorite ice cream flavor. Delicious!

Cookie Dough

Cookie dough is yet another ice cream topping that works just as well as a mix-in as a topping. You’re likely familiar with the beloved cookie dough flavor of ice cream, which involves bits of delectable chocolate chip cookie dough mixed into vanilla ice cream, but why not also add some bits of cookie dough on top of your ice cream? Have double the cookie dough if you want—who’s stopping you?

Whipped Cream

Whipped cream is a topping that is equally as delicious on its own, or in addition to any of the other toppings we’ve mentioned. This sugary, creamy, and light-as-air topping will add even more sweet melt-in-your-mouth goodness to your scoop of ice cream, and what could possibly be better? You can go for old-fashioned whipped cream, created by literally whipping heavy cream and sugar until stiff peaks form, or opt for the version that comes straight from a can. Either way, you pretty much can’t go wrong with whipped cream on top of your ice cream.

Chocolate Shell

Hard chocolate coatings are a fun and unique topping to add to your scoop. There are a couple of options when it comes to this topping, which is going to be a win if you like chocolate! You can either buy chocolate shell toppings from the grocery store, which are liquid inside their plastic containers but become solid when the topping meets the cold surface of the ice cream, or you can make a simple chocolate shell topping yourself by melting pure chocolate. Either option will result in a hard, chocolate bar-like consistently on top of your ice cream.

Marshmallow

Marshmallows are a fun and delectable topping that can be reminiscent of a lot of different flavors! Mix marshmallows, chocolate ice cream, and nuts for a new take on Rocky Road. Toast marshmallows in the oven or over an open flame and add graham cracker crumbs for a s’mores ice cream topping. Or top your scoop with marshmallow fluff for a creamy, sticky delight. Whichever type of marshmallow topping you choose, it’s sure to be delicious!

Cereal

A nontraditional ice cream topping that’s become more popular in recent years, cereal is a fun option that will add a little crunch to your scoop. You can opt for a fruity cereal to give your ice cream a colorful flavor profile, plain crispy cereal to simply add some crunch without compromising your ice cream’s flavor, or, as always, go for chocolate cereal (because who doesn’t like chocolate?) Whatever cereal you choose, it will add some fun and some texture to your next scoop of ice cream.

Ice cream is incredible in its purest form, but it’s also even better with oodles of toppings! There are even more toppings that we didn’t include here, so if we missed one, you’ll just need to get some Besties Ice Cream and show us the other topping varieties out there. What’s your favorite topping?

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The History of Ice Cream

We all know and love ice cream! Who hasn’t treated themself to a cold, delicious, and creamy scoop of this delectable dessert on a hot day? If you’re a true ice cream fanatic, you’re likely eating ice cream all year round. There are even holiday flavors available on the market, after all.

But have you ever stopped to think about where this delicious treat came from? At the most basic level, your typical scoop of ice cream comes from an ice cream shop, the frozen aisle of your local grocery store, or from your very own kitchen if you’ve decided to go the homemade route. But ice cream has a much longer and complex history than the simple journey from ingredients to frozen dessert.

An Ancient Treat

While the exact origins of ice cream are a little murky, there’s little debate that some variation of this dessert has been around for centuries. Ice cream is thought to date back as far as the second century B.C.E, which would make it thousands of years old! The reason historians know that the origins of ice cream date back at least this far is because of several historical references to treats similar to ice cream. Some ancient documents reference that Alexander the Great enjoyed snow or shaved ice flavored with honey. Similarly, there are Biblical references to King Solomon in the old testament enjoying iced drinks during the long hot days of the harvest. We also know that during the reign of the Roman Empire, Nero Claudius Caesar often sent servants into the mountains for snow so he could mix it with fruit or juices and consume the icy mixture.

One of the prevailing myths about the origins of the ice cream we know and love today centers around the famous explorer and world traveler Marco Polo. Marco Polo is said to have traveled to the far east and brought a recipe back with him that was similar to what we now call sherbet, and this ancient sherbet recipe eventually evolved into a recipe more similar to modern ice cream sometime in the sixteenth century.

During the same time Marco Polo brought his recipe for sherbet over to Italy, a similar recipe is believed to have developed in England. Some historians even believe England developed a recipe similar to what we now know as ice cream before Marco Polo’s fateful journey east and back. In England, there was a dessert called cream ice that is thought to have been a regular (and delectable) staple in Charles I’s court during the seventeenth century. 

Similarly, there are historical reports of the development of a French dessert in the same vein as ice cream as early as 1553. The French version of this dessert is thought to have been brought to France by Catherine de Medici when she married Henry II of France.

Despite all of these indicators that some sort of early ice cream had made its way to Europe in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, the treat was initially only available to royalty and aristocracy. An ice cream recipe for the general public wasn’t made available until the mid-to-late seventeenth century when a recipe blending milk, cream, butter, and eggs was served at Café Procope, the first café in Paris.

Ice Cream in America

While ice cream quickly became popular in Europe, it took some time to arrive in America. It started with diplomats and politicians in America, much like the treat spread in popularity amongst the aristocracy in Europe. The first known record of an ice-cream-type dessert being served in America was in a letter written by someone who was a guest of the Governor of Maryland, William Bladen, in 1744. Bladen reportedly served ice cream to his guests at a dinner party.

Many years later, there is a record of an ice cream advertisement in the New York Gazette from Philip Lenzi, a confectioner who sold ice cream and other treats, advertising in 1777 that his shop had ice cream available and ready to purchase almost every day.

President George Washington, President Thomas Jefferson, and President James Madison were all thought to have been ice cream fans, too. There are records from a New York merchant that George Washington spent quite the pretty penny on ice cream in the summer of 1790. Similarly, Thomas Jefferson was reportedly fond of a particular ice cream recipe that is most comparable to the modern-day treat Baked Alaska. You can even view a recipe for vanilla ice cream preserved from Jefferson’s home, Monticello, through the Library of Congress. Dolley Madison, the wife of President James Madison, is reported to have served a strawberry ice cream dessert at President Madison’s second inauguration at the White House.

A Treat for Everyone

For decades, ice cream continued to be a more luxurious treat than many could afford. Acquiring the ingredients needed for the treat, including enough ice cold to freeze the ice cream in pre-refrigeration days, was costly and time-consuming. By 1800, however, insulated ice houses were invented and manufacturing ice cream at a more mass level became possible. As technology developed and innovation reigned supreme across the board in all sorts of industries, ice cream production began to increase to eventually become what we know today. These days, ice cream is produced in breathtaking quantities. Frozen dairy production in the United States yields more than 6 billion pounds of frozen treats!

When you pick up your favorite ice cream flavor from the store or get the first lick of your favorite scoop from your local ice cream truck like Besties Ice Cream, you’re probably so consumed with pure joy that you don’t think about the innovations that came before to get you that delectable dessert. Whether recipes resembling our modern ice cream flavors were first developed in Italy or England, or in an entirely different area of the globe altogether, there’s no doubt that ice cream has become a staple American classic. Now go get yourself a scoop—we know you’ve been thinking about it since you started reading!

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All About Chocolate Toppings

When it comes to ice cream toppings, ones of the chocolate variety simply cannot be beat. Not only is chocolate ice cream the most popular ice cream flavor in America, but chocolate toppings are some of the best and most popular out there. Ice cream can be topped with everything from chocolate flavored sprinkles to chocolate shavings to chocolate chips to chocolate candies to chocolate sauce to chocolate fudge—and that’s just the tip of the iceberg!

If you’re a chocoholic and want to learn more about all of the many chocolate-flavored toppings out there for your ice cream, you’re in the right place. Read on to find out more about some of the best ice cream toppings available to quench your chocolate cravings.

Chocolate Sprinkles

Most people think about sprinkles of the rainbow variety when thinking about the fun and eye-catching topping, but did you know that there are chocolate flavored sprinkles, too? Most chocolate sprinkles come in the Jimmies variety, which is a type of sprinkle shaped into tiny rods. They’re usually made of sugar and cornstarch, and chocolate jimmies often include either melted chocolate in the recipe or cocoa powder.

Chocolate Shavings

Chocolate shavings are another popular option for topping your scoop of delicious creamy ice cream. Chocolate shavings are just what they sound like—little bits of chocolate shaved off of a larger chocolate bar or chunk. This option is great if you want a little bit of actual chocolate on top of your ice cream, but not too much. It’s also an excellent option if you’re a chocolate purist and want only the best chocolate on your ice cream since you can go for extra dark chocolate or milk chocolate or whatever you prefer as your topping.

Chocolate Chips

Chocolate chips and ice cream are a classic flavor combination for a reason! If you aren’t going to have your chocolate chips in your ice cream like the popular flavor, then chocolate chips on top of your ice cream will do the trick. This is an excellent option if you’re wanting big chunks of chocolate in every bite of your ice cream since the chocolate chips will come with all the chocolatey goodness they’re known for as you chew each delectable bite.

Chocolate Sauce

When it comes to chocolate ice cream toppings, chocolate sauce almost can’t be beat! This is a classic way to top off your scoop of ice cream and makes for a rich, gooey, and all-around delicious ice cream experience. Chocolate sauce comes in many varieties—most notably the famous Hershey’s brand sauce many grew up having with everything from ice cream to chocolate milk—and is usually made of sugar and cocoa powder. The combination results in a decadent chocolate sauce that makes the perfect topping for your favorite ice cream flavor.

While chocolate may be America’s favorite ice cream flavor, we’d argue that chocolate—in some variety—is also in the top few of America’s favorite ice cream toppings. If you’re craving some cold delicious ice cream and your favorite chocolate, why not combine the two? It will make for an amazing—and delicious—sweet treat that’s sure to please.

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Different Types of Homemade Ice Cream

We all know about the different types of ice cream out there. You can peruse any aisle at your local grocery store for store-bought ice cream varieties, head on over to your favorite ice cream shop or parlor for luxurious professionally made ice cream (like what we have here at Besties Ice Cream), or, if you’re feeling adventurous in the kitchen, try your hand at making your own batch of ice cream.

No one particular type of ice cream is better than the other (though if you ask us, of course, we’re partial to the amazing flavors we have available at Besties Ice Cream), but each has its advantages.

If you’re looking for convenience, ice cream from the freezer section of your grocery store is a sure bet. If you’re looking for a treat for the whole family or for your next gathering, ice cream from the world-famous Besties Ice Cream truck is a win-win. But if you’re looking for a specific flavor profile you can’t find anywhere else or are looking for your next scoop of ice cream to be an event in and of itself, then homemade ice cream might just be for you.

With so many innovative ice cream recipes and methods out there for home ice cream makers, though, even narrowing down your options for making homemade ice cream can be difficult. That’s why we’re here—to help you figure out the different types and methods of homemade ice cream making.

Custard Style

One of the creamier and richer options when it comes to making homemade ice cream is custard-style ice cream. This type of ice cream consists of a custard base for your ice cream mix. Like with a non-ice-cream custard, this base includes egg yolks, cream, milk, sugar, and whatever flavor ingredients your heart desires. Custard-style ice cream is most successful when made in a home ice cream maker, and the final product ends up smooth and rich because it contains not only egg yolks, but more fat than other types of homemade ice cream.

Non-Custard Style Made With an Ice Cream Machine

As you might have guessed, this type of ice cream does not include egg yolks as custard-style ice cream does. This type of ice cream usually involves just the cream, milk, sugar, and flavor combinations you choose. While this type of ice cream doesn’t end up as smooth and creamy as custard-style ice cream, it’s still delicious and flavorful.

Non-Custard Style Made Without an Ice Cream Machine

When making non-custard style ice cream, there’s a couple of different ways to make it. The most common option is with a home ice cream machine, but you can make a delicious non-custard style ice cream without an ice cream maker. With this type of homemade ice cream, the ingredients are whipped with a fork or whisk, or with an electric hand mixer. This whipping breaks up ice crystals during the freezing process and results in a delectable frozen treat as the end product.

If you’ve decided to venture into the world of homemade ice cream, there are so many types and styles of ice cream you can try out! Now that you know three of the most common and popular homemade ice cream types, you can start on your own ice cream making journey.