History of Ice Cream

Growing up our family would head to our local ice cream shop, Baskin-Robbins 31 Flavors, a couple times a month!  I would switch it up between a banana split or a scoop (or two) of vanilla ice cream on a cone.  For most people, ice cream brings back happy childhood memories!  Today, July 17th, is National Ice Cream Day and I wanted to find out more about this delicious treat that so many of us enjoy!

Food historians tell us the history of ice cream begins with ancient flavored ices. The Chinese are generally credited for creating the first ice creams, possibly as early as 3000 BC.  Marco Polo is popularly cited for introducing these tasty concoctions to Italy, though this claim is questionable. The ice creams we enjoy today are said to have been invented in Italy during the 17th century. They spread northward through Europe via France. “French-style” ice cream (made with egg yolks) and its American counterpart, “Philadelphia-style” are (no eggs, or egg whites only) enriched products made with the finest ingredients.  Food historians tell us this type of ice cream originated in the 17th century and proliferated in the early 18th.

Why do we call it “ice cream?”

Centuries ago people started making refreshing summer-time desserts by taking sweet cream (the richest part of milk) or custard (egg-based puddings) and cooling them down with ice. The chillier the cream, the more solid the product. In sum: the first “iced creams” were so named because the appellation described the process. Seasonal fruit flavors predominated.

Before modern refrigeration mostly wealthy people had access to ice (and by association, iced cream) in the summer. This made ice cream a rare treat. It was not until the late 19th century “ice cream” was consumed by Americans across all socio-economic levels. According to the Oxford English Dictionary the first print occurrence of the word “iced cream” as in 1688. The term “ice cream” shows up in 1744. That corresponds approximately with the time when “modern” ice creams were first manufactured. treat until mass modern technology punched in. (Source: Food Timeline.org.)

There are lots of ways to enjoy ice cream!  On a cone, an ice cream bar or a scoop between two cookies.  Here are some ideas to incorporate at your next birthday party or family fun night!

Ice Cream Sandwich Bar

This is super easy to put together.  You just need a pint or two of your favorite ice cream, cookies – store bought or homemade and sprinkles.  We dipped some champagne glasses in warm chocolate and dipped them in sprinkles.  Pour in some cold milk and you are set! More ideas can be found on an eBay Guide here.

Add Sprinkles!

We dipped some champagne glasses in warm chocolate and dipped them in sprinkles.  Pour in some cold milk and you are set! More ideas can be found on our eBay page here.  You can switch up the decor to fit any holiday or birthday party event.  Just add some colored paper that can be found at your nearest craft store to add some sparkle.

Balloons are always a hit!

Balloons would add to the fun as well.  Check out these ideas for creating balloons that will impress the kids (and moms).

How do you plan to celebrate National Ice Cream Day?  With one scoop or two?