Observed on July 16th, National Ice Cream Day is a time to indulge in creamy, frozen delights and celebrate the rich history and diverse flavors of America’s favorite frozen treat.
The History Behind National Ice Cream Day
National Ice Cream Day was officially designated by President Ronald Reagan in 1984, recognizing the importance and enjoyment of this beloved dessert. However, ice cream’s history in the United States dates back even further. The first known ice cream recipe in America was recorded by Founding Father and ice cream enthusiast Thomas Jefferson, who introduced the delicacy to the country in the 18th century. Since then, ice cream has become an iconic symbol of summer and a delicious treat enjoyed by people of all ages.
Iconic Ice Cream Favorites by State
Ice cream flavors vary from region to region, reflecting local tastes and cultural influences. Here are some popular ice cream flavors that have become iconic favorites in each of the 50 United States.
- Alabama: Banana Pudding
- Alaska: Wild Blueberry
- Arizona: Prickly Pear
- Arkansas: Butter Pecan
- California: Salted Caramel
- Colorado: Rocky Road
- Connecticut: Pistachio
- Delaware: Peach
- Florida: Key Lime Pie
- Georgia: Peach
- Hawaii: Macadamia Nut
- Idaho: Huckleberry
- Illinois: Chocolate
- Indiana: Black Raspberry
- Iowa: Butter Brickle
- Kansas: Cherry
- Kentucky: Bourbon
- Louisiana: Creole Cream Cheese
- Maine: Wild Maine Blueberry
- Maryland: Old Bay Caramel
- Massachusetts: Coffee
- Michigan: Mackinac Island Fudge
- Minnesota: Peppermint Bon Bon
- Mississippi: Butter Pecan
- Missouri: Gooey Butter Cake
- Montana: Huckleberry
- Nebraska: Sweet Corn
- Nevada: Cookie Dough
- New Hampshire: Maple Walnut
- New Jersey: Mint Chocolate Chip
- New Mexico: Piñon Nut
- New York: Cookies and Cream
- North Carolina: Carolina Crunch
- North Dakota: Prairie Rose
- Ohio: Buckeye
- Oklahoma: Cookies and Cream
- Oregon: Marionberry
- Pennsylvania: Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough
- Rhode Island: Coffee
- South Carolina: Butter Pecan
- South Dakota: Chokecherry
- Tennessee: Butter Pecan
- Texas: Homemade Vanilla
- Utah: Raspberry Ripple
- Vermont: Maple
- Virginia: Black Raspberry
- Washington: Huckleberry
- West Virginia: Coal Cookie
- Wisconsin: Chocolate Peanut Butter
- Wyoming: Cowboy Cookies
New Hampshire’s Ice Cream Trail
If you happen to be in New Hampshire, don’t miss the opportunity to embark on the delightful Ice Cream Trail! This scrumptious adventure takes you to some of the state’s finest ice cream shops, allowing you to savor a variety of flavors while exploring charming towns and scenic landscapes. From creamy maple walnut to refreshing blueberry swirl, the Ice Cream Trail offers a delightful experience for ice cream enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
To learn more about the New Hampshire Ice Cream Trail and plan your journey, visit the official New Hampshire Ice Cream Trail website. Get ready to discover new flavors and create sweet memories along the way!
Happy National Ice Cream Day
On July 16 celebrate the rich history of ice cream, and explore the unique flavors that make each state’s ice cream culture special. From traditional favorites to innovative creations, ice cream continues to bring joy and sweetness to our lives.
Note
The list of favorite ice cream flavors in each state is based on popular choices and regional preferences, but individual tastes vary. Information was gathered from Spoon University: The Most Popular Ice Cream Flavor in Every State and Delish: The Most Iconic Ice Cream Flavor in Every State