If you think vanilla and chocolate are as wild as ice cream gets, then buckle up—you’re in for a flavor-packed ride. Ice cream isn’t just a treat, it’s a cultural phenomenon that comes in infinite forms depending on where you find yourself in the world.
From the creamy, slow-churned gelato of Italy to the street-side sorbetes of the Philippines, let’s take a global tour of unique ice cream traditions that will make your next scoop an adventure.
Oh, and if you’re in the U.S., don’t worry. We’ll even tell you where to find a hidden gem for ice cream in Fort Collins so you can start this tour closer to home.
Why People Love Ice Cream
Ice cream is more than just a dessert—it’s a universal joy. Here’s why people can’t get enough of it:
- Delicious Variety: With flavors ranging from classic vanilla to adventurous combinations like salted caramel or matcha, there’s something for everyone.
- Cooling Treat: Perfect for hot days, ice cream provides instant refreshment and comfort.
- Nostalgia: For many, ice cream brings back happy memories of childhood, family outings, or summer vacations.
- Mood Booster: Packed with sweetness and creamy textures, it’s a go-to treat for lifting spirits or celebrating special moments.
- Social Connection: Enjoying ice cream often creates shared experiences—whether at a local shop or during a cozy night at home with loved ones.
It’s no surprise that ice cream remains a favorite indulgence around the world!
Italy: Gelato—the OG of Fancy Frozen Treats
When it comes to ice cream, Italians don’t play—they do gelato. Seriously, it’s not just ice cream; it’s an art form that requires skill and dedication. Unlike the airier ice cream you might be used to, gelato is churned slower, making it denser and fuller in flavor.
Bonus? It has lower fat content, so you can indulge without too much guilt (if that’s your thing).
Must-try flavors? Stick to the classics like pistachio or hazelnut, or try something adventurous like limoncello if you’re keen to vibe like a true Italian. P.S., gelato shops in Florence might ruin regular ice cream for you forever.
Japan: Mochi Ice Cream That’s Almost Too Cute to Eat
Leave it to Japan to make ice cream adorable. Mochi ice cream is the ultimate blend of chewy and creamy, with ice cream wrapped neatly in a thin layer of rice dough. It’s basically dessert sushi, and it comes in flavors ranging from matcha (a must-try) to red bean or even tropical mango.
You can typically find these at Japanese dessert shops worldwide, but nothing beats having them in Japan at a local izakaya for true authenticity.
USA (Fort Collins): Sustainable and Funky with Ben & Jerry’s
Finally, we’d be letting you down if we didn’t talk about something closer to home. Ben & Jerry’s is an all-time crowd favorite. If you’re in the U.S., their ice cream fort collins spot in Colorado, is an absolute must-visit.
Known for iconic flavors like Cherry Garcia, Half Baked, and Chunky Monkey, this spot brings the full Ben & Jerry’s experience to life. But it’s not just about the flavors—it’s about their commitment to sustainability. From sourcing Fairtrade ingredients to using eco-friendly packaging, this brand takes dessert to the next level. Enjoy that creamy, indulgent ice cream while knowing you’re supporting a company that cares about the planet.
Turkey: Dondurma (The Acrobat of Ice Cream)
Ever had your ice cream served by a performer who’s flipping, twisting, and trolling you before handing it over? That’s dondurma for you. Made with salep (a flour made from orchid roots) and mastic resin, this Turkish street treat is stretchy, chewy, and unlike any ice cream texture you’ve experienced.
Go to Istanbul, order dondurma from a street vendor, and prepare for the most entertaining brain freeze of your life.
Philippines: Sorbetes aka the “Dirty Ice Cream”
Don’t be misled by its nickname—sorbetes is anything but dirty. Sold from colorful wooden carts on the streets of Manila, this Filipino take on ice cream is made with coconut or carabao milk. It’s churned by hand and served in a cone or even sandwiched between two pieces of bread (because carbs + ice cream = heaven).
For a bold twist, head to the Bicol region and try SILI (chili) ice cream. This fiery dessert combines the creaminess of ice cream with a spicy kick from local chili peppers. It’s a daring treat that perfectly represents Bicolano cuisine, known for its love of spice. The heat sneaks up on you, making every bite an exciting surprise. If you’re feeling adventurous, this is a must-try!
Pro tip? Opt for ube (purple yam) flavor, which is as much a feast for your Snapchat feed as it is for your taste buds.
India: Kulfi, The Dessert That Laughs at the Heat
Kulfi is ice cream but thicker, creamier, and richer—think ice cream’s cooler cousin who dresses better and smells of saffron. Indians don’t churn kulfi like Western ice cream; instead, they slowly simmer milk, sugar, and natural flavors until it’s dense, creamy perfection. Then they freeze it on sticks or serve it in terracotta cups.
Flavors like pistachio, rose, and mango are divine, but if you’re feeling fancy, opt for a saffron-infused kulfi. You’ll never look at regular ice cream the same way again.
Beyond Flavors, Ice Cream is a Vibe
Ultimately, ice cream is so much more than frozen milk and sugar—it’s a passport to another culture. Every country puts its distinct spin on this simple dessert, reflecting the tastes, textures, and traditions that make it unique.
Next time you grab a cone, ask yourself—are you ready to explore beyond plain vanilla? Whether it’s stretchy dondurma from Turkey, mochi from Japan, or ube-flavored sorbetes from the Philippines, there’s a whole world of frozen wonders waiting for you.
Each bite tells a story, offering a glimpse into a different way of life and the culinary creativity of a culture.
So go ahead—step out of your comfort zone, try something new, and let ice cream take you on a flavorful adventure across the globe.
After all, dessert is more than just a treat; it’s an experience.
