As temperatures soar across Texas, residents and visitors alike seek refuge from the sweltering heat. National Ice Cream Month in July provides the perfect opportunity to cool down and indulge in frozen treats. Ice cream parlors throughout the Lone Star State offer a variety of flavors and creations to satisfy every palate and beat the summer heat.
Texas boasts a diverse array of ice cream joints, from classic shops to innovative artisanal creameries. These establishments serve up everything from traditional favorites to unique, locally-inspired concoctions. Whether you prefer a simple scoop or an elaborate sundae, Texas ice cream shops have something to offer everyone looking for a refreshing break from the summer sun.
1) Amy’s Ice Creams
Amy’s Ice Creams stands out as a beloved Texas institution for frozen treats. Founded in Austin, this chain has been serving up creative flavors and memorable experiences for over three decades.
The shop offers a rotating selection of unique ice cream flavors alongside classic favorites. Customers can enjoy everything from Mexican Vanilla to more adventurous options like Cop Stop Donut.
Amy’s is known for its lively atmosphere and engaging staff. Ice cream “athletes” behind the counter often perform tricks while scooping, adding an element of entertainment to each visit.
Beyond just serving ice cream, Amy’s actively participates in community initiatives. They frequently support local nonprofits, children’s organizations, and educational programs throughout Texas.
Amy’s Ice Creams has multiple locations across Austin, Houston, and San Antonio. Their website offers a flavor calendar, allowing customers to plan visits around their favorite flavors.
Contact: (512) 458-6149
Address: 3500 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78705 (flagship store)
Website: www.amysicecreams.com
2) Lick Honest Ice Creams
Lick Honest Ice Creams has been crafting artisanal ice creams in Texas since 2011. Their focus on seasonal and sustainable flavors celebrates the Lone Star State’s culinary heritage.
The company prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients to create unique flavor combinations. Their menu changes regularly to reflect the best of each season’s offerings.
Visitors can enjoy Lick’s creations at their scoop shops in Austin and San Antonio. The San Antonio location is situated in the historic Pearl Brewery complex, adding a touch of local history to the experience.
For those unable to visit in person, Lick offers online ordering and shipping options. Their ice creams can also be found in select retail locations across Texas.
Lick Honest Ice Creams stands out for its commitment to clean, sustainable practices and its inventive approach to classic frozen treats.
Contact: Lick Honest Ice Creams
San Antonio Location: 312 Pearl Parkway, San Antonio, TX
Website: www.ilikelick.com
3) Sweet Ritual
Sweet Ritual offers a delightful twist on traditional ice cream. This Austin-based parlor specializes in dairy-free and vegan ice cream options, catering to those with dietary restrictions or preferences.
Their menu features a variety of innovative flavors made from plant-based ingredients. Customers can enjoy scoops of creamy coconut, cashew, or sunflower seed-based ice creams.
Sweet Ritual’s commitment to quality and creativity shines through in their unique flavor combinations. Popular choices include Unicorn Poop, Death Metal By Chocolate, and Salted Caramel.
The shop’s bright and cheerful atmosphere adds to the overall experience. Visitors can indulge in sundaes, shakes, and ice cream sandwiches crafted with care and attention to detail.
Sweet Ritual: 4631 Airport Blvd Suite 125, Austin, TX 78751
Phone: (512) 666-8346
Website: www.sweetritual.com
4) Hank’s Ice Cream Parlor
Hank’s Ice Cream Parlor has been a Houston institution for over 38 years. This family-owned business has earned a reputation for serving some of the best ice cream in the city.
Visitors to Hank’s can choose from a wide variety of flavors. Popular options include buttercream, banana pudding, butter pecan, rum raisin, and lemon.
The parlor’s friendly service adds to its charm. Locals and tourists alike flock to Hank’s to beat the Texas heat with a scoop or two of their delicious frozen treats.
Hank’s has consistently been recognized as one of Houston’s top ice cream spots. Its longevity and loyal customer base are testaments to the quality of their products.
For those looking to cool off with a tasty treat, Hank’s Ice Cream Parlor is a must-visit destination in Houston.
Address: 9291 S Main St, Houston, TX 77025
5) Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams offers a refreshing escape from the Texas heat. With multiple locations in Austin, this beloved ice cream chain serves up unique and creative flavors.
Jeni’s is known for its high-quality ingredients and innovative combinations. Visitors can enjoy classic flavors alongside more adventurous options, ensuring something for every palate.
The shop’s Austin locations provide a cool respite after a day of shopping or exploring the city. Free parking in nearby garages makes it convenient for customers to stop by and indulge.
Jeni’s regularly introduces new seasonal flavors, giving patrons a reason to return and try the latest creations. Their holiday collections are particularly popular, featuring festive and indulgent options.
For those looking to beat the heat at home, Jeni’s offers nationwide shipping of their pints. They also have a rewards program for frequent visitors, allowing customers to earn points toward free scoops.
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams
Multiple locations in Austin, TX
Website: jenis.com
6) Milwaukee Joe’s Gourmet Ice Cream
Milwaukee Joe’s Gourmet Ice Cream offers a delightful escape from the Texas heat. This beloved ice cream shop has been serving up creamy treats since 1995.
Their menu features a wide array of flavors, from classic favorites to unique creations. Visitors can indulge in rich sundaes, thick milkshakes, and perfectly scooped cones.
Milwaukee Joe’s takes pride in using premium ingredients to craft their ice cream. They’ve recently expanded their offerings to include authentic Indian ice cream flavors like Chikoo and Sitafal.
The shop’s commitment to quality and variety has earned it a loyal following. Customers praise the creamy texture and exceptional taste of their ice cream.
For those looking to beat the heat this National Ice Cream Month, Milwaukee Joe’s is a must-visit destination in Texas.
Milwaukee Joe’s Gourmet Ice Cream
1417 Main Street, Southlake, TX 76092
(817) 251-1667
7) Cow Tipping Creamery
Cow Tipping Creamery offers a unique twist on traditional ice cream with its made-to-order soft serve creations. This Texas-based shop has gained popularity for its innovative flavors and toppings.
Customers can choose from a variety of carefully designed desserts or build their own by selecting their preferred ice cream base and toppings. The shop’s signature “stackers” feature layers of soft serve, sauces, and crunchy add-ins.
One standout item is the Cookie D’OH, a customer favorite that combines creamy soft serve with indulgent cookie dough pieces. The shop’s commitment to quality and creativity has earned it a loyal following among ice cream enthusiasts.
Cow Tipping Creamery started as a food truck concept before expanding to brick-and-mortar locations. Its success demonstrates the appeal of its unique approach to frozen treats in the Texas market.
Cow Tipping Creamery – Frisco Location
Address: 3685 The Star Blvd., Suite 201, Frisco, TX 75034
Website: cowtippingcreamery.com
8) Beth Marie’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream
Beth Marie’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream offers a nostalgic treat for ice cream lovers in Texas. With multiple locations across the state, this beloved ice cream shop serves up cold delights to beat the summer heat.
The ice cream at Beth Marie’s is produced in Denton, where their factory can churn out an impressive 50 pounds of ice cream every 15 minutes. This ensures a steady supply of fresh, creamy goodness for their shops.
Beth Marie’s has expanded its presence with locations in Denton, Corinth, Carrollton, and most recently, Grapevine. Each shop offers a wide variety of classic and creative flavors to satisfy every palate.
As an official GO TEXAN member, Beth Marie’s takes pride in being a true Texas product. Their commitment to quality and local roots makes them a standout choice for National Ice Cream Month celebrations.
Visitors can enjoy Beth Marie’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream at their various locations, including:
1020 W Main St, Carrollton, TX 75006
Phone: (469) 892-6677
Website: bethmaries.com
9) Heritage Creamery
Heritage Creamery is a beloved ice cream shop in Texas that offers a cool respite from the summer heat. This local favorite serves up delicious handcrafted ice cream in a variety of flavors.
Located in Waco, Heritage Creamery has two locations to satisfy ice cream cravings. Their Baylor location is open daily from 1 PM to 10 PM, while the Woodway location operates from 11 AM to 10 PM every day.
The creamery prides itself on using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients to create their frozen treats. Customers can enjoy classic flavors as well as unique seasonal offerings.
Heritage Creamery has gained a strong following on social media, with over 12,000 Instagram followers. They regularly post enticing photos of their ice cream creations, drawing in locals and visitors alike.
For those looking to beat the Texas heat, Heritage Creamery provides a delightful oasis. Their commitment to quality and creativity makes them a standout choice for National Ice Cream Month celebrations.
Contact: Heritage Creamery, Waco, TX
Website: www.heritagecreamery.com
Instagram: @heritagecreamery
10) La King’s Confectionery
La King’s Confectionery in Galveston, Texas offers a nostalgic ice cream experience. This historic parlor transports visitors back to the 1920s with its charming atmosphere and classic treats.
The shop is renowned for its homemade ice cream, produced on-site. La King’s takes pride in being one of the first ice cream manufacturers in Texas, ensuring fresh and high-quality desserts.
Visitors can escape the summer heat by indulging in La King’s famous ice cream and other sweet confections. The parlor’s vintage ambiance adds to the enjoyment of their frozen treats.
La King’s Confectionery is a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking respite from Texas summers. Its location on Galveston’s iconic Strand makes it easily accessible for beachgoers.
Address: 2323 The Strand, Galveston, TX 77550
Website: www.lakingsconfectionery.com
The Importance of Ice Cream During National Ice Cream Month
National Ice Cream Month celebrates a beloved treat that brings joy and refreshment to people across the country. Texas ice cream joints play a special role in this summertime tradition, offering unique flavors and experiences.
Why Texas Ice Cream Joints Stand Out
Texas ice cream shops are known for their creative and bold flavors. Many use locally sourced ingredients, showcasing the state’s agricultural bounty. Pecan, peach, and bluebonnet-inspired ice creams are popular choices that reflect Texas heritage.
These joints often feature generous portion sizes, satisfying even the heartiest appetites. Some shops offer custom mix-ins, allowing customers to create their own perfect scoop.
Texas ice cream parlors frequently embrace a nostalgic atmosphere. Retro decor and friendly service transport visitors to simpler times. This combination of innovative flavors and classic ambiance makes Texas ice cream spots truly special.
Cultural Significance of Ice Cream in Texas
Ice cream holds a cherished place in Texas culture, especially during hot summers. It serves as a social catalyst, bringing families and friends together for a cool treat. Many Texans have fond memories of visiting local ice cream shops after school or on weekends.
Ice cream socials and festivals are common throughout the state, fostering community bonds. These events often feature ice cream eating contests and homemade ice cream competitions.
Texas-based brands like Blue Bell have achieved iconic status, becoming a source of state pride. The company’s tours and visitor center have become popular attractions, further cementing ice cream’s role in Texas culture.
Understanding Texas Ice Cream Culture
Texas ice cream culture reflects the state’s diverse flavors, innovative spirit, and commitment to quality ingredients. It blends traditional favorites with bold new creations that capture the essence of the Lone Star State.
Regional Flavors and Innovations
Texas ice cream shops offer unique flavors that celebrate local tastes. Bluebonnet, the state flower, inspires vibrant blueberry-based concoctions. Pecan pie ice cream pays homage to the official state nut.
Some parlors experiment with savory-sweet combinations like jalapeño chocolate chip or barbecue-flavored scoops. These unexpected pairings cater to adventurous palates and showcase Texas culinary creativity.
Many shops also embrace the state’s love for frozen treats by offering snow cones, gelato, and custard alongside traditional ice cream. This variety ensures there’s something for every taste preference.
The Role of Local Ingredients
Texas ice cream makers prioritize fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Dairy comes from nearby farms, ensuring high quality and supporting local economies. Seasonal fruits like peaches from Hill Country or citrus from the Rio Grande Valley add authentic flavors.
Pecans, honey, and lavender from Texas producers feature prominently in many recipes. Some shops partner with local breweries or coffee roasters to create unique adult-oriented flavors.
This focus on local sourcing not only enhances taste but also connects customers to the state’s agricultural heritage. It reinforces the idea that Texas ice cream is a true representation of the land and its people.