The third Sunday of July is one of the sweetest days on the calendar because it's National Ice Cream Day!
This frozen dairy delight is so beloved that in 1984, President Ronald Reagan declared July to be National Ice Cream Month, with a special day to celebrate ice cream on the third Sunday.
It's no wonder we have a whole month dedicated to this treat—Americans consume more ice cream than anyone else in the world! National Ice Cream Day is the perfect excuse to indulge in your favorite flavors and celebrate this delicious tradition.
A Brief History of National Ice Cream Day
In 1984, President Ronald Reagan had the brilliant idea to create a holiday honoring the tasty treat that over 90% of Americans enjoy.
Initially intended to be a one-time celebration on July 15, 1984, the dairy industry saw its potential and turned it into an annual festivity.
Today, National Ice Cream Day is a favorite celebration that encourages everyone to eat more ice cream.
On average, Americans consume about 23 gallons of ice cream per year. Interestingly, New Zealand surpasses the U.S. in per capita consumption, with an average of 28.4 liters per person annually, while Americans consume about 20.8 liters.
Fun and Fascinating Ice Cream Facts
- Ancient Origins: The earliest records of ice cream-like treats date back to around 697 AD in China, where a mixture of dairy, salt, and ice was frozen. Some believe the Romans also enjoyed a version of ice cream made with snow, honey, and fruit juices.
- The Gelato Revolution: In 1660, Francesco Procopio Dei Coltelli perfected an ice cream machine and began selling gelato in his café. His recipe, made with milk, butter, eggs, and cream, quickly spread throughout Europe.
- Thomas Jefferson's Recipe: The oldest ice cream recipe in the U.S. is credited to Thomas Jefferson, who created a recipe for Old Fashioned Vanilla Ice Cream. This historical artifact is now preserved at the Library of Congress.
- Chocolate Came First: While vanilla is now America's favorite ice cream flavor, chocolate ice cream was actually invented first. Chocolate is also the most popular flavor in Canada.
- Record-Breaking Sundae: The world's largest ice cream sundae was made in Canada on July 24, 1984, during National Ice Cream Month. It featured 63 flavors and weighed nearly 25 tonnes!
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Celebrate National Ice Cream Day
There are countless ways to enjoy ice cream on this special day:
- Ice Cream Deals: Many ice cream stores and vans offer special deals on National Ice Cream Day. Treat yourself to a few scoops of your favorite flavor or try something new!
- DIY Ice Cream: Make your own ice cream at home! Experiment with flavors you've always wanted to try. It's a fun and rewarding way to celebrate.
- Try a New Flavor: Step out of your comfort zone and try a new flavor on National Ice Cream Day. You never know, you might discover your new favorite!
- Fun Activities: Organize an ice cream-themed party with friends and family. Set up a sundae bar with different toppings and have everyone create their own unique creations.
- Support Local Businesses: Visit local ice cream shops in your community to show support for small businesses. Try out their unique flavors and share your experience on social media.
RELATED: This Ice Cream Name Tag Generator Is SO Much Fun!
The Benefits of Ice Cream
Ice cream isn't just delicious; it also has some surprising benefits:
- Mood Booster: Ice cream helps the brain produce hormones like serotonin and dopamine, which boost happiness.
- Energy Source: It contains proteins, fats, and carbohydrates that provide energy.
- Nutrient-Rich: Made from milk, ice cream is a good source of vitamins A and D.
- Antioxidants: Varieties made with fruits or dark chocolate contain antioxidants that protect the body from toxins.
- Cooling and Hydrating: Ice cream cools you down and contributes to hydration, thanks to its significant water content.
RELATED: Try This Fun Ice Cream Gift-Giving Game!
Ice Cream Jokes For Everyone
Here are some super funny ice cream jokes that will help you celebrate the holiday:1. Why did the ice cream truck break down?
Because it hit a Rocky Road.
2. What do you call an ice cream cone that's fallen on the ground?
A Sundae.
3. How does a penguin build its house?
Igloos it together with ice cream!
4. Why did the banana go to the doctor?
Because it wasn't peeling well.
5. How do astronauts eat their ice cream?
In floats!
Easy Homemade Banana Ice Cream Recipe
To further help you enjoy this delicious and incredible holiday, here's a quick and easy homemade banana ice cream recipe for you and your family to enjoy!
Ingredients:
- 4 ripe bananas
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional mix-ins: chocolate chips, nuts, or honey
Instructions:
1- Prepare the Bananas: Peel the bananas and cut them into thin slices.2- Freeze the Bananas: Place the banana slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure the slices are spread out in a single layer to prevent them from sticking together. Freeze for at least 2 hours, or until the bananas are completely frozen.
4- Add Vanilla Extract: Once the bananas are smooth, add the vanilla extract and blend again until well combined.
5- Mix-in (Optional): If you want to add any mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or a drizzle of honey, now is the time! Simply stir them into the banana mixture by hand.
6- Serve Immediately or Freeze: You can serve the banana ice cream immediately for a soft-serve texture, or transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for an additional 1-2 hours for a firmer texture.
7- Enjoy!: Scoop your homemade banana ice cream into bowls or cones and enjoy this healthy, delicious treat.
Tips For The Best Ice Cream
For an extra creamy texture, add a splash of milk or a spoonful of nut butter when blending the bananas.Experiment with different flavors by adding cocoa powder for chocolate banana ice cream or blending in some frozen berries for a fruity twist.
The Bottom Line
Hopefully, you've enjoyed this little ice cream celebration.
So, grab your favorite cone, cup, or sundae, and enjoy National Ice Cream Day to the fullest!
Celebrate with a smile, and don't forget to grab your ice cream games here.
You're gonna love them, I swear!