If you are an ice cream connoisseur, you’ve probably heard of the Philadelphia-style one. Touted as a historic and delectable summer treat, this ice cream is sure to win your heart and taste buds. Read on to find out more about this unique creation.

What Is It

Philadelphia-style ice cream

Traditional ice cream contains sugar, milk, cream, and eggs, making it thicker and richer.

Philadelphia-style ice cream, which has nothing to do with cream cheese is much lighter because of the absence of eggs. The main ingredients in it are just cream, sugar, and flavoring.

According to pastry chef Anthony Contrino, it all comes down to the components and how the ice-cream is churned. While French and Italian ones don’t incorporate much air, the Philly style one is much airier and smoother.

Contrino also pointed out that while it’s all about personal preference, the Philly-style (also called the ‘American-style’ or ‘New York-style’) is more about subtle flavors like vanilla and fruit, which are not overpowered by a rich base.

Unlike other ice-creams, this one doesn’t make you feel heavy and too full for comfort.

How It Got The Name

History of Philadelphia’s delicious dessert

Ice creams were first introduced in 1660 at a cafe in Paris. It only became more widely available in the US in the late 1800s, thanks to the industrialization of dairy farms. As soda fountain shops became a thing, so did ice creams.

Right until the revolution, ice cream was considered to be a European invention. That is before the Americans shortened the original process to make the lighter version we know today.

Because Philly was known to have high-quality food back then, they chose to name it after the City of Brotherly Love.

 Try It at Home

Get some Philly-style ice cream at home

The recipe for the Philly style ice cream is so simple that you can actually whip up a batch or two at home. All you need is 2 cups cream, 1 cup milk, ¾ cup sugar, and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract for a quart.

Whisk the ingredients together, churn it in an ice cream maker, freeze for a minimum of 3 hours, and voila! Serve in cones or bowls. This ice cream tends to get a little grainy, so it’s best eaten on the same day and feel free to experiment with flavors.

Philadelphia-style ice cream is the perfect treat to enjoy on a hot summer day. It’s so fresh, light, and delicious that you won’t be able to stop at just one!