How Did Ice Cream Get Its Name? - And Other History

A favorite summer treat of many is undoubtedly ice cream! This cool treat has a long history, with its origins beginning as early as the second century B.C. The exact date and originator of this creation is unfortunately unknown. 

We do know that Alexander the Great enjoyed snow and ice shavings topped with honey and fruit. It's believed by many that this is one of the contributing factors to how the dessert now known as 'ice cream' got its name. 

Fast forward nearly 1,000 years to the time of Marco Polo and his many adventures, he returned from the far east to Italy with a recipe that bared a distinct resemblance to modern day gelato. 

There's a gap in history until the 1750's, which was the time when ice cream made it's way over to the Americas. Historians have found recipes during this time period documented by housewives of the time, with many of the recipes mirroring  Alexander the Great's favorite toppings of honey and fruit. 

All around the world ice cream remained a dessert enjoyed only by the elite. It wasn't until 1851 that this pleasure was made available to the general public. That year, the creation of ice cream officially became a business. A milk vendor, Jacob Fussell, saw an opportunity to use his reserves of milk to recreate this treat for an affordable price. He his often referred to as "The Father of Ice Cream Industry" because he was not only the first to make it affordable, but he was the first to make and deliver this treat on a wide scale. 

The rise of new technologies can also be attributed to the launch of the ice cream industry. Due to advancements in refrigeration, packaging and travel, products were able to be marked down and shared with more people.

Modern day ice cream has evolved to creative flavors, such as lucky charms, sea salt caramel or mint chocolate chip. Toppings are no longer limited to honey or raw fruit. Now you can enjoy hot fudge, brandied cherries and even cookies on a chilled scoop or two. 

National Ice Cream Day is tomorrow, July 21st! How do you plan on celebrating?