7 Best Ice Cream Shops in Austin to Beat the Texas Heat
Top Picks for 2024
Austin's sweltering temperatures make it the perfect place to indulge in some of the finest ice cream around. This vibrant city is home to a diverse array of ice cream shops, each offering unique flavors and mouth-watering textures that can satisfy any craving.
Whether you're a fan of traditional scoops or adventurous with innovative creations, Austin has an ice cream spot for everyone. From classic vanilla to vegan specialties, these shops provide an ideal escape from the Texas heat.
1) Amy's Ice Creams
Amy's Ice Creams has been a staple in Austin since 1984. Known for its creative flavors and fun atmosphere, Amy's attracts both locals and tourists. Their signature Mexican Vanilla and Belgian Chocolate flavors have a devoted following.
The shops are known for their playful attitude, with employees performing tricks while scooping ice cream. This adds a unique and entertaining experience.
Amy's offers a range of ice creams, frozen yogurts, and dairy-free options. They also create custom ice cream cakes and catering services for special events.
Their multiple locations throughout Austin make it convenient to find a store nearby. Whether in downtown or the airport, a scoop of Amy's ice cream is always within reach.
Contact Details:
Address: Multiple locations in Austin.
Website: Amy's Ice Creams
2) Lick Honest Ice Creams
Lick Honest Ice Creams started in Austin in 2011. They are well-known for their focus on purity and quality.
Each batch is made using local, seasonal ingredients. They never use artificial colors, flavors, or high fructose corn syrup.
Popular flavors include Texas Sheet Cake, which showcases their dedication to Texas-inspired tastes. They also offer vegan options.
With three locations in Austin, it's easy to find a scoop close by. Their shops are located at 1100 South Lamar Boulevard, 6555 Burnet Road, and 1905 Aldrich Street.
Contact: Address: 1100 South Lamar Boulevard, Austin, TX 78704 Phone: 512.363.5622 Website: lickhonesticecreams.com
3) Dolce Neve
Dolce Neve offers authentic Italian gelato made from scratch using traditional methods. Each batch is crafted with high-quality, natural ingredients, ensuring a rich and flavorful experience.
The shop features a cozy atmosphere that invites guests to relax and enjoy their treats. Dolce Neve's dedication to quality and authenticity makes it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
The menu includes a variety of classic and unique flavors, catering to a wide range of tastes. Customers can enjoy staples like pistachio and stracciatella alongside more adventurous options.
Seasonal flavors and rotating specials keep the menu fresh. Dolce Neve also offers sorbets for those seeking a dairy-free option. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in genuine gelato.
Contact details:
Address: 1713 S 1st St, Austin, TX 78704
Website: Dolce Neve
4) Sandy's Frozen Custard
Sandy's Frozen Custard has been a staple in Austin since 1946, offering a classic American nostalgia that many locals cherish. Known for its rich, creamy frozen custard, Sandy's provides a taste that stands out from typical ice cream.
Its menu boasts a variety of flavors, with their vanilla and chocolate custards being fan favorites. Additionally, the outdoor seating area makes it a perfect spot for families and friends to relax and enjoy their tasty treats.
Besides custard, Sandy's also serves a variety of burgers, fries, and other quick bites, making it an excellent stop for a casual meal.
Contact Details:
Address: 603 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
Phone: (512) 478-6322
5) Prohibition Creamery
Prohibition Creamery offers a unique twist by blending alcohol with classic ice cream flavors.
Established in a Prohibition-era bungalow, this shop provides a nostalgic yet modern atmosphere.
Alongside their boozy offerings, they also serve non-alcoholic options like sorbets, milkshakes, and sundaes.
Their menu includes signature cocktails, wine, and craft beer, making it a versatile destination for all tastes.
Prohibition Creamery also accommodates vegan preferences and frequently hosts happy hours from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. on weekdays.
Contact details:
Prohibition Creamery
1407 E 7th St., Austin, TX 78702
(512) 992-1449
prohibitioncreamery.com
6) Tiny's Milk and Cookies
Tiny's Milk and Cookies offers more than just delicious homemade ice cream. Located in Austin, Texas, this walk-up bakery is renowned for its famous chocolate chip cookies, which pair perfectly with their handcrafted coffee drinks.
The shop provides a cozy, friendly atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for families and friends to gather. They also serve a variety of homemade treats designed to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Visitors can delight in the comforting flavors of their treats, which have become a beloved indulgence in the community. Whether you’re popping in for a quick snack or relaxing with a cup of coffee, Tiny's Milk and Cookies delivers a delightful experience.
Contact Information:
Address: 1515 W 35th St, Bldg C, Austin, TX 78703
Phone: 512.675.4949
Website: tinyboxwoods.com
7) Cow Tipping Creamery
Cow Tipping Creamery, located in Parmer Point, offers a delightful array of soft serve treats. Known for their creative sundaes, floats, and cups of soft serve, this dessert spot is a staple for ice cream lovers in Austin.
Operated by the team behind Garbo's, a popular seafood restaurant, Cow Tipping Creamery combines inventive flavors and classic favorites.
Whether you're picking up a takeout order or enjoying their outdoor dine-in area, the experience is convenient and enjoyable. They offer a variety of toppings and flavor combinations to customize your treat just the way you like it.
Address: 12709 N Mopac Expy, Austin, TX 78727
Phone: (860) 608-5579
Website: Cow Tipping Creamery
Health Benefits of Ice Cream
Enjoying ice cream not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also offers some surprising health benefits. From its nutritional content to its mood-enhancing properties and cooling effects, ice cream can be a delightful and beneficial treat.
Nutritional Content
Ice cream contains essential nutrients that contribute to a balanced diet. One serving often includes calcium, which supports bone health, and vitamins like A, B12, and D. Protein content in ice cream helps repair and build muscles.
Depending on the ingredients, some ice creams also offer antioxidants, particularly if they contain fruits or nuts. It's important to choose ice creams with lower sugar content or those made with natural sweeteners to maximize the health benefits.
Mood Enhancement
Ice cream can act as a mood enhancer. The combination of sugar and fat can trigger the release of endorphins, which contribute to feelings of happiness. Additionally, the enjoyment of a favorite flavor can stimulate pleasant memories and emotions.
Dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward, is also released when consuming ice cream. Engaging in this simple pleasure can thus serve as an effective way to boost mental well-being, especially when enjoyed in moderation.
Cooling Effect
Eating ice cream can help cool the body during hot weather. The cold temperature of ice cream lowers body heat, providing a refreshing relief. This makes it particularly popular in places with warmer climates, such as Texas.
Hydration also plays a role. Ice cream contains a significant amount of water, which helps hydrate the body to some extent. However, it's not a substitute for drinking water but can supplement fluid intake while providing a pleasurable cooling effect.
Popular Ice Cream Flavors in Austin
Austin's ice cream scene boasts a wide variety of flavors, ranging from beloved classics to unique local creations and seasonal specialties that reflect the city's diverse food culture.
Classic Flavors
Many of Austin's ice cream shops feature classic flavors that have stood the test of time. Vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry dominate the menu at places like Lick Honest Ice Creams and Amy’s Ice Creams.
Mint chocolate chip and cookies and cream are other crowd-pleasers. They offer a nostalgic taste while maintaining high-quality ingredients. These flavors are staples at many popular spots, appreciated for their simplicity and universal appeal.
Unique Local Flavors
Local ingredients and cultural influences uniquely shape some of Austin's ice cream offerings. Texas Sheet Cake at Lick Honest Ice Creams, a rich chocolate base with layers of cake and fudge, is a local favorite.
Pandan and green mango at Gati bring Thai influences to the mix. Zeds Real Fruit Ice Cream stands out with flavors such as hill country peach and pecan, made using locally sourced produce. These unique flavors add a distinctive touch to Austin’s culinary landscape.
Seasonal Selections
Seasonal selections in Austin’s ice cream shops ensure there’s always something new to try. In the summer, fresh peach sorbets and watermelon basil from various shops reflect the bounty of local fruit.
Fall brings flavors like pumpkin spice and cinnamon apple, capturing the essence of autumn. Lick Honest Ice Creams is known for its rotation of seasonal flavors that highlight the freshest ingredients available, ensuring a constantly evolving menu that aligns with the local harvest cycle.
Tips for the Perfect Ice Cream Experience
Experiencing the best of Austin's ice cream requires more than just picking a flavor. Knowing when to visit, understanding what pairs well, and the best ways to store and serve can make all the difference.
Best Times to Visit
Visiting ice cream shops at the right time can enhance the experience. Early afternoons during weekdays are usually less crowded compared to weekends. This timing allows for a relaxed and unhurried visit. Evening visits can also be pleasant, especially when temperatures cool down. If you’re planning a weekend trip, aim for mid-morning or late afternoon to avoid peak crowds. Checking the shop’s social media for special events or limited-time flavors can also help you plan the best time to go.
Pairing Ice Cream with Desserts
Pairing ice cream with complementary desserts can elevate the tasting experience. Brownies, for instance, go exceptionally well with vanilla or mint chocolate chip ice cream. For those who enjoy a bit of tartness, a slice of lemon pound cake paired with berry-flavored ice cream offers a delightful contrast. Consider pairing creamy ice creams with crunchy desserts like cookies or pie crusts. Fruit toppings, such as berries or sliced bananas, brighten flavors and add freshness. Experiment and don’t hesitate to ask shop staff for their recommendations.
Storage and Serving Tips
Proper storage starts with keeping ice cream in the coldest part of the freezer, away from the door where temperatures fluctuate. Use airtight containers to maintain texture and prevent freezer burn. Before serving, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften for easier scooping. Using a warm scoop, dipped in hot water, can also aid in creating perfect scoops. If you're planning to serve a large group, pre-scoop ice cream onto a lined baking sheet and store it back in the freezer until ready to serve. This technique ensures smooth and quick serving during gatherings.
