Ancient Greeks enjoyed a dish comparable to ice cream around the 5th century B.C. Marco Polo reportedly brought ice cream to Italy in the 1300s.
America didn't get ice cream until the 1700s. The first U.S. ice cream parlor debuted in New York in 1776, starting a trend.
Ice cream is popular globally. World Atlas says New Zealand eats the most, 28.4 liters per year. Australia ranks third with 18 liters, followed by the U.S. with 20.8.
Ice cream is always considered a sweet treat, not a low-fat food. However, 2023 research suggests the frozen treat may be beneficial.
Ice cream is excellent without toppings, but a sundae is always a good idea. They weren't always there. Sundaes were invented in Evanston
Vanilla ice cream is a classic because polls reveal it's the most popular flavor in the U.S., Italy, Germany, New Zealand, Brazil, and China. Chocolate and cookies and cream follow.
After insulated ice houses were invented in 1800, ice cream became more affordable. Prepackaged ice cream and motorized delivery vans also boosted the dessert industry.