Artisan Ice Cream in All Its Varieties

Artisan ice cream is another culinary tradition that was brought by Italians emigrating to Argentina in the late 19th century. Buenos Aires’ oldest ice cream parlors were set up by Italians, such as El Vesuvio, founded in 1902 by Mr. and Mrs. Cocitore.

A good artisan ice cream must be of the very best quality, and made using fresh ingredients, without the addition of flavorings, colorings, or preservatives.

Over the years, growing numbers of Argentinian families began to specialize in artisan ice creams. Every Argentinian town has its own well-known ice cream parlors, which are frequented by locals enjoying this delicious dessert.

According to research carried out by the Association of Producers of Artisan Ice Cream and Related Products (Asociación de Fabricantes Artesanales de Helados y Afines), in the hotter months of the year, 80% of Argentina’s population consumes artisan ice cream, while annual consumption per capita is 15 lbs (6.9 kg). 

Argentina’s classic ice cream flavors are dulce de leche, chocolate, and strawberry. However, every ice cream parlor is known for its own unique, special flavors. 

As can be seen on the right of this image, it’s common to see a shelf full of bottles of liquor and other alcoholic drinks in Argentinian ice cream parlors, which are used to make different desserts. The most famous of these is a Don Pedro, which is made with vanilla cream ice cream, whisky, and nuts.

As well as specialty flavors and ice creams with alcohol, artisan ice cream parlors often have other types of dessert, such as different kinds of ice cream cake.

Making a good artisan ice cream involves a careful process, in which various quality standards must be adhered to. Many ice cream parlors make their ice creams in view of their customers, so that customers can see what they are ordering.

Dulce de leche ice cream is, without a doubt, most Argentinians’ favorite flavor, and every ice cream parlor has its own recipe. Debates rage about which one is the best, and everyone has their own particular favorite.

Trying artisan ice cream in several different establishments is a must for visitors to Argentina. Every November, the country holds an Artisan Ice Cream Week, with discounts, competitions, and the chance to see master ice cream makers.