Ice cream is a beloved treat that can be enjoyed on its own, but pairing it with the right drink can elevate the experience to a whole new level. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing pick-me-up on a hot summer day or a decadent dessert to cap off a special occasion, the right drink can complement the flavors and textures of your favorite ice cream. In this article, we’ll explore the best drinks to pair with ice cream, from classic combinations to unique and creative pairings.
Classic Combinations
Some drinks are timeless pairings with ice cream, and for good reason. These classic combinations have been enjoyed for generations, and their popularity endures to this day.
Coffee and Ice Cream
Coffee and ice cream is a match made in heaven. The bitterness of the coffee balances out the sweetness of the ice cream, creating a delightful harmony of flavors. Try pairing a scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream with a shot of espresso or a cup of cold brew. If you’re feeling fancy, you can even make a coffee float by pouring coffee over a scoop of ice cream.
Hot Chocolate and Ice Cream
Hot chocolate and ice cream is another classic combination that’s perfect for cold winter nights. The rich, chocolatey flavor of the hot chocolate pairs beautifully with a scoop of creamy ice cream. Try pairing a scoop of chocolate or mint chip ice cream with a cup of hot cocoa.
Milk and Ice Cream
Milk and ice cream is a simple yet satisfying combination that’s perfect for any time of day. The creaminess of the milk complements the ice cream, creating a smooth and refreshing treat. Try pairing a scoop of your favorite ice cream with a glass of cold milk.
Fruit-Based Drinks
Fruit-based drinks are a great way to add some freshness and flavor to your ice cream. From juices to smoothies, there are countless options to choose from.
Fruit Juices
Fruit juices are a great way to add some brightness and acidity to your ice cream. Try pairing a scoop of creamy ice cream with a glass of freshly squeezed juice, such as orange, grapefruit, or pineapple.
Smoothies
Smoothies are a great way to blend your favorite fruits with your favorite ice cream. Try pairing a scoop of ice cream with a smoothie made with yogurt, fruit, and a splash of milk. Some popular smoothie and ice cream combinations include:
- Strawberry ice cream with a strawberry banana smoothie
- Mango ice cream with a mango pineapple smoothie
- Pineapple ice cream with a coconut pineapple smoothie
Carbonated Drinks
Carbonated drinks can add a fun and fizzy twist to your ice cream. From soda to sparkling water, there are many options to choose from.
Soda and Ice Cream
Soda and ice cream is a classic combination that’s perfect for hot summer days. Try pairing a scoop of ice cream with a glass of cold soda, such as cola, root beer, or ginger ale.
Sparkling Water and Ice Cream
Sparkling water and ice cream is a refreshing and light combination that’s perfect for any time of day. Try pairing a scoop of ice cream with a glass of sparkling water, flavored with a splash of fruit juice or a squeeze of fresh fruit.
Boozy Pairings
For adults looking to add a little extra indulgence to their ice cream, boozy pairings are a great option. From cocktails to wine, there are many options to choose from.
Cocktails and Ice Cream
Cocktails and ice cream is a decadent combination that’s perfect for special occasions. Try pairing a scoop of ice cream with a cocktail made with your favorite spirits, such as vodka, rum, or bourbon. Some popular cocktail and ice cream combinations include:
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream with a vodka martini
- A scoop of strawberry ice cream with a daiquiri
- A scoop of chocolate ice cream with a whiskey sour
Wine and Ice Cream
Wine and ice cream is a sophisticated combination that’s perfect for wine lovers. Try pairing a scoop of ice cream with a glass of wine, such as a sweet dessert wine or a rich, fruity red. Some popular wine and ice cream combinations include:
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream with a glass of Moscato
- A scoop of chocolate ice cream with a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon
- A scoop of strawberry ice cream with a glass of Rosé
Unique and Creative Pairings
For those looking to try something new and exciting, unique and creative pairings are a great option. From tea to beer, there are many options to choose from.
Tea and Ice Cream
Tea and ice cream is a refreshing and soothing combination that’s perfect for any time of day. Try pairing a scoop of ice cream with a cup of hot or iced tea, flavored with herbs and spices. Some popular tea and ice cream combinations include:
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream with a cup of Earl Grey tea
- A scoop of green tea ice cream with a cup of sencha tea
- A scoop of chai ice cream with a cup of spiced tea
Beer and Ice Cream
Beer and ice cream is a unique and delicious combination that’s perfect for beer lovers. Try pairing a scoop of ice cream with a glass of beer, such as a rich, malty stout or a fruity, hoppy IPA. Some popular beer and ice cream combinations include:
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream with a glass of stout
- A scoop of chocolate ice cream with a glass of porter
- A scoop of strawberry ice cream with a glass of wheat beer
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are countless drinks that pair perfectly with ice cream. From classic combinations to unique and creative pairings, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing pick-me-up or a decadent dessert, the right drink can elevate the experience to a whole new level. So next time you’re enjoying a scoop of your favorite ice cream, be sure to try pairing it with a drink that complements its flavors and textures. Your taste buds will thank you!
What are some classic drink pairings that go well with ice cream?
When it comes to pairing drinks with ice cream, there are several classic combinations that are hard to beat. One of the most popular pairings is coffee and ice cream. The bitterness of the coffee complements the sweetness of the ice cream, creating a beautiful balance of flavors. Another classic pairing is hot chocolate and ice cream. The rich, chocolatey flavor of the hot chocolate pairs perfectly with the creamy texture of the ice cream.
Other classic pairings include root beer and vanilla ice cream, as well as ginger ale and strawberry ice cream. These pairings may seem simple, but they are timeless and delicious. The key is to find a drink that complements the flavor of the ice cream without overpowering it. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect match.
What types of tea pair well with ice cream?
Tea and ice cream may seem like an unlikely pairing, but there are several types of tea that complement the flavors of ice cream perfectly. One of the most popular pairings is earl grey tea and vanilla ice cream. The bergamot flavor in the earl grey tea complements the creamy texture of the vanilla ice cream, creating a beautiful and refreshing combination.
Other types of tea that pair well with ice cream include green tea and mango ice cream, as well as chai tea and pumpkin ice cream. The key is to find a tea that complements the flavor of the ice cream without overpowering it. You can also experiment with different tea flavors and ice cream combinations to find your perfect match.
Can I pair ice cream with cocktails?
Absolutely, ice cream can be paired with cocktails to create a unique and delicious dessert. One of the most popular pairings is a scoop of vanilla ice cream with a shot of espresso and a splash of Kahlúa. The bitterness of the espresso and the richness of the Kahlúa complement the creamy texture of the vanilla ice cream, creating a beautiful and decadent dessert.
Other cocktail pairings include a scoop of strawberry ice cream with a glass of champagne and a splash of Grand Marnier, as well as a scoop of chocolate ice cream with a shot of Baileys Irish Cream. The key is to find a cocktail that complements the flavor of the ice cream without overpowering it. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect match.
What types of milkshakes pair well with ice cream?
Milkshakes and ice cream are a match made in heaven, and there are several types of milkshakes that pair perfectly with ice cream. One of the most popular pairings is a chocolate milkshake with a scoop of chocolate ice cream. The rich, chocolatey flavor of the milkshake complements the creamy texture of the ice cream, creating a decadent and delicious dessert.
Other milkshake pairings include a strawberry milkshake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, as well as a cookies and cream milkshake with a scoop of cookies and cream ice cream. The key is to find a milkshake that complements the flavor of the ice cream without overpowering it. You can also experiment with different milkshake flavors and ice cream combinations to find your perfect match.
Can I pair ice cream with soda?
Absolutely, ice cream can be paired with soda to create a unique and delicious dessert. One of the most popular pairings is a scoop of vanilla ice cream with a glass of root beer. The creamy texture of the ice cream complements the sweet, fizzy flavor of the root beer, creating a classic and refreshing combination.
Other soda pairings include a scoop of strawberry ice cream with a glass of ginger ale, as well as a scoop of chocolate ice cream with a glass of cola. The key is to find a soda that complements the flavor of the ice cream without overpowering it. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect match.
What types of juice pair well with ice cream?
Juice and ice cream may seem like an unlikely pairing, but there are several types of juice that complement the flavors of ice cream perfectly. One of the most popular pairings is a scoop of mango ice cream with a glass of pineapple juice. The sweet, tropical flavor of the pineapple juice complements the creamy texture of the mango ice cream, creating a refreshing and delicious combination.
Other juice pairings include a scoop of strawberry ice cream with a glass of orange juice, as well as a scoop of peach ice cream with a glass of cranberry juice. The key is to find a juice that complements the flavor of the ice cream without overpowering it. You can also experiment with different juice flavors and ice cream combinations to find your perfect match.
Can I pair ice cream with sparkling water?
Absolutely, ice cream can be paired with sparkling water to create a unique and refreshing dessert. One of the most popular pairings is a scoop of lemon ice cream with a glass of lemon-flavored sparkling water. The bright, citrusy flavor of the lemon ice cream complements the fizzy flavor of the sparkling water, creating a light and refreshing combination.
Other sparkling water pairings include a scoop of raspberry ice cream with a glass of raspberry-flavored sparkling water, as well as a scoop of orange ice cream with a glass of orange-flavored sparkling water. The key is to find a sparkling water that complements the flavor of the ice cream without overpowering it. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect match.