As autumn gives way to winter, it might not seem like the ideal time to eat ice cream. Then again, there's never a bad time for ice cream, and the weather has been so warm lately that December seems like the end of the world's longest summer. Pretend it's a snowy white Christmas by getting your chill on with a pint of the frozen confection and slowly savoring it in front of a cozy fire. Don't you dare skimp and go to the grocery store - there are five ice cream spots in town scooping locally made seasonal flavors available for a limited time only. And if you're planning to bake up a storm for your celebration, think about selecting one of these specialties to upgrade your homemade creation to the always-incredible à la mode.
See also: - 9 Baked Goods in Metro Phoenix to Pre-Order for Your Christmas Table - Chow Bella's Gift Guide for the Dessert Lover
This local chain that serves gelato always has a couple of seasonal flavors (text OMG to 30364 to be alerted of new additions and special deals). Three flavors are available throughout the holiday season: peppermint mocha fudge, cranberry orange, and rum raisin. Cakes can also be made using the holiday flavors in petite (serves 4 to 6), small (serves 8+), and large (serves 10+) sizes. The best part? These gelatos are all-natural, sugar-free, contain less fat than ice cream and frozen yogurt -- and still taste indulgent.
While Sweet Republic has limited-edition classics like eggnog, peppermint chunk, and pumpkin spice, they also have a very unique seasonal option: sweet corn ice cream, an excellent light pairing for any rich caramel desserts. Also look for earl grey tea, honey blue cheese, and maple pecan ice creams and pear ginger and cabernet pear sorbets to complement your holiday desserts.
Located on Central Avenue next to sister restaurant Windsor -- and across from other related restaurants Postino Central and Federal Pizza -- local favorite Churn has added eggnog and peppermint ice creams to its usual selection. Another great choice for the holidays is the ice cream shop's top flavor butter pecan, which will make any dessert you serve it with extra luscious and buttery.
Superstition Farms' dairy storefront Udder Delights has several flavors that will feed your holiday spirit. Eggnog, gingerbread, and peppermint are available, as are a few other flavors that match the season: sweet potato, apple pie, and apple cinnamon sorbet. While you're there, pick up some artisanal cheese for an easy appetizer and handcrafted butter in flavors like local honey, chocolate, and bacon to make your holiday meal sensational.
Karen's Kreamery Holiday Flavors at Pink Spot and zpizza
You can get four hand packed pints of ice cream for $24 at zpizza just in time to order for your holiday parties, or these same flavors can be pre-ordered or picked up in individual servings at nearby Pink Spot. The seasonal flavors are gingerbread, candy cane, hot cocoa, pumpkin praline with whiskey caramel sauce, eggnog, and Christmas pudding. Cranberry sorbet is also available. These limited edition desserts are made locally by Karen's Kreamery so they make great gifts. Call 602-265-3889 to order in advance.
