National Soft Serve Day

Happy people outdoors enjoying soft serve ice cream in a sunny park, wearing colorful summer outfits, surrounded by balloons and laughter.. — National soft serve day illustration

Are you ready for a swirl of deliciousness? It's time to celebrate National Soft Serve Day! Get ready to indulge in the smoothest, creamiest, and most irresistible frozen treat out there. Whether you prefer vanilla, chocolate, or a wild flavor combination, there's something for everyone on this special day.

When is Soft Serve Day?

It's national soft serve day on the 19th July.

The Origins of Soft Serve

Soft serve ice cream has a fascinating history, rooted in innovation and a love for sweet treats. Back in the 1930s, a man named Tom Carvel experienced a flat tire on his ice cream truck. While he waited for it to be fixed, he noticed that his ice cream had softened and had a creamier texture. This happy accident gave birth to the concept of soft serve, and Carvel went on to build a hugely successful ice cream empire.

Soft serve quickly gained popularity, becoming a staple at fairs, carnivals, and ice cream shops around the world. Its unique texture and ability to hold toppings and mix-ins made it an instant hit with ice cream lovers everywhere. Today, you can find soft serve in countless flavors and variations, from classic vanilla to extravagant creations topped with sprinkles, hot fudge, and even bacon bits.

Celebrating National Soft Serve Day

So how can you celebrate National Soft Serve Day? The options are endless! You can visit your favorite ice cream shop and order a cone or cup of your preferred soft serve flavor. Don't be afraid to get creative with your toppings – after all, this is a day to indulge and enjoy. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even try making your own soft serve at home with an ice cream maker or a simple DIY recipe.

Another fun way to celebrate is by hosting a soft serve party with friends and loved ones. Set up a toppings bar and let everyone create their own unique soft serve creations. You can even turn it into a friendly competition – who can come up with the most outlandish, yet delicious, soft serve masterpiece? Just remember, the more sprinkles, the better!

Did You Know?

Did you know that the largest soft serve ice cream cone ever created stood at a towering 9 feet and 10 inches? This colossal cone was made in 2015 to celebrate National Soft Serve Day, capturing the imagination of ice cream enthusiasts everywhere. Now that's what I call a towering achievement!

History behind the term 'Soft Serve'

1934

The Dairy Queen Era

In 1934, John Fremont McCullough and his son Bradley, founders of the Dairy Queen franchise, perfected the soft serve ice cream formula. Soft serve was a new concept, as it had a smoother and creamier texture than traditional ice cream. The McCulloughs developed a unique recipe that incorporated air into the ice cream mixture, resulting in a lighter and fluffier dessert.

1940

The Invention of the Ice Cream Machine

In 1940, a man by the name of Harry Axene invented the world's first patented soft serve ice cream machine. This machine automated the process of making soft serve ice cream, making it easier and more efficient for businesses to produce and serve. The invention of the machine played a significant role in popularizing soft serve ice cream and making it more accessible to the public.

1950

Rise of Chains and Competition

In the 1950s, soft serve ice cream became immensely popular, and several chains dedicated to serving soft serve sprouted across the United States. Alongside Dairy Queen, other fast-food chains, such as Carvel and Tastee-Freez, began offering soft serve as a part of their menus. This competition further fueled the growth and popularity of soft serve as a beloved frozen treat.

1969

Soft Serve Goes International

Soft serve ice cream made its way across the globe in 1969 when McDonald's introduced soft serve cones known as 'McFlurries' to their menus. This marked the international debut of soft serve, and its inclusion in a renowned fast-food chain further solidified its status as a popular dessert worldwide. McDonald's contribution to the global soft serve phenomenon cannot be underestimated.

1980

New Soft Serve Variations

In the 1980s, soft serve ice cream underwent further innovation with the introduction of new flavors and toppings. The classic vanilla and chocolate flavors expanded to include a myriad of choices, such as strawberry, mint, and more. Additionally, various toppings like sprinkles, chocolate sauce, and caramel became popular additions to enhance the soft serve experience, making it even more customizable for consumers.