Sugar Savvy

We might be heading into the depths of winter in just a little over a month, but that is no reason to turn your back on delicious, delectable ice cream. Seriously. I know that I am not the only one who enjoys a nice sundae no matter what time of year it is. If I was, there wouldn’t be dozens and dozens of varieties to choose from all year long. So, needless to say, when Graeter’s offered to let us try some of their handmade ice cream, I couldn’t say yes fast enough. Graeter’s was founded in 1870 by Louis C. Graeter. The company is known for its French Pot Ice Cream, which is made two gallons at a time using recipes and methods that have been in place for more than 100 years. Best of all? Graeter’s is a family owned business currently helmed by the fourth generation of owners. There are a variety of flavors available, including seasonal ones like pumpkin pie. And if you don’t live in the Ohio area, where they mainly operate (also available in Denver and elsewhere), then the company will ship the ice cream and guarantee it will arrive frozen. Up today: Black Raspberry Chocolate Chip.

The GOOD: Where do I begin? This is the smoothest, creamiest ice cream I have ever eaten. E-V-E-R. It’s got chunks of equally smooth and creamy chocolate throughout. The flavor is decidedly raspberry (though, it is more raspberries and cream than just raspberry, but that should be expected). It’s made with cane sugar (take that high fructose corn syrup!).

The BAD: At 270 calories per 1/2 cup serving, it is very important to remember not to eat the whole pint yourself. Also, pricing is based on where you live, so it can get pricey. Here in Connecticut, having a six-pack shipped will cost me a little over $13 a pint. You must order a 6- or 12-pack if shipping. If you can’t find a Graeter’s store in your local area, or the ice cream in your grocer’s freezer, then a shipped 6-pack will cost between $60 and $80 depending on shipping distance.

Oprah is known for having good taste, so when she said that she and Stedman like Graeter’s, their sales went through the roof. And man, she wasn’t wrong. This is bar none the best ice cream I have ever, ever, ever had. The chocolate bits are soft, not hard, and the creamy raspberry flavor is perfect. If you like raspberry ice cream, you will swoon for this. Of course, it does have a high pricepoint if you need it shipped, but as a treat, this is worth the cost. Yes, I mean it. I would pay the $80 to have a six-pack shipped to Connecticut. It’s just that good.

*This review was originally posted on The Voice of Mom.