By Ana María Triana-Abella, founder of AnaBella Dried Food, human resources consultant, holistic therapist, and coach.

With the arrival of summer, days are filled with sunlight, laughter in the open air, activities in the park or at the beach, evening walks... and that irresistible craving for something cold, sweet, and comforting that only a good ice cream can satisfy.

Ice cream is without a doubt one of the most universal and timeless pleasures, and I want to take this chance to invite you to dive into a more authentic experience that has become a global consumption trend in recent years: artisanal ice cream.

The history of artisanal ice cream: a journey through time

The story and origins of artisanal ice cream date back to ancient China around 3000 B.C., where snow from the mountains was mixed with fruits and honey to create a frozen dessert. Later on, during periods of intense heat, Persians and Romans would preserve fruits mixed with honey buried in snow to serve them chilled.

In Italy, the art and technique of ice cream preparation flourished. For many years, Italian ice cream makers kept the secrets of ice cream preparation closely guarded. It was in Sicily, in fact, where the invention of the first creamy gelato is attributed to Bernardo Buontalenti, a brilliant architect, soldier, and passionate culinary innovator serving the Medici family.

During a presentation at court, Buontalenti created a mixture of milk, honey, egg yolks, and fruit, cooled with a mix of ice and salt—considered the origin of artisanal gelato as we know it today. From that moment on, a new form of enjoying ice cream was born, one that valued texture, authenticity, and careful preparation: artisanal ice cream.

More than cold and sweet: how to define ice cream

Ice cream is much more than a frozen treat. It’s a universal symbol of joy that has accompanied generations during celebrations, sunny afternoons, and moments of comfort. Just hearing the word stirs up memories, emotions, and cravings, making it a food rich with cultural and emotional meaning.

Though it may seem simple—a frozen mixture of sweet flavors—its true definition reveals depth and complexity worth exploring.

Technically, ice cream can be defined as: “a food preparation resulting from the blend of raw materials brought to a solid, semi-solid or creamy state through freezing, which must maintain a degree of plasticity from production to consumption.”

This technical definition only hints at the magic behind its creation.

There are many categories of ice cream: traditional milk-based ones, fruit sorbets, vegan options, low-sugar varieties, soft-serve, and Italian gelatos. Each one differs in ingredients, air content, texture, and temperature.

Artisanal ice cream stands out not just in its recipe, but in its soul. It’s made in small batches, using fresh ingredients, with no preservatives or artificial coloring. Every step is done with care, with special attention to ingredient selection and a dedication that turns every flavor into a unique sensory experience.

This allows for a creamier texture, more intense flavors, and a sensory journey that industrial ice cream can rarely match.

The artisanal ice cream market: a trend melting hearts

In recent years, the consumption of artisanal ice cream has grown significantly, especially in markets like the United States, where consumers are increasingly drawn to natural products, handmade goods, and local identity.

According to a recent report, in 2022 the global artisanal ice cream market was valued at $62.45 billion, with an expected annual growth rate of 4.4% from 2023 to 2032. This growth is largely driven by the rise of small producers focused on quality and innovation, elevating artisanal ice cream shops to places worthy of medals.

The artisanal ice cream market has also been boosted by a growing demand for personalization. Today, customers want more than just a basic flavor—they want to be part of the creative process. Artisanal ice cream makers are responding with a wide variety of options: lavender with honey, avocado with lime, salted caramel, coconut with turmeric... even vegan and dairy-free alternatives with custom toppings to match.

This personalization goes beyond personal taste—it also meets specific dietary needs, giving everyone the chance to enjoy their own tailor-made ice cream experience.

A delicious invitation for this summer

The growing demand for unique and innovative flavors, the interest in a healthier lifestyle, and the appreciation for authentic, high-quality products have made artisanal ice cream an irresistible choice for summer.

Its creative spirit—able to mix unexpected ingredients—coexists harmoniously with classic flavors like vanilla with cookie crumbs, taking us back to childhood and awakening sweet, comforting memories.

More than just dessert, artisanal ice cream is an experience. It’s a chance to break the mold, savor the passion behind every recipe, and support those who have turned their craft into a true art form.

Because when you choose artisanal ice cream, you choose authenticity, history, care, and love for detail. But above all, you choose to turn an everyday moment into something truly unforgettable.