Ice cream and chili are a food mashup that seems totally out of the box. Two Midwest food icons, Graeter’s Ice Cream and Skyline Chili have found a way to bring this out of the box flavor to the freezer. And, no, it is not a scoop of chili on ice cream.
As America’s oldest family-owned and operated craft ice cream maker. Graeter’s Ice Cream has become a tradition in many people’s homes. While its signature Black Raspberry Chocolate Chip can make anyone melt with its sweet, yet slightly tart deliciousness, the brand understands that creativity is as important as its original recipes. Thinking a little out of the bowl can be a good conversation starter.
Skyline Chili is another classic food brand. Whether that tangy chili tops a hot dog or a bowl of pasta, there is no mistaking that signature flavor.
The idea of bringing together Graeter’s Ice Cream and Skyline Chili will definitely get a reaction. Even the speculation of the idea had some people up in arms. For people who are willing to pick up the spoon, the flavor could be one that will have people talking for years to come, not just for the spectacle.
As Richard Graeter, fourth-generation president and CEO, Graeter’s said, “Everyone who knows chili knows Skyline and, as longtime fans ourselves, we were eager to collaborate on a one-of-a-kind, must-try flavor. Last year, speculation about our unconventional and somewhat polarizing partnership started a social media frenzy. We spent months perfecting the recipe and are extremely happy to confirm the rumors are true – and the flavor will surprise you.”
To be fair, savory ice cream is not necessarily a new idea. There has been mac and cheese ice cream, ranch ice cream, and even a cheese plate inspired offering. Savory desserts are not a new concept. Like any well-balanced dish, incorporating all the flavor profiles is vital. Every dessert does not have to have cloying amounts of sugar.
The Graeter’s Skyline Spice Ice Cream combines “Graeter’s handcrafted French Pot ice cream with oyster crackers and Skyline’s signature chili spice mix.” While that description only gives a glimpse into the flavor experience, it does set the tone.
The oyster crackers will be the ingredient that bridges the sweet and savory. Even though Skyline Chili is not pepper spicy, it is a celebration of spices. From clove to cumin to cinnamon and chocolate, all those flavors work well with an ice cream base.
Again, people need to think of this food mashup differently. It is not a scoop of chili on a bowl of ice cream. It is a combination of spices with creamy, luscious cream. Once people get over that mental barrier, they will be surprised to see what they taste.
The Graeter’s Skyline Spice Ice Cream launched online pre-orders today. Starting on January 27, the ice cream will be available at select Kroger stores in Cincinnati, Columbus Indianapolis, and Louisville. Additionally, it will be available at all Skyline restaurant as well as all Graeter’s scoops shops.