Join us on this journey as we reconnoiter Indian-inspired desserts and exotic ice cream flavours, igniting a sweet adventure sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more!
Come along as we explore the delightful universe of ice cream that is fused with Indian traditional sweets or mithais. From luscious classics to innovative fusion concoctions, the world of ice cream presents an array of flavors and inspirations.
Join us on this journey as we reconnoiter Indian-inspired desserts and exotic ice cream flavors, igniting a sweet adventure sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more!
Outlook
When the sun is blazing above and the air is thick with humidity, there are few things that can be as joyous and relieving as a cold, velvety scoop of ice cream. The sweet treat is so many things to so many people—an innocent childhood memory, a sneaky after-school snack, a teary indulgence after a break-up, and a late-night treat after long days.
In our quest at “The Ice Cream Times,” we aim to uncover the frozen delights that truly tug at the nostalgic heartstrings of Indians. What is that one ice cream that sends your world spinning? Many individuals have their go-to ice cream flavours, with classics like Vanilla, Mango, Butterscotch, Chocolate, and Cassatta standing the test of time. However, as palates evolve, ice cream brands have seized the opportunity to introduce unique and innovative flavours.
While traditional flavours evoke nostalgia, they may not necessarily capture the attention of Gen Z and millennials, who are eager to explore novel tastes. This shift can be attributed to a new generation of consumers who are technologically savvy and exposed to global markets, driving culinary trends forward. Consequently, there’s a growing demand for unconventional ice cream flavours, reflecting changing expectations and preferences.
While timeless flavours like vanilla, strawberry, and chocolate maintain their popularity, a segment of consumers now seek novelty and excitement in their ice cream choices. Recognizing this, ice cream brands are continuously reinventing themselves to meet evolving customer demands.
Western flavors have long been cherished by ice cream enthusiasts, who often encounter new tastes while traveling abroad and then seek out similar offerings back home in India. However, traditional Indian flavours have also gained significant traction, particularly when they offer a unique twist. The fusion of traditional Indian sweets, or “mithai,” with ice cream has emerged as a popular trend.
These innovative dessert combinations offer a delightful reinterpretation of classic treats, attracting those with a penchant for sweets and a desire for culinary exploration. From kulfis adorned with rabdi to inventive creations like Gulab Jamun ice cream, nolen gur ice cream, or Sandesh ice cream, these flavours evoke a sense of nostalgia and culinary creativity that is distinctly Indian.
Innovation knows no bounds in the ice cream sector now. The blending of diverse culinary influences has led to the creation of delightful flavour combinations that cater to adventurous palates, offering a tantalizing experience for those willing to explore beyond old-fashioned boundaries.
The wonderful fusion of mithais and ice cream
Mithais hold a sacred place in India, with roots tracing back to ancient times. From mythological references to modern-day indulgences, sweets have remained an enduring component of every culture, tradition, and celebration, transcending borders.
In India, mithais are not merely desserts; they are vessels of culture, emotion, and memory. Each bite narrates tales of festivity and custom, weaving together the threads of different generations.
Recognizing this deep-seated affection for mithais, several Indian ice cream manufacturers have experimented and innovated to infuse these timeless delicacies into ice cream. By blending traditional mithais with creamy ice cream, they stay true to Indian flavours while offering a refreshing experience to consumers. Termed “Traditional Indian Mithai Gourmet Ice Cream,” these creations marry classic tastes with creamy goodness, promising a delightful indulgence for all.
The tradition of mithais has been an integral part of Indian culture, particularly since the early 20th century, when Bengali sweets crafted from chhena garnered widespread acclaim, influencing confectioners to innovate fusion sweets. This fusion of flavours has now permeated the ice cream industry, offering a diverse array of options. From gulab jamun to Sandesh, Paan Rass to Pani Puri ice cream, or Pista to Kesar Badam flavour, each scoop of Indian-flavoured ice cream delivers a unique and unparalleled taste experience.
So, let’s talk about ice creams with twist of Indian flavour that have caught the eyes of the consumers and food influencers:
Ice cream Sandesh
The rise in popularity of ice cream as an alternative to traditional mishti desserts has forever transformed the dessert scenario in West Bengal. One significant addition to this culinary evolution is the Ice Cream Sandesh, a creation aimed at capturing the essence of ice cream while preserving the sweetness of traditional sweets.
Served chilled, the Ice Cream Sandesh is celebrated as the perfect fusion of cold, creamy indulgence and the inherent sweetness of mishti. It marked a pioneering move by incorporating flavours like vanilla and strawberry, offering a novel experience to dessert enthusiasts. For those with dietary restrictions, there were sugar-free variants sweetened with saccharine, catering to the cravings of diabetic individuals.
Among the innovations, the two-in-one-flavoured Ice Cream Sandesh emerged as a standout, mirroring the popular two-in-one ice cream with its distinct layers of flavour. Some versions even replicated the iconic pink-and-white colour scheme, adding to the visual appeal.
Numerous sweet shops joined the trend, with one of the oldest and most revered being Girish Chandra Dey and Nakur Chandra Nandy. Renowned for their expertise in Sandesh, this legendary sweet shop ventured into the realm of ice cream in Sandesh, further cementing its status as a bastion of traditional sweets in the region.
Rajbhog Ice Cream
Imagine the delightful fusion of two beloved desserts: a traditional Bengali mithai crafted from cottage cheese and the creamy indulgence of ice cream. This harmonious blend encapsulates the essence of both worlds, creating a culinary masterpiece that delights the senses.
One standout flavour in this genre is the Rajbhog, renowned for its unique blend of textures and flavours. What sets it apart is the delightful crunchiness imparted by finely chopped almonds, cashews, and pistachios. This Desi-inspired flavour has graced the ice cream scene for several years, captivating taste buds with its rich and decadent profile.
However, recent trends have seen a surge in the popularity of other traditional mithais finding their way into ice cream form. From the creamy delight of Doodhi Halwa to the luxurious sweetness of motichoor laddu and gulab jamun, these timeless treats are making a significant mark in the world of frozen desserts.
For those eager to savour these delectable creations, renowned brands like Amul and Havmor offer a delectable array of options, ensuring that the joy of indulging in these fusion desserts is readily accessible to all.
Gulab Jamun Ice Cream
Gulab Jamun, a timeless Indian delicacy, is intertwined with the beloved dessert of ice cream! Picture the symphony of flavors that ensues when the warm embrace of syrup-soaked Gulab Jamun harmonizes with the cool, creamy richness of ice cream—it’s a culinary escapade not to be overlooked.
In today’s time, consumers—especially the discerning Gen Z and Millennials—are seeking more than just traditional flavors. They crave innovation, health benefits, functionality, and value, particularly in light of rising inflation. To meet these evolving preferences, dessert makers must strike a delicate balance between tradition and innovation, drawing inspiration from diverse sources to invigorate the category.
Research indicates that younger consumers are particularly open to experimenting with new flavors, especially when presented as ‘internationally inspired’ or as limited-time offerings, or when recommended through social media channels. Among these adventurous palates, Gulab Jamun ice cream holds a special allure, capturing the hearts and taste buds of Gen Z and Millennials alike.
For those eager to indulge in this delectable fusion, a variety of renowned brands, including Kwality, Amul, Vadilal, NIC Ice Creams, Baskin Robbins, and Go-Zero, offer an enticing selection of Gulab Jamun ice cream creations, ensuring that this delightful culinary experience is within reach for all dessert enthusiasts.
Gajar ka halwa ice cream
For years, the classic gajar ka halwa has held a special place in culinary traditions. Now, Gajar Halwa Ice Cream emerges as a delightful fusion of heritage and innovation, poised to tantalize discerning palates. This exceptional creation elevates the timeless Indian favourite, Gajar Halwa, to new heights of indulgence.
Within this extraordinary treat, the essence of Gajar Halwa seamlessly melds with a luscious milk ice cream, resulting in a symphony of decadent flavors. The sweetness of slow-cooked carrots marries beautifully with the creamy texture of the ice cream, delivering a truly unforgettable dessert experience.
Each spoonful offers a journey through India’s rich culinary heritage, evoking the sights and sounds of vibrant streets and bustling markets. For those eager to experience this culinary masterpiece, NIC Gajar Halwa Ice Cream and Arun Ice Creams are the go-to destinations, ensuring that this delightful fusion is readily available for all to enjoy.
Kesar Rasmalai and Classic Malai Ice Cream
Capitalizing on the trend of blending traditional mithai with ice cream, Vadilal Enterprises introduced a refreshing solution to beat the summer heat with their innovative creations like Kesar Rasmalai and Falooda, following closely behind their flagship flavour, Gulab Jamun. These delectable treats combine the richness of saffron with the creamy smoothness of Rasmalai, offering a dessert fit for royalty.
In addition to these exquisite offerings, the Classic Malai Ice Cream exudes simplicity and elegance, evoking fond memories of home and cherished family gatherings. Each spoonful is reminiscent of a warm embrace from tradition, inviting a sense of comfort and nostalgia.
Vadilal’s Traditional Mithai ice cream collection goes beyond mere flavours; it embodies the essence of togetherness and connection. With every scoop, a story unfolds, weaving threads of tradition and shared experiences.
Kaju Katli Ice Cream
Crafted with the richness of pure ghee, Kaju Katli stands as the epitome of traditional Indian sweetness. Literally translating to ‘cashew slices,’ this beloved delicacy is meticulously prepared using premium cashews, resulting in a heavenly taste that delights the senses. Vadilal ice creams offer a tantalizing twist by infusing the essence of Kaju Katli into their milk ice cream, creating a harmonious blend of flavours that is sure to captivate dessert enthusiasts.
Vadilal ice creams serve as the perfect destination. Immerse yourself in the creamy indulgence of Kaju Katli-infused ice cream and embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the richness of Indian heritage and the joy of indulgence.
Coconut and Palm Jaggery Ice Cream
Crafted from coconut cream and palm jaggery syrup, this flavour has garnered considerable popularity among vegans.
The inclusion of coconut cream imparts a luxurious and velvety texture, while the palm jaggery syrup infuses the dessert with delightful nutty and caramel notes.
You can have this delectable treat at Comorin in Gurgaon and Fab Café in Delhi. Indulge in the rich flavours and vegan-friendly delights offered by these establishments, and savour every spoonful of this irresistible creation.
Alwar Milk Cake Ice Cream
Ice cream makers have reimagined the traditional kalakand from Alwar, originally crafted from solidified, sweetened milk and paneer, into a delectable frozen delight. This innovative take on the classic sweet promises to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
For those eager to experience this delightful fusion, head over to Comorin in Gurgaon or Kwality Walls outlets. Indulge in the irresistible flavors of this unique creation and embark on a culinary adventure like no other.
Nolen Gur Ice Cream
Nolen Gur, or Palm Jaggery, holds a revered status in Bengali cuisine, especially during the winter months. Known for its distinctive aftertaste, this special jaggery is a key ingredient in beloved Bengali sweets like Rasgullas, Sandesh, and the traditional Nolen Gurer Payesh. Now, it has found its way into the realm of ice cream, becoming a cherished flavour in Kolkata and beyond. With its subtle sweetness, Nolen Gur ice cream offers a unique and delightful experience.
Derived from date palm trees, nolen gur is a winter delicacy in the eastern region of India, translating to “new jaggery.” Traditionally used in Bengali households to prepare sweets for special occasions, its transformation into ice cream allows enthusiasts to enjoy its distinct caramel-like sweetness year-round.
Pioneering this innovative fusion, Pabrai’s in Kolkata introduced nolen gur ice cream, igniting an instant sensation. Meanwhile, Amadora in Chennai offers a creative twist with their ‘toast’ ice cream, featuring toasted bread pieces enveloped in butter and sugar within a vanilla ice cream base.
Visit MotherDairy.com, Pabrai Fresh and Naturelle (Mumbai), or Bhojohori Manna outlets across India to indulge in the irresistible flavours of nolen gur ice cream and other innovative treats.
The Great Kulfi
Looking for a delightful departure from the ordinary? Look no further than kulfi, India’s own rendition of ice cream that seamlessly blends the country’s sweet flavours with the creamy texture of this beloved dessert. Unlike conventional ice cream, kulfi boasts distinct flavours that set it apart, much like its Italian counterpart, gelato.
Crafted from frozen thickened cream, kulfi celebrates Indian culture by employing ancient techniques of churning full-fat milk infused with aromatic spices like cardamom and saffron. A touch of sugar enhances the sweetness, while a generous sprinkling of nuts adds texture and depth to this indulgent treat.
Traditionally, kulfi is set and served in humble ceramic pots, or matkas, adding a rustic charm to its presentation. In India, kulfis are often adorned with delicate silver film, adding to the dessert’s resplendent appearance. With the evolving trends in dessert culture, kulfi has also embraced a modern avatar—the iconic kulfi on a stick.
Whether served in traditional pots or on convenient sticks, kulfis offer the perfect balance of creamy indulgence and vibrant Indian flavors. The fusion of sweets with ice cream not only elevates the dessert’s flavour profile but also opens up endless possibilities for creative presentation. From contrasting colours to a wide array of garnish options, every scoop of kulfi promises a sensory delight that captivates both the palate and the eyes.
So let’s take our exploration a bit ahead and check out ice creams that are not actually fused with mithai but with unique Indian flavors.
Pani Puri Ice Cream
Introducing the innovative Pani Puri Ice Cream—a delightful fusion that brings together one of India’s beloved street foods and the cool indulgence of ice cream. Yes, you read it right! This extraordinary creation captures the essence of pani puri’s tangy flavours in a refreshing frozen treat.
The magic begins as the tang of the pani puri seamlessly melds with the creamy ice cream base, creating a symphony of flavours that tantalize the taste buds. With each spoonful, you can discern the subtle notes of coriander, mint, green chilli, and rock salt, perfectly complemented by the richness of milk and cream.
Pani Puri holds a special place in the hearts of many, cherished for its burst of myriad flavors. Now, this iconic snack transcends its traditional form to lend its unique taste to ice cream, delighting food enthusiasts everywhere. A step beyond the familiar Kala Khatta, Pani Puri Ice Cream has swiftly gained popularity, particularly in Mumbai, where foodies are eager to experience its innovative twist.
Moreover, as a dairy-free dessert, even vegans can partake in this indulgence, making it accessible to a wider audience. For those eager to embark on this flavour adventure, head to Apsara Ice Cream outlets across Mumbai and treat yourself to this extraordinary culinary creation. Don’t miss out on the chance to savour the delightful fusion of pani puri and ice cream—a true celebration of Indian street food ingenuity.
Sandalwood ice cream
Sandalwood holds a special place in the realm of refreshment, with Chandan (sandalwood) sherbet being a well-loved beverage in certain regions. However, lesser-known is the existence of sandalwood ice cream, crafted with the same distinctive ingredient. Musky, exotic, and floral, the flavour profile of sandalwood ice cream is truly unique. Its cooling properties make it a perfect choice to combat the summer heat, yet only a select few have ventured to incorporate this ingredient into their frozen delights.
Pabrai’s Fresh and Naturelle in Mumbai offer a chance to experience the exquisite taste of sandalwood ice cream firsthand. Indulge in this rare treat and embark on a culinary journey unlike any other.
Tamarind ice cream
There’s truly nothing that captures the essence of an Indian summer quite like the tangy-sweet flavour of fresh tamarind. Now, envision infusing this unique taste into ice cream. It’s an idea that may seem mind-boggling at first, but the combination of the ice cream’s sweetness with the tartness of tamarind pulp is simply heavenly. For those seeking an extra kick, try adding a sprinkle of chilli flakes to elevate the experience even further.
Apsara Ice Cream outlets across Mumbai offer the perfect opportunity to indulge in the delightful fusion of tamarind and ice cream. Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind culinary experience that captures the essence of Indian summers in every spoonful.
Masala Chai Ice Cream
Are you feeling the summer heat pulling you away from your beloved masala chai? Fear not! Indulge in a generous scoop of masala chai-flavoured ice cream—a tea-rrific solution to beat the heat while staying true to your love for chai. Picture this: a creamy base infused with the robust and complex flavours of black tea, ginger, cardamom seeds, cloves, and sugar.
For chai enthusiasts, this special ice cream flavour offers a delightful mix of familiar ingredients, including milk, sugar, cardamom, and ginger. It’s the perfect way to satisfy your craving for chai while staying cool during the warmer months.
Whether you’re looking to enjoy a refreshing treat or simply seeking a new way to indulge in your favourite beverage, masala chai-flavoured ice cream offers a unique and delightful experience. You can find this flavorful creation at Havmor Ice Cream outlets across India and the Bombay Canteen in Mumbai. Don’t miss out on the chance to savour the delicious fusion of masala chai and ice cream—it’s sure to be a treat for your taste buds.
Meetha Paan
The Meetha Pan ice cream evokes a sense of nostalgia and delivers an explosion of flavours with its unique blend of ingredients, including gulkand, betel leaves, milk, mawa, green cardamom, and fennel seeds.
Traditionally enjoyed as a post-meal digestive, Meetha Paan serves as the perfect conclusion to a hearty feast. Ice cream artisans across the nation have ingeniously combined this traditional digestive with ice cream, creating a delectable fusion that promises a double dose of indulgence.
This irresistible frozen delight transports you to the freshness of biting into a paan, enveloped in a creamy ice cream concoction. Crafted with ingredients like gulkand, finely chopped betel leaves, milk, khoya, green cardamom, and fennel seeds, each spoonful offers a harmonious blend of flavours and textures.
For those who want indulgence, head to Frozen Junction in Lucknow and treat yourself to the delightful fusion of Meetha Pan and ice cream. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to savour this refreshing and indulgent treat—it’s a true celebration of culinary innovation and tradition.
Editors’ insight
The trend of embracing traditional Indian flavours is gaining momentum, as consumers are more open to diverse culinary experiences. This is evident in their willingness to try matcha ice cream after a Japanese meal.
However, it’s also important to consider India’s rich tapestry of flavours, particularly in sweets. Many regional ice cream manufacturers are creating unique flavours inspired by traditional Indian sweets, showcasing the country’s culinary heritage.
With an impressive repertoire of over 100 flavours, these artisans have introduced innovative creations such as gajar halwa ice cream, gulab jamun ice cream tilgul, ukadiche modak (a Maharashtrian coconut jaggery ice cream), puranpoli, and chikkamagaluru kaaphi. Moreover, there has been a notable focus on catering to the B2B segment, further enhancing the reach of these delectable treats.
Indian ice cream artisans are focusing on quality and authenticity, using 100% natural, locally sourced ingredients and organic sugar to create delicious, authentic ice creams.
They are reimagining traditional mithai flavours like motichoor and milk cake into delightful ice cream variants, bridging the gap between traditional and contemporary tastes. They are also embracing innovation, blending classic Indian flavours with global influences to create fusion desserts. This dynamic landscape of Indian ice cream reflects modernization and cultural globalization while maintaining a deep-rooted connection to Indian communities and culinary traditions.
Despite the rapid pace of modernization, the essence of Indian ice cream remains firmly rooted in communities across the country. Artisans diligently pass down age-old recipes from generation to generation, ensuring that the art of making kulfi and other regional delicacies continues to thrive.
Efforts such as local festivals, culinary workshops, and heritage initiatives are underway to preserve and celebrate the cultural significance of Indian ice cream for generations to come.