Vote Now: Help Find Polk County's Ultimate Ice Cream Champion!

Vote Now: Help Find Polk County's Ultimate Ice Cream Champion!

Polk County residents are clamoring for the coolest and creamiest way to beat the summer heat, and ice cream is the go-to treat that captures hearts across generations. As the temperature rises, the hunt for the area’s best ice cream intensifies, igniting friendly rivalries among local shops. The Ledger reports that a poll is currently running, inviting readers to name their top five ice cream establishments from a tasty lineup of 22 beloved local venues. Notably, this list excludes big-name chains like Baskin-Robbins and Dairy Queen, focusing instead on unique local flavors that define the community’s palate.

What’s truly exciting is that readers are encouraged to put forward any ice cream shops they think might have been overlooked. This creates a sense of community involvement that is difficult to resist, doesn’t it? The top 16 locations that secure the most votes by 5 p.m. on August 12 will move forward to the “Sweet 16” phase, building up to the expectedly competitive elimination rounds starting August 14, where one will be crowned Polk’s „Sweetest Scoop.“

Ice Cream Hot Spots in Lakeland and Beyond

Over at Lakeland Mom, there’s a treasure trove of ice cream parlors waiting to be explored. The charm of local favorites such as Mayday Ice Cream, where handcrafted artisan ice cream in quirky flavors is the star, can make anyone’s day a little brighter. With its location at 640 E Main St, you’ll want to stop in for a scoop or two—especially given the seasonal favorites they offer.

Don’t overlook Andy’s Frozen Custard at 4046 S Florida Avenue, famed for both its variety of treats and delightful frozen concoctions. Meanwhile, Bruster’s Ice Cream, located at 955 East CR540A, boasts an impressively large batch of flavors along with free baby cones for kids, drawing them in alongside their parents. For something a bit more classic, head over to Lakeland Ice Cream Company, where you’ll find over 60 mouth-watering flavors, including gluten-free and dairy-free options.

For those who fancy a bit of everything, Cookie Jar Bakeshop in Bartow is not just about delicious cookies; they also serve up ice cream. Then there’s Mulberry Ice Cream Company with over 70 flavors to choose from—talk about a sweet dilemma! You’d have to deliberate long and hard to decide which treat to dive into!

The Great Ice Cream Debate

But what drives this ice cream passion, you ask? According to a recent survey from the International Dairy Foods Association, a whopping 97% of Americans either love or like ice cream—a statistic that’s hard to argue with! Vanilla reigns as the nation’s favorite flavor, with Chocolate and Strawberry not far behind. For many in Polk County, it’s likely that these flavors are cost-effective staples—and let’s be honest, who doesn’t enjoy a scoop of classic Vanilla on a hot day?

Interestingly, the same survey reveals that while flavor is paramount, had they asked about their preferred way to dig in, bowls and waffle cones are the favored choices over eating straight from the carton—only 10% of respondents indulge in that carefree manner. There’s definitely a good hand to be had in presentation, don’t you think?

As the votes come pouring in and the community rallies around their favorite shops, one thing is clear: no matter how you scoop your ice cream or where you enjoy it, there’s something about this beloved dessert that brings folks together. So, gear up, Polk County—your favorite scoop awaits! Be sure to cast your vote before the clock runs out.

For a complete look at the ice cream contenders, check out the full rundown at The Ledger, and explore more local dessert spots over at Lakeland Mom.

And if you’re curious about what truly defines America’s ice cream preferences, the in-depth insights from IDFA provide a fascinating glimpse into the tastes and trends sweeping through America’s aisles of frozen delights.