‘Mind-blowing’ cool facts about ice cream

I have been on a quest to find some mind-blowing fun facts about everyone’s favorite frozen treat during ice cream month. One of my favorite finds was a cure for the dreaded “brain freeze”! Not only did I find a plethora of information but some amazing, easy recipes. I like to share some of these tidbits of information as I’m scooping ice cream at some of our local events. If you would like to attend one or have our Dairy Court visit one of your events, visit us on Facebook at Oneida County Dairy Promotion. Did you know? • The waffle cone was invented by accident. At the World’s Fair 1904 in St. Louis, Missouri, an ice cream vendor ran out of cones. In a desperate attempt to serve his customers he turned to a closeby waffle vendor. Together they made history!

• There is an ice cream fruit in Hawaii. Its proper name is inga fueillei, but locals call it the ice cream bean. It grows on trees in hot climates and taste like vanilla ice cream.

• Astronaut ice cream has never actually been to space. This freeze-dried version was reportedly on the Apollo mission in 1968 but was dismissed by Walter Cunningham, an astronaut on that mission.

• There is a cure for “brain freeze”! Brain freeze is when cold objects hit the temperature sensors in the roof of your mouth. Your nerves signal your brain as massive heat loss before your body has a chance to process. To help combat this, hold your tongue against the roof of your mouth. It will help keep your sensors warm and keep your brain from panicking.

Pretty cool, right? Now, lets move on to those yummy recipes. I have made them both. Super easy and super delicious. The longest part of making them is waiting for them to freeze. If you want to make them for a party or other event, I would suggest making them a day ahead for the best results.

No Churn Homemade Ice Cream

INGREDIENTS 2 cups heavy whipping cream

1 14-ounce sweetened condensed milk 1 teaspoon vanilla Bowl or dish with lid that can be frozen

This base is vanilla, but you can add in any type of flavoring you like. Be creative and go crazy!

In a large bowl, use a mixer to whip the cream until soft peaks occur. In another large bowl, whisk condensed milk and vanilla. Gently fold into cream. If you are adding any flavors, mix them in now. Cover and freeze for 4-6 hours. Enjoy!

Ice Cream Lasagna

Wait. What?! I know it sounds ridiculous, but this recipe is so quick and delish you’ll find yourself craving it more than the real thing. INGREDIENTS 2 boxes of ice cream sandwiches, any flavor (I used classic vanilla and mint chocolate chip)

2 cups homemade whip cream (recipe below) Chocolate syrup Lasagna pan (disposable ones work best for freezing )

Start by unwrapping individual ice cream sandwiches and placing them in the bottom of the lasagna pan in one even layer. Spread whipped cream over this layer. Drizzle chocolate syrup over whipped cream. Repeat the process until you fill the pan. Move quickly as the ice cream does start to melt. The top should be whipped cream and chocolate syrup. Freeze for 4-6 hours. Enjoy!

Homemade whipped cream

1 cup heavy whipping cream Sugar to taste Using a mixer, whip cream until soft peaks occur. Gradually add in sugar to taste.