- Categories:
- Food & Beverage
- Tags:
- Comfort FoodDessertSweet Food
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every August 18
- Holiday emoji:
- 🥧
National Ice Cream Pie Day arrives every August 18, inviting everyone to indulge in this delightful fusion of two beloved desserts. Dive into a world of creamy fillings, crunchy crusts, and endless flavor combinations. Celebrate by baking your own, trying a new local shop, or sharing a slice with loved ones.
Want to sponsor National Ice Cream Pie Day? Learn how
History of National Ice Cream Pie Day
Ice cream first appeared in Persia about 2,500 years ago. Those early versions used frozen sweetened water that had been smashed into little bits and topped with fruits and toppings. During the winter, ice was gathered from mountains and lakes and kept in ice huts. This method of ice cream making was progressively adopted by the Greek and Roman civilizations. Nobles and those who could afford to pay the costly process quickly became enamored with it.
Following the fall of the Roman Empire, organized ice transport came to a standstill, and ice cream production became even more expensive. It wasn’t until Europe left the Dark Ages behind that ice cream enjoyed a resurgence in Renaissance Italy.
During the 1300s and 1400s, Italy was a significant commerce center with Asia and the Middle East. This exposure to inventive dessert-making techniques soon extended throughout the rest of Europe. Ice cream had a difficult time gaining popularity. It was made possible by the marriage of Catherine de Medici, an Italian noblewoman, to the Duke of Orleans in 1553 France.
She took her eastern culture to continental Europe after moving to France to marry the Duke, afterward the King of France. Ice cream happened to be one of the lessons she imparted, and interest from nobles soon fueled its production, distribution, and popularity around the globe. After England and France, street sellers in North America began selling ice cream a few decades later. The industrial revolution aided in the resolution of the refrigeration problem.
A lasting solution came in 1926 in the form of electrical freezers. This meant mass production of ice cream was finally possible. The result was a dip in the price of this dessert, making it available to everyone. Ice cream continues to be a favorite everywhere in the world, with the United States being a major consumer of the delicious treat.
National Ice Cream Pie Day timeline
Early versions of what will become ice cream appear in ancient Persia.
The Italian noblewoman brings her eastern customs — including ice cream — to France when she marries the Duke de Orleans.
The first ice cream cone is created at the World Fair in St. Louis.
Consistent refrigeration becomes possible with the introduction of electrical freezers.
National Ice Cream Pie Day FAQs
When is National Ice Cream Pie Day?
National Ice Cream Pie Day 2026 falls on Tuesday, August 18. It’s the perfect mid-week excuse to indulge in a cool, creamy slice.
How popular is ice cream pie?
While specific statistics for ice cream pie alone are scarce, ice cream remains a top dessert choice, with Americans consuming approximately 20 pounds per person annually. Ice cream pies tap into this broad appeal, offering a creative twist on a beloved classic.
What are the most popular ice cream pie flavors?
Classic flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry remain perennial favorites for ice cream pies. However, combinations like cookies and cream, mint chocolate chip, and coffee are also highly sought after, offering rich and diverse taste experiences.
What is the difference between an ice cream pie and an ice cream cake?
An ice cream pie typically features a traditional pie crust (like graham cracker or cookie) filled with ice cream, often topped with whipped cream or fudge. An ice cream cake, on the other hand, usually consists of layers of ice cream and sometimes cake, often frosted like a conventional cake.
How to Celebrate National Ice Cream Pie Day
Make or order one
Make your own ice cream pie or purchase one. Remember, ice cream is delicious, but it's even better when shared with family and friends.
Appreciate your favorite ice cream store
Send an appreciation note to your favorite store or, if possible, make a donation. You can also help them by spreading the word about the company or posting on social media.
Research new recipes
Go online and look for fresh and unusual ways to make wonderful ice cream pies. Use a different crust or add more toppings. Let your imagination run wild!
5 Facts About Ice Cream That Will Blow Your Mind
One scoop equals 50 licks
On average, a scoop of ice cream will take about 50 licks to finish.
Exotic commodity
In the late 1700s, the vanilla ice cream flavor was rare and considered exotic.
Always at arm's length
Up to 90% of Americans have ice cream stored in their freezers.
Giant cone
The longest ice cream cone was made in Italy; it reached a mind-blowing 9 feet.
Stranger things
Bacon, avocado, licorice, garlic, Stilton cheese, and chili are among the strangest ice cream tastes available. That's some scary stuff.
Why We Love National Ice Cream Pie Day
We get to enjoy its deliciousness
Even if you don't need an excuse to indulge in a sweet delicacy, Ice Cream Pie Day provides one. Satisfy your twisted desires by indulging in the deliciousness of an ice cream pie.
Endless flavor options
Literally! Endless options for flavor, toppings, and even crust. Your imagination is your only enemy.
It packs a mean punch!
Ice cream not only contains vitamins, but it also provides the body with a lot of energy. Carbohydrates, proteins, and fats in this creamy fantasy treat give you that additional kick!
