When coffee meets ice cream, magic happens — and that’s exactly what we celebrate on National Coffee Ice Cream Day, which happens every year on September 6. Bold, bittersweet coffee paired with creamy, indulgent ice cream is a combination that has stood the test of time.
A Scoop of History
Coffee ice cream has deeper roots than many realize. Its story goes back to 18th-century Italy, where gelato artisans began experimenting with coffee as a flavor base, creating a dessert that combined two of Italy’s cultural passions: coffee and frozen sweets.
By the mid-1800s, coffee ice cream was appearing in American cookbooks, often served at dinner parties or in high-society circles. Its popularity only grew from there. By the early 20th century, coffee ice cream was a staple in soda fountains and ice cream parlors, enjoyed either as a standalone scoop or as part of elaborate sundaes and floats.
The dessert also gained momentum worldwide thanks to the Italian affogato — a simple but elegant treat of vanilla or coffee gelato “drowned” in hot espresso. That combination helped solidify coffee and ice cream as a perfect match.
Today, coffee ice cream remains one of the most enduring frozen dessert flavors, beloved by both coffee enthusiasts and ice cream fans alike.
Classic Coffee Ice Cream Recipe
Want to bring a taste of history into your kitchen? Here’s a simplified recipe inspired by traditional versions:
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee (bonus points if it’s SipWithMe)
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup sugar
- 5 egg yolks
- Pinch of salt
Directions:
- Warm milk, cream and half the sugar in a saucepan.
- Whisk egg yolks with the remaining sugar, then temper with the hot mixture.
- Stir in the brewed coffee and salt, then cook until thickened.
- Chill, churn in an ice cream maker, and freeze until set.
The result? Smooth, rich, coffee-flavored ice cream that tastes like a scoop of history.
Modern Coffee Ice Cream Variations
Over time, coffee ice cream has evolved far beyond its original form. Today’s versions play with flavor pairings, mix-ins and dietary preferences:
- Mocha Chip: Chocolate swirls or chunks blended into coffee ice cream.
- Tiramisu-Inspired: Layers of coffee ice cream with mascarpone and cocoa dusting.
- Cold Brew Infusion: Using cold brew concentrate for a smoother, less bitter taste.
- Vegan & Dairy-Free Options: Coconut, oat or almond milk bases for a creamy, plant-based alternative.
- Gourmet Flavors: Infusions with hazelnut, bourbon, caramel or cinnamon to create a more elevated dessert.
Even major ice cream brands and local creameries experiment with limited-edition flavors that riff on coffee culture, like caramel macchiato ice cream or espresso brownie swirl.
Unique Ways to Celebrate National Coffee Ice Cream Day
Ready to celebrate? Try these fun ideas:
- Try It Classic: Pick up a pint of coffee ice cream from your favorite brand or local creamery.
- Make It an Affogato: Pour a shot of hot espresso over coffee ice cream for a dessert that doubles as an after-dinner pick-me-up.
- DIY Sundae Bar: Set out toppings like caramel sauce, chocolate drizzle, whipped cream, and biscotti for a coffeehouse-inspired dessert night.
- Bake & Pair: Serve coffee ice cream alongside warm brownies, chocolate cake, or even tiramisu.
- Go Creative: Try making your own no-churn coffee ice cream with cold brew, or test a vegan coconut milk version at home.
How to Celebrate National Coffee Ice Cream Day in Multifamily Communities
September 6 isn’t just about enjoying dessert — it’s also a chance for property managers to spark connection and delight residents with something unexpected. Coffee ice cream is already a crowd-pleaser, which makes it the perfect amenity tie-in. Here are a few community-focused ideas:
- Coffee Ice Cream Social: Host a casual gathering in your clubhouse or courtyard with coffee ice cream, toppings and cones. A simple event that gives residents an easy reason to mingle.
- DIY Sundae Bar: Set up a toppings station with chocolate drizzle, caramel, biscotti and whipped cream. Residents can build their own sundaes, and prospects touring that day get to experience the fun, too.
- Affogato Pop-Up: Partner with a local café or use your community’s coffee amenity to serve mini affogatos (espresso poured over coffee ice cream). It’s simple, elegant and memorable.
- Resident Recipe Contest: Invite residents to submit their most creative coffee ice cream pairing (brownies, cake, cookies, or unique toppings). Share the winning recipe in your community newsletter or on your social channels..
- Highlight Your Amenities: Use the holiday to showcase your on-site coffee amenity. Remind residents (and prospects) that they don’t need to go far for café-quality coffee — making an affogato at home is easier when the espresso machine is just down the hall.
By tying a national food holiday to your community programming, you create a unique resident experience that’s equal parts fun and memorable — and you highlight the everyday value of coffee amenities in a fresh way.
A Sweet Tradition That Lasts
National Coffee Ice Cream Day reminds us how timeless the pairing of coffee and cream truly is. From its beginnings in Italy to its place in American ice cream parlors and modern-day freezers, this flavor has stood strong across centuries of culinary innovation.
On September 6, give yourself permission to indulge in a scoop (or two) — whether you keep it classic, pour espresso on top or explore a modern twist.
Celebrate National Coffee Ice Cream Day with SipWithMe
At SipWithMe, we believe great coffee turns ordinary moments into extraordinary experiences. With premium amenities designed to deliver barista-quality espresso shots, indulgent lattes and more at the touch of a button, we make luxury coffee service effortless and accessible.
Whether it’s National Coffee Ice Cream Day, National Gourmet Coffee Day, National Latte Day, National Coffee Cake Day, National Frappe Day, National Hot Chocolate Day, National Cappuccino Day, National Cold Brew Day, National Coffee Milkshake Day, National Espresso Martini Day, National Mocha Day, National Café au Lait Day, National Irish Coffee Day, National Gingerbread Latte Day, National Peppermint Latte Day, National Espresso Day, National Coffee Day, National Coffee Break Day or simply an ordinary morning, SipWithMe helps you create moments worth savoring.
Want to be sure you never miss one? 📩 Download WithMe’s coffee calendar for a complete list of holidays.
And if you’re ready to turn those celebrations into connection, check out our free e-book, Brew Better Communities, packed with event ideas and expert tips to make every cup count.
This National Coffee Ice Cream Day, celebrate the joy of coffee with an amenity upgrade that delights and simplifies. Contact us today to schedule a demo or request pricing details.
