Discover why Ample Hills Creamery is still the reigning king of Brooklyn ice cream. Dive into unique flavors, their story, and why locals and tourists alike rave about this iconic spot.
The Irresistible Allure of Ample Hills: What Makes Their Brooklyn Ice Cream Stand Out?
Stepping into Ample Hills Creamery is like walking into a whimsical dream, a place where the simple pleasure of ice cream is elevated to an art form. From the moment you catch a whiff of freshly baked waffle cones to the first sight of their vibrant, inventive flavors, it’s clear this isn’t just any dessert shop. This is an experience, a cornerstone of local culture, and undeniably the heartbeat of Brooklyn ice cream. Its enduring popularity isn’t by chance; it’s the result of a passionate commitment to quality, creativity, and community that resonates deeply with everyone who visits.
For years, Ample Hills has captivated the hearts and palates of New Yorkers and visitors alike. Their unique approach to crafting frozen treats has set a benchmark for what truly exceptional ice cream should be. It’s more than just a sweet indulgence; it’s a taste of Brooklyn’s vibrant spirit, churned into every single scoop. This creamery has mastered the delicate balance between nostalgic comfort and bold innovation, creating a menu that is both familiar and excitingly new.
More Than Just Dessert: A Culinary Landmark
Ample Hills Creamery isn’t just another stop on a food tour; it’s a destination. Its reputation as a beloved institution for Brooklyn ice cream is well-earned, built on a foundation of meticulously sourced ingredients and a playful, imaginative approach to flavor creation. The commitment to crafting everything from scratch, right down to the mix-ins, sets them apart in a crowded culinary landscape. Each visit offers a chance to explore a world of flavors that tell a story, whether it’s a nod to local landmarks or a whimsical take on childhood favorites.
The atmosphere inside their shops further enhances the experience. It’s often buzzing with families, couples, and friends, all united by a shared love for exceptional ice cream. The decor often features playful, hand-drawn murals and a welcoming, community-focused vibe that makes every visit feel special. This sense of warmth and belonging is just as important as the flavors themselves, creating a holistic experience that keeps people coming back for more of the best Brooklyn ice cream.
A Scoopful of History: The Journey of Brooklyn’s Favorite Creamery
The story of Ample Hills Creamery began in 2011, when founders Brian Smith and Jackie Cuscuna, a husband-and-wife team, opened their first shop in Prospect Heights, Brooklyn. Brian, a former film writer, decided to pursue his lifelong dream of making ice cream. What started as a small, neighborhood parlor quickly blossomed into a local phenomenon, thanks to their unwavering dedication to crafting small-batch ice cream from scratch, using hormone-free milk and cream from local dairies. Their ethos was simple: make the best possible ice cream with the best possible ingredients.
This commitment to quality and transparency quickly resonated with the community. In an era of mass-produced goods, Ample Hills offered a refreshing return to artisanal craftsmanship. Their original shop, with its charming, quirky aesthetic and the irresistible aroma of fresh waffle cones, became an instant hit. It wasn’t long before lines stretched down the block, a clear testament to the extraordinary quality of their Brooklyn ice cream. The brand grew organically, fueled by word-of-mouth praise and a fiercely loyal customer base.
The Philosophy Behind the Flavors
At the heart of Ample Hills’ success lies a philosophy centered on storytelling through flavor. Each ice cream isn’t just a combination of ingredients; it’s a narrative, a memory, or an homage. This creative approach, coupled with an insistence on making all mix-ins in-house, from brownies and cookies to candies and marshmallows, ensures a unique and unparalleled taste experience. They don’t just buy cookie dough; they bake the cookies and then crumble them into the ice cream.
This meticulous attention to detail is what transforms a simple scoop of ice cream into a memorable moment. It’s a labor of love that involves countless hours of experimentation and refinement. This dedication to crafting everything in-house not only ensures freshness and quality but also allows for unparalleled creativity in developing their distinct Brooklyn ice cream flavors. It’s a testament to their belief that good food, especially good ice cream, should be made with integrity and a little bit of magic.
Beyond the Scoop: Ample Hills’ Signature Flavors and Creative Genius
What truly sets Ample Hills apart is its imaginative and ever-evolving menu of flavors. While classics like vanilla and chocolate are certainly available, it’s their unique, often whimsical, creations that capture the most attention. Flavors like “Ooey Gooey Butter Cake,” a sweet cream ice cream with pieces of St. Louis-style butter cake, and “Nonna D’s Oatmeal Lace,” featuring brown sugar oat ice cream with delicate lace cookies, showcase their ability to transform comforting desserts into extraordinary ice cream experiences.
Another fan favorite, “Salted Crack Caramel,” a salted butter caramel ice cream with house-made crack cookies, perfectly embodies their playful yet sophisticated approach. These aren’t just clever names; they are meticulously crafted flavor profiles that deliver on their promise of deliciousness and originality. The texture is consistently creamy, the flavors are bold and balanced, and the mix-ins are generous and perfectly integrated, making every spoonful an adventure into exceptional Brooklyn ice cream.
A Rotating Selection of Seasonal Delights
Ample Hills also keeps things exciting with a constantly rotating selection of seasonal flavors. This commitment to fresh, in-season ingredients means there’s always something new to discover, encouraging repeat visits and delighting loyal customers. From pumpkin-inspired concoctions in the fall to refreshing fruit sorbets in the summer, their seasonal offerings reflect the changing bounty of the local area. This dynamic menu ensures that even the most frequent visitor can find a new favorite.
Consider their annual “Thanksgiving Leftovers” flavor, which might feature sweet potato pie ice cream with cranberry swirl and cornbread crumble. Or perhaps a limited-edition flavor celebrating a local Brooklyn event or landmark. This constant innovation is a hallmark of their creative genius, keeping the Ample Hills experience fresh and engaging for everyone who seeks out the best Brooklyn ice cream. It’s this blend of timeless favorites and exciting new experiments that truly cements their place in the hearts of dessert lovers.
Crafting the Dream: Ample Hills’ Commitment to Quality and Local Ingredients
The secret to Ample Hills’ superior taste lies in its unwavering commitment to quality ingredients and artisanal processes. From the very beginning, the founders made a conscious decision to source hormone-free dairy from small, family farms in upstate New York. This dedication ensures not only a richer, creamier base for their ice cream but also supports sustainable agricultural practices. They believe that great ice cream starts with great milk, and they spare no expense in finding the best.
Beyond the dairy, every single component that goes into their ice cream is made in-house. This includes all the cookies, brownies, cakes, and candy pieces that serve as their signature mix-ins. This rigorous, from-scratch approach gives them complete control over the flavor, texture, and quality of every element. It’s a labor-intensive process, but one that is essential to achieving the distinct Ample Hills taste that loyal customers have come to expect and love. This homemade touch is truly what defines their Brooklyn ice cream.
The Art of the Mix-In: A Signature Touch
The mix-ins at Ample Hills are not merely an afterthought; they are stars in their own right. Imagine biting into “The Munchies,” a pretzel-infused ice cream with Ritz crackers, potato chips, pretzels, and mini M&M’s. Each of these components is carefully prepared in their own kitchen, ensuring peak freshness and flavor. The cookies are baked, the caramels are cooked, and the fudge is made from scratch, allowing for perfect integration into the ice cream base. This meticulous attention to detail elevates the entire experience.
For example, when they create their “Nonna D’s Oatmeal Lace” ice cream, they don’t just buy oatmeal cookies. They bake delicate, crisp oatmeal lace cookies themselves, ensuring the perfect balance of sweetness and texture when crumbled into the rich brown sugar oat ice cream. This dedication to craft, which extends to every single ingredient, is a cornerstone of their philosophy and a key reason why their Brooklyn ice cream is so celebrated. As noted by reputable culinary sites like Eater NYC, this commitment to quality sets establishments like Ample Hills apart in a competitive market. You can explore more about high-quality food establishments and their impact on local cuisine by visiting sites like Eater.com.
The Ample Hills Experience: More Than Just Ice Cream
Visiting Ample Hills Creamery is about more than just satisfying a sweet tooth; it’s an immersive experience that engages all the senses. The vibrant, often whimsical, decor of their shops creates an inviting and joyful atmosphere. Murals depicting cows, Brooklyn landmarks, and playful scenes adorn the walls, transforming each location into a charming, Instagram-worthy destination. It’s a place where childhood wonder meets sophisticated flavors, making it appealing to all ages.
The friendly and enthusiastic staff further enhance the experience. They are always ready to offer samples, recommend flavors, and share a bit about the stories behind each creation. This personal touch fosters a sense of community and makes every customer feel welcome and valued. It’s this combination of exceptional product, engaging environment, and warm service that makes the Ample Hills experience so memorable and keeps people returning for their beloved Brooklyn ice cream.
A Community Hub for Sweet Memories
Ample Hills has established itself as a true community hub. It’s where families celebrate birthdays, where friends catch up over a cone, and where first dates find a sweet beginning. The creamery often hosts events, from story times for children to adult ice cream making classes, further cementing its role as a vital part of the neighborhood fabric. These activities not only provide entertainment but also strengthen the bond between the creamery and its patrons.
The accessibility and welcoming nature of the shops make them ideal for a spontaneous treat or a planned outing. Whether you’re a local looking for “ice cream near me” or a tourist exploring the best of Brooklyn, Ample Hills offers a delightful escape. The joy that emanates from these shops is palpable, turning a simple desire for dessert into a cherished memory. It’s an integral part of the local scene, perfectly embodying the spirit of Brooklyn ice cream.
Finding Your Perfect Scoop: Tips for Navigating the Ample Hills Menu
With such an array of creative and delicious options, choosing a flavor at Ample Hills can be a delightfully daunting task. Don’t be afraid to ask for samples! The staff is always happy to let you try a few before making your final decision. This is the best way to explore their unique flavor profiles and discover new favorites. Consider pairing a rich, creamy flavor with something bright and fruity for a balanced experience.
If you’re a first-timer, starting with one of their perennial bestsellers like “Ooey Gooey Butter Cake” or “Salted Crack Caramel” is always a safe bet. These flavors consistently impress and offer a fantastic introduction to the Ample Hills style. However, for the more adventurous, diving into their seasonal offerings or a flavor that sounds particularly intriguing can lead to a wonderful discovery. Remember, there’s no wrong choice when it comes to exceptional Brooklyn ice cream.
Beyond the Cone: Other Delicious Offerings
While their ice cream scoops are legendary, Ample Hills also offers a variety of other delightful treats. Consider their decadent ice cream cakes, perfect for celebrations, or their hand-packed pints to enjoy the magic at home. They also often have milkshakes, sundaes, and even ice cream sandwiches made with their signature cookies. These options provide even more ways to experience the unparalleled taste of Ample Hills.
For those looking to bring a piece of the Ample Hills magic to a gathering, their catering options are a fantastic choice. Imagine having a selection of their famous Brooklyn ice cream flavors at your next party or event. It’s a surefire way to delight guests and make any occasion extra special. Exploring beyond the single scoop can open up a whole new world of delicious possibilities.
Ample Hills Creamery isn’t just an ice cream shop; it’s a testament to the power of passion, creativity, and community. From their humble beginnings in Prospect Heights to their continued status as a beloved institution, they have consistently delivered exceptional, handcrafted Brooklyn ice cream that tells a story with every scoop. Their unwavering commitment to quality ingredients, inventive flavors, and a welcoming atmosphere ensures that every visit is a memorable one. Whether you’re a local seeking a sweet escape or a visitor eager to experience the best of Brooklyn’s culinary scene, Ample Hills stands ready to delight. It’s a place where every cone, cup, and pint is churned with care, inviting you to savor the joy and wonder of truly extraordinary ice cream. Don’t just take our word for it—come taste the magic yourself!
Visit Ample Hills Creamery at:
620 Vanderbilt Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238
Explore their flavors and learn more at amplehills.com or call them at (347) 295-4244 to plan your visit!