Cincinnati, OH — If you’re familiar with the Midwest, you probably know the area boasts some unique culinary staples—dairy products, hearty family gatherings, and of course, Skyline Chili. If you’ve never had the chance to try this Cincinnati classic, it’s a chili that doesn’t contain beans or pack much heat, but it’s beloved for its rich, distinct flavor. And now, Skyline Chili is making its way into an unexpected realm: ice cream.
In a collaboration with local ice cream giant Graeter’s, the beloved chili brand has introduced a new limited-edition ice cream flavor: Skyline Chili Ice Cream. While the combination might seem unusual at first, it’s quickly gaining attention as an innovative twist on both the city’s iconic chili and Graeter’s renowned ice cream.
What’s Inside Skyline Chili Ice Cream?
The ice cream base sticks to the classics: cream, milk, and cane sugar. However, the next ingredients are where things get interesting. For an authentic Skyline Chili experience, the ice cream features oyster crackers—a traditional accompaniment to the chili itself. Also included are coconut oil, skim milk, eggs, and a variety of spices that are reminiscent of the seasonings in the chili—likely including cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. The final touch is a combination of carob bean gum and guar gum, which act as thickening agents to give the ice cream its smooth texture.
A Taste Test: What’s It Like?
Opening a pint of Skyline Chili Ice Cream, the first thing you notice is its subtle, spiced aroma—immediately reminiscent of fall baking. Upon tasting, it’s clear this is no ordinary dessert. The spices dominate the flavor profile with cinnamon, cloves, allspice, and nutmeg coming through strongly, evoking a taste of pumpkin spice without the pumpkin itself.
The real surprise comes from the inclusion of oyster crackers. These crackers retain their structure in the ice cream and, while not adding much flavor, contribute a unique crunch to the otherwise smooth dessert.
Despite initial doubts about the combination, the ice cream proves to be more than just a novelty. It’s a surprisingly enjoyable flavor experience—balanced and satisfying. The blend of spices and the texture from the crackers delivers a surprisingly harmonious treat, and fans of both Skyline Chili and Graeter’s ice cream are sure to appreciate this quirky concoction.
Where to Find Skyline Chili Ice Cream
If you’re eager to try this limited-edition flavor for yourself, Graeter’s is currently offering Skyline Chili Ice Cream, branded as Skyline Spice, for purchase directly from their website. Graeter’s, known for its rich, premium ice cream, ships nationwide, though they only offer the ice cream in packs of six or twelve pints. This is a great opportunity to explore more of Graeter’s diverse selection of over 30 unique flavors while enjoying a taste of Cincinnati’s most unexpected culinary fusion.
Whether you’re a fan of the iconic chili or a dedicated ice cream lover, Skyline Chili Ice Cream is a must-try for anyone looking to experience something new and uniquely Cincinnati.
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