MANCHESTER, Iowa — In a quiet Manchester neighborhood, Joe and Elizabeth Mullen are creating some of the most unique and delicious ice cream flavors imaginable. Since founding Mima’s Old Fashion Ice Cream last year, their innovative treats have been available at Off the Hoof in Delhi, Bushel & A Peck in Manchester, local farmers markets, and NewBo City Market in Cedar Rapids every Sunday.
A recent visitor witnessed Joe Mullen crafting a strawberry ice cream unlike any found in stores. Using fresh strawberries roasted in honey, Mullen created a strawberry jam with added honey balsamic vinegar and black pepper, resulting in a one-of-a-kind strawberry balsamic ice cream. The combination of flavors is both unique and exceptionally delicious.
Joe Mullen, passionate about his craft, believes the possibilities for hard-pack ice cream flavors are endless. “I try to create different things,” he explained. “I walk through grocery stores and think about what might make good ice cream. The bakery and fruit aisles are my go-to places for inspiration.”
Mima’s offers a variety of popular flavors, including cookie dough, mint Oreo, and caramel crunch, which features dulce de leche and chopped Heath candy bars. Another favorite, Sunday cone, combines vanilla ice cream with swirls of caramel, chocolate-dipped waffle cone pieces, and cherries. Regular flavors also include red raspberry and banana split.
One exclusive flavor, Hawkeye Heaven, is available only at Off the Hoof. “We take vanilla ice cream dyed yellow with turmeric, then run fudge through it,” said Mullen. “It’s black and gold for the Iowa Hawkeyes, but without the turmeric flavor.” Mullen credits Off the Hoof with helping to launch their business, noting the store’s supportive partnership.
With their inventive approach and commitment to quality, Joe and Elizabeth Mullen have quickly established Mima’s Old Fashion Ice Cream as a local favorite, offering a delightful array of flavors that keep customers coming back for more.
