July is National Ice Cream Month, and The Dairy Alliance, a nonprofit organization funded by dairy farm families in the Southeast, is helping consumers make the most of it with a lineup of homemade recipes made with real dairy milk and cream. The organization aims to educate consumers on the differences between frozen dairy desserts and the benefits of making ice cream at home.
Ice cream sets the standard among frozen dairy desserts, requiring at least 10 percent milk fat and quick churning for a light, fluffy texture. Gelato, frozen custard, frozen yogurt, and sherbet each put their own spin on real dairy, from custard's rich egg yolks to frozen yogurt's tangy cultured milk. According to The Dairy Alliance, real cream and milk are what give these treats their signature richness, making them a summer staple.
To celebrate, The Dairy Alliance is spotlighting two reader favorites for anyone looking to skip the ice cream aisle and make their own this summer. The Dubai Chocolate Ice Cream puts a homemade spin on the viral trend, layering dark chocolate ice cream with a sweet and salty pistachio kadaifi cream and topping it with a chocolate shell and crushed pistachios. For a lighter option, the Strawberry Cottage Cheese Ice Cream blends real dairy cottage cheese with fresh strawberries for a no-churn treat that's just as creamy as traditional ice cream, with a high-protein boost built in.
'Making ice cream at home lets you control exactly what goes into it, and real dairy milk and cream gives you a texture that feels genuinely indulgent,' said Farrah Newberry, CEO of The Dairy Alliance. 'Whether you're recreating a viral trend or keeping it simple with a no-churn recipe, real dairy is what takes it to the next level.'
Each recipe comes together with pantry staples and a few hours of freezer time, making them approachable for first-time ice cream makers and seasoned dessert lovers alike. The Dairy Alliance emphasizes that homemade ice cream allows consumers to avoid additives and preservatives often found in commercial products, while still enjoying a creamy, satisfying dessert.
For leaders in the food and beverage industry, this trend toward homemade frozen desserts signals a growing consumer interest in transparency and ingredient control. As more people seek out high-protein, natural options, dairy products remain a key component. The Dairy Alliance's recipes also highlight the versatility of dairy, from traditional ice cream to innovative no-churn options that cater to health-conscious consumers.
Visit thedairyalliance.com/dairy-recipes for the full collection of frozen dairy recipes to celebrate National Ice Cream Month.
