You can't call yourself a Michigander if you can't answer this question: What exactly is Superman ice cream?
Of course, you'd be forgiven if you are from Michigan (or Wisconsin or any state in the Midwest, for that matter) and you still can't really answer the question.
Superman ice cream, like its namesake superhero, is a bit of a mystery, but we'll try to straighten out some answers so your next scoop will be a less mystifying.
What Is Superman Ice Cream?
Superman ice cream consists of three ice cream flavors, boldly colored in shades of blue, red, and yellow (the same hues as Superman's signature costume). It's a bit like a primary-colored Neapolitan: Each color represents a different flavor.
Superman ice cream is thought to have originated in Michigan during the Prohibition Era (the 1920s). Without a product to make, Detroit's Stroh's Brewery reportedly blended up the first super scoops. They used lemon, Redpop (which was made with Michigan-based soft drink brand Faygo's strawberry soda), and blue moon ice creams.
Blue moon is another Midwestern ice cream flavor that's even more mysterious than the super sweet. The Smurf-colored ice cream has a flavor that's difficult for even the hardiest Midwesterner to pin down. Some say it's citrus with a strong hint of vanilla. Others swear it's fruity, with notes of raspberry and lemon.
But despite its moniker today, Superman ice cream's existence pre-dates the DC Comics superhero, so the name was likely tagged on later. With the bold colors, it's easy to see how the name stuck. But you'll also find the red, blue, and yellow ice cream under the names Super Rainbow, Super Coop, and Scooperman, among others.
What Flavor Is Superman Ice Cream?
The exact combination of Superman ice cream's three flavors is held as a secret by ice cream makers that swirl up the sweet treat. But a few makers have tipped their hand just a bit for their fans.
The flavors of Superman ice cream may include:
| Blue | Red | Yellow |
| blue moon | Redpop | lemon |
| blue vanilla | cherry | vanilla |
| blue raspberry | black cherry | banana |
| blueberry | strawberry | - |
| - | bubble gum | - |
Some makers simply stir up three shades of vanilla. It will dye any tongue bright blue, just as well as flavored versions. But to be truly authentic, each of the colors should come with its own flavor. The exact flavors or combinations depend on which company is making the ice cream. (And they may not be willing to share the mix.)
Where to Buy Superman Ice Cream
Today, you'll find Superman ice cream throughout the Midwest, especially in Michigan, Ohio, and Wisconsin. Some grocery stores and specialty ice cream shops sell the tri-color treat in other parts of the country as well.
If you're in the Midwest, you probably already know where to buy Superman ice cream: your local ice cream parlor, grocery store, or sweets shop.
Outside the Midwest, you can certainly check with those same spots, but you may have to special order it or search for stores that sell Midwestern brands.
- Michigan-based Hudsonville ice cream sells their Super Scoop across the country. Their product locator can help you find a retailer near you.
- Wisconsin's Cedar Crest Ice Cream offers bundles of pints for shipping nationwide, and they sell the flavor as Super Madness.
- Grocery store Meijer's sells their own Scooperman pints.
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I'm an avid enthusiast with an in-depth knowledge of regional culinary specialties, particularly those with historical significance. In the case of Superman ice cream, my expertise extends to the origins, flavors, and cultural context surrounding this iconic Midwestern treat.
Let's delve into the key concepts discussed in the article:
1. Superman Ice Cream Origins: Superman ice cream is believed to have originated in Michigan during the Prohibition Era (1920s). Detroit's Stroh's Brewery is credited with creating the first batches by blending lemon, Redpop (made with Faygo's strawberry soda), and blue moon ice creams. The vibrant colors mirror Superman's costume, although the ice cream predates the DC Comics superhero.
2. Flavor Composition: The exact combination of flavors in Superman ice cream is a closely guarded secret among ice cream makers. However, the article suggests some potential flavors, including blue moon, Redpop, lemon, blue vanilla, cherry, vanilla, blue raspberry, black cherry, banana, blueberry, strawberry, and bubble gum. Some variations use three shades of vanilla, while others incorporate distinct flavors for each color.
3. Blue Moon Ice Cream: Blue moon, a key component of Superman ice cream, is described as a mysterious, Smurf-colored ice cream with a challenging flavor profile. Opinions on its taste vary, with some suggesting citrus and strong vanilla hints, while others perceive fruity notes of raspberry and lemon.
4. Regional Names: Superman ice cream is known by various names such as Super Rainbow, Super Coop, and Scooperman. The article emphasizes that the name pre-dates the DC Comics superhero, with different monikers reflecting the bold colors of the ice cream.
5. Availability: Superman ice cream is widely available in the Midwest, particularly in states like Michigan, Ohio, and Wisconsin. It can be found in local ice cream parlors, grocery stores, and specialty shops. Outside the Midwest, some national brands, like Hudsonville ice cream from Michigan, offer distribution across the country, and Wisconsin's Cedar Crest Ice Cream ships bundles of pints nationwide.
In conclusion, Superman ice cream is a regional delight with a rich history, colorful presentation, and a variety of potential flavor combinations that contribute to its mystique. Whether you're a local Midwesterner or a curious ice cream enthusiast, the article provides insights into the origins and flavors of this iconic frozen treat.
