Since 1870, four generations of Graeters have been handcrafting ice cream. Members of the 3rd, 4th, and 5th generation still work in the business daily. Graeter’s started serving ice cream from a cart in Cincinnati and is now available nationwide, including three locations in Indiana.
Humble Beginnings of Graeter's
Louis Charles Graeter began selling ice cream from two carts after hand-crafting it in French Pots. The first storefront opened in 1900. Graeter died in 1920, leaving his widow with two young sons and an ice cream shop. Despite many difficulties and facing heavy prejudice, she ensured the business thrived and was able to expand to a second location in 1922. During this time, many other ice cream companies began mass-producing ice cream to lower costs, but not Graeter’s. They stayed true to the original craft and still do now.
The French Pot Ice Cream Process
Graeter’s believes the traditional French Pot batch process is still the only way to craft authentic ice cream. The 2 ½ gallon batch size is the industry's smallest. By freezing a high-butterfat mix in such small batches, they can produce a dense product with no added air. After all the ingredients are combined, the mixture is placed in a French pot. The pots are surrounded by a freezing-cold saltwater mixture. They are then spun using a motor, which flings the ice cream to the sides of the pot, where it freezes.
Mouth-Watering Treats at Graeters
I wish I could list all the flavors of Graeter’s ice cream here for you to read, but there are just too many! They have the classics like Butter Pecan, Cookies and Cream, and, of course, an indulgent vanilla. Then they have flavors you have to experience at least once. Midnight Snack: Malt-flavored ice cream with chocolate-covered pretzels, mini peanut butter cups, and brownies mixed in. S’mores with a classic mix of marshmallows and chocolate chips in graham cracker-flavored ice cream. They didn’t stop at pints of ice cream. Graeter’s also serves ice cream sandwiches and ice cream pies.
Have to Try Graeter's?
Good news! Graeters has 3 locations in Indiana for you to grab a scoop!
-Carmel
864 South Rangeline Road, 46032
-Butler–Tarkington
5560 North Illinois Street, 46208
-Fishers
9367 Ambleside Drive, 46038
Bummed not to be close to one of these locations? I have even better news! Graeters has nationwide delivery. You can get on their website and create your custom pack of 6 or 12 pints to be shipped directly to your house. This would be a perfect gift for the ice cream lover in your life or a great way to treat yourself to the best ice cream freezer stash.
