As the temperature rises and the sun blazes down, there's nothing more refreshing than indulging in a cool treat to beat the summer heat - especially if you have a sweet tooth like we do!

While traditional options like ice cream and popsicles are delicious in warm weather, why not skip the grocery store pre-made (often unhealthy) snacks and whip up something unique and exciting this season?

So let's explore the wonderful world of frozen summer treats, infused with the surprising addition of balsamic vinegar. From sorbets and popsicles to ice cream sandwiches and frozen bananas, these cool treats will help you beat the heat and satisfy your taste buds on a hot summer day.

Frozen Summer Treat: Staying Cool with Balsamic Vinegar

Balsamic Sorbet: Your New Favorite Dessert

Sorbet is a perfect choice for those seeking a light and refreshing frozen dessert. With its fruit-forward flavors and smooth texture, it's a delightful way to cool off. To add a tangy twist to your sorbet, incorporate balsamic vinegar into the mix.

The vinegar enhances the fruit flavors and adds a subtle complexity. Try blending together fresh strawberries, a splash of balsamic vinegar, a squeeze of orange juice or lime juice, and a touch of sweetness (we opted for simple syrup). Process the mixture in a food processor, freeze it, and enjoy a burst of fruity goodness on a scorching day.

We made the most delicious raspberry sorbet with our White Lemon Balsamic Vinegar. We even made cute little frozen lemon cups to serve them in! It's the perfect treat for a summer party - but eat them before they melt! Plus - you can find the treat recipe right here!

Balsamic Milkshakes: Booze or N/A!

Balsamic milkshakes offer a unique and unexpected twist to the classic creamy treat, and they come in a variety of delightful flavors to suit every palate. From alcohol-free options to indulgent creations, there's something for everyone to enjoy. 

The marriage of creamy ice cream, a touch of balsamic vinegar, and other flavor enhancements creates a harmonious blend that tantalizes the taste buds. For those looking for a non-alcoholic option, try a balsamic pb&j milkshake. Blend together fresh strawberries, a drizzle of Strawberry balsamic vinegar, some peanut butter (or almond), vanilla ice cream, and milk for a refreshing and tangy twist on a classic.

But if you're in the mood for a boozy delight, the boozy Orange Creamsicle Milkshake will be your go-to choice. Combining creamy vanilla ice cream, orange liqueur, a splash of White Balsamic Vinegar, and a touch of milk, this indulgent treat will transport you back to childhood with a sophisticated adult twist. We highly recommend topping with whipped cream and a drizzle of Blood Orange Infused Olive Oil. You can even add an extra floater of orange liqueur if you're feeling crazy! It's truly the perfect boozy summer milkshake.

So whether you prefer a non-boozy balsamic milkshake or the boozy variation, these frosty concoctions will keep you cool and craving more on a hot summer day.

Popsicles: Red White and Blue and More!

A Childhood Classic: Remember the joy of devouring a colorful ice pop on a warm summer afternoon? By infusing balsamic vinegar into your homemade ice pops, you can elevate this classic treat to a whole new level. Mix your favorite fruit puree, such as blackberry or cucumber lime, with a few teaspoons of balsamic vinegar and a squeeze of orange juice. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds and freeze until solid. The resulting popsicles will have a delightful blend of sweet, tangy, and refreshing flavors that will transport you back to your childhood.

Speaking of favorite childhood treats... we even went above and beyond and made our own version of rocket pops! A healthier alternative to your classic red, white, and blue popsicle. We made a red layer made with Raspberry Balsamic, a white layer with White Lemon Balsamic, and a "blue" layer with Blackberry Balsamic. They are the perfect summer treat of Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day, or really any summer gathering! Plus, your kids will love them, and they are far better for them than the alternative.

Another fun tip? Put a Strawberry Balsamic popsicle in a glass filled with rose, white wine, or sparkling wine for a delicious and cool beverage in the hot months. It's the perfect treat for bachelorette parties, and more!

Balsamic Frozen Ice, Ice, Baby!

When the summer sun beats down relentlessly, there's nothing quite like refreshing shaved ice to cool you off. And if you're seeking a unique flavor experience, why not add a drizzle of balsamic vinegar to your icy creation? Shaved ice with balsamic offers a surprising and delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors. Start with a mound of fluffy shaved ice and generously drizzle it with your favorite flavored syrup. Then, add a touch of balsamic vinegar over the top. We love Pineapple Balsamic for a tropical note!

The vinegar's acidity cuts through the sweetness, imparting a tangy complexity that elevates the entire experience. With each spoonful, you'll enjoy the contrasting sensations of icy refreshment and the vibrant burst of balsamic vinegar. It's a unique twist on a classic treat that will leave you feeling cool, satisfied, and craving another spoonful.

 Ingenious Ice Cream Sandwiches

Been wanting to try your hand at making an ice cream sandwich? Now is the perfect time! Nothing beats sinking your teeth into a delicious ice cream sandwich, especially on a sweltering day. Combine the creaminess of ice cream with the tangy kick of balsamic vinegar for an unexpected twist.

Make from scratch or buy your favorite cookies and cookie dough, and sandwich a scoop of balsamic-infused ice cream between them. Although you can try so many ice cream base flavors, we love vanilla ice cream to really highlight the flavors of the balsamic! The contrast between the sweet cookies and the tangy ice cream will leave your taste buds dancing with delight.

You can experiment with flavors like Strawberry Balsamic for a gourmet twist on a classic treat. They are a truly impressive summer dessert that will have everyone asking you for the recipe.

Frozen Bananas with Chocolate and Balsamic

For those seeking a guilt-free frozen treat, frozen bananas are a fantastic option. Not only are they simple to make, but they also offer a natural sweetness that satisfies your cravings. Take ripe bananas, dip them in a blend of melted chocolate and Raspberry Balsamic Vinegar, and freeze them on a tray. Once frozen, these bananas transform into a creamy and cool delight. You can also roll them in various toppings like crushed nuts, coconut flakes, or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor. Enjoy these frozen banana bites as a refreshing snack on a warm summer day.  

Balsamic Ice Cream Sundae

When it comes to frozen summer treats, we can't forget the classic indulgence of an ice cream sundae. But why not take it up a notch and introduce the tangy richness of balsamic vinegar into the mix?

A balsamic ice cream sundae is a delightful combination of creamy, sweet ice cream and the complex flavors of balsamic vinegar. Simply drizzle a spoonful of balsamic vinegar over your favorite flavor of ice cream, whether it's vanilla, chocolate, or something more adventurous like strawberry or salted caramel. Although we prefer hard ice cream, a nice soft serve works too! The acidity and depth of the vinegar cut through the sweetness of the ice cream, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

Top it off with whipped cream, nuts, fresh fruits, and a cherry on top for a show-stopping dessert that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Balsamic ice cream sundaes are the perfect finale to any summer gathering or a delightful treat to enjoy on a relaxing evening.

And, if you're feeling really ambitious, use an ice cream maker to make your own balsamic-infused ice cream for your sundae! A DIY inspired by Ben and Jerry's Cherry Garcia with some Wild Cherry Balsamic sounds pretty mouth-watering if we do say so ourselves.

Stay Cool This Summer!

Say goodbye to the dog days of summer with these new and exciting frozen summer treats. By incorporating balsamic vinegar into your creations, you can add a delightful twist to traditional favorites. Whether it's tangy sorbets, fruity popsicles, creamy ice cream sandwiches, or healthy frozen bananas, these treats will keep you cool and satisfied on even the hottest of days.

Our Balsamic Vinegar comes in so many delicious infusions, and all are made with ZERO added sugars or artificial flavors. They are truly the healthy choice when it comes to making sweet and cool treats this summer. Let us know which treats you make, and which become the best part of your summer!