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Recently, Graeter’s, a renowned ice cream maker from Ohio, introduced a new flavor inspired by the iconic Skyline chili from Cincinnati. Initially, this unique combination sparked feelings of skepticism, as the thought of blending ice cream with a savory chili sauce seemed unconventional. It wasn’t just me; Travis Kelce, a prominent Ohio native and tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs, shared his concerns on his podcast, New Heights. However, after tasting it firsthand, I found that our first impressions were misguided.
When the pint of Skyline ice cream arrived, meticulously packaged with dry ice, I prepared myself for a surprising experience. To my relief, the ice cream did not contain actual chili or any meaty ingredients — instead, it featured a creamy vanilla base infused with warm spices. Skyline chili, which has its origins in 1949 by Greek immigrants in Cincinnati, is famously secretive about its spice blend, known for its distinct flavor compared to the spicier Texas varieties. In this ice cream, I could detect hints of allspice, nutmeg, and cinnamon, complemented with a touch of clove. This interesting blend mirrors popular ingredients in multiple desserts, making it a fitting choice for ice cream.
There’s a subtle savoriness that lingers in the background, which prevents the ice cream from resembling traditional holiday flavors like eggnog or the nostalgic cinnamon roll. This nuanced flavor profile is quite enjoyable. While the chili flavor is subdued, it does offer a gentle nod to the emblematic dish, rather than overwhelming the palate. Additionally, the inclusion of whole oyster crackers, a staple side with Skyline chili, was a delightful surprise. Their slight saltiness added another layer to the overall experience, and they remarkably retained their crisp texture even when mixed into the creamy base.
This ice cream differentiates itself from other novelty flavors that have often missed the mark. While some collaborations tend to come off as mere marketing tactics lacking genuine appeal, Graeter’s Skyline chili ice cream feels authentic. It could serve as a nostalgic treat for lifelong Cincinnati residents while also offering newcomers a taste of the city’s culinary heritage.
Though I wouldn’t suggest replacing my usual favorites like dark chocolate or cookies and cream with Skyline chili ice cream, I must admit that it is a surprisingly delightful scoop. If the Chiefs achieve their third Super Bowl victory, perhaps Travis Kelce will also reconsider his stance and indulge in this unique treat.
For those eager to try this limited-time offering, it’s best to move quickly; Graeter’s pints are selling rapidly, both online and in stores across Ohio, Kentucky, and Pennsylvania.
Source
www.eater.com