Category: History > Ice Cream
The origins of modern-day ice cream can be traced back to the 16th century when the Mughal emperors of India introduced a sweet, frozen dessert made from milk and sugar, flavored with fruits and spices. However, it was not until the 18th century that ice cream found its way to Europe, thanks in part to the royal courts. One significant event was the marriage of Mary II of England to William of Orange in 1689, which spurred a cultural exchange that included the introduction of the concept of ice cream to England. By the 1700s, ice cream became a fashionable treat among the aristocracy, and recipes began to circulate among the elite. nnThe first recorded recipe for ice cream in America appeared in a cookbook published by Amelia Simmons in 1796, marking the beginning of its popularity in the New World. The introduction of ice harvesting and the invention of the hand-cranked ice cream maker in the 19th century made this once-exclusive dessert accessible to the masses, ultimately leading to the vibrant ice cream culture we know and love today.