Ice cream: a superior choice in the dessert world. It can be made in hundreds of flavors. It can be the star of the show, or it can complement nearly anything sugary – you can sandwich it between cookies or donuts, serve it with cake or brownies, and add it into the über-trendy-and-popular freakshakes that have dominated Instagram feeds. Or, you can crack open a pint of your favorite Ben & Jerry’s and snack away while binge-watching your favorite show. With ice cream, there’s no way you can go wrong. But sometimes, a Sonic blast or a pint from Mac’s Place just doesn’t make the cut. Hence, I have compiled this list of some of the best ice cream shops close to campus that are the perfect place to go when you want to get a scoop – or three.
- Baldo’s – For Simple, But Amazing Ice Cream
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Even though it has only been open for a year or so, Baldo’s has quickly become a classic go-to spot for SMU students. With its convenient location on Hillcrest, handmade ice cream and flavor profiles that change with the seasons – or color scheme, for their Vanilla – how could it not be? My personal favorite is their Pistachio, and you can never go wrong topping off your scoop with cookie dough! And, if you’re not in the mood for ice cream they also have a bakery section with a solid line of goods, from cookies to brownies and more.
- Cauldron – For the Trendy Peeps
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I have one word for you: Puffles. THEY’RE SO GOOD. It’s the ultimate, fluffy waffle cone that you never knew you needed. Plus, they make their ice cream to order using nitrogen, which ups the ante with the trendy, pinterest-y vibe their store has. Instagram-ability is 10/10 here. They also have drinks like green tea lattes, too!
- Howdy’s Homemade – Great Ice Cream with a Good Cause
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What makes Howdy’s special is that the shop was established in order to provide employment opportunities for individuals with special needs. The store has a welcoming, homey atmosphere and the ice cream is made by hand daily. It’s also my personal favorite – especially the salted caramel!
- Milk . Cream – Taking Trendy to New (Sugar) Heights
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Donut. Ice Cream. Snadwiches. Need I say more? Amazing. Trendy. Photo opportunities abound, with solid ice cream to boot. Like Cauldron, this is another good place to both satisfy your sweet tooth and snap a great pic for the ‘Gram.
- Pokey – O’s – A CLASSIC
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Are donuts and ice cream together a little much for you, but you’re still on the hunt for a solid ice cream sandwich? Then Pokey-O’s should be a staple. Blue Bell ice cream + cookies = the perfect, classic combo. There’s a reason why they’re catered at literally every SMU event. SMU <3’s Pokey-O’s. I also stop by the shop way too often - how could you not when it’s right next to the bookstore?