National Chocolate Ice Cream Day (June 7)

Two scoops of chocolate ice cream drizzled with fudge sauce and chocolate chunks on a white square plate with a spoon

Chocolate ice cream holds a nostalgic, comforting charm, and June 7th is its time to shine.

National Chocolate Ice Cream Day is a chance to enjoy the rich, creamy classic in all its forms, from scoops and cones to sundaes and shakes.

Whether you’re a fan of traditional recipes or new spins on the flavor, this sweet day is all about indulgence and simplicity. One of many weird holidays in June worth celebrating.

Swirl of chocolate soft serve in a white cup, topped and surrounded by mini chocolate chips on a white background

When is the Holiday?

National Chocolate Ice Cream Day is celebrated every year on June 7.

Who Invented It?

Like many fun food days, the origins are a bit fuzzy. It likely started with ice cream lovers or industry groups wanting to spotlight chocolate, the second most popular flavor after vanilla.

Scoops of chocolate ice cream in a wooden bowl on a star-print napkin, garnished with mint and surrounded by dark chocolate squares

The History of the Holiday

National Chocolate Ice Cream Day likely began as a lighthearted celebration created by dessert lovers or industry groups, similar to many unofficial food holidays that grew in popularity during the late 20th century.

Chocolate ice cream itself dates back to at least the 17th century in Europe. One of the earliest recipes appeared in a 1692 Italian cookbook, using cocoa mixed into milk and cream.

By the 1800s, it was already a favorite in the U.S., with Thomas Jefferson even serving it at the White House.

As refrigeration and mass production advanced in the 20th century, chocolate ice cream became a staple treat across generations.

Creamy chocolate ice cream with chocolate chunks in a tub, freshly scooped with texture and detail in full focus

Top 5 Facts About the Holiday

  1. It shares a date with Daniel Boone Day (but ice cream wins, honestly).
  2. Chocolate was one of the first ice cream flavors, appearing in 18th-century European cookbooks.
  3. The first known chocolate ice cream recipe was published in Naples in 1692.
  4. Chocolate ice cream is a core base for other favorites like rocky road and moose tracks.
  5. Americans eat more chocolate ice cream in the summer months than any other time of year.
Two scoops of chocolate ice cream in waffle cones standing in a metal cup, with chocolate sprinkles falling in a moody dark setup

Activities to Celebrate

  • Try a new flavor twist like dark chocolate with chili or chocolate malt crunch.
  • Host an ice cream bar with friends—include toppings like cookie crumbs, nuts, and fudge sauce.
  • Make your own: Try a no-churn recipe if you don’t have an ice cream maker.
  • Take the kids to a local shop and let them order whatever chocolate treat they want.
  • Surprise someone with a pint of their favorite brand—because who doesn’t love surprise ice cream?
Chocolate ice cream topped with shavings and cherries in a white bowl, served on burlap with coffee beans scattered nearby

Related Recipes for the Holiday

Hot Chocolate Mix Ice Cream – This creative twist uses store-bought hot chocolate mix for flavor, making it a fast, budget-friendly option with a wintery vibe.

Chocolate Marshmallow Ice Cream – A rich, creamy base is swirled with mini marshmallows and chocolate chunks, perfect for anyone who loves rocky road without the nuts.

No Churn Black Forest Ice Cream – Inspired by the classic cake, this recipe mixes chocolate ice cream with cherry pie filling and dark chocolate chips—no machine needed.

4-Ingredient Chocolate Ice Cream – Just heavy cream, cocoa powder, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla come together in this easy and deeply chocolatey recipe.

Scoops of chocolate ice cream in a wooden bowl with chocolate bars and hazelnuts scattered on a rustic wood surface

Homemade Brownie Batter Ice Cream – A decadent treat that folds chunks of fudgy brownie batter into a chocolate custard base for the ultimate indulgence.

Nutella Ice Cream (Eggless) – This creamy, egg-free version combines chocolate and hazelnut spread into a silky dessert—no cooking required.

The Smoothest Chocolate Ice Cream – A custard-based ice cream with a deep cocoa flavor and ultra-smooth texture thanks to the egg yolk base.

Easy Homemade Rocky Road Ice Cream – Loaded with chocolate, marshmallows, and nuts, this homemade version of the nostalgic favorite is made without an ice cream maker.

Double Chocolate Chip Dairy Free Ice Cream – A coconut milk base gives this dairy-free recipe a creamy texture, while cocoa powder and chocolate chips amp up the richness.

No Churn Chocolate Nutter Butter Ice Cream – Crushed peanut butter cookies are folded into a velvety chocolate mixture, making it a salty-sweet dream with zero churn.

Chocolate ice cream in a white bowl topped with candy-coated chocolates and sprinkles, sitting on a red gingham cloth

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Links to Resources

I is for ice cream handprint – Combine art and literacy with this fun handprint craft that helps children learn the letter “I” while creating a delightful ice cream cone artwork.

Ice Cream Math Worksheets – Engage young learners with five free printable worksheets focusing on counting and number recognition, all themed around ice cream. Ideal for preschool and kindergarten students.

Ice Cream Scoop – This aluminum scoop uses the heat from your hand to glide through frozen ice cream with ease. A long-time favorite in ice cream parlors.

Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker – Make professional-quality chocolate ice cream at home with this top-rated electric ice cream maker—ready in 20 minutes.

Creamy chocolate ice cream in a blue bowl, garnished with mint and a raspberry on a wooden background

Related Holidays

National Ice Cream Sandwich Day (August 2) celebrates the classic handheld treat that combines cookies and creamy ice cream in every bite.

National Vanilla Ice Cream Day (July 23) honors the most popular flavor in America, often the base for countless ice cream creations.

Ice Cream for Breakfast Day (first Saturday in February) invites families to flip the script and enjoy a cold, sweet start to the morning.

National Ice Cream Sundae Day (July 8) invites you to pile on the toppings and enjoy a classic sundae with chocolate syrup, whipped cream, and a cherry on top.

National Ice Cream Day (third Sunday in July) is the perfect follow-up to Chocolate Ice Cream Day, giving you another reason to treat yourself mid-summer.

National Strawberry Ice Cream Day (January 15) kicks off the year with a fruity twist on this frozen favorite—ideal for those who prefer lighter flavors.

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Scoop of rich chocolate ice cream in a clear glass bowl with text overlay for National Chocolate Ice Cream Day, June 7