Blue Bell Creameries, based in Brenham, Texas, opened in 1907. Visitors can take a guided tour on any weekday through the facility to watch how some of their favorite flavors get created. The day I was there I had the opportunity to watch them dump the cookies into the Cookies ‘n Cream ice cream. The tours last about 45 minutes and include a short video, a trip to an overlook to watch the workers mix the flavors and pack them into cartons, and, of course, a big finish with a scoop of ice cream. While Homemade Vanilla is the #1 bestseller throughout the country, other flavors rate high on the list depending on the region of the country or the time of year. Banana Pudding is more popular in the South, and Peppermint is requested most often around the winter holidays.

If you are in the area, stop in and visit. If you aren’t in the area, but are craving your favorite flavors, Blue Bell will ship Federal Express for next day delivery.

Blue Bell Creameries

1101 South Blue Bell Road
Brenham, Texas 77833

www.bluebell.com

When I find myself still obsessed with a dessert I was served over six months ago, I figure it is worth mentioning to as many people as possible. In June of 2008 I had the pleasure of dining at David Burke Fromagerie in Rumson, New Jersey. The entire meal was incredible. The pretzel crusted crabcake and the zucchini blossoms were followed by the soy honey duck and braised short ribs. But it is the desserts that wander in my dreams. Our table received a wave of desserts, including an apple galette, Tahitian vanilla bean creme brulee, warm chocolate lava cake, and the cheesecake pops pictured above. It was  beyond food. It was a culinary experience. If you are anywhere near Rumson, New Jersey, you should go!

http://www.fromagerierestaurant.com/