An Invitation to Indulgence: Visiting Perry’s Ice Cream in Akron, NY

A while back, a wonderful invitation landed in my inbox from an employee at Perry’s Ice Cream in Akron, NY. The proposal was simple yet exhilarating: a private tour of their manufacturing plant followed by an exclusive taste test of their upcoming 2013 ice cream flavors. As someone who grew up with the familiar sight of Perry’s cartons in the freezer, and with an undeniable passion for all things sweet, saying no was simply not an option. My heart (and taste buds) immediately said yes!

A few weeks later, filled with anticipation, my husband (who was my very lucky plus-one for this incredible experience) and I embarked on our journey to Akron. There, we joined a select group of fellow food bloggers and writers from esteemed publications like Buffalo News and Buffalo Business First, all eager to delve into the creamy delights Perry’s had to offer. The collective excitement in the air was palpable; we were about to go behind the scenes of a beloved brand that has sweetened countless childhoods and special occasions.

A Legacy of Flavor: Behind the Scenes at Perry’s Ice Cream Factory

Stepping into the Perry’s Ice Cream plant felt like entering a culinary wonderland. For an ice cream enthusiast like me, it was nothing short of nirvana—a dream destination where delicious possibilities seemed endless. The comprehensive tour was not only fun and engaging but also incredibly insightful, providing a fascinating look into the meticulous process of ice cream creation. We were privileged to be guided by Brian Perry, the Executive Vice President, who shared captivating stories about the company’s rich history, its commitment to sustainability, and the intricate details of their production methods.

What truly sets Perry’s apart is its deep-rooted family heritage. Brian proudly informed us that the business is currently helmed by 3rd, 4th, and even 5th generation “Perrys,” a testament to their unwavering dedication and passion for crafting exceptional ice cream. This multi-generational involvement ensures that time-honored traditions are preserved while embracing innovation. With over 95 years in the business, Perry’s continues to uphold its commitment to quality by making their ice cream one batch at a time, utilizing a signature slow-cook method. This artisanal approach is the secret behind their uniquely creamy texture, a difference you can truly taste and feel. It’s a method that defies mass production, prioritizing superior quality and a rich, velvety mouthfeel that their competitors often struggle to replicate. This focus on craftsmanship ensures every scoop delivers an unparalleled experience.

One of the absolute highlights of the tour was the opportunity to observe the production floor firsthand. With my face practically pressed against the glass, I gazed down at the mesmerizing spectacle of vast quantities of ice cream being churned and prepared. The sheer scale and precision involved in creating such a beloved product were astounding. Seeing the raw ingredients transform into the delectable frozen treat was a feast for the eyes and ignited an even deeper appreciation for the artistry and engineering that goes into every carton of Perry’s Ice Cream. It was an immersive experience, illustrating not just how ice cream is made, but how passion is infused into every single batch.

The Art and Science of Professional Ice Cream Taste Testing

After our comprehensive factory tour, the moment we had all been eagerly anticipating finally arrived: the taste testing session! We were ushered into a dedicated tasting room, designed for focused sensory evaluation. For the next hour, we indulged in generous samples of Perry’s brand new 2013 flavors. It was a unique privilege to be among the first to sample these creations, some of which might eventually grace supermarket freezers, while others might remain exclusive to this very room. The thrill of trying something new and potentially groundbreaking was truly exhilarating.

More than just eating ice cream, we received an enlightening lesson in the professional techniques of taste testing. Our hosts walked us through the intricate methods used by flavor scientists and culinary experts. They taught us to engage all our senses, starting with the visual appeal, then moving to the aroma—identifying specific “flavor aromatics” that contribute to the overall scent profile. We learned to differentiate “basic tastes” such as sweet, salty, sour, and bitter, and to recognize how they interact in complex ways. Furthermore, we explored “feeling factors,” which describe the physical sensations in the mouth, like the thermal impact (coldness), chemical reactions (like the tingle of a mint), or the richness and viscosity of the ice cream itself.

We were also introduced to “sensory descriptors,” a vocabulary used by professionals to articulate nuances in flavor and texture. Words like “buttery,” “creamy,” “nutty,” “toasted,” and “malt” are not just adjectives but precise tools to analyze and communicate the intricate profile of a flavor. This deep dive into the science of taste added an entirely new dimension to our appreciation of ice cream, transforming a simple pleasure into a sophisticated sensory experience. It was all incredibly interesting and profoundly enhanced our understanding of why some flavors resonate more than others.

A Culinary Journey Through Perry’s New Flavors

Now, for the moment you’ve all been waiting for – let’s talk about the stars of the show! The taste testing menu for Perry’s 2013 lineup was an exciting array of innovative and classic-inspired flavors. Each one offered a unique journey for the palate, and here’s a detailed look at my personal impressions:

Secret Flavor: A Delightful Lactose-Free Surprise

Our first mystery scoop was simply labeled “Secret Flavor.” Upon tasting, it revealed itself to be a meticulously crafted lactose-free vanilla ice cream. I was utterly surprised by its rich, full-bodied taste, which reminded me distinctly of a classic sugar cookie – a truly wonderful and comforting flavor profile! The texture was incredibly smooth, defying the often chalky or icy reputation of some lactose-free alternatives. I would never have guessed it was lactose-free; it truly stood shoulder to shoulder with traditional dairy ice creams. This innovative offering highlights Perry’s commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their premium desserts without compromise. It’s a testament to their flavor development team that they can achieve such authentic taste and texture in a specialized product.

Oh My, Cherry Pie!: A Homage to a Classic Dessert

This flavor delivered exactly what its name promised: a delightful spoonful reminiscent of a warm, homemade cherry pie. It was a vanilla-based ice cream, beautifully swirled with vibrant cherry ribbons and generous chunks of graham cracker. The sweetness of the vanilla perfectly balanced the tartness of the cherry, while the graham cracker pieces added a satisfying textural crunch, mimicking a pie crust. My husband, a self-proclaimed cherry fanatic, immediately declared this his favorite. Its authentic, nostalgic taste makes it a perfect treat for anyone who appreciates the comforting flavors of a classic American dessert.

Movie Time: An Unforgettable Popcorn Sensation

Without a doubt, “Movie Time” was my top pick of the day – an adventurous popcorn-flavored ice cream that might sound unconventional but trust me, it was nothing short of amazing! From the moment the spoon approached my nose, there was a strong, inviting aroma of buttery popcorn, instantly transporting me to a cinema lobby. The ice cream itself was a masterclass in balancing sweet and salty, featuring decadent sea salt caramel swirls and luxurious caramel truffles scattered throughout. The buttery popcorn essence was incredibly authentic, harmonizing perfectly with the rich caramel notes. While popcorn-flavored ice cream might not be for everyone, I genuinely felt as though this innovative creation was crafted specifically for my palate. It was an adventurous, unique, and utterly delightful flavor experience that I would eagerly seek out again.

Sponge Candy: A Western New York Delicacy in Ice Cream Form

One interesting cultural tidbit I learned during my visit was the regional adoration for sponge candy, particularly prevalent in Western New York. I had no idea it was such a localized treat! Perry’s tribute to this beloved confection was a caramel sugar-flavored ice cream, studded with small, airy pieces of sponge candy and accentuated by luscious caramelized sugar swirls. While this wasn’t my personal favorite among the exciting lineup, it possessed a unique charm. The ice cream itself was delightfully sweet, and the sponge candy bits provided a wonderful, crunchy yet airy texture that dissolved sweetly on the tongue. Even if it didn’t capture my top spot, its comforting sweetness and intriguing texture ensured I savored every single bite.

Queen of Hearts: A Dark Chocolate Dream

For the true chocolate connoisseurs, “Queen of Hearts” was a regal treat. This indulgent flavor featured a rich, dark chocolate ice cream base, generously swirled with vibrant raspberry and adorned with charming fudge-filled milk chocolate hearts. Although I’m not typically a huge fan of dark chocolate ice cream, many of my fellow taste-testers were absolutely captivated by this one. The intense, bittersweet notes of the dark chocolate were beautifully complemented by the bright, fruity tang of the raspberry swirls, creating a sophisticated flavor contrast. The little fudge-filled hearts added an extra layer of chocolatey delight and a playful texture. If you adore the deep, complex flavors of premium dark chocolate and appreciate a touch of fruitiness, this flavor will undoubtedly be your perfect match.

Black Cherry: Naturally Smooth and Refreshing

Taking the second spot on my personal favorites list was Perry’s “Black Cherry” ice cream. What truly stood out about this flavor was its commitment to natural ingredients. This all-natural offering boasted a remarkably smooth black cherry ice cream base, completely free of artificial flavors or colors. The difference was palpable; the ice cream had a pure, clean taste that felt incredibly authentic and refreshing. It tasted distinctly smoother and more refined than many other fruit-based ice creams I’ve encountered. The natural sweetness and subtle tartness of the black cherry shone through, creating a truly elegant and satisfying scoop that highlights the quality of its ingredients.

Party Sandwiches: A Fun, Nostalgic Twist

Last but certainly not least in the taste testing was the “Party Sandwich.” By this point, I confess I was verging on an ice cream overdose, having savored so many delightful flavors. I could only manage a few bites, but oh, how I wished I’d encountered this first! The traditional chocolate wafer ice cream sandwiches of my childhood never quite appealed to me, but this was a revelation. Instead of chocolate, it featured a light, delicate vanilla wafer, instantly drawing parallels to the beloved Funetti cake – a dessert I’m slightly obsessed with, as regular readers of my blog know (check out my related recipe here!). The vibrant sprinkles embedded within the ice cream added an irresistible element of fun and festivity. This innovative sandwich perfectly captured the joy of celebration, making it an utterly delightful and nostalgic treat. What can I say? I’m still a kid at heart when it comes to sprinkles!

Stepping into the Deep Freeze: The Perry’s Storage Freezer Experience

As a final, exhilarating stop on our tour, we were given the option to venture into Perry’s colossal storage freezer, where thousands of gallons of delicious ice cream are kept perfectly frozen. Despite the bone-chilling temperature of negative 20 degrees Fahrenheit, not a single person in our group passed up this incredible opportunity. Bundled up, we stepped into what felt like an arctic wonderland, surrounded by towering stacks of ice cream containers. It was a breathtaking sight, visually emphasizing the sheer scale of Perry’s operation and the immense quantity of joy they produce for families every day. This memorable experience truly cemented the comprehensive nature of our factory tour, from production to preservation.