A Nostalgic Flavor Is Making A Resurgence – Here’s Why You’ll See Creamsicle Everywhere This Summer

It is no longer necessary to locate an ice cream truck to relish this delicacy.

The auditory presence of an ice cream truck traversing a neighborhood street, enticing children with its jovial melody, is a treasured recollection that permeates numerous American childhoods. Consequently, relishing a traditional ice cream truck delicacy — whether in its authentic version or a contemporary adaptation — might elicit nostalgia for numerous individuals.

It may be a cone of artisanal soft serve ice cream reminiscent of Mr. Softee or a package of fudgesicles stored in the freezer for moments of solace, however the flavors of an ice cream truck resonate into adulthood. One of them may be poised for a resurgence during a more significant occasion.

The orange creamsicle has progressively re-emerged into prominence over the past year, and it is anticipated that its visibility will increase this summer. The unexpected fusion of citrus and dairy renders creamsicle-inspired confections simultaneously refreshing and indulgent. As historical trends such as bucket hats and 80s maximalism regain popularity, the food business appears to be exploiting the increasing fascination with nostalgic elements.

What constitutes a creamsicle?

The inaugural creamsicle, known as Creamsicle, was introduced by the Popsicle brand in 1937. At that time, Popsicle was owned by the Joe Lowe Company, and the inaugural Creamsicle consisted of vanilla ice cream on a stick, enveloped in orange sherbet. Currently, the term "creamsicle" is trademarked by Unilever, a subsidiary of the consumer goods conglomerate Good Humor, which owns the Popsicle brand; however, it is frequently employed informally to refer to snacks, foods, and beverages that are not products of Unilever.

I have consistently employed the phrases "dreamsicle" and "creamsicle" interchangeably; yet, in popular culture, there exist distinct definitions for each. Certain sources indicate that a creamsicle is a popsicle or ice cream bar featuring a vanilla ice cream core enveloped in orange sherbet, but a dreamsicle is identical except that its core consists of vanilla ice milk rather than custard-based ice cream.

The phrase "Creamsicle" denotes a creamy, orange-flavored beverage; nevertheless, certain sources assert that it specifically refers to the ice cream pop manufactured by Good Humor. Moreover, there are orange floats, sometimes referred to as creamsicle floats, consisting of vanilla ice cream garnished with orange soda.

Within the many distinctions between dreamsicle and creamsicle, along with various nomenclatures such as "orange cream," three predominant flavors are generally present in edible items categorized within this realm: orange, vanilla, and cream or milk.

Which establishments are now offering creamsicle-inspired products?

In March, Wendy's announced the introduction of a new limited-edition Frosty flavor: the Orange Dreamsicle Frosty. At that time, a representative for the fast food company characterized the frozen dairy delicacy as “a distinctive variation of a familiar flavor, incorporating a spoonful of sweet orange nuances blended with the classic smooth vanilla Frosty for an exquisite orange cream experience.”

In January 2025, about one year later, Coca-Cola announced the launch of a new flavor of its famous soda: Coca-Cola Orange Cream. In releasing the product, the firm referenced heightened Google search traffic and an escalating interest in orange cream tastes as motivation for the soft drink. These orange and red ombré cans are now accessible at grocery shops, but their availability will cease by early 2026.

Vita Coco, a coconut water manufacturer, launched an Orange & Creme flavor in March for those who prefer a non-carbonated, hydrating option. In a statement regarding the introduction of flavored coconut water, Vita Coco characterized it as "sweet, tangy goodness combined with childhood nostalgia."

It is not solely consumer packaged goods firms that are drawing inspiration from classic creamsicles; restaurants have exercised greater creativity with the conventional ingredients, occasionally substituting citrus with other orange-hued fruit.

In April, the New York City café Edith’s launched a limited-edition Carrot Dreamsicle Slushie in partnership with the Philadelphia sandwich establishment Middle Child. Nara Smith's smoothie collaboration with the upscale grocery chain Erewhon, titled “Wellness From Scratch,” exhibited a notably creamsicle-like flavor profile and appearance, comprising almond milk, kefir, orange juice, mango, pineapple, banana, lemon, vanilla collagen, and coconut cream.

What are the methods to savor a creamsicle at home?

This zesty, creamy flavor profile can be experienced through commercially available goods, rapid two-minute recipes at home, or more intricate culinary endeavors. In essence, you can relish creamsicle confections irrespective of the level of work you wish to exert.

For the most convenient choice, procure a Good Humor Creamsicle Bar, Coca-Cola Orange Cream, or Vita Coco Treats in Orange & Crème at outlets around the nation. Additionally, you may seek out confections that embody this nostalgic flavor combination at nearby ice cream parlors and cafés. If you are organizing a dinner party soon, I strongly suggest preparing a batch of Buttermilk Creamsicle Panna Cotta. It is flavorful and zesty, can be prepped in advance, and is invigorating for warm summer conditions.

I appreciate all these choices, and there is no incorrect method to enjoy the creamsicle combination of orange, vanilla, and dairy. For me, the quintessential dish that exemplifies the allure of this classic snack is the combination of effervescent orange soda poured over a tall glass of vanilla ice cream.