Founded by Cornell graduate Leo Guentert in 1936, Purity Ice Cream makes small-batch ice cream in Ithaca, where the locally owned shop remains a Finger Lakes institution. Guentert began with natural ingredients and a drive to improve chocolate ice cream; today, Purity’s more than 30 flavors are scooped at its shop and shipped nationwide, with scratch-made bakery items and food served alongside them.
Bruster's Real Ice CreamFounded by Bruce Reed in Bridgewater in 1989, Bruster’s Real Ice Cream makes small-batch ice cream fresh each day in its shops. Its old-fashioned slow-kettle process and rotating collection of more than 150 handcrafted recipes give each independently owned location its own daily flavor lineup, while desserts such as handmade waffle cones and ice cream cakes are prepared in-house.GLEN BURNIE, MD
Eric’s Ice Cream FactorySince 1999, Eric’s Ice Cream Factory has been making homemade, handcrafted ice cream in small three-gallon batches at its Northwest Ohio shops and mobile ice cream truck. The Defiance-based company has developed more than 170 rotating flavors, including its own dairy-free options and exclusive topping and flavor lines, giving its cases a distinctly local and inventive character.DEFIANCE, OH
Coutts Ice CreamCoutts Ice Cream began in 2010 when the Coutts family decided Paupack Blueberry Farm’s fresh local blueberries deserved better than a manufactured ice cream, so they started making their own premium homemade ice cream. The family-run shop also makes homemade fudge and gives local growers space to sell produce when available.HAWLEY, PA
Jane's Ice CreamSince 1985, Jane’s Ice Cream has made small-batch, handcrafted ice cream and sorbet in the Hudson Valley, building on recipes cherished by founders Amy Keller and Bob Guidubaldi. This boutique family business uses hormone-free milk from New York State cows and natural local ingredients, with an unusually broad selection that includes vegan versions of familiar favorites. Dino Ritchie now carries the original owners’ legacy forward while expanding the brand.KINGSTON, NY