The weather is set for a September renaissance this week, but sadly the longer term forecasts suggests that we are set for a traditional British autumn rather than a prolonged ‘Indian summer’. However that won’t stop us from talking about a true heatwave treat: Ice cream.

Did you know that we are beginning to shift away from the traditional Neapolitan flavours towards crazier varieties?

That is what an ice cream supplier found out in a recent survey.

Chefs, operators and restaurant owners were all asked about the dining habits of their clientele and over two-thirds of respondents said that new flavours such as grape and salter caramel were being gobbled up at the end of a meal.

The traditionalists do have something to savour though; vanilla remained the best seller in a number of establishments.

The researchers unearthed another trend too: Many high end venues noted that alcohol-based ice creams were surging in popularity, with some places even reporting that ‘stout’ was a best-selling flavour.

“Our experience says that consumers very much enjoy dessert but aren’t willing to spend money on low products,” said the managing director of Amore di Gelato, Mike Godwin.

“Now our research backs this up. The numbers clearly show that offering exciting, modern versions of a classic concept will help dessert sales.”

Around 85% of those who took part in the questionnaire noted that over half of diners were now opting for an ice cream dish at the end of their meal, something which represents a great chance for proprietors to maximise their revenue streams.

“This is a key opportunity for operators,” adds Godwin. “[They] can use this information to develop their desserts sales number – an area which can typically offer excellent returns.”

Some of the most popular ice cream flavours are (in no particular order):

• Beetroot
• Vanilla
• Honey
• Jersey Black Butter
• Chocolate
• Salted Caramel
• Stout
• Butterscotch
• Pistachio
• Mango Sorbet

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Even though the nights might be drawing in, that doesn’t mean you still can’t offer ice cream in all its glory.

There’s nothing better than homemade ice cream either. So if you want to start creating your own frozen delights view our Buffalo, Robot Coupe and Valera ice cream machines here.

We even sell the iconic Zeroll scoops too! View them here.