Italian ice is a summertime frozen treat generally consisting of flavored ice. Italian ice should be smooth and sweet and its texture should be uniform throughout. The most common flavors are cherry, coconut, pina colada, lemon and rainbow although speciality shops sell a wide array of flavors such as cantaloupe, orange and chocolate. Italian Ice should never contain any non-dairy creamer or high fructose corn syrup. It always contains pure cane sugar.
In Philadelphia, along the Jersey Shore, and some New York City areas, this treat can be found just about anywhere, and is usually served in pizzerias or speciality Italian ice shops. Other variations are served by street vendors.
