Berlin, February 27 – As spring-like temperatures begin to emerge, ice cream lovers across Germany can rejoice: more and more ice cream parlors are opening their doors in the coming days, marking the official start of the ice cream season. This announcement comes from Annalisa Carnio, spokesperson for Uniteis, the German Association of Italian Ice Cream Makers.
‘Pinocchio’ Crowned Ice Cream Flavor of the Year 2026
Many establishments will be featuring the highly anticipated Ice Cream Flavor of the Year 2026: ‘Pinocchio’. Carnio explains that ‘Pinocchio’ is a blend of milk ice cream and strawberry sorbet, elegantly garnished with grissini dipped in chocolate. The unique name pays homage to the 200th birthday of Italian author Carlo Collodi, creator of the beloved children’s character Pinocchio.
“We wanted to dedicate this year’s ice cream flavor to our Italian tradition and show that we value our literature and history,” Carnio stated.
It’s important to note that this new flavor has no connection to the popular children’s ice cream sundae, also named Pinocchio, which traditionally features Smarties for eyes, a waffle for a hat, and a cookie stick for a nose. However, the Pinocchio sundae remains a classic on children’s menus.
German Palates Prefer Classics, But Exotic Flavors Gain Traction
Despite the excitement surrounding new and creative offerings, Carnio emphasizes that classic flavors remain indispensable in German ice cream parlors. “In Germany, the public is conservative,” she noted. While exotic creations are often sampled, perennial favorites such as strawberry, vanilla, chocolate, hazelnut, and stracciatella continue to be the biggest sellers year after year.
As summer approaches, there is a noticeable trend towards more fruit-based ice creams and sorbets, with lemon and mango being particularly popular choices.
Ice Cream Season Extends into Winter with Cake-Inspired Flavors
Carnio also highlighted a growing trend: an increasing number of ice cream parlors are now remaining open during the winter months. During this period, their menus often feature cake-inspired flavors. Customers can enjoy frozen versions of Black Forest cherry cake, bee sting cake (Bienenstich), Linzer torte, or apple strudel.
Uniteis represents approximately 900 members, encompassing around 2,200 ice cream parlors that produce their own ice cream. The total number of ice cream businesses in Germany, however, is higher.
Source: dpa-infocom, dpa:260227-930-742511/1
