Imagine indulging in a dessert that defies the norm of what ice cream is supposed to be. Supermodel Tyra Banks has challenged conventional dessert expectations by introducing “hot ice cream” at her Sydney ice cream shop. This unique creation, aptly named Hot Mama, has intrigued and puzzled many.
Since its introduction in late September, Hot Mama has sparked curiosity and debate. Tyra Banks has been actively promoting this novel dessert on social media, where some videos have amassed over a million views. Despite this, the concept of “hot” ice cream remains a mystery to many, including Business Insider, which sought clarification from Banks’ ice cream company, Smize & Dream.
‘Ice Cream Reimagined’
The intrigue surrounding Hot Mama isn’t without reason. The Smize & Dream team clarified that Hot Mama is not your typical melted ice cream. “It’s ice cream reimagined — churned, simmered, and perfected to be served warm and sippable,” they explained, emphasizing its uniqueness with a “couture 3D cup” and the signature SMiZE flair.
This innovative dessert is described as a “culinary contradiction” that manages to be delicious against all odds. This innovation is the result of over a year of testing different textures, formulations, and temperatures. Tyra Banks shared that initial attempts at heating standard ice cream bases resulted in undesired textures, but a breakthrough was achieved with the perfect viscosity.
The meticulous process involved rebalancing traditional ice cream ingredients like fats, sugars, and stabilizers to preserve the iconic “melt-on-the-tongue” experience. Some early tasters in Sydney have shared their impressions on social media, with one TikTok user likening it to a milkshake heated in the microwave — but delicious.
For those wondering about the taste, comparisons have been drawn to crème anglaise, a sweet French custard sauce. As Banks’ ice cream venture expands, Hot Mama is set to debut in New York City this winter, inviting more people to experience this unconventional dessert firsthand.
Banks’ journey into the ice cream industry started in 2020 when she announced her plans for a “premium ice cream” brand. Her passion for ice cream, inspired by her mother, has driven her to explore new dessert possibilities. With flavors like The Best Vanilla I Ever Had already available across the US, and a flagship store in Sydney, Banks continues to redefine what ice cream can be with Hot Mama.
