Europe’s Evolving Ice Cream Culture: Beyond the Summer Cone

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Is ice cream really just a summertime treat in Europe — or is it an ever-evolving staple with year-round appeal? Recent trends and statistics suggest Europe’s love affair with ice cream is more nuanced — and more resilient — than many might think.

Datassential has recently published a comprehensive report on Cheese and Dairy in Europe, highlighting the evolving patterns and preferences shaping the dairy market across the continent.

In Europe, ice cream is more than just a dessert — it’s a cherished ritual, especially in countries like Italy and Spain. Whether enjoyed in cones, on sticks, or in generous cups, ice cream is often paired with other desserts or savoured on its own as a quick, delightful treat.

Ice cream offers several advantages when compared with other treats: it’s affordably priced, highly versatile in preparations, easily adapts to a wide range of desserts, and doesn’t require advanced know-how to serve or enjoy.

While consumption traditionally peaks in summer, manufacturers are working hard to innovate and make ice cream a year-round pleasure. New formats and flavour combinations are pushing the boundaries and tempting consumers beyond the sunny season.

Who eats the most – and where?

AT-HOME INDULGENCE: ITALY TOPS THE CHARTS

Ice cream is a household staple for nearly everyone: 96% of Europeans report eating it at home, with Italy again leading at 98%. About a quarter of Italians, Germans, and Spaniards who regularly consume dairy products say they enjoy ice cream several times per week at home. In the UK, that figure drops to 20%, and in France, to 17%.

EATING OUT: ITALIANS ARE THE BIGGEST FANS

Italians are especially enthusiastic: a staggering 94% say they eat ice cream outside the home. When dining out, nearly 20% of Italians, Germans, and Spaniards — who regularly consume dairy — choose ice cream several times a week. For the French, it’s 17%; for the British, 13%.

Frequency and emerging patterns

AT HOME: COMFORT IS KEY

Germans top the chart for at-home ice cream enjoyment, averaging 5.0 times per month. Italians and Spaniards aren’t far behind, with 4.9 and 4.8 times per month respectively. French consumers treat themselves at home about 4.0 times each month, while those in the UK do so 3.9 times monthly. Relaxing at home with a scoop (or two) is a popular ritual across the continent.

EATING OUT: SOCIAL SCOOPS

Europeans also love to indulge when out and about. Once again, Germans and Spaniards lead the way, both enjoying ice cream while dining out an average of 4.2 times per month. Italians are close behind at 4.1 times, followed by the French at 3.7 times and the British at 3.0 times per month. Whether it’s at a café, a restaurant, or an ice cream parlor, sharing a treat out seems popular in these countries.

The future scoop

A MARKET IN TRANSITION

Despite its popularity, there are signs of change: nearly 2.5 times as many French away-from-home consumers have decreased as have increased their ice cream intake in the past year. Similar declines are seen in Germany (2.9 times) and Spain (2.9 times). Consumption is falling but less drastically in the U.K. with 21% decreasing and 13% increasing their consumption.

THE FUTURE: A SCOOP OF CHANGE

Ice cream’s story in Europe is one of both tradition and transformation. While the classic cone or cup still brings joy to millions, evolving habits and the push for year-round innovation are reshaping the market. For industry players, the message is clear: adapt to new tastes, embrace innovation, and ice cream will continue to delight Europeans—not just when the sun is shining, but all year long.