McAlister’s Deli sweet tea inspires new artisan ice cream. Where to buy a pint
Fans of McAlister’s Deli sweet tea are in for a cool, new treat just in time for the summer.
The national restaurant chain is putting a creamy spin on its famous drink with the launch of a limited edition Sweet Tea Ice Cream, in partnership with Cincinnati-based ice cream brand Creamalicious, for National Iced Tea Day, the companies announced.
Fans can pick up a pint for $7.99 at participating McAlister’s Deli locations nationwide on Friday, June 10, starting at 5 p.m. local time, according to a news release. The dessert is only available in-store and will be around through June 12 — or while supplies last.
It’s also available for purchase on the Creamalicious website.
The new dessert is “churned with natural black tea” and swirled with notes of sugar cookie and lemon “to evoke the feeling of sipping a freshly brewed Sweet Tea on an open-air porch,” a product description reads. The chef-inspired creation is made without artificial flavors or colors.
“We’re thrilled to put such a fun twist on our most iconic menu item and allow fans the opportunity to experience their favorite Sweet Tea in a new way,” Courtney Bufford, executive chef at McAlister’s Deli, said in a statement. “With Creamalicious being known for transforming blissful Southern recipes into ice cream, we knew they were the perfect partner to collaborate on a unique confection out of our Famous Sweet Tea.”
The artisan ice cream brand, created by executive chef Liz Rogers, was recently thrust into the national spotlight after Walmart launched a red velvet-cheesecake swirl ice cream to commemorate Juneteenth. The product was recalled, however, after swift backlash on social media, McClatchy News reported.
Many felt the retail giant missed an opportunity to promote Black-owned Creamalicious, which sells a similar red velvet-flavored dessert in Walmart stores.
In a statement, Rogers expressed excitement over her new creation with McAlister’s Deli.
“Creamalicious was born out of honoring traditional dessert recipes passed down for generations,” she said. “McAlister’s Deli captures the essence of genuine hospitality, so we’re excited our Sweet Tea Ice Cream will be an extension of the authentic nature both brands embody.”
Find your nearest McAlister’s Deli here.
This story was originally published June 10, 2022 at 9:33 AM with the headline "McAlister’s Deli sweet tea inspires new artisan ice cream. Where to buy a pint."