Anyone who knows me well understands the role that ice cream plays in my life. A scoop—be it Sweet Action‘s salted butterscotch, Bittersweet‘s fresh mint, or (sigh) a Dairy Queen Butterfinger Blizzard—is a daily indulgence. As such, I regard it my duty to try any and all ice cream or frozen custard shops I come across.

This weekend, while in Manitou Springs for a certain, ahem, wedding, I discovered the Colorado Custard Company. At this tiny, order-at-the-window shop, a small cone equals two generous scoops. Tempted as I was to order an Avalanche (CCC’s version of the Blizzard), keeping it simple allowed me to taste the custard’s integrity. My scoops revealed a silky, perfectly melty (frozen custard is served about 10 degrees warmer than ice cream to maximize flavor), vanilla-forward treat. I’ll happily drive the 70 miles for another taste of this heavenly dessert.

Tip: David Lebovitz’s book, the Perfect Scoop, is an ice cream addict’s bible. The easy recipes ensure the freezer is never empty. My current favorites are fresh fig and super lemon.

906 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 719-685-5400

Amanda M. Faison
Amanda M. Faison
Freelance writer Amanda M. Faison spent 20 years at 5280 Magazine, 12 of those as Food Editor.