Anyone who knows me well understands the role that ice cream plays in my life. A scoop—be it Sweet Action [2]'s salted butterscotch, Bittersweet [3]'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 [4] shops I come across.

This weekend, while in Manitou Springs for a certain, ahem, wedding [5], I discovered the Colorado Custard Company [6]. 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 [7], 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