Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream: Cool Treats for Hot Days

When it comes to ice cream, few names hold as much nostalgia and charm as Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream. Since 1945, this beloved brand has been serving up rich, creamy scoops made fresh daily, one batch at a time.

Known for using only the finest ingredients in generous amounts, Handel’s has earned its reputation as “the #1 ice cream on the planet”—a title proudly given by National Geographic Magazine.

Handel’s has already been a sweet staple in Summerlin. But now, ice cream lovers have even more to celebrate: a brand-new location in Henderson.

We recently stopped by the Summerlin shop to get a taste of what makes Handel’s so irresistible, and let’s say—it was an experience worth every spoonful.

Scoops That Shine: Black Cherry, Cotton Candy, and Mint Chocolate Chip

Sampling flavors at Handel’s feels like embarking on a flavor adventure. Each bite is packed with freshness, and the attention to detail in every scoop is immediately noticeable.

We started with Black Cherry, a classic flavor that bursts with pieces of real fruit, perfectly balancing sweet creaminess with tart cherry bites. Next up was Cotton Candy, a whimsical swirl of color and sweetness that instantly brought back childhood memories of carnival treats.

Finally, we tried Mint Chocolate Chip, cool and refreshing with just the right amount of chocolate crunch—it tasted clean, natural, and wonderfully indulgent.

It’s easy to see why Handel’s has become a local favorite: the flavors aren’t just good—they taste alive.

More Than Just Scoops: A Menu Full of Temptation

Of course, Handel’s doesn’t stop at traditional cones. Their menu is a wonderland of choices, offering everything from sundaes to shakes and even ice cream pops. Here are a few highlights worth exploring:

Cones & Dishes
Whether you love a crisp cake cone, a hand-dipped chocolate waffle cone, or a hearty waffle bowl, Handel’s makes sure your scoop has the perfect partner.

Pints & Quarts
Can’t decide on just one flavor? Take a pint or a quart home. With over 100 varieties rotating through their lineup, stocking up ensures you always have your favorites on hand.

Sundaes
Handel’s sundaes are masterpieces. Choose from classic toppings like caramel, hot fudge, and marshmallow, or dive into specialty creations like the Hot Fudge Brownie Sundae or the Turtle Sundae—each crowned with whipped cream and, of course, a cherry on top.

Hurricanes
A playful twist on blended treats, Hurricanes combine vanilla ice cream with mix-ins ranging from Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups to Oreo® cookie pieces, creating a spoon-worthy delight in every bite.

Shakes
From classic banana to indulgent Vanilla Caramel Brownie, milkshake lovers can enjoy any flavor blended into a rich, creamy shake. Just grab a straw and sip happiness.

Handel Pops
These handheld treats elevate ice cream to the next level. Vanilla, chocolate, or mint chocolate chip ice cream is dipped in gourmet chocolate and served on a stick—perfect for when you want something both portable and decadent.

4-Scoop Sampler
Can’t decide? This option lets you mix and match four flavors into one tray of happiness. Sharing is optional, but with scoops this good, it’s easy to keep them all to yourself.

A Sweet Tradition Since 1945

What truly sets Handel’s apart is its commitment to freshness. Each store makes its ice cream on-site daily, continuing a tradition started more than 75 years ago in Youngstown, Ohio. This hands-on approach ensures every scoop is crafted with care, using only premium ingredients like ripe fruits, crunchy nuts, and rich chocolates.

This dedication has helped Handel’s grow from a single stand into a beloved nationwide brand—all while preserving its small-town, homemade heart.

Now Scooping in Henderson

While the Summerlin location has long been a family favorite, the opening of Handel’s in Henderson means more Southern Nevadans can enjoy the magic of these handcrafted flavors. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, cooling off after a desert hike, or simply treating yourself after a long day, Handel’s is ready to make life a little sweeter.

Why Handel’s Wins Hearts

Their menu caters to kids craving colorful Cotton Candy scoops, adults looking for something decadent like a Turtle Sundae, and everyone in between.

Each visit feels both special and familiar. Maybe it’s the warm smiles behind the counter, the smell of freshly baked waffle cones, or the simple pleasure of watching kids’ eyes light up as they pick their flavors. Whatever the reason, Handel’s isn’t just an ice cream shop—it’s an experience.

A Local Scoop You Don’t Want to Miss

Next time you’re in Summerlin—or near the new Henderson shop—stop by Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream. Whether you’re savoring a Black Cherry cone, grabbing a pint for later, or treating the kids to a Cotton Candy sampler, you’ll discover why this family-run tradition has endured for generations.

Because at Handel’s, ice cream isn’t just made—it’s crafted with love, one scoop at a time.