National Spumoni Day, celebrated on August 21 each year, honors the Italian ice cream that mixes cream, fruit, and nuts. On this day (and generally), it’s considered poor to scoop spumoni; it should be sliced instead. Though it originated in Naples, spumoni is now enjoyed more in the United States and Argentina than in Naples itself. Traditionally, flavored gelato was layered into three parts and molded into a dessert, often with a chocolate coating and topped with candied fruits and nuts.
History of National Spumoni Day
There is not much information about the origins of National Spumoni Day or its creation. Instead, we focused on discovering who invented spumoni ice cream and when. This led us on a memorable journey into the world of ice cream.
Most food historians believe spumoni originated in Naples, Italy, in the 19th century. A 1979 article from the Chicago Tribune notes that an “authentic spumoni” recipe was brought to the United States from Nola, Italy, in 1905 and became known as Neapolitan ice cream.
In Chicago, Salvatore Lezza and his wife Lucia started a bakery where the original recipe for spumoni was requested. The recipe called for three layers of semifreddo: almond, semisweet chocolate, and stracciatella, a type of gelato with irregular chunks of chocolate.
The three most popular flavors of spumoni in the United States are chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry. This version has gained popularity there, while in Europe, traditional Italian spumoni remains well-loved with a variety of flavor combinations.
In the U.S., spumoni typically features cherry with cherry bits, pistachio, and chocolate layers. Other flavors like hazelnut, vanilla, strawberry, and pineapple are also available.
The best spumoni can be found in Italian neighborhoods like Bensonhurst in Brooklyn. One of the most popular spots there is L and B Spumoni Gardens, which is a stop on our pizza Tour.
Before opening the storefront in 1939, Ludovico Barbati (the “L” and “B” in the name) sold spumoni door-to-door from a horse-drawn wagon in the 1930s. L&B’s version differs from the traditional Italian one; it’s served in Italian ice cups, making it easier to transport, and is a blend of ice cream and Italian ice.
Serve spumoni cut to showcase its beautiful layers, which is considered the traditional way to serve this ice cream. Although spumoni can be scooped, cutting it highlights its distinctive layers. At first glance, spumoni might seem like Neapolitan ice cream, as they are very similar except for the added fruits and nuts.
Spumoni influenced the creation of Neapolitan ice cream and also impacted cakes, biscuits, and other foods.
| 1905 (It Arrives in the U.S.) | Salvatore Lezza and his wife, Lucia, bring the first original spumoni recipe to the United States from Nola, Italy. |
| 1924 (The First-Known Use of the Word ‘Spumoni’) | The term is first used to describe an ice cream with layers of diverse colors, flavors, and textures, frequently topped with candied fruits and nuts. |
| 1930s (Sold From Door to Door) | Ludovico Barbati, the L&B in the name, begins selling spumoni door to door around Brooklyn on a horse-drawn wagon. |
5 Interesting Facts About Spumoni
- It’s Never Scooped: Unlike regular ice cream, spumoni is always sliced rather than scooped.
- The Italian Flag Representation: The most popular spumoni flavor features colors that represent the Italian flag—red, white, and green.
- Italian Origins: Spumoni, the plural form of spumone meaning ‘foam,’ was invented in Naples, Italy.
- Popular Among Italian Immigrants: Spumoni is especially popular in countries with large Italian immigrant communities, such as the United States and Argentina.
- Christmas Dessert: In many parts of the United States, spumoni is a traditional Christmas dessert and is often served alongside cookies.
The Flavors of Spumoni
Spumoni’s traditional flavors are a celebration of classic Italian tastes:
- Pistachio: The nutty flavor of pistachio is a staple in many spumoni recipes. Its rich and creamy texture complements the other flavors beautifully.
- Chocolate: Chocolate gelato adds a rich and indulgent layer to spumoni. The deep, intense flavor of chocolate contrasts with the lighter, nuttier pistachio.
- Cherry: Cherry adds a fruity and slightly tart flavor that balances the sweetness of the chocolate and the richness of the pistachio.
Modern variations of spumoni may include additional flavors like coffee, hazelnut, or even more exotic fruit combinations. The key to a successful spumoni is achieving a balance between the different layers so that each flavor is distinct yer harmonious.
Conclusion
National Spumoni Day on August 21 celebrates the Italian ice cream known for its distinct layers of pistachio, chocolate, and cherry flavors. Originating in Naples, spumoni has become a favorite in the U.S. and Argentina. Traditionally sliced to showcase its layers, soumoni’s rich history and unique flavor combinations continue to delight fans worldwide, from festive Christmas desserts to everyday indulgences.
Frequently Ask Question
How should spumoni be served?
Spumoni is traditionally sliced rather than scooped to showcase its distinct layers. This method highlights its colorful and layered presentation.
What are the traditional flavors of spumoni?
Traditional spumoni flavors include pistachio, chocolate, and cherry. Modern variations may include additional flavors like coffee or hazelnut.
Where did spumoni originate?
Spumoni originated in Naples, Italy, in the 19th century. It was later brought to the United States in 1905 by Salvatore Lezza and his wife, Lucia.
How is spumoni different from Neapolitan ice cream?
While both spumoni and Neapolitan ice cream feature layered flavors, spumoni traditionally includes added fruits and nuts, whereas Neapolitan typically consists of vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry layers.
You may also like to read, National Soft Ice Cream Day – August 19, 2024
