The Most Popular Summer Treat, Ranked

Choose the summer treat you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on Jul 25, 2024 07:12
As the heat rises and the days grow longer, many find comfort and refreshment in enjoying a delightful summer treat. With countless options available, each promising a unique burst of flavor and coolness, it can be almost overwhelming to choose the perfect one. The preference for these treats varies widely from person to person, influenced by tastes shaped by culture, dietary restrictions, and personal fondness. To assist in identifying the most beloved summer treats, this ranking system has been developed, relying on user votes to gauge popularity. By casting a vote, users contribute to a broader understanding of what stands out in terms of flavor, enjoyment, and satisfaction among a diverse population. This ongoing tally not only reflects current trends but also helps others make informed choices when looking to indulge in a summertime treat.

What Is the Most Popular Summer Treat?

  1. 1
    38
    points
    Popsicles

    Popsicles

    Frozen treats on a stick made from water, flavoring, and sweeteners. Popsicles come in a variety of fruit and creamy flavors.
    • Invention: Invented by accident by an 11-year-old named Frank Epperson in 1905.
    • Variety: Available in a wide range of flavors, from classic fruit to modern gourmet combinations.
  2. 2
    19
    points
    Lemonade

    Lemonade

    A sweetened lemon-flavored beverage. There are varieties of lemonade found throughout the world, generally made with lemons, water, and sugar.
    • Variations: Comes in cloudy (traditional) and clear varieties, with pink lemonade as another popular version.
    • History: The earliest written evidence of lemonade has been found in Egypt, dating back to 1000 AD.
  3. 3
    15
    points
    Watermelon

    Watermelon

    A large, sweet fruit filled with water and nutrients. It's a refreshing, hydrating, and healthy snack for hot summer days.
    • Hydration: Contains about 92% water, making it perfect for hydration during the summer.
    • Origin: Originated in Africa, and has been cultivated for over 4,000 years.
  4. 4
    6
    points
    Smoothies

    Smoothies

    A thick, smooth drink made from blended raw fruits, vegetables, and sometimes dairy products or sweeteners. A nutritious and customizable summer treat.
    • Nutrition: Can be packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber depending on the ingredients used.
    • Versatility: Easily customizable to dietary needs and preferences, including vegan and sugar-free options.
  5. 5
    0
    points
    Shaved Ice

    Shaved Ice

    A summer treat made from shaving a block of ice and adding flavored syrup. It's known for its light, fluffy texture and comes in many flavors.
    • Texture: Known for its soft, snow-like texture that easily absorbs syrups.
    • Global Variations: Known as 'kakigōri' in Japan, 'halo-halo' in the Philippines, and 'bingsu' in Korea, each with its unique preparation and flavors.
  6. 6
    0
    points
    Sorbet

    Sorbet

    A frozen dessert made from sweetened water flavored with fruit (juice or puree), wine, and/or liqueur. It's dairy-free, making it a popular choice for those with dietary restrictions.
    • Dairy-Free: Contains no dairy, making it a great option for vegans and those lactose intolerant.
    • Origins: The word sorbet is derived from the Arabic word 'Sharbat,' a sweet drink.
  7. 7
    0
    points
    Frozen Yogurt

    Frozen Yogurt

    A frozen dessert made with yogurt and sometimes other dairy products. It's known for being a healthier alternative to ice cream.
    • Healthier Option: Often contains live probiotic cultures and has fewer calories than ice cream.
    • Popularity Surge: Gained significant popularity in the 1980s as a healthier dessert option.
  8. 8
    0
    points
    Ice Cream

    Ice Cream

    A frozen dessert made from dairy products, such as milk and cream, combined with flavors and sweeteners. This treat is beloved worldwide and comes in countless flavors.
    • Variety: Available in flavors ranging from vanilla and chocolate to more exotic options like avocado or charcoal.
    • History: Has been a popular treat for centuries, with early versions dating back to ancient China.
  9. 9
    0
    points
    Gelato

    Gelato

    An Italian version of ice cream that's denser and has less fat than its American counterpart. Known for its intense flavor and smooth texture.
    • Density: Churned at a slower rate than ice cream, incorporating less air and making it denser.
    • Fat Content: Contains a lower percentage of fat than ice cream, due to using more milk and less cream.
  10. 10
    0
    points
    Fruit Salad

    Fruit Salad

    A dish consisting of various kinds of fruit, sometimes served in a liquid, either in their own juices or a syrup. A healthy and refreshing summer choice.
    • Health Benefits: A great source of essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber.
    • Variety: Can include any combination of fruits, depending on seasonality and personal preference.

Missing your favorite summer treat?

Graphs
Error: Failed to render graph
Discussion
No discussion started, be the first!

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular summer treat. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or treat is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 1997 views
  • 78 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Movers & Shakers

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each treat once every 24 hours. The rank of each treat is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

Additional Information

More about the Most Popular Summer Treat

Popsicles
Rank #1 for the most popular summer treat: Popsicles (Source)
Summer brings long days and warm weather. People look for ways to stay cool and enjoy the season. One popular way to do this is with a cold treat. These treats have a long history and come in many forms.

The idea of a frozen treat dates back to ancient times. People in China and Persia used snow and ice to make sweet, icy dishes. They mixed fruit juices and honey with the ice. This created refreshing snacks that helped them stay cool.

Centuries later, these ideas spread to Europe. In Italy, chefs began to experiment with similar recipes. They added milk and cream to the mix. This made the treats richer and smoother. These new creations became popular among the wealthy. Soon, they spread to other parts of Europe.

In the 18th century, these treats reached America. Immigrants brought their recipes and techniques with them. They adapted the recipes to use local ingredients. This led to new variations and flavors.

As technology improved, making these treats became easier. In the 19th century, ice houses and iceboxes allowed people to store ice and keep things cold. This made it possible to enjoy frozen treats at home. Soon, street vendors began selling them in cities. They used carts with large blocks of ice to keep their products cold.

The 20th century saw even more changes. Electric freezers became common in homes. This made it simple to make and store frozen treats. Companies began mass-producing them, making them affordable and available to everyone.

Today, these treats come in many forms. Some are creamy, while others are icy. They can be simple or filled with various ingredients. There are options for every taste and preference. Some are even made with healthier ingredients, like fresh fruit and natural sweeteners.

People enjoy these treats in many settings. They are popular at beaches, parks, and festivals. Families often make them at home, creating fun activities for kids. They are also a staple at summer parties and barbecues.

These treats are more than just a way to cool down. They bring people together and create memories. Sharing a cold treat with friends or family is a simple pleasure that adds to the joy of summer.

In recent years, new trends have emerged. Some people experiment with unique flavors and combinations. Others focus on using organic or locally-sourced ingredients. These trends show that while the basic idea remains the same, there is always room for innovation.

Despite changes over time, the appeal of a cold treat in the summer remains strong. It is a simple, enjoyable way to beat the heat. Whether enjoyed alone or shared with others, these treats are a beloved part of the season. They remind us to slow down, savor the moment, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.

Share this article