This Popular Ice Cream Flavor Came Straight from Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

When people think of Michigan and ice cream, the Superman flavor is usually the one we’re associated with (even though our credit for being the ones that created it is debated.)

And what’s not to love, it’s a colorful swirl of red, blue, and yellow that’s as bold as it is nostalgic. But there’s another flavor with deep Michigan roots that has quietly become a nationwide favorite, and most people don’t even know it’s from here: Moose Tracks.

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Let me fill you in on the history of this sweet, beloved flavor. Moose Tracks was born in 1988 in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Wally Blume, co-founder of Denali Flavors, crafted the original recipe in his basement. And he did it by combining vanilla ice cream, mini peanut butter cups, and a rich fudge swirl.

Where did the ice cream flavor Moose Tracks get it's name?

The name “Moose Tracks” was inspired not by the animal itself, but by a nearby mini golf course in Marquette, Michigan. Although, that was a reference to the local animal, so it’s kind of indirectly related to one of the UP’s most unique animals. The first scoops were served at Jilbert’s Dairy, a local ice cream shop, where the flavor quickly gained popularity.

From these humble Yooper beginnings, Moose Tracks has expanded well beyond Michigan. Denali Flavors has since licensed the recipe to various ice cream manufacturers.

After doing this, it caused the flavor to appear in grocery stores across the country, thanks to national brands like Dean's making their own version.

Today, Moose Tracks is a staple in many households, with variations like Chocolate Moose Tracks and Mint Moose Tracks showing up on store shelves across the world.

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So, while Superman ice cream holds a special place in every Michiganders’s heart, Moose Tracks is really our state’s greatest sweet innovation.