Baldwins Farmhouse Ice Cream - Special Irish Foods & The People Who Make Them

Given Ireland’s lush grass and strong dairy tradition, it is not surprising that a lot of dairy farmers have diversified into ice cream production in recent years, and we are now fortunate to have quite a wide choice of high quality, small production ice creams - although distribution tends to be limited to their local area.

One to look out for when visiting the south and south-eastern counties is Baldwins Farmhouse Ice Cream - and it was in fact their sign that drew our attention to chef Avril Fox’s newly opened shop and café, The Farran Pantry (021 743 2758 / Facebook:TheFarranPantry) just off the N22 Cork-Killarney road recently: if they were stocking Baldwins, this would probably be a quality operation. And, having demolished a tub of vanilla (always the best test), it was confirmed that a Baldwins treat would be as good an excuse as any to make a first visit this handy pitstop.

Baldwins Farm House Ice Cream is made on the family farm near Knockanore village in beautiful West Waterford. Having been inspired by a farms tour in Holland some years ago, Thomas Baldwin, with his parents John and Maria, now uses the milk and cream from their Holstein/British Friesian cross cows to produce an outstanding dairy ice cream.

Unlike many modern ice creams, it is made on a traditional crème anglaise base and in small batches, and uses a special pasteurising technique which protects the natural flavours - and the difference is obvious, in both the rich flavour and the lovely creamy texture.

The retail range includes classic vanilla, strawberry and half a dozen other popular flavours, and a much wider range is available for hotels and restaurants throughout the region, many of whom take pride in showcasing these excellent products. They also attend events, and have an ice cream cart which can be hired out for special occasions.

Look for their ice cream in speciality shops in the Waterford/Cork area, and in local restaurants including Farmgate, Midleton, and Electric, in Cork city. It is well worth seeking out.