Italian ice is unquestionably an essential summertime Chicago dessert. The basic recipe for the iconic frozen treat is fairly agreed upon: a proper ice should contain sugar, frozen water, and whole fruits or juice. Italian ice comes in a multitude of flavors, but the most classic and widespread variety is lemon, sometimes also called frozen Italian lemonade.

Though some Italian ice spots blend pulp, seeds, or even fruit peels in their mixtures, others strain out the fruit and go for a creamier recipe.