Glam Slam: Here’s The Scoop

July is National Ice Cream Month! Yummy!!!! This Summer, beat the heat with a fresh party idea from InStyle Magazine… throw a grown-up ice cream bash! Associate Market Editor Kate Donovan of InStyle’s Life, etc. section worked with entertaining expert Amy Atlas to dish up tips for throwing the perfect party.

1. GET READY EARLY
Being organized ahead of time is key – buy ice cream, napkins, tablecloths and tools about a week before your party. About a day ahead, scoop out ice cream balls, lay on cookie sheets and cover with plastic wrap to stash in the freezer. When guests arrive, you’ll have time to quickly assemble all the pieces.

2. CREATE A SURPRISE
Unusual flavors stand out when served on top of cupcakes instead of icing. Swap out plain vanilla for a scoop of Jeni’s Sweet Corn and Black Raspberry ice cream ($12/pint; www.jenisicecreams.com) or LaLoo’s Black Mission Fig goat’s milk ice cream ($7/pint; www.icecreamsource.com). For a spiced-up version of a favorite flavor, try Ciao Bella’s Chocolate Jalapeno gelato ($7/pint; www.icecreamsource.com).

3. SERVE A MATCH MADE IN HEAVEN
Experiment with a variety of toppings like crunchy nuts or delicate candied violets. Sea salt sprinkled over chocolate caramel ice cream is a sweet and savory combo, while fresh mint leaves over lemon ice cream is a citrusy palate cleanser.

4. JAZZ UP A CLASSIC
The ice cream sandwich gets an instant update when mini brioches are hollowed out, then filled with dark chocolate gelato. Skip the sundae mess by pre-rolling ice cream balls in crushed toppings – simply drizzle berry coulis or dulce de leche on top when ready to serve.

5. OFFER A THIRST QUENCHER
Bubbly seltzer with a dash of fruit or herb-infused simple syrup is a refreshing accompaniment to rich and decadent ice cream. Try Sonoma Syrup’s Lavender syrup ($16, www.sonomasyrupstore.com) with a sprig of a fresh herb or an edible flower as a garnish.

For more, check out InStyle’s July issue, on sale now, and go to www.InStyle.com.