CHICAGO — Pretty Cool Ice Cream is celebrating summer with a special collaboration alongside New York’s famed Levain Bakery, offering a unique toasted vanilla ice cream paired with Levain’s iconic cookies starting May 30.
Founded by award-winning pastry chef Dana Cree, Pretty Cool Ice Cream operates locations in Logan Square and Lincoln Park. Cree created the toasted vanilla flavor in honor of Levain Bakery’s 30th anniversary, aiming to complement the bakery’s renowned extra-thick, gooey cookies.
Levain Bakery, established in 1995 by Pam Weekes and Connie McDonald on New York City’s Upper West Side, has grown into a national favorite. To mark the milestone, Levain is partnering with ice cream shops near its seven locations, including two in Chicago, to launch the limited-edition Levain à la Mode line.
“I’m a long-time fan of Pam and Connie, and I jumped at the chance to collaborate with them—especially to celebrate their 30th anniversary,” said Cree. “The toasted vanilla in our ice cream pairs perfectly with the richness of their cookies.”
The Levain à la Mode treat includes one scoop of toasted vanilla ice cream alongside a 6-ounce Levain cookie and will be available all summer for $10.50 at Pretty Cool’s Chicago locations and Levain’s West Loop and River North bakeries. Additionally, Levain will bring back its popular seasonal Rocky Road cookie starting June 23.
Known for its innovative, community-inspired flavors, Pretty Cool Ice Cream frequently partners with local chefs and organizations to create limited-edition products, making it a notable player in the latest ice cream franchise landscape.
Meanwhile, Chicago’s vibrant food scene continues to buzz with sweet collaborations, such as the Bake Sale Croissant from Daisies pastry chef Leigh Omilinsky and Milk Bar’s Christina Tosi—a decadent croissant filled with chocolate chip and sprinkle cookies, topped with vanilla mousse and rainbow sprinkles, available through May to benefit Cookies for Kids’ Cancer.
Related topics
- Gelato: Authentic Italian Frozen Dessert | History, Flavors & Making Process
- King Cone in Plover Phases Out Artificial Dyes in Ice Cream, Embraces Natural Alternatives
- Perry’s Ice Cream Rolls Out Five Bold New Flavors for 2025
