Kansas City might be famous for barbecue, but there’s a whole other side to the food scene that deserves just as much attention — frozen desserts. From rich, creamy frozen custard to inventive, small-batch ice cream, Kansas City knows exactly how to cool things down after a day of burnt ends and brisket.
What makes it even better is the variety. You’ve got old-school custard stands that have been local staples for decades, alongside modern ice cream shops pushing boundaries with bold, creative flavours. Whether you’re craving something classic or looking to try something a bit different, there’s no shortage of spots to satisfy your sweet tooth.
So if you’re planning your own Kansas City food crawl (and trust me, you should be), make sure to leave room for dessert — because these are 6 frozen treats you won’t want to miss.
Navigation
- Andy’s Frozen Custard
- Betty Rae’s Ice Cream
- Foo’s Fabulous Frozen Custard
- High Hopes Ice Cream
- Custard’s Last Stand
- Fairway Creamery
Andy’s Frozen Custard – Taste Trekker Tried & Tested:
If there’s one place that defines frozen custard in Kansas City, it’s Andy’s. This Midwest favourite is known for its ultra-rich, creamy custard and generous portions, making it a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike.
The concretes are the star here — thick, indulgent, and packed with mix-ins — while the seasonal specials keep things interesting. Whether you’re stopping by after a BBQ feast or heading out for a late-night treat, Andy’s is a must-visit for a true taste of KC custard.
Flavours include: Bootdaddy Concrete, Texas 2-Step Jackhammer & Snowmonster Concrete
🌐Website
✔️ Personally reviewed by The Taste Trekker – Read my full review here
Betty Rae’s Ice Cream – Taste Trekker Tried & Tested
For something a little more modern, Betty Rae’s is one of the most popular ice cream spots in Kansas City — and for good reason. Known for its bold, creative flavours and small-batch production, this is where classic ice cream gets a fun, inventive twist.
From unique combinations to seasonal specials, there’s always something new to try. It’s a great contrast to the city’s custard scene and a perfect stop if you’re looking for something a bit different.
Flavours include: Lavender Honey, Crème Brulé & Ooey Gooey Buttercake
🌐Website
✔️ Personally reviewed by The Taste Trekker – Read my full review here
Foo’s Fabulous Frozen Custard
A long-standing local favourite, Foo’s Fabulous Frozen Custard brings a more nostalgic feel to the Kansas City dessert scene. Serving up classic concretes, sundaes, and shakes, it’s all about simple, well-executed custard done right.
The atmosphere is relaxed and unpretentious, making it the kind of place you can visit again and again. If you’re after a traditional custard experience without the crowds, Foo’s is a solid choice.
Flavours include: Java The Nut, Coffee Toffee & Foxy Lady
🌐Website
High Hopes Ice Cream
High Hopes is one of the more modern additions to the KC dessert scene, offering creative, small-batch ice cream with a focus on bold flavours and quality ingredients. It’s quickly built a strong local following thanks to its unique combinations and ever-changing menu.
If you enjoy trying something a bit different, this is the place to do it. Expect inventive scoops, a laid-back vibe, and plenty of reasons to come back for more.
Flavours include: Campfire S’mores, Thin Mint Fudge Swirl & Banana Haze
🌐Website
Custard’s Last Stand
A bit of a hidden gem just outside Kansas City, Custard’s Last Stand is the kind of place locals love — and visitors are glad they discovered. With its old-school charm and focus on classic frozen custard, it delivers a simple but seriously satisfying dessert experience.
The menu sticks to the basics, but that’s part of the appeal. If you’re willing to venture slightly outside the city, this is a great spot to experience a more traditional side of KC’s custard scene.
Flavours include: Nutcracker Concrete & Peppermint Bark Concrete
🌐Website
Fairway Creamery
A bit of a hidden gem just outside downtown Kansas City, Fairway Creamery is a local favourite that’s well worth seeking out. Known for its smooth, creamy soft serve and rotating flavours, it offers a slightly different take compared to the city’s more custard-heavy spots.
The menu keeps things simple but satisfying, with cones, sundaes, shakes, and floats all done really well. It’s the kind of place that feels more “neighbourhood go-to” than tourist hotspot — perfect if you’re looking to experience a more local side of Kansas City’s dessert scene.
Flavours include: French Lavender, Blueberry Biscoff & Birthday Cake
🌐Website
Kansas City might be best known for its barbecue, but as you can see, the dessert scene more than holds its own. Whether you’re going all-in on rich frozen custard at Andy’s Frozen Custard, trying creative flavours at Betty Rae’s Ice Cream, or discovering local favourites like Fairway Creamery, there’s no shortage of ways to satisfy your sweet tooth.
What makes it even better is how well these spots fit into a day of exploring — whether it’s a post-BBQ treat or a stop between sights, there’s always room for something cold and indulgent. And with a mix of classic custard stands, modern ice cream shops, and hidden gems, you can easily turn this into a dessert crawl of your own.
If you’re planning a trip, I’d definitely recommend adding at least one (or two… or three) of these to your itinerary — and if you’ve already tried any, I’d love to hear your favourites. down below.
🍽️Want More Kansas City Food Spots?
Check out our Kansas City Hub Page with even more eateries, attractions and things to do!
❓Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between ice cream and frozen custard?
The main difference is the ingredients. Frozen custard contains egg yolks, which give it a richer, creamier texture compared to traditional ice cream. It’s also churned more slowly, making it denser — something you’ll notice at spots like Andy’s Frozen Custard and Foo’s Fabulous Frozen Custard.
What are the best ice cream shops in Kansas City?
Kansas City has a great mix of classic and modern dessert spots. Betty Rae’s Ice Cream is known for its creative flavours, while High Hopes Ice Cream offers small-batch, locally loved options. For something more low-key, Fairway Creamery is a great hidden gem.
Are there good dessert spots outside downtown Kansas City?
Definitely. Some of the best spots are just outside the main city area. Custard’s Last Stand and Fairway Creamery are both worth the short trip and offer a more local feel.
💬 Let’s Hear From You!
Have you visited any of these Kansas City parlours? Or do you have a local favourite we should try next time? Drop a comment below and let us know — we love hearing from fellow food adventurers!
The Taste Trekker 
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