Tyra Banks, the iconic supermodel and entrepreneur, is expanding her innovative ice cream brand, Smize and Dream, into the United States. After stirring up curiosity and delight in Australia, Banks’ brand is ready to introduce its Hot Ice Cream to the U.S., with New York City set to be the first U.S. city to experience this groundbreaking dessert. But what exactly is “hot ice cream,” and why is it causing so much excitement?
What Is “Hot Ice Cream”?
Tyra Banks has been teasing her Hot Ice Cream concept for months, but it’s only recently that she’s revealed more details about what this unconventional treat actually entails. In an exclusive statement to TODAY, Banks described the product as “reimagined ice cream,” which, honestly, doesn’t clear up much confusion but certainly sparks curiosity.
So, what makes this ice cream hot? Unlike traditional ice cream, which is served frozen, Hot Ice Cream is a warm, melted version of the beloved dessert that somehow still maintains the creamy texture we know and love. Hot Ice Cream is a part of the Smize and Dream brand’s ethos, which aims to turn everyday pleasures into something extraordinary and surprising. It promises to deliver a rich and decadent experience that feels both nostalgic and novel.
Banks herself emphasized that the product is not just “melted ice cream,” but an entirely new form of indulgence. By introducing the concept of “hot” ice cream, she is challenging the traditional boundaries of dessert. The mix of temperature and texture provides a sensory experience unlike any other, making it perfect for cozy winter nights, or even as a winter treat on chilly city streets.
From Australia to New York: A Global Expansion
This launch is no small feat for Banks and her brand. The ice cream, which debuted in Sydney, Australia, earlier this year, quickly became a media sensation, sparking curiosity around the world. It’s rare for a dessert to stir such a buzz, and Hot Ice Cream did just that by blending a traditional summer treat with a surprising winter twist.
“After igniting global curiosity in Sydney and sparking an international media storm,” reads the press release, “Tyra Banks and her innovative ice cream brand SMiZE & DREAM are officially bringing the world’s first Hot Mama: Hot Ice Cream to New York City this winter.”
As the first U.S. city to experience Hot Ice Cream, New York City will be ground zero for this new trend. The brand is rolling out this icy treat just in time for the cooler months, aiming to bring warmth and sweetness to the chilly streets of the Big Apple. New Yorkers will get to indulge in Hot Ice Cream at select locations in the city, creating a buzz that will likely spread to other U.S. cities if the launch proves successful.
The brand’s expansion into the U.S. marks a pivotal moment for Tyra Banks. Known for her many accomplishments in modeling, television, and business, she’s now turning her attention to transforming the way we think about ice cream. This move into the U.S. market is strategic, as the American public has long been receptive to innovative food trends, and Banks’ Smize & Dream brand is poised to ride this wave.
Why “Hot Ice Cream” Makes Sense in 2025
In 2025, we’ve seen food trends take unexpected turns. From plant-based meat alternatives to alcoholic ice cream, the world of culinary experimentation has never been more vibrant. Hot Ice Cream is simply another example of how the food industry is pushing the limits of what we traditionally think of as a treat.
While ice cream is typically associated with summer, the concept of Hot Ice Cream ties perfectly into the cultural obsession with comfort foods during colder months. The idea of enjoying a dessert that is typically frozen in a warm and comforting way is exactly the type of innovation that the culinary world craves in 2025. Whether it’s a new twist on an old favorite or a fun combination of textures and temperatures, food lovers are looking for novel experiences that engage the senses.
Banks’ ice cream comes at a time when nostalgia is a huge cultural force. From 90s-inspired fashion to retro food trends, people are increasingly seeking out things that remind them of their youth but with a fresh, modern twist. By combining the familiarity of ice cream with the unexpected warmth of a hot dessert, Hot Ice Cream is sure to draw people in with its novelty and nostalgia.
What Makes “Hot Ice Cream” Different?
While there’s no official ingredient list or flavor profile available yet, Hot Ice Cream is expected to offer the same premium quality that Banks has built her reputation on. Smize and Dream is known for using the finest ingredients to craft their desserts, so it’s likely that their Hot Ice Cream will be no different. Expect rich flavors with a smooth, creamy texture, despite the warmth.
In terms of flavors, Hot Ice Cream is likely to feature the brand’s signature flavors, alongside seasonal limited-edition offerings that will change throughout the year. Based on the brand’s other products, you can expect flavors such as caramel, vanilla bean, chocolate fudge, and possibly even more adventurous options like salted caramel or espresso.
The ice cream will also feature personalized options, in true Smize & Dream style. Banks has often placed an emphasis on customization in her brand, and it’s likely that customers will be able to tweak their Hot Ice Cream to their preferences. Whether it’s extra toppings or a choice of sauces, the aim is to create an experience that’s both delicious and unique.
Tyra Banks: A Marketing Genius
Tyra Banks has always had a knack for creating captivating and unforgettable brand experiences. From her work in modeling and television to her entrepreneurial ventures, she knows how to generate buzz. With Smize & Dream, Banks has taken her years of experience in branding and product development and applied it to the world of food, where she’s able to flex her creative muscles.
In addition to the product itself, the Smize & Dream marketing campaign for Hot Ice Cream has been top-notch. By leveraging social media, celebrity endorsements, and partnerships, Tyra Banks is using her platform to ensure that Hot Ice Cream becomes the next big thing. Her global influence, combined with the novelty of the product, is a recipe for success.
What’s Next for Tyra Banks and Smize & Dream?
The arrival of Hot Ice Cream in the U.S. is only the beginning. If the product proves to be a hit, it could lead to an expansion of the brand across the country and internationally. The brand’s innovative spirit will likely continue to inspire new ideas, possibly with more unexpected twists on traditional desserts.
Banks has proven time and again that she is capable of launching successful businesses, and her ice cream brand is poised to take the world by storm. With its reimagined flavors, warm take on a cold favorite, and dedication to quality, Hot Ice Cream is setting the stage for the next big food trend.
Conclusion
Tyra Banks’ Hot Ice Cream is a unique, bold, and creative approach to reimagining a classic favorite. As the world eagerly anticipates its launch in New York this winter, it’s clear that Tyra Banks is ready to bring warmth, innovation, and indulgence to the dessert world. Whether you’re curious about the concept or excited to try something new, Hot Ice Cream is sure to be the talk of the season.
