Menu of High Hopes Ice Cream in Kansas City, Missouri, USA

Menu Overview

High Hopes Ice Cream on Troost Ave in Kansas City stands as a hidden gem for ice cream lovers craving a mix of daring and comforting flavors. At first glance, this walk-up window shop might seem unassuming, but the menu tells a different story—one filled with bold, inventive ice cream varieties that rival any traditional scoop shop.

The real stars here are the unique flavor combinations like Blueberry Lemon Cheesecake and Cinnamon & Honey. The Blueberry Lemon Cheesecake, in particular, is a showstopper—rich, tangy, and perfectly balanced with a creamy base that tastes like a slice of summer. It’s so memorable that a customer even confessed they’d drive across Missouri for another taste.

Another highlight is the Bourbon Butter Pecan. This classic is elevated with a deep, nutty bourbon profile and buttery pecans that add a satisfying crunch. It’s one of those flavors that feels both luxurious and deeply comforting. The shop’s attention to texture shines here, as it does in their Double Scoop Cookies and Cream Waffle Bowl, which layers crunchy cookie bits with smooth ice cream for a perfect bite every time.

High Hopes also shines by embracing adventurous palates alongside those who prefer traditional tastes. The Local Breakfast flavor, combining maple, bacon, and pancake, is a novel savory-sweet experience, while the Strawberry Birthday Cake offers all the nostalgia of cake in a creamy form—sweet without being overwhelming.

For vegans and lactose-intolerant patrons, there are carefully curated options like “Oh My Gourd!” (a vegan pumpkin spice) and “Joy of Almonds,” a vegan chocolate blend with toasted almonds and crunchy coconut. These are not afterthoughts; they provide a rich, satisfying alternative without relying on basic sorbets. Even the vegan waffle cone earns praise for its flavor, despite a slightly chewy texture.

The pricing reflects the quality—quarts and pints hover around $13.95 and $7.95 respectively, offering a premium yet accessible treat. Seasonal specialties like Mango Chamoy frozen yogurt add a refreshing, tangy twist, further showcasing the brand's inventive spirit.

The atmosphere is casual with picnic tables lining the sidewalk, encouraging patrons to linger and savor the complexity of flavors. Service is consistently noted as friendly and informative, enhancing the overall experience.

In sum, High Hopes Ice Cream excels at crafting a finely balanced menu where bold meets familiar. It’s more than just an ice cream stop; it’s a destination for those seeking craftsmanship in every scoop, from the blueberry-bright cheesecake to the deep, silky bourbon butter pecan. Whether you’re a flavor adventurer or a classic cream devotee, this spot rewards your curiosity and palate alike.