Summer in New Jersey is a magical time. The boardwalks buzz with energy, the beaches hum with laughter, and ice cream shops become the heart of every town. From Cape May to Asbury Park, there’s one question that sparks friendly debates over cones and cups: Are you team jimmies or team sprinkles? As we dive into this sweet season, let’s explore the history, culture, and pure joy of these colorful ice cream toppings that make summer in the Garden State so special.
The Origins: Jimmies vs. Sprinkles
First, let’s clear up the terminology. Whether you call them jimmies or sprinkles, we’re talking about those tiny, sugary bits that add a crunch and a burst of color to your soft serve or hard-scoop ice cream. But where did these names come from?
- Jimmies: Legend has it that jimmies were named in the 1930s by Just Born, a candy company in Pennsylvania. The story goes that a worker named Jimmy was behind the creation of these chocolatey bits, and the name stuck. In New Jersey, “jimmies” often refers specifically to chocolate sprinkles, though some folks use it for any variety.
- Sprinkles: This term is broader, encompassing all colors and flavors of these sugary decorations. Rainbow sprinkles, in particular, are a Jersey favorite, dotting vanilla cones with a kaleidoscope of reds, blues, and yellows. The term “sprinkles” likely comes from the act of sprinkling them over ice cream—a simple, descriptive name that’s hard to argue with.
In New Jersey, the jimmies-or-sprinkles debate is less about the topping itself and more about what you grew up calling it. Ask for jimmies at a shop in Wildwood, and you might get a knowing nod or a playful correction. It’s a badge of local pride, a way to stake your claim in the state’s rich ice cream culture.
Why New Jersey Loves Its Ice Cream Toppings
New Jersey’s obsession with ice cream runs deep. With iconic spots like Kohr’s on the boardwalk, The Bent Spoon in Princeton, and Cliff’s in Ledgewood, we take our frozen treats seriously. Summer means long lines at the ice cream stand, kids with sticky fingers, and the satisfying crunch of jimmies or sprinkles with every lick.
Toppings like these aren’t just about flavor—they’re about nostalgia. For many of us, a cone topped with rainbow sprinkles brings back memories of chasing the ice cream truck down the street or celebrating a Little League win. Jimmies, with their chocolatey depth, might remind you of late-night runs to the diner for a sundae. In a state that cherishes its traditions, these tiny toppings carry big emotional weight.
The Case for Jimmies
If you’re team jimmies, you probably love the way chocolate complements ice cream’s creamy sweetness. Jimmies add a subtle cocoa flavor that pairs perfectly with classic vanilla or a rich black raspberry swirl. They’re understated but reliable, giving just enough crunch without overwhelming the main event. Plus, there’s something satisfyingly retro about saying “jimmies”—it’s a word that feels like it belongs in a 1950s soda shop.
The Case for Sprinkles
On the other hand, team sprinkles brings the party. Rainbow sprinkles are a visual delight, turning a plain cone into a work of art. They’re versatile, pairing well with any flavor from mint chip to strawberry. The sugar rush of sprinkles is pure summer joy, especially for kids (and kids at heart). And let’s be honest: in a state known for bold personalities, sprinkles match New Jersey’s vibrant energy.
Where to Get Your Fix in New Jersey
No matter which side you’re on, New Jersey’s ice cream shops have you covered. Here are a few spots to indulge in jimmies, sprinkles, or both:
- Kohr’s Frozen Custard (Seaside Heights, Ocean City, and more): A boardwalk staple since 1919, Kohr’s is famous for its creamy custard and generous topping options. Ask for jimmies on their orange-vanilla twist for a classic Jersey treat.
- The Bent Spoon (Princeton): This artisanal shop elevates ice cream with local ingredients and creative flavors. Their rainbow sprinkles add a playful touch to sophisticated scoops like lavender mascarpone.
- Holsten’s (Bloomfield): Known for its role in The Sopranos, Holsten’s serves up old-school sundaes with your choice of jimmies or sprinkles. Pair them with their homemade chocolate ice cream for a decadent experience.
- Cliff’s Homemade Ice Cream (Ledgewood): A North Jersey gem, Cliff’s offers over 60 flavors and a topping bar that’s a sprinkle lover’s dream.
Settling the Debate (Or Not)
So, are you jimmies or sprinkles? The truth is, there’s no wrong answer. Whether you’re loyal to the chocolatey crunch of jimmies or the colorful pop of sprinkles, what matters is the joy of summer in New Jersey. It’s about sharing a cone with friends, feeling the ocean breeze, and savoring a moment of pure happiness.
Next time you’re at your favorite ice cream shop, take a stand—jimmies or sprinkles—and let the debate rage on. Better yet, try both and see which one wins your heart. After all, in the Garden State, ice cream is more than a dessert—it’s a way of life.
What’s your pick? Drop by your local ice cream stand, grab a cone, and let us know: #JimmiesOrSprinkles?
