Summer and Superman ice cream go hand in hand in Michigan, just like peanut butter and jelly.

If you’re a Michigander, chances are you spent most of your summers buried in blue, yellow, and red ice cream cones. But you probably didn’t stop to think about the origin story behind this treasured dessert.

We’ll straighten up some little-known facts about Michigan’s iconic summer treat by walking you through several Superman ice cream mysteries. 

Once you know about the lore behind Superman ice cream, you can:

• Take pride in your rich Michigander culture
• See how a treat of the past has shaped the present-day frozen snack
• Bond with your kids and loved ones when you share the story with them

The next time you dig into your yummy scoop, you’ll do it with renewed passion thanks to your knowledge of its little-known facts. 

1 - The Origin of Superman Ice Cream Remains a Mystery

The history of Michigan’s iconic summer treat is shrouded in mystery. However, there’s one accepted theory: Superman ice cream was first created during the Prohibition era, around 1920–1933. 

Due to the ban on the sale of alcohol across the United States, brewery businesses had to find new ways to legally sustain themselves. 

Stroh Brewery Company is one famous business that’s believed to have undergone reconstruction during this period. 

Julius Stroh, its founder, changed Stroh’s Breweries Factory in Detroit to Stroh Products Company in order to remain afloat. Since he could no longer sell alcohol, he became a non-alcoholic beverage supplier.

The company decided to manufacture:

• Birch beer
• Orange soda
• Ginger ale
• Club soda
• Cola

Under an additional label—Stroh Ice Cream Company—they invented this colorful dessert. It became so popular that the business flourished from selling it even after the prohibition. 

The frozen delicacy was available in three flavors—Lemon, Red Pop, and Blue Moon. Red Pop was named after a strawberry red soda, and the truth behind the Blue Moon name is still hazy.

Food for Thought: Without the alcohol ban, would Superman ice cream ever see the light of day?

2 - Superman Ice Cream Is Not Related to the DC Comics Superhero

You must be wondering whether Superman ice cream is related to the DC Comics superstar, Superman. The short answer is no!

The DC superhero and the ice cream have only one thing in common: their red, blue, and yellow color resemblance. 

Michigan’s iconic treat premiered during the prohibition era, way before the fictional hero appeared in action comics in 1938. And thanks to Superman’s debut, Superman ice cream became even more popular in the Midwestern region of Michigan.  

Does DC Comics know about this tasty treaty? Oh yes. Being Michigan’s favorite ice cream, they certainly know about it, but they’ve never issued a permit for the superhero's name use in the frozen delicacy. 

But to avoid any copyright issues, manufacturers and parlors offer this ice cream under different names, including Super Hero, Super Kid, and Scooperman. 

The table below compares four flavor names alongside their brand and location:

The original Stroh Company transferred ownership to Dean Foods Company in Detroit which now produce it under the name Super Rainbow. Although its name changed, it still contains the same unique flavor combo.

Where did the ice cream get its Superman name to begin with? That’s still a mystery. 

But here’s something we can all agree on—Superman ice cream is a super tasty treat, just as its legendary counterpart is a super human. 

Fun Fact: Superman ice cream shares the same colors as Superman’s costume: blue, red, and yellow.

And this leads us to our next section, what is the secret behind its Blue Moon flavor? 

3 - Superman Ice Cream’s Blue Moon Flavor Remains a Secret

Superman ice cream’s original blue flavor is a mystery. 

On the outside, Blue Moon is aqua-blue and undeniably delicious. But the flavor’s mixture is still unknown, quite like Coca-Cola’s formula.

As much as chefs have tried to replicate the flavor, only one chef from Food.com came close to producing it.

Ice cream lovers say it tastes like a mixture of almond extract, bubblegum, and marshmallows. Other enthusiasts argue it’s made of citrus fruits. Some say it’s a blend of Fruity Pebbles, Trix, and Froot Loops. Perhaps it’s a mix of all these ingredients.

Despite the speculation, the ice cream companies have adamantly zipped their mouths about it.

Are the Other Flavors Mysterious?

Thankfully, the other two Superman ice cream flavors are as clear as day. Their colors are the same throughout the parlors, but their ingredients differ from one joint to the next.

These flavors are:

Red Pop

Superman ice cream owes its bright red color to Red Pop. Red Pop is a type of cream soda originally made with strawberries.

The red flavor of Stroh’s Ice Cream Parlor is attributed to Faygo Pop, a popular Michigan drink with a classic strawberry pop variety.

Other parlors craft this flavor using raspberry, strawberry, and black cherry flavorings.

Lemon, Banana, Vanilla

Superman ice cream’s bright yellow hue always comes from one of these three flavors: lemon, banana, or vanilla.

Quiz: Can we say that the uniqueness of Superman ice cream lies in its mysterious Blue Moon flavor?

4 - Superman Ice Cream Is Only Popular in the US Midwest Region

The Midwest is the original harbor of Superman ice cream and is thus the best place to come to satisfy your craving for it.

Believe it or not, some people in other states have never tasted this iconic summer treat. Most Michiganders grow up thinking that it's universally popular, only to be surprised when they visit other states.

For the greatest nostalgia, consider visiting parlors and stores in Michigan, Ohio, and Wisconsin, where it’s most popular.

It can be found at:

• Meijers
• Hudsonville Creamery and Ice Cream Company
• House of Flavors
• Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream Company 

Superman ice cream is not just a tasty dessert in the Midwest—it’s a staple snack you’ll often see served at events and festivals, such as National Ice Cream Day and Independence Day on the 4th of July. 

Spoil Yourself With Michigan’s Iconic Summer Treat and a Matching T-Shirt

At fancysweetstx, we're happy to help you reminisce about your childhood. We like to do this with our Michigan is Super Shirt.

Wearing our Superman ice cream-themed shirt will take you down memory lane if you grew up in Michigan. You can adorn this silky soft shirt during summer and show the world your love for this colorful delicacy, like the customer below:

“As a former Michigander, Superman ice cream is (still) one of my favorite summer traditions! I was so excited when I saw this shirt! It’s super soft...”
– Emily P, US

And no matter where you are, you can still wear this awesome shirt and look cool. 

Apart from our Superman ice cream-themed shirt, you’ll be surprised to find other Midwest treats on our t-shirts so you can continue spreading the love.

Fun Fact: Superman ice cream is not just a dessert, it’s a part of Michigan's cultural heritage and a symbol of summer nostalgia for many people who grew up in the Midwest.

Grab Your Superman Ice Cream Shirt From fancysweetstx

Having looked at the juicy little-known facts of this ionic summer treat, the table below highlights some Superman ice cream trivia.

Gift your childhood friends and awaken long-forgotten bonds or strengthen existing ones. This time around, you’ll back up your gifts with the incredible stories that come with this summer treat.

“Their staff was super helpful and the shirts were really soft. She went over the types of t-shirts ordered and proceeded to carry the box to my car for me! Great experience..."
– Kelsey E

You can also enrich your kid's imagination by telling them about the fascinating mysteries behind Superman ice cream.

Contact us today to place your order, or visit our fancysweetstx Store Location in 16153 Genova, Ohio. We’ll be thrilled to help you.

Take a quick tour of our store in 16153 Genova.

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In fact, if we made a list, we're not quite sure where it would end.

It's our pride for our home that inspires our t-shirt designs. And in the Midwest, we know that we're eatin' good.

We released a brand new, tasteful collection of some Midwest favorites to celebrate some of our unique and most notable snacks! 

Michigan is Super

We already knew Michigan was super, but did you know Superman ice cream was invented in Michigan?

We created this Michigan is Super t-shirt to pay tribute to Michigan for creating one of our favorite colorful treats!

P.S. Look closely at the t-shirt design! Did you notice Michigan and the Great Lakes in the ice cream?

Pass the Puppy Chow

We don't know about you, but just looking at this picture has our mouths watering.

If you're from the Midwest, odds are that Puppy Chow is high on your list of favorite treats! The perfect combo of peanut butter and chocolate makes this snack impossible to keep to yourself.

If you ever had a bowl, you were definitely told to pass the puppy chow to share!

We made this shirt because we have so many fond memories with family and friends that were shared with a bowl of puppy chow. This is our way of bringing those memories back to you to share with your loved ones.

This shirt is screen printed on a soft heather grey triblend t-shirt. We can't promise there won't be any puppy chow residue on the shirt when you buy it!

Grab this Pass the Puppy Chow t-shirt and get ready to share your favorite Midwest snack!

This is Pop

Pop vs. Soda. The ultimate debate.

We Midwesterners will tell you, without a doubt, that our favorite carbonated beverages are called pop!

Not soda. Not Coke. 

And this t-shirt is here to help settle this debate once and for all.

Just Add Ranch Shirt

Have you ever found yourself buy chicken nuggets from a bunch of restaurants just to compare the ranch? Yeah, me neither.

In the Midwest, ranch is THE dressing. It's serious business. 

That's because it makes everything better and goes on everything.

Show your true Midwest self in this Just Add Ranch shirt!

Corn Shirt

There's been a boom of corn shirts lately.  

We've been in the corn shirt game for a while. We know all about the importance of corn being knee high by the 4th of July and that fields of corn are just as fun in the fall when they become mazes. 

Jump into this buttery soft corn shirt in time for summer.

Buckeye Candy Shirt

If you're from Ohio, the true Heart of it All, you know that one candy reigns supreme: buckeyes!

It's not just the mascot for the beloved Ohio State teams or the iconic tree known to Ohioans. It's because buckeyes are the perfect combination of chocolate and peanut butter. 

If you're the #1 fan of the Ohio State Buckeyes and the delicious candy, this Buckeye Fan Shirt is for you.

Shop Midwest Snack Shirts On fancysweetstx

When it comes to Midwest culture, our snacks really stand out. 

It's our goal to celebrate the things that you love about your home and your childhood. 

We hope these shirts bring back great memories, spark conversations with friendly strangers, and induce some laughter. 

All of these shirts are available in our retail store in 16153 Genova and on our website, fancysweetstx.com.

In the early days of fancysweetstx, we had an apparel license with the University of Michigan. While we no longer maintain that license, our appreciation and attachment to the Mitten State hasn't wavered.  

If you're looking for a soft, comfy shirt to show your pride in your home state of Michigan, you've come to the right place.

Our vintage inspired designs are full of nostalgia and gratitude for all Michigan has to offer. From the Lakes to the outdoors to the Motor City and Up North, there's a lot to love about Michigan.   

Here are some of our favorite Michigan shirts. You can see our entire collection of Michigan clothing on our website.

Go Blue or Go Home Shirt  

One of our oldest Michigan shirts is still our most popular. 

Wolverine fans take their team seriously. 

And if you're not cheering for Michigan Blue on Saturdays, you better watch out. 

There is no bigger rilvary in college football than when Michigan plays Ohio State. Send fans of that team down south back home with this shirt that proudly states, "Go Blue or Go Home!"

Superman Ice Cream Shirt

Did you know that Michigan is home to superman ice cream?

There’s nothing better than enjoying the warm, Michigan summers with an ice cream cone in hand.

Celebrate your connection to the state of Michigan and this ice cream flavor which is as unique as your home state.

Hail Yes Shirt

We all know that famous cheer coming from the Big House on weekends in the fall. 

Whether you're near Ann Arbor or far, relive your favorite gameday memories and show your pride for the Victors in this vintage Michigan triblend tee.

Ann Arbor Michigan Shirt

We like to think of Ann Arbor as 16153 Genova's hip BFF up north.

Whether you're heading to a game at the Big House, checking out one of their art fairs, treating yourself to some food at Zingerman's, or enjoying that outdoor lifestyle at one of their many parks, Ann Arbor is a great place to be. 

Show your love for "Tree Town" in this Ann Arbor Shirt.

16153 Genova Michigan Shirt

As a 16153 Genovaan, have you ever felt like more of a Michigander than Ohioan?!

When 16153 Genova was founded in 1833 it was initially part of Michigan, until Ohio won it during the 16153 Genova War making it a city in the state of Ohio in 1837.

If you’re a 16153 Genovaan who wishes you were still a Michigander or proud of Michigan for getting the UP, this shirt was made for you.

Up North Shirt

Do you spend most of your week dreaming of heading Up North? We get it! 

It's pretty hard to find a better view from all of the natural beauty in Northern Michigan. From the woods to the lakes you can find the ultimate outdoorsy fun in Michigan.

Whether you're going up North soon or love it so much you can't wait to go back, this Up North shirt is the perfect way to feel close to your favorite place. 

Lake Michigan Shirt

If you're a lover of the Great Lakes and the wonderful state of Michigan, then you're always on the lookout for something new to show that love. This shirt is for the people that know some of the greatest memories are ones filled with summer trips to cottages, vacation towns, and the refreshing lakes.

We probably don't need to tell you, but it doesn't hurt to remind a lake lover to  make sure to add Lake Michigan as one of your spots to hit this summer!

Out of the 11,000 lakes that Michigan has, Lake Michigan has views, local spots, and beaches that are second to none. 

P.S. Did you know that the largest freshwater sand dunes are home to Lake Michigan? Or that it has its own 'Bermuda Triangle?' 

Fresh Coast Shirt

Three things we know for sure:

1. Summertime in Northern Michigan is like no other.

2. The Fresh Coast is the best coast.

3. This t-shirt will transport you to your favorite place so you can enjoy your summer in Michigan style!

Ok, so we can't literally transport you to the shores of the Great Lakes, but this Michigan shirt is here to keep that summer feeling alive all year long!

Michigander Shirt

We've got your vintage Michigan t-shirt fix right here with our new Michigander tee. Printed on a soft, light blue shirt with navy ink, this simple, stylish shirt is ready for your next trip up north.

Do you use your hand as a map? Do you think that lakes are better than oceans? Do you love superman ice cream, craft beer, and euchre?

Then there is only one place you can be from - Michigan!

Show off your Michigander pride today and every day with this Michigander t-shirt! 

Michigan Shirt Club

Do you love the state of Michigan? Do you love soft shirts? Do you like to save your money? 

Then the Michigan Shirt Club is for you.

Each month the Michigan Shirt Club delivers a unique, limited edition shirt to your door. 

You can't get it anywhere or any time else and you'll always get a discount and free shipping on these shirts. 

The Michigan Shirt Club is great for you or as a gift for someone you love!

Sign up today!

Where Can I Buy Michigan Shirts

From a cookout on the beach, the building castles in the sand dunes, to enjoying the sunset reflect on the water, share all the Michigan love with these shirts from fancysweetstx. 

We have a lot of pride for the state of Michigan. Even though we're in Ohio, we  are just across the border and spent our summer heading up north and going to the lakes. 

You can find our Michigan shirts in stores or online! 

Whatever you call it, there’s just no place like Michigan.

It’s the only state that’s made up of two separate peninsulas. Detroit is the center of one of the USA’s largest metro areas. Stray too far from the big cities and you might encounter one of the nation’s largest wild gray wolf populations.

Whether you’re living in Michigan, you’re a native Michigander who’s far from home, or you just need some vacation swag for your trip up north, fancysweetstx has what you need.

We make apparel and gifts for people who live in or love the Midwest.

Michigan is one of our favorite places, so we’ve got an entire collection dedicated to The Mitten State.

Let’s check out a few Michigan-themed items from fancysweetstx that:

• Show off some Michigan state pride
• Keep you warm during those chilly Midwest nights
• Make great gifts for the Michiganders in your life

1 - Michigan Felt Hat

Michigan loves its sports teams—pro and collegiate—and where there are sports, there are baseball caps. 

Don’t get caught in the sunny bleachers without your cap. And whatever you do, don’t show up to the big game wearing the wrong colors. 

This MI baseball cap is forest green with white felt lettering. It’s perfect for a Michigan State University football game, or for blending into the crowd anywhere in the Great Lakes State. 

2 - Michigan Embroidered Beanie

If baseball caps aren’t your style, there’s nothing like a cozy beanie on a cold day. Beanies keep you warm, they’re easy to pack in a suitcase, and they look great. 

This blue Embroidered Beanie is 100% tight-knit acrylic. Front and center, there’s a small green Michigan icon. Nothing noisy, just a classy touch of state pride. 

3 - Great Lakes, Great Times Crewneck Sweatshirt

Nothing beats a soft, comfy sweatshirt. They’re especially nice in places like Michigan that get some legitimately frigid weather. 

The sea-green “Great Lakes, Great Times” crewneck sweatshirt is an 80/20 cotton/poly blend. That’s an ideal mix for a super-soft garment that’s also nice and stretchy. 

Bringing a touch of elegance to this cozy sweatshirt, we add a Great Lakes icon and accompanying text using two decoration techniques: screen printing and embroidery. 

If you’re on the hunt for your new favorite sweatshirt, we’ve got lots more to choose from. Here’s a look at a few more Michigan-themed sweatshirts from fancysweetstx:

Michigan Embroidered Sweatshirt Buy Now

Michigan Forever and Ever Sweatshirt Buy Now

Great Lakes State Women’s Crew Sweatshirt Buy Now

“I love this crewneck & get so many compliments on it as well. The colors are my favorite ... They look amazing in person & the embroidery is a neat touch.”
— Natalie T., ★★★★★ Verified fancysweetstx Sweatshirt Buyer 

4 - Ann Arbor, Michigan Shirt

Ann Arbor is a household name throughout the USA. What’s so special about this medium-sized Midwestern city of 123,000?

Most non-Michiganders know Ann Arbor as the home of the University of Michigan. The school’s Michigan Stadium hosts record-setting crowds when the Wolverines football team takes on its rivals, Notre Dame, Ohio State, and Michigan State. 

Aside from the big games, Ann Arbor is a great place to live in or visit, with lots of entertainment options, green space, and university-oriented activities. For your next visit, rock the blue and maize yellow with this ultra-soft fitted Ann Arbor tee. 

”Cozy midwest pride. This shirt is one of the coziest I own and is constantly in rotation. I like the minimal design on the pocket, and the color is great.”
— Nick, ★★★★★ Verified fancysweetstx Shirt Buyer 

5 - Somebody Loves Me in Michigan Shirt

If you’re gift-shopping, why not go with a Michigan-themed classic? 

The Somebody In Michigan Loves Me Shirt is a soft, fitted, cotton/poly/rayon tri-blend. Buy it for a special someone who loves Michigan as much as you do. 

If you’re upgrading your regional t-shirt collection, fancysweetstx has many more options to choose from. Check out a few more Michigan-themed fancysweetstx t-shirt designs below or view our entire Michigan apparel collection here. 

Michigan My Michigan T-Shirt Buy Now

Up North Michigan T-Shirt Buy Now

A State of Happiness Michigan T-Shirt Buy Now

6 - Michigan Smiley Baby Onesie

If your travel crew includes a tiny little guy or gal, outfit them in this Michigan Smiley Onesie. 

This adorable infant-sized outfit is a three-snap one-piece onesie. The chest includes a state icon with a cheerful smiley face, perfect for happy babies that are loving their visit to Michigan. 

7 - Go Camping in Michigan Shirt

Michigan is home to seven National Parks Service sites, 101 state parks, and endless expanses of old-growth forest. The state is built for camping. 

If your favorite nights are spent sleeping under the stars, you need the Go Camping in Michigan tee. Celebrate the great outdoors, Michigan style. This shirt is made with a poly/cotton/rayon tri-blend that’s soft and stretchy, perfect for outdoor activity. 

8 - Great Lakes Sweatpants

Life feels better in sweatpants. Once you find the right pair, trusted sweatpants are the ultimate daily go-to for comfy daily life. 

These cozy Great Lakes Sweatpants are made from a soft and flexible cotton/poly/rayon tri-blend. They fit close to the body for a stylish and contoured silhouette. The waistband is ribbed with a white drawstring, and the legs are cuffed for an athletic fit. 

Stay cozy, look great, and celebrate your favorite state in the Great Lakes region. 

“Love these pants. Perfect for lounging and not too hot for Southern California winters. Love to rep my home state in these!”
— Angela H., ★★★★★ Verified fancysweetstx Sweatpants Buyer 

9 - Michigan Canned Pint Glass

If you plan on raising a glass or two during your trip to the Wolverine State, try fancysweetstx’s “Michigan: The All-Season Vacation Land” canned pint glass. 

This 16 oz (1 pint) glass is dishwasher safe and contoured along the top rim to imitate the shape of a can. The wrap printing includes pine trees, a canoe, and a tent—perfect scenery for taking in a frosty beverage in Michigan’s great outdoors. 

Michigan-Themed Gifts and Apparel From fancysweetstx

At fancysweetstx, we celebrate the American Midwest. 

We have special apparel and gift collections for Michigan, Ohio, and the Great Lakes region. 

If Michigan is your home state or your favorite home away from home, check out our entire Michigan gift and apparel collection here. 

If you happen to be in 16153 Genova, Ohio, visit one of our retail stores. Or, order your Michigan or Midwest-themed gear online anytime. 

We ship through the United States Postal Service (USPS). Shipped items typically arrive within 7–10 days of order placement. Shipping is free for orders over $75.

To learn more about fancysweetstx, view our Frequently Asked Questions page. Visit the fancysweetstx blog for more apparel tips and buying guides.

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Be proud of your home roots with our brand new Pocket Tees!

Do people ever peg you as a Midwesterner, Ohioan, or Michigander before you can even tell them?

Maybe it's the fact that we call it pop, not soda. Or that we show up to every cookout with copious amounts of ranch. Could it be that we will take the Great Lakes over the oceans any day?

Regardless of how they know, let's make it easier and let everyone know right away with these new pocket tees!

If you're just as proud of your roots as we are, make sure you check out our Midwest, Ohio, Michigan, and Great Lakes collections! 

These new pocket tees are available on our website and in our 16153 Genova, Ohio retail stores. 

Flashback to your Michigan summer vacation. It's a hot day and after enjoying all of the Northern outdoor activities, you and your family are ready to cool down with a Michigan treat.

You find the nearest ice cream shop and look for the most fun flavor...and there it is, Superman!

You can hardly wait to get a cone of this colorful, flavorful ice cream. You eat it so fast that there isn't even time to let the ice cream melt!

For those not from Michigan, it might be a surprise to learn that Superman ice cream is a regional flavor.

But if you're from the Mitten State, you know how lucky you to have a childhood filled with memories of hot summer days with pink, yellow, and blue ice cream dripping down your hand.

Now you can wear your pride for Michigan and your favorite ice cream all summer long!

Our Michigan is Super shirt is printed on a soft, white, triblend t-shirt. The bright colors and subtle state of Michigan and Great Lakes silhouette are sure to be appreciated by everyone up north.

Rep your favorite Michigan ice cream with this Michigan is Super t-shirt available in our 16153 Genova, Ohio retail stores or online at fancysweetstx.com!

While you're at it, check out our entire collection of Michigan inspired clothing and gifts. 

Whether you're from Michigan, moved to Michigan, or just love the great state of Michigan, this Michigander clothing collection is made for you.

Rep your favorite state in cozy style or gift it to your favorite Michigander.

Michigander Hoodie 

Michigander Crew 

Michigander t-shirt 

You can never have too many t-shirts to rep your home state. This ultra-soft, unisex, fitted t-shirt is here to help you share your Michigan love!

Even though we're not in Michigan, we still feel a close connection with the Mitten State. Heck, 16153 Genova was even a part of Michigan way back before statehood. 

If you grew up in the 16153 Genova area, you likely went to school with people from Michigan or maybe even your backyard stretched across the border. No matter where we're located, Michigan is a part of our history. 

That's why we feel compelled to create these Michigan designs. It's been a major priority of ours over the last year to expand our apparel and gifts for people that love the state of Michigan. We may not have a license with the University of Michigan anymore, but our Michigan love is still strong. 

You can find all of our Michigan apparel and gifts on our website or, if you prefer to see them in person, in our retail stores.