Hot Hot Sweet

Though our weather is moderate enough that Austinites enjoy ice cream and frozen yogurt just about any time of year, there are some seasonal treats we associate specifically with summer. For instance, the folks at Casey's New Orleans Snowballs (808 E. 51st) and Jim-Jim's Water Ice (615-A E. Sixth and concession stands around the central city) only work about seven months a year. Sno-Beach trailers begin to pop up near Zilker and the UT campus as the weather heats up, and portable paleta carts do a brisk business when the heat shimmers. Contemplating summer fun this year, we went looking for companies willing to bring their delectable frosty treats directly to the party – and we scored big time. Our homegrown heavy hitters Amy's Ice Creams and gelateria Tèo will be more than happy to cater small, medium, and huge events with the good quality and flare you've come to expect in their shops, while Jim Moy will dispatch Jim-Jim's water ices to parties during his service season. Below are four new-ish local companies also willing to fill your needs for cold refreshments at their location or yours.

Yeti Frozen Custard

Andy Ramos discovered frozen custard while she was a culinary student in Kansas City, but, much like the search for the elusive Yeti, she couldn't find a frozen treat like it once she returned to San Diego. The search set her on the path to creating her own business. She moved here last year, and Austinites love her luxurious frozen concoctions. Yeti Frozen Custard shares a South Austin lot with La Barbecue Wednesday through Sunday, noon-8pm, and the truck is available for parties, festivals, and special events at info@yetispot.com or 858/342-1280.

Cow Tipping Creamery (Photo by John Anderson)

Cow Tipping Creamery

A downturn in the economy inspired Tim and Corey Sorensen to follow their dream of making ice cream, and their soft-serve truck has been in business almost a year now. Recently relocated to a busy food trailer court in West Campus, the Sorensens whip up a couple of flavors every day and augment cones, cups, shakes, and floats with a variety of sauces and toppings, many of which they make themselves. Best treats here: stackers, which are sundaes made in layers. Within the next couple of weeks they will be adding Hawaiian shaved ice with homemade syrups in exotic tropical flavors. Food court hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 1-9pm, and they are also available for parties and special events at info@cowtippingcreamery.com and 512/538-4039.

Mom & Pops

Farmers' market and neighborhood grocery shoppers around Austin are familiar with these artisan paletas made in distinctive flavors by Laura and Manuel Flores, but their quality treats deserve a wider audience. Mom & Pops will deliver party orders to your home or business, and their portable paleta carts are available for events and festivals. Email info@themomandpops.com or call 512/775-1353.

Kona Ice

Shave-ice entrepreneur Justin Huskisson and several local franchisees will gladly arrange for one of their colorfully decorated trucks to serve delicious Hawaiian shaved ice at the party, community benefit, or event of your choice. Book parties at konaiceaustin@yahoo.com. Even if you're not in the market for a party now, go to www.konatracker.com and type in a zip code for the Kona truck serving nearest you.