The Cow to Cone Entrepreneur
Located in the Hudson Valley, Zoe's Ice Cream Barn is more than just a place to enjoy a scoop of homemade ice cream; it's a destination that encapsulates the essence of community, family, and a deep-rooted commitment to local agriculture. Owned and operated by Katie Hynes, Zoe's Ice Cream Barn is the perfect blend of a passion for culinary arts and the desire to support local farmers.
Katie’s journey to establishing Zoe's Ice Cream Barn is as rich and delightful as the flavors she creates. Growing up on a small farm in Poughquag, New York, Katie was immersed in the world of agriculture from a young age. Her family's farm, which primarily raised sheep for 4-H projects, laid the foundation for her appreciation of farming. This background, combined with her formal education from the Culinary Institute of America, where she earned degrees in Baking and Pastry and Hospitality Management, fueled her vision for Zoe's Ice Cream Barn.
Opened in 2016, Zoe's Ice Cream Barn quickly became a beloved community hub. Katie's mission was clear: to create more than just a typical roadside ice cream stand. She envisioned a place where people of all ages could come together, enjoy high-quality homemade ice cream, and learn about the importance of local dairy farming. By using Hudson Valley Fresh Dairy products and other locally sourced ingredients, Zoe's Ice Cream Barn supports the local economy and ensures that every bite of ice cream is fresh and flavorful.
One of the unique aspects of Zoe's Ice Cream Barn is its commitment to education. Katie believes in the importance of connecting consumers with the origins of their food. "I always say that a five-year-old is my best customer," Katie remarks, "because when they pass by, they say, I want ice cream, I want Zoe's." Through interactions with young customers and their families, Katie and her team educate the public about the dairy industry, the process of making ice cream, and the broader implications of supporting local farms.
The community-focused values of Zoe's Ice Cream Barn are reflected in its employment practices as well. The Barn provides many local high school and college students with their first jobs, teaching them valuable skills and giving them an understanding of the local dairy industry. With a staff that expands to 30 during the summer months, Katie ensures that her team is knowledgeable about the ice cream and other products they serve, empowering them to act as ambassadors for the local farming community.
Katie's dedication to her craft and community is evident in every aspect of Zoe's Ice Cream Barn. From the meticulous process of making ice cream in small batches to the warm and welcoming atmosphere of the barn, visitors are treated to an experience that goes beyond just satisfying their sweet tooth. Whether it's chatting with Katie about the latest flavor or hearing stories of local farming heritage from fellow customers, a visit to Zoe's Ice Cream Barn is an unforgettable experience rich with community and tradition. So next time you're in Dutchess County, make sure to stop by Zoe's Ice Cream Barn, say hi to Katie, and savor the taste of true local goodness.
Watch our spotlight video on Zoe’s Ice Cream Barn here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sU5opx2Es_8