The technical challenge lay in merging two elements that didn’t naturally combine—cold ice cream and warm chocolate. Nelson spent weeks experimenting and eventually discovered that incorporating cocoa butter into the chocolate helped it adhere smoothly to the frozen surface without cracking or falling apart. This solution enabled him to produce 500 units of his new creation, which he initially called the I-Scream-Bar before renaming it the Eskimo Pie.
To bring his invention to a larger audience, Nelson partnered with candy maker Russell C. Stover in July 1921. The pair secured a patent in 1922, safeguarding their production method and giving them a strong market advantage. The treat quickly gained national popularity, earning up to $2,000 a day in royalties—an extraordinary figure for the era.
The Eskimo Pie’s success sparked a new wave of frozen desserts, making it a pioneer in the novelty ice cream category. Although the patent was eventually overturned in 1928 for being too broad, Nelson had already cemented his influence in the market.
As cultural awareness evolved, so did the brand. In 2021, in response to concerns over cultural sensitivity, the product was rebranded as “Edy’s Pie” in honor of co-founder Joseph Edy. Despite the name change, the product remains a cherished classic, beloved for its simplicity and innovation.
Christian Kent Nelson’s creative spark continues to shine, reminding us how a single inspired idea can lead to an enduring culinary legacy. His chocolate-covered ice cream bar remains a timeless favorite across generations.
The Invention of the Chocolate-Covered Ice Cream Bar
