May 28, 2021

Flash-frozen nitrogen ice cream is coming to Sioux Falls.

Sub Zero Nitro will open in early June in The Empire Mall’s food court.

“We make your ice cream on the spot,” said Jessica Rooney, who started Dakota Snow with her husband, Matthew, in 2015 and added Sub Zero Desserts two years ago. “It’s the creamiest ice cream you’ll have ever had. It freezes so quickly, there’s no ice crystals in it.”

Liquid nitrogen is injected into the ice cream while it’s mixing.

“You can make a cup of ice cream in less than a minute,” Rooney said.

They haven’t finalized the menu, but they’re planning on offering about a dozen creations, along with a build-your-own choice.

“There are unlimited options to what you can come up with on your own,” Rooney said. “Take any of our toppings, and make whatever ice cream you want.”

A couple of the signature offerings will be cotton candy with animal cookies and rocky road with chocolate ice cream, chocolate-covered mini marshmallows and slivered almonds.

Pre-made quarts will be available.

Customers also can get milkshakes with the nitrogen ice cream.

The mall approached Sub Zero about taking over the former LeeAnn Chin space on a short-term lease.

The Rooneys are planning to keep the site open through August but would consider a longer run if the site does well, she said.

They’re hoping to open June 7 and plan to be open the same hours as the mall.

This weekend, the Dakota Snow trailer that’s based at Thunder Road amusement park will open, Rooney said.

“With the exception of a few dates here and there, it should be open every day after this.”

To start, hours will be 3 to 9 p.m., with possible adjustments based on traffic.

The other Dakota Snow trailer, which is used for events, is off to a busy start of the season, Rooney said.

“We are very, very booked with festivals, graduation parties and business events,” she said. “Almost every single day is booked up. I think people are excited to get back to life.”