A Midwestern Cold Treat Lands in Lancaster Featuring Nicole Dannehl: Episode 166

Lancaster Connects

In this episode, we sit down with Nicole Dannehl, the founder and visionary behind Nikki’s Custard, a woman-owned, family-run business that launched in February 2022. Nicole’s journey spans from Illinois and Iowa to Wisconsin and finally to Pennsylvania, where she has lived since 1993. Growing up in the Midwest during the 70s, she cherishes sweet memories of biking to local ice cream shops, which inspired her lifelong love for frozen desserts.

After moving to central Pennsylvania, Nicole and her family noticed a lack of the nostalgic frozen custard they had enjoyed back home. This led to the creation of Nikki’s Custard, where they aim to bring that Midwestern joy to their community with a modern twist on the classic "Mom & Pop" custard shop experience.

Nicole is passionate about using high-quality ingredients and offers both traditional custard and non-dairy options, honoring her vegan family members. Nikki’s Custard partners with local businesses to create unique offerings, such as custard-cookie sandwiches and fresh fruit sauces, reflecting her commitment to supporting the community.

In this episode, we explore Nicole’s entrepreneurial journey, her dedication to family and community, and her mission to create an inviting atmosphere for every customer. Join us for a delightful conversation filled with warmth, creativity, and the love of frozen treats!