Tasty Spring Flavors

Cool Swirl is heading into spring with a focus on healthy and delicious cold treats for kids and adults, with plenty of seasonal flavors and fresh toppings to make every bite unique.

"It's the memories of childhood ice cream without the calories," says Cool Swirl manager Meghan Parker. "We always have a sorbet and always have a no-sugar added flavor, so there is something here for everyone. It's whatever you are in the mood for.

"You can come in and have a small bite or a whole bunch. It [is priced] by weight, so you can get as much or as little as you want."

This spring, Cool Swirl has released a variety of flavors: milk chocolate, peanut butter, wild berry tart, New York cheesecake, very strawberry, cake batter, pomegranate-raspberry sorbet and no-sugar added vanilla. All the flavors can be mixed and matched; some varieties are already paired to create delicious swirls as well.

For toppings, guests can choose from a healthy variety, including wet walnuts, granola and fresh fruits like cherries, pineapple, kiwi, strawberries, blackberries and raspberries. For those who want a more decadent treat, candy toppings include cookie, brownie and cheesecake bites, Choco Rocks, crushed Oreos, sprinkles, gummy bears, chocolate chips and other sweets. Cool Swirl also offers waffle bowls for guests to put their yogurt creations in, in addition to regular cups.

With the weather warming and people getting out more, right now parents like to stop at Cool Swirl's drive-thru, where they can order a quick yogurt with fruit on top as a snack for their children on the drive home, says Parker. She often also sees grandparents bringing in their grandchildren because it is an inexpensive treat and a fun, hands-on adventure.

As a mother, Parker knows how difficult it is to find something that is healthy that kids will want to eat.

"My daughter Ella is a very picky eater and there are times she won't eat something healthy for lunch," Parker says. "I'll say, 'Let's go to the yogurt store and get some yogurt,' and when we get here I'll pile it with fruit and granola. For her it's a treat. She doesn't feel like she is being punished, but she is eating healthy."

There are decorations available and space for families to enjoy yogurt and time together. Cool Swirl also offers gift cards, which are perfect as birthday presents for kids, friends and co-workers. They can be purchased in any denomination and are reloadable.

Cool Swirl

Location: 7540 East Brainerd RoadPhone: 521-6300Hours: Sunday-Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday- Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

The locally owned yogurt shop is not part of a franchise and Parker says the emphasis is on creating a fun, tasty atmosphere for customers of all ages who enjoy yogurt and sorbet.

Cool Swirl is a perfect location for birthday celebrations.

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