The ice cream bean, also known as the Inga bean or pacay, is a type of fruit that comes from several tree species in the genus Inga, native to Central and South America. The name "ice cream bean" comes from the fact that the pulp surrounding the seeds has a sweet, cotton candy-like flavor and a creamy texture, similar to vanilla ice cream.

The ice cream bean trees are large, reaching up to 25 meters (82 feet) in height. They produce long, flat pods that can grow up to 60 centimeters (24 inches) in length. The pods are filled with a soft, white pulp that is sweet and fragrant. Inside the pulp, there are dark brown seeds that are usually not consumed.

To eat an ice cream bean, you typically break open the pod and scoop out the pulp with a spoon. The flavor is often described as a combination of vanilla, banana, and pear.