One of Maryland’s sweetest conversations isn’t about the best ice cream flavor—it’s what to call the colorful candy toppings that complete your favorite cone.
If you’re planning a move to Maryland, you’ll soon discover that the Old Line State is a blend of regional traditions. Influences from Baltimore, Washington, D.C., Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Virginia all shape local culture—and even the words people use when ordering ice cream.
So what do Marylanders call those tiny candy toppings?
Jimmies or sprinkles?
The answer often depends on where you are in the state.
Central Maryland: “Jimmies” Have Deep Roots
In Baltimore and many surrounding communities, jimmies remains a familiar term, particularly among longtime residents.
Many Marylanders who grew up visiting neighborhood ice cream shops remember ordering chocolate jimmies on a soft-serve cone after Little League games, family outings, or a summer day at the park.
The term has been part of the Mid-Atlantic vocabulary for generations and continues to be heard throughout much of central Maryland.
Montgomery, Prince George’s, and the D.C. Region: Both Terms Are Common
Closer to Washington, D.C., you’ll hear both jimmies and sprinkles used interchangeably.
Because the region attracts residents from across the country, local ice cream shops are accustomed to hearing a variety of expressions. Whether someone orders rainbow sprinkles or chocolate jimmies, chances are everyone knows exactly what’s being requested.
It’s one of those friendly regional differences that reflects Maryland’s diverse population.
Southern Maryland and the Eastern Shore: “Sprinkles” Often Take the Lead
Travel into Southern Maryland or across the Chesapeake Bay to the Eastern Shore, and sprinkles tends to become the more commonly used term.
The area’s growing population, tourism industry, and mix of newcomers from neighboring states have made “sprinkles” the word many younger families naturally use.
Still, longtime locals may continue ordering jimmies, keeping both traditions alive.
Western Maryland: A Blend of Regional Influences
In Allegany, Garrett, and Washington counties, you’ll hear a mix of both terms.
With influences from Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and western Maryland’s own unique culture, vocabulary often depends more on family traditions than geography.
No matter which word you choose, local ice cream stands are unlikely to bat an eye.
More Than Just Ice Cream
Like debating the best place for Maryland crab cakes, choosing Old Bay seasoning over everything else, or deciding which beach town makes the perfect summer getaway, the jimmies-versus-sprinkles discussion is part of Maryland’s local charm.
It’s the kind of conversation that starts while waiting in line at a neighborhood creamery and usually ends with everyone enjoying a cone together.
A Sweet Way to Explore Maryland
Maryland is home to countless locally owned ice cream shops, farm creameries, and waterfront favorites serving handcrafted frozen treats.
Whether you’re strolling Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, exploring historic Annapolis, visiting Frederick, or spending a weekend in Ocean City, you’ll find everything from classic chocolate and vanilla to seasonal favorites like peach, blackberry, strawberry, butter pecan, and locally inspired flavors.
Many shops also feature homemade waffle cones, locally sourced dairy, and an impressive selection of toppings—no matter what you call them.
Welcome to Maryland’s Sweet Traditions
At Let’s Move to Maryland News, we love sharing the little things that help newcomers feel at home. Sometimes it’s learning local customs. Other times, it’s discovering your new favorite ice cream stand.
So whether you ask for jimmies or sprinkles, Maryland’s ice cream shops are ready to serve up a delicious cone.
After a few summers in the Old Line State, you may even find yourself taking a side in one of Maryland’s sweetest debates.