We can't think of a better time to introduce our Best Of Mass ice cream search than in the sweltering heat of summer. A cup (or cone!) of cold ice cream can serve as a reprieve from these hot temperatures.

Let us know who makes the best ice cream in Massachusetts by nominating your favorite spot until Monday, July 9 at 11:59 p.m.

Here are the rules: The ice cream must be homemade. Both hard and soft serve varieties are included. No frozen-yogurt nominations, please.

After the nominations round end, come back to vote for your favorites starting on Tuesday, July 10 and up until Monday, July 23.

Once the poll closes, our judges will visit the top 10 restaurants to crown the winner of the best ice cream in Massachusetts.

Have a favorite place in mind? Let us know who serves the best ice cream in the comments section or on MassLive's Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.