For unique ice cream flavors and affordable price points, Trader Joe’s can’t be beat. And with new flavors coming out every season, you’re sure to find a Trader Joe’s ice cream that hits the spot. This summer, TJ’s released two thrilling new flavors. Here’s everything you need to know about them before running to the supermarket.

What Are the New Ice Cream Flavors at Trader Joe’s?

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A post shared by Natasha Fischer (@traderjoeslist)

Alongside perennial favorites like ube and chocolate-raspberry swirl, Trader Joe’s now offers S’mores Ice cream and Golden Caramel Swirl Ice Cream.

S’mores Ice Cream

The s’mores ice cream features graham cracker-flavored ice cream with marshmallow and chocolatey swirls. While many s’mores ice creams feature chunks of graham cracker or chocolate, this ice cream blend is smooth.

According to Trader Joe’s vice president of marketing Matt Sloan, “It’s not so much a deconstructed s’more as it is a mixed up ice cream that is absolutely s’mores-like in its flavors.” Additionally, Tara Miller, another vice president of marketing, mentioned that when the company tested chunks of graham crackers, they got “so soggy” that “you didn’t get that flavor.”

Golden Caramel Swirl Ice Cream

Golden Caramel Swirl is also a smooth, luscious pint. It is labeled as “super-premium” quality, referring to the high-fat content and low amount of air mixed in. This flavor consists of vanilla and chocolate ice creams with swirls of salted caramel throughout. This recipe is actually a revamp of a previous version of the flavor, and even accented with new packaging, as Natasha Fischer (@traderjoeslist) pointed out.

What Do the New Ice Cream Flavors at Trader Joe’s Taste Like?

Thus far, fans have largely praised the new ice cream flavors. To see what all the hype was about, I also tried them each for myself. Here are our collective thoughts.

Fan Reception

Fischer called the s’mores ice cream “really good” and noted its smooth, chunk-free consistency. She continued by saying, “If I didn’t know what flavor this was, s’mores wouldn’t come to mind, but it does have a marshmallowy flavor.” One commenter on her video also complained that they only got gobs of chocolate, “no swirls.”

When trying the golden caramel swirl ice cream, Fischer said, “Oh, that is so good…Oh my gosh, that caramel swirl is amazing. This is awesome.” One commenter compared it to Baskin Robbin’s Gold Medal Ribbon ice cream, while another called it “so so so creamy and so delicious!” Regarding critiques, one commenter wrote, “It’s yummy, I just wish the caramel tasted more salted!”

I Tried ItHere’s What I Thought

First off, the s’mores ice cream delivered on its smooth texture. The graham cracker ice cream was creamy and the swirls of chocolate and pockets of marshmallow offered a subtly different, sticky texture, much like how chocolate syrup on top of a sundae might. In terms of taste, I agree with Fischer that I wouldn’t have necessarily known the ice cream was s’mores-flavored unless I really focused on it. I wish the graham cracker note came through a little more strongly; without it, you’re largely left with a very saccharine marshmallow taste. This is lovely too, but a little too sweet for my palette. Still props to TJ’s for trying out this unexpected ice cream flavor.

While the s’mores flavor took up a lot of media limelight, definitely don’t sleep on the golden caramel swirl! This was my favorite between the two by far, for both its luscious texture and nostalgic flavor. The super-premium quality delivered a notably silky mouthfeel and the caramel blended into the ice cream seamlessly. Flavor-wise, I was reminded of a classic swirled soft serve, chocolate milkshake or even Nesquik chocolate milk. While this isn’t the deepest chocolate flavor you’ll taste, the vanilla notes add complexity and a craveable, memorable flavor from childhood. The ripples of subtly salted caramel accented the ice cream without overpowering it. This meant that the bite wasn’t overwhelmingly sweetand I could go in for more! For more extremely high-quality ice creams, be sure to check out this list of artisan brands.

How Can I Try the New Trader Joe’s Ice Creams?

According to the “Inside Trader Joe’s” podcast, the new pints arrived at Trader Joe’s nationwide on June 12. They are available now for just $3.79 a pint, so go pick one up on your next errand run. Just be sure to soften it before eating to get the full creamy, melty experience.

The post Trader Joe’s Is Ready for the Summer With Two New Ice Cream Flavors appeared first on Taste of Home.

What Do the New Flavors Taste Like?

The new flavors reimagine a Boston Cream Pie doughnut and raspberry cheesecake, respectively. Both are part of the company’s Topped line, which features layers of chocolate and candy atop the ice cream. (Not to be confused with the company’s Core line, which features a middle core of rich caramel, crunchy cookies or ooey-gooey fudge.)

Bossin’ Cream Pie features a vanilla ice cream chock full of cake chunks, cut by a pastry cream swirl and topped with milk chocolate ganache and chocolate chunks. Raspberry Cheesecake uses a cheesecake-flavored ice cream with tart raspberry swirls, topped with white chocolate ganache and a graham cracker crumble.

Flavor Guru Haylee Nelson, explains the inspiration behind the flavors as such: “We wanted to create a fun, cafeteria nostalgia moment…The Bossin’ Cream Pie transports fans to that first doughnut bite the way the rich, crunchy chocolate ganache hits tastebuds. The floral, fruity raspberry flavor of the Raspberry Cheesecake hits you and brings that cheesecake texture to the forefront.” Is your mouth watering yet?

Where Can I Find These New Flavors?

Both Bossin’ Cream Pie and Raspberry Cheesecake are full-time additions to the Ben & Jerry’s Topped line. They are now available across the United States, and a pint will cost somewhere between $5.99 and $6.49. To find Bossin’ Cream pie, check the Ben & Jerry’s website here and to find Raspberry Cheesecake, check here.

If you’re looking for more All-American flavors from the ice cream company, might we suggest Americone Dream, Chocolate Peanut Butter Splitor Strawberry Topped Tart? Or, if you can’t be bothered to go to the storewe’ve all been theretry making Ben & Jerry’s own cookie dough recipe that can be enjoyed raw.

Homemade Ice Cream Recipes to Try

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Best Ever Vanilla Ice CreamTotal Time: 40 minutes + chilling/freezingMain Ingredients: Whipping cream, 2% milk, vanilla bean, egg yolks, sugarLevel: Advanced

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When you think of a classic vanilla bean ice cream with a creamy texture, this is the one. It's a must-try ice cream recipe for vanillafans, but can also be the tasty foundation for flavors like cookies and cream or strawberry ice cream. After making a custard base on the stove, use your ice cream maker to churn and freeze it.This ice cream is technically a custard since it contains eggs. After lots of testing (and tasting), I've found that eggs are the key to making a smooth and creamy treat that rivals what you can get at a premium ice cream shop. Peggy Woodward, Taste of Home Senior Food Editor

Easy Chocolate Ice CreamTotal Time: 30 minutes + freezingMain Ingredients: Half-and-half, cocoa, whipping cream, sugar, vanilla extractLevel: Beginner

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There's no reason not to make your own chocolate ice cream when it's as easy as this. Whip ingredients together in a blender, then process them in an ice cream maker. Serve the ice cream very soft right after processing or pop it in the freezer to firm up. Use up what you don't serve in chocolate ice cream desserts.This super simple chocolate ice cream recipe is the perfect treat at a moment's notice. It's also a bonus that most of the ingredients are kitchen staples. Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Homemade Strawberry Ice CreamTotal Time: 40 minutes + cooling and freezingMain Ingredients: Sweetened strawberries, whipping cream, egg yolks, milk, sugarLevel: Beginner

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This summery ice cream bursts with fresh strawberries and has a rich base made with egg yolks and cream. It's delicious on its own, but just imagine that flavor folded into ice cream sandwiches, layered into an ice cream cake or smothered under hot fudge. Yum!This creamy, luscious ice cream will remind you of the signature treat served at church ice cream socials. What dessert could be better? Recipe Contributor Esther Johnson, Merrill, Wisconsin

Blueberry Ice CreamTotal Time: 35 minutes + chilling and freezingMain Ingredients: Fresh or frozen blueberries, sugar, half-and-halfLevel: Beginner

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Two summer loves together at last: blueberries and ice cream. Simmer store-bought, frozen or fresh-picked blueberries with sugar, then strain the sweetened juice for the ice cream base. Many readers like to run the pulp through a food mill to add a little texture.The wild blueberries on our property spark recipe ideas. When my daughter and I made this ice cream at a Girl Guide meeting, it was well received. Even today, our 10 children, 19 grandkids and 4 great-grandchildren think it tastes great. Recipe contributor Alma Mosher, Mohannes, New Brunswick

Disney's Dole WhipTotal Time: 10 minutesMain Ingredients: Frozen pineapple, pineapple juice, vanilla ice creamLevel: Beginner

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This treat is so refreshing on a hot day and takes no time to whip uppun intended. If you can't wait for your next vacation, it's definitely one of the Disney copycat recipes worth making at home.Your kitchen will be the happiest place on Earth when you serve this sweet-sour treat. The recipe comes directly from the Disneyland app and tastes just like the real deal you'd order at the park. Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Coffee Ice CreamTotal Time: 30 minutes + freezingMain Ingredients: Instant coffee, whole milk, sugar, sweetened condensed milk, whipping creamLevel: Intermediate

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No ice cream maker necessary for this recipe. Instead, blend a coffee sauce with sweetened condensed milk and whipped cream and pop it straight into the freezer. This coffee ice cream is even better with mix-ins like chocolate chips, crushed Oreos or chocolate-covered espresso beans.I combined two recipesone for vanilla ice cream and the other for a special coffee sauceto create this homemade coffee ice cream. I serve it plain, scooped into a dessert dish, so the creamy coffee flavor can be enjoyed to the fullest. Recipe contributor Theresa Hansen, Pensacola, Florida

Homemade Pumpkin Ice CreamTotal Time: 35 minutes + freezingMain Ingredients: Canned pumpkin, whipping cream, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, clovesLevel: Beginner

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All the spiced warmth of a pumpkin pie is captured in this easy ice cream recipe. Just whisk the ingredients together and process them in your ice cream maker. Top it off with a drizzle of caramel or crumbled ginger cookies.Folks who favor the flavor of pumpkin really need to try this spiced pumpkin ice cream recipe. But be prepared to make more! Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Rocky Road Ice CreamTotal Time: 35 minutes + cooling and freezingMain Ingredients: Half-and-half, whole milk, whipping cream, sugar, chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, chopped pecansLevel: Beginner

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Rocky road is a textural masterpiece loaded with nuts, chocolate chunks and marshmallows. The recipe makes more than a gallon of ice cream, plenty to feed the whole crowd. When you're not serving a big group, halve the recipe for a smaller batch.My daughters always want to put this rocky road ice cream in cones just like the ice cream shops do. We especially like the marshmallows, chocolate chips and chopped pecans. Sometimes we even add extra chips on top...and whipped cream too. Recipe contributor Dale Langford Atwater, California

Peppermint Ice CreamTotal Time: 35 minutes + chilling and freezingMain Ingredients: Whipping cream, half-and-half, peppermint extract, crushed peppermint candiesLevel: Intermediate

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You might be more likely to pull this recipe out around Christmas, but peppermint ice cream really is good all year round. Crushed peppermints or candy canes are folded into a frozen custard base. Churned in your ice cream machine, it has a creamy texture and cool, minty flavor.With flecks of mint candy, this peppermint ice cream recipe is perfect for the holidays. Recipe contributor Berneice Metcalf, Leavenworth, Washington

Chunky Banana Cream FreezeTotal Time: 15 minutes + freezingMain Ingredients: Frozen bananas, almond milk, chopped walnuts, peanut butter, unsweetened shredded coconutLevel: Beginner

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When you take a bite you'd never guess that this ice cream has no added sugar or heavy cream. The secret to the smooth texture is frozen bananas, which whip up beautifully in a blender with almond milk and peanut butter to create the ice cream base.Everyone loves ice cream, but we all know it doesn't make a great after-school snack. Until this! With its sweet banana-almond flavor and chunky texture, this appealing banana peanut butter "ice cream" is a crowd-pleaser. People who ask me for the recipe can't believe how easy it is to make. Recipe contributor Kristen Bloom, Okinawa, Japan

Coconut Ice CreamTotal Time: 1 hour + cooling and freezingMain Ingredients: Whole milk, heavy cream, shredded coconut, sugar, vanilla extractLevel: Beginner

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You'll love the real coconut flavor in this ice cream. It comes from shredded coconut simmered with milk and from more coconut folded into the ice cream mixture. Try it with your favorite ice cream toppings (like M&M's or crushed Heath Bar) or use coconut ice cream to make frozen, tropical cocktails.This coconut ice cream recipe is a refreshing dessert that can cap off a warm summer evening. It has a nice coconut flavor without being too strong. Recipe contributor Tamra Kriedeman, Enderlin, North Dakota

Strawberry GelatoTotal Time: 35 minutes + chilling and freezingMain Ingredients: Strawberries, whole milk, whipping cream, sugar, corn syrup, honey, sea saltLevel: Beginner

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It's easy to make this smooth strawberry gelato in your ice cream makerand no pre-cooking is necessary. Honey and a little corn syrup sweeten the mixture, plus help keep the texture of the gelato silky smooth.You'll love this smooth and creamy gelato with bright strawberry flavor and just a hint of sea salt and honey. Fresh raspberries or blackberries can be substituted for the strawberries if you prefer. If your berries are tart, add a touch more sugar or honey. Recipe contributor Shelly Bevington, Hermiston, Oregon

Contest-Winning Butter Pecan Ice CreamTotal Time: 1 hour, 5 minutes + chilling and freezingMain Ingredients: Chopped pecans, brown sugar, half-and-half, eggs, whipping cream, butterLevel: Intermediate

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A creamy, brown sugar and vanilla base holds crunchy pecans that are toasted in butter. Whisk a bit of the hot cream into the eggs to temper them, bringing their temperature up without scrambling them. It's an important step, so don't skip it!This rich buttery ice cream sure beats store-bought versions. And with its pretty color and plentiful pecan crunch, it's nice enough to serve guests at a summer party. Recipe contributor Jenny White, Glen, Mississippi

London Fog Ice CreamTotal Time: 1 hour, 35 minutes + chilling and freezingMain Ingredients: Earl Grey tea bags, half-and-half, whole milk, eggs, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla beanLevel: Intermediate

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The classic London fog latte inspired this ice cream, with the irresistible bergamot orange flavor of Earl Grey tea. It's an unexpected and sophisticated ice cream that's perfect for special occasions like Mother's Day, showers or dinner parties.I took one of my favorite coffee shop beverages and turned it into this elegant London fog ice cream. For a star dessert, serve it with lemon sandwich cookies or in a simple glass rimmed with sugar, lavender and lemon zest. Recipe contributor Noelle Myers, Grand Forks, North Dakota

Bourbon Ice CreamTotal Time: 40 minutes + chilling and freezingMain Ingredients: Heavy cream, 2% milk, brown sugar, egg yolks, bourbon, vanilla extractLevel: Intermediate

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Bourbon-spiked recipes are some of our favorites to use for (grown-up) game nights or birthday parties. Sundaes made with bourbon ice cream and toppings like cherries, chocolate or caramel are next-level dreamy!The brown sugar in this decadent bourbon ice cream gives a hint of caramel flavor, which complements the bourbon. When the custard is still liquid, before it goes into the ice cream maker, add more or less bourbon to suit your taste. Peggy Woodward, Taste of Home Senior Food Editor

Homemade Ice Cream SandwichesTotal Time: 35 minutes + freezingMain Ingredients: Boxed chocolate cake mix, shortening, butter, egg, ice creamLevel: Intermediate

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Make your own chocolaty, cakey wafers to hold a generous helping of premade ice cream (store-bought or one of the tasty recipes in this collection). Just like the ice cream sandwiches you'd buy at the store, you can store these in the freezer for up to three months.Why settle for store-bought ice cream sandwiches when you can have ones that taste even better and aren't that difficult to make? Recipe contributor Kea Fisher, Bridger, Montana

Best Banana Ice CreamTotal Time: 35 minutes + chilling and freezingMain Ingredients: Ripe bananas, half-and-half, whipping cream, evaporated milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla extractLevel: Intermediate

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Here's a truly indulgent banana ice cream, made with an egg and cream custard base and churned up in your ice cream maker. It's a brilliant way to use up brown bananas, which are wonderfully sweet in this dessert and blend smoothly into the mixture.My son-in-law says this is the best banana ice cream he's ever had. It's always requested at family gatherings. Recipe contributor Donna Robbins, Skiatook, Oklahoma

Rhubarb Crumble Ice CreamTotal Time: 35 minutes + cooling and freezingMain Ingredients: Fresh or frozen rhubarb, oats, sugar, whipping cream, half-and-half, cinnamon, vanilla extractLevel: Intermediate

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Instead of topping a fruit crumble with ice cream, this brilliant recipe folds the crumble right into the ice cream mixture! It's a perfect summertime dessert for picnics and cookouts.This rhubarb crumble ice cream combines two of my favorite desserts into one fantastic creation! If you close your eyes, it actually tastes like you're taking a bite of fresh rhubarb crumble with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Throw this into a waffle cone and enjoy a classic summertime treat! Recipe contributor Shannon Dobos, Calgary, Alberta

Triple Chocolate Ricotta Ice CreamTotal Time: 40 minutes + freezingMain Ingredients: Whole milk ricotta cheese, whole milk, whipping cream, cream cheese, sugar, milk and dark chocolate, cocoaLevel: Beginner

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Ricotta cheese recipes are creamy and milkyand ice cream is no different. Chocolate lovers, this one's for you: The ricotta base is blended with cocoa and melted chocolate, with dark chocolate chunks added near the end of the mixing time.You're going to fall in love with this thick, luxuriously rich ice cream made with ricotta cheese. It has a creamy texture that can't be beat. Recipe contributor Colleen Delawder, Herndon, Virginia

Almond Butter Swirl Ice CreamTotal Time: 25 minutes + freezingMain Ingredients: Coconut milk, almond milk, almond butter, sugar, chocolate chips, sea saltLevel: Beginner

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This homemade ice cream is completely dairy-free and it's really easy to make. The no-cook base combines almond and coconut flavors, with chocolate chips added as it churns in the ice cream maker.Warm weather days require ice cream! However, dealing with dairy intolerances can be tricky. This dairy-free recipe is a favorite at our house, especially with kids! Recipe contributor Courtney Stultz, Weir, Kansas

Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Ice CreamTotal Time: 40 minutes + freezingMain Ingredients: Fresh strawberries, cream cheese, whipping cream, half-and-half, lemon juice and zest, sugarLevel: Beginner

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An easy-to-make ice cream recipe that tastes exactly like a piece of strawberry cheesecake. Enjoy it scooped into dishes or cones, or try something really uniquelike turning it into an ice cream pie with a graham cracker crust. When you're serving it for guests, add scoops to shortcakes with sliced strawberries and whipped cream!When I got my ice cream maker, a friend shared her dreamy freezy cheesecake recipe. For guests, I scoop this into tart shells. Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, TexasHomemade Ice Cream FAQWhat ingredients do you need to make homemade ice cream?To make homemade ice cream, you often need heavy cream, whipping cream and half-and-half (or a combination). Their high levels of milk fat, along with the air incorporated during churning, give ice cream a smooth and creamy texture. Sugar is another important ingredient, so you'll need granulated sugar, corn syrup, brown sugar or sweetened condensed milk, depending on the recipe. Sugar adds sweetness and keeps the ice cream softer once it's frozen. To create a really rich ice cream, recipes call for eggs or egg yolks, which are used to create a cooked custard base.Once you have these essentials you can choose other ingredients to flavor your ice cream like extracts, spices, cocoa, cookies and fruit.How long does a home ice cream maker need to run?A home ice cream maker's churning cycle is typically around 20 minutes; check the manufacturer's instructions for your model. Be sure all the ingredients you add to the machine are very cold to help the process go more quickly. Depending on the size of your machine, you may need to process your ice cream mixture in batchesthe cylinder should only be filled two-thirds of the way since the ice cream will expand as it freezes.Can you make ice cream without an ice cream maker?Yes! Some recipes call for the liquid mixture to simply be frozen until solidice creams made this way will have an icy texture. To achieve a creamy texture without an ice cream maker, pour the ice cream mixture into a 13x9-inch baking dish and freeze it for 30 minutes. Beat the mixture with a hand mixer, and freeze for another 30 minutes. Repeat these steps four or five times until the ice cream is firm.How long does homemade ice cream last in the freezer?Transfer your homemade ice cream into freezer-safe containers. Ice cream fanatics can even invest in special ice cream storage tubs. Press a sheet of waxed paper or plastic wrap to the surface of the ice cream to prevent crystals from forming, then cover the container tightly. Store your homemade ice cream in the freezer for two to three months.

The post These New Ben & Jerry Flavors Offer a Taste of Some Classic Desserts appeared first on Taste of Home.

Making an ice cream sundae at home? We know that chocoholics are skipping that pint of vanilla and going right for the best chocolate ice cream to fill their dishes.

When you get to the bottom of your next tub, though, you might just want to think twice about what brand you’re adding to your shopping list next time. Is it really the best option for your sweet tooth? What if you want something a bit deeper, something with more dark chocolate flavor? What if there’s something better than your go-to brand?

To make sure you’re getting the right ice cream to satisfy your cravings, our Test Kitchen made a few grocery runs and conducted a delicious test.

How We Found the Best Chocolate Ice Cream

Our Test Kitchen team snagged the seven most popular brands of chocolate ice cream out there and put them head-to-head in a test. Our testers tasted each brand blindly and judged them with these qualities in mind:

• Flavor:How does the ice cream taste? Is it chocolate-forward (not just sweet)? Does it taste more like dark chocolate? Milk? Somewhere in between?
• Texture:Is the ice cream perfectly smooth and creamy? Is it dense? Light? Are there ice crystals?
• Appearance:Does the ice cream look rich and inviting?

Our Test Kitchen-Preferred Chocolate Ice Cream Brands

After diving into pint after pint of ice cream, our Test Kitchen crew named their favorite brands. We’re confident our picks will suit any chocolate fanatic’s taste.

Creamiest Ice Cream: Kemps Old Fashioned Chocolate Ice Cream

What makes ice cream such a decadent treat is that ultra-creamy texture. And achieving that smoothness can be a challenge (especially when making homemade ice cream)but not for Kemps Old Fashioned chocolate ice cream.

This ice cream was smooth, smooth, smooth. It had the creamiest mouthfeel of any sample and the lush texture was perfectnot too airy and not too dense. Kemps really satisfied our testers in terms of texture and flavor. As it melted on our tongues, we got a great sweet, milk chocolate flavor that reminded us of treats from our local ice cream shop.

And this recipe made Kemps easy to scoop. Our go-to ice cream scoops glided right through without any troublea real feat.

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Best Chocolate Ice Cream for Dark Chocolate Lovers: Breyers Chocolate Ice Cream

For an exceptionally indulgent scoop, grab a tub of Breyers chocolate ice cream.

This brand above all others delivered a perfectly rich and decadent dark chocolate flavor reminiscent of our favorite dark chocolate brands. Scooping into this sample, our testers noted the intense chocolate flavor and the right amount of sweetness. This brand really let the dark chocolate shine.

But Breyers was more than just great flavor. Testers compared the velvety texture to homemade chocolate ice cream. Is there any better comparison than that?

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Best Chocolate Ice Cream for Milk Chocolate Fans: Blue Bunny Chocolate Ice Cream

If you prefer a sweeter variety of chocolate, opt for Blue Bunny chocolate ice cream. This brand was full of tasty milk chocolate flavor.

Testers described this ice cream as being rich, dense and creamyprecisely what a great scoop of ice cream should be. As for the chocolate taste, it was the perfect level of sweet milk chocolate and so satisfying that several testers admitted that they could put a pretty sizeable dent in this tub of ice cream.

Our Test Kitchen also thinks that the milder flavor of Blue Bunny is ideal for serving on top of desserts like this fudgy peanut butter cake. So next time you want to serve pie a la mode, try Blue Bunny chocolate instead of your go-to vanilla.

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Best Pint: Hagen-Dazs Chocolate Ice Cream

We get it: You don’t always want a half-gallon of ice cream filling up your freezer. For a smaller dose of indulgence, our Test Kitchen recommends a pint of Hagen-Dazs chocolate ice cream.

This ice cream was exceptionally creamy and lightalmost like frozen custard. And the chocolate flavor was delicious without being overly sweet or bitter. Walking this line can be a challenge, but Hagen-Dazs does it well.

If you want your ice cream a touch sweeter, load on the sprinkles and caramel sauce. For a more bitter chocolate flavor, add some dark chocolate curls.

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The Best Ways to Enjoy the Best Chocolate Ice Cream

There’s nothing wrong with enjoying a few scoops of ice cream right out of the tub covered in a few ice cream toppings. In fact, this might just be the best way to enjoy your favorite ice cream flavor.

But you can branch out a bit with your favorite pint. A couple of scoops of chocolate ice cream is all you need to make some pretty tasty sweets, like in a homemade ice cream sandwich, ice cream cake or milkshake.

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Chocolate Peanut Butter ShakesThese rich chocolate peanut butter milkshakes will make you feel as if you're sitting in a 1950s soda fountain. Make it modern with an over-the-top garnish like skewered doughnut holes, chocolate-dipped cookies or fluffernutter sandwich squares. Taste of Home Test Kitchen

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Ice Cream TacosIce Cream Tacos look just like the real thingbut they're stuffed with chocolate ice cream and topped with cherries and coconut instead of tomatoes and lettuce. These are as much fun to make as to eat. Karen Oney, Fort Worth, Texas

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Old-Fashioned Ice Cream SodasI keep the ingredients for these ice cream sodas on hand so I can enjoy a treat anytime I want. You can easily make more when feeding a crowd.Anna Erickson, Terrebonne, Oregon

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Macaroon Ice Cream TorteMy family loves frozen treats. With chocolate four ways, this one is so beautiful, people think it came from an ice cream shop. Barbara Carlucci, Orange Park, Florida

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Chilly Coffee PunchFor a twist on the usual fruit punch, try a flavored coffee with ice cream, brought together just before serving. Judy Wilson, Sun City West, Arizona

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Hazelnut Brownie BombeI love making ice cream bombesthey look so elegant yet are incredibly simple to make. Melissa Millwood, Lyman, South Carolina

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Chocolate EggnogI love Christmas so much that I decorate in October. I don't care for eggnog, but it's such a tradition at Christmastime that I created an eggnog that even I like! Debbie Holcombe, Brunswick, Georgia

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Ladyfinger Ice Cream CakeNo one will believe you didnt fuss when you bring out this show-stopping cake. On a hot summer day, it will melt all resistance to dessertone cool, creamy slice at a time. Barbara McCalley, Allison Park, Pennsylvania

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All-American Banana SplitIn 1904, the first banana split recipe was made here in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, by David Strickler, an apprentice pharmacist at a local drug store. We still use his original formula when we make banana splits in our restaurants. Melissa Blystone, Latrobe, Pennsylvania

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Mint-Chocolate BombeThis is a refreshing dessert you can keep in the freezer and take out anytime. It's gorgeous, and never fails to impress! Mary Kisinger, Medicine Hat, Alberta

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Peanut Butter-Chocolate Ice Cream TorteWhats not to love about peanut butter, chocolate, ice cream and Oreo cookies? This fancy peanut butter cup ice cream is a cinch to put together. Peanut butter ice cream cake is great to have on hand for unexpected guests this summer! Dana Southwick, Manton, California

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The post Who Makes the Best Chocolate Ice Cream? Our Test Kitchen Found Out. appeared first on Taste of Home.

Chocolate Brownie Waffle Sundaes

The post 20 Ice Cream Sundae Ideas for Summer appeared first on Taste of Home.

When you’re craving something sweet and indulgent, is there anything better than your favorite dessert topped with a generous scoop of ice cream? Or a sundae loaded up with all your favorite toppings? Or even just a sweet and simple ice cream cone? We say definitely not!

In efforts to make those apple pies a la mode and milkshakes taste their most delicious, our Test Kitchen put 10 popular brands to the test to find the best vanilla ice cream.

What Makes the Best Vanilla Ice Cream

In our Test Kitchen’s search for the best vanilla ice cream, they kept a few criteria in mind:

• Flavor:The ice cream should taste strongly of real vanilla (not faux vanilla flavoring).
• Texture:A great ice cream should be smooth and creamynot icy or gritty.
• Appearance:Our Test Kitchen wanted a vanilla ice cream that looked tempting and deliciousbonus points for flecks of real vanilla beans!

With these key factors in mind, our testing team tried ten popular brands in a blind test. Testers kept in mind that this ice cream should taste delicious on its own but also make a great ingredient in some of our go-to ice cream desserts.

Want to learn more about how our Test Kitchen chooses their favorite ice cream products and tools? Check out our testing methods.

Our Test Kitchen Preferred Vanilla Ice Cream Brands

After sampling ten brands and getting more than a few brain freezes, our Test Kitchen thought that three ice creams really rose to the top. Here are our Test Kitchen’s top picks.

Best for Kids: Blue Bunny Vanilla Ice Cream

Sometimes you take a bite of something and just know that the kiddos in your life would love it. Such is the case with Blue Bunny’s vanilla ice cream. This ice cream was rich and creamy. We gave it high ratings for its indulgent texture. As for the flavor, this vanilla ice cream reminded us of treats from the ice cream truck and hot summer days slurping ice cream from conesmeaning it was delicious and nostalgic but just a bit artificial (but in that way you sometimes crave and in the way that kids just adore). Dish it out with one of the best ice cream scoops.

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Most Vanilla Flavor: 365 Everyday Value Vanilla Ice Cream

If you’re a serious vanilla loverthe kind of person that keeps multiple bottles of extract in their pantryadd Whole Foods’ 365 Everyday Value vanilla ice cream to your cart. This ice cream tasted of real vanilla beans (not vanilla flavoringthere is a difference). These scoops were well balanced: sweet but not cloying, flavorful but not overwhelming. This option was a bit less creamy than other options but very flavorful.

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The Richest Vanilla Ice Cream: Trader Joe’s French Vanilla

The ice cream that had us wanting a double scoop was undoubtedly Trader Joe’s. Out of all the vanilla ice cream brands, TJs gained the highest marks for its exceptionally creamy, almost buttery, texture. The vanilla flavor in each serving was also very apparentwe noticed that it tasted authentic (no phony vanilla flavor here!). While the taste was obvious and incredibly lush, it wasn’t overpowering in any way. That not-too-subtle and not-too-strong balance is hard to find, but it’s exactly what you want for serving with your favorite chocolate cake, homemade pie or just topped with some sprinkles.

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What to Make with Vanilla Ice Cream

It goes without saying: You don’t need tomake anything with vanilla ice cream. Each of these brands was great right out of the container without a single topping. However, ice cream dessertsbe they over-the-top milkshakes, ice cream cakes or vintage-style baked Alaskasare some of the most decadent around. With the right ice cream, all of these treats turn from tempting to positively irresistible. Just look at all the creative ways you can make use of vanilla ice cream. If you prefer to make your own ice cream, learn how to make ice cream without a machine!

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Coconut-Lemon Ice Cream CakeI developed this cool treat because I wanted to find a new use for cream of coconut. The sweet coconut combines beautifully with the tart lemon juice, and the streusel adds a nice crunch. Look for cream of coconut in the cocktail mixer section of your grocery store. Janet Gill, Canton, Ohio

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Guinness FloatThat very first sip of a Guinness is what inspired this quick and easy dessert. The rich, creamy foam that gathers on the top of a freshly poured draft made me think of vanilla ice cream. At that point, I knew I had to combine the two in a Guinness float. James Schend, Dairy Freed

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Grilled Peach SundaesThese peaches with a hint of grill flavor are sweet and juicy. We serve them in a waffle bowl with ice cream. Thats jackpot at our house. Nancy Dentler, Greensboro, North Carolina

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Thick Strawberry ShakesCool off with a thick and rich treat that will remind you of a malt shoppe! Nothing can beat this strawberry shake recipe. Kathryn Conrad, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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Smores Milk ShakeWhen cabin fever hits, we whip up a beverage that tastes like smores. Oven-toasted marshmallows and a blender make it happen. Sarah McKenna, Centennial, Colorado

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No-Fry Fried Ice CreamThis ice cream has a crispy cinnamon coating just like the fried ice cream served at Mexican restaurants, but minus the oily mess. Make ahead of time and freeze until serving. Tim White, Windsor, ON

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South Carolina CobblerWith peach orchards just a couple of miles from home, it's easy to treat my family to this traditional dessert. Mattie Carter, Rock Hill, South Carolina

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Slow-Cooker Blueberry CobblerI love blueberries, and this easy cake mix cobbler showcases them deliciously. Serve the treat warm with a big scoop of French vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Teri Rasey, Cadillac, Michigan

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Easy Apple CrispHere's an easy apple crisp! This is a delicious dessert perfect for young cooks to prepare. It's super simple to make since there's no crustjust a crumbly topping. Plus, with apples and oats, it's a wholesome treat. Sheri Hatten, Devil's Lake, North Dakota

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Brownie SundaesCap off dinner with these brownie sundaes. With prepared brownies, I can fix this sweet treat in a flash. For extra flair, I roll the ice cream in pecans before placing them on top of the brownies. It's a perfect finish to a mouthwatering meal. Ruth Lee, Troy, Ontario

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Homemade Ice Cream SandwichesWhy settle for store-bought ice cream sandwiches when you can have ones that taste even better and aren't that difficult to make? Kea Fisher, Bridger, Montana

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Disneys Dole WhipYour kitchen will be the happiest place on earth when you serve this sweet-sour treat. The recipe comes directly from the Disneyland app and tastes just like the real deal you'd order at the park. Taste of Home Test Kitchen

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Strawberry Crunch Ice Cream CakeWhile growing up, I loved treats from the ice cream truck that rolled through my neighborhood. This ice cream cake is inspired by one of those crunchy, strawberry novelties. Lisa Kaminski, Wauwatosa, Wisconsin

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Almost Its-It Ice Cream SandwichesYou'll discover why this treat is so popular in San Francisco. It's snack heavenice cream, delicious oatmeal cookies and a touch of chocolate. Swap the vanilla ice cream for your favorite flavor. Jacyn Siebert, San Francisco, California

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Ice Cream KolachkesThese sweet pastries have Polish and Czech roots and can also be spelled "kolaches." They are usually filled with poppy seeds, nuts, jam or a mashed fruit mixture. The ice cream is a unique twist on traditional kolachkes, and it's simplest to use a square cookie cutter to cut the dough. Diane Turner, Brunswick, Ohio

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Banana Split SupremeThis lovely and delightful dessert has the classic flavor of a banana split. It's a cool, creamy treat with no last-minute fuss since you just pull it from the freezer. It always solicits praise from our big family. Marye Franzen, Gothenburg, Nebraska

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Peppermint MilkshakesRich ice cream and refreshing peppermint make this peppermint milkshake recipe a special treat, especially during the holidays. For a twist on this classic, stir in chocolate syrup and top with chocolate shavings. Taste of Home Test Kitchen

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Grasshopper Baked AlaskaCan you believe it? This stunning dessert is completely make ahead, including the meringue. All you need to do is bake it for a few minutes in the oven before serving.Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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Limoncello Cream PieAfter a big Christmas dinner, we love the cool refreshment of a frozen lemon pie. Limoncello brings a little sophistication to each smooth, creamy slice. Jessie Grearson-Sapat, Falmouth, Maine

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Thin Mint Milk ShakeSave a sleeve of Girl Scout cookies for this creamy milkshake that's fun for kids and adults, too. Shauna Sever, San Francisco, California

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Gluten-Free Ice Cream SandwichesThese chilly gluten-free ice cream sandwiches are perfect for hot, sunny days. The gluten-free chocolate cookie is so tasty you could eat it plainbut you won't want to miss out on the ice cream! Taste of Home Test Kitchen

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Caramel Nut Crunch PieThis cool and creamy pie has a lot going for it. Its easy to make, it can be assembled well in advance to save time, and it's impressive enough to serve guests. To make this dessert even more decadent and delicious, you can chop extra peanuts and candy bars and crumble a few more cookies to sprinkle over the top. Andrea Bolden, Unionville, Tennessee

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Frozen Grasshopper TorteI first made this minty cool torte for a ladies' meeting at our church. Im still making it, and the compliments keep coming. Elma Penner, Oak Bluff, Manitoba

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Vanilla Ice Cream Dessert FAQHow do you level up vanilla ice cream?Admittedly, many of these desserts require baking or some extra work. If you want dessert ASAP without much effort, think about your favorite ice cream toppings. A good place to start is sweet and salty add-ons like pretzel bits, salted nuts, chocolate chips or crushed candy. You can also use dessert sauces like hot fudge, lemon curd or salted caramel sauce.How do you serve vanilla ice cream desserts?Bowls have always been the go-to for serving ice cream, but there are some other fun ways to enhance your dessert. Place cobblers and sundaes in mini trifle glasses. Pour milkshakes into Mason jars with handles or Irish coffee mugs for smaller servings. And, of course, make use of your waffle cone maker and serve up dessert in waffle bowls or cones.Next: If you want to play a bit more with flavors, pick up a few extra pints to make these recipes with ice cream.

Any way you scoop it, our Test Kitchen Preferred ice creams are freezer-worthy and ready to be added to your favorite ice cream desserts, like this cherry-chocolate ice cream pies. We’re sure you won’t be able to resist all the layers of fudge and pops of dark sweet cherries in every melty, creamy frozen bite.

Still hungry? Learn more about sweet, creamy treats in our ultimate ice cream guide.

Note: This blind taste test was performed by our staffers and was not part of a sponsorship. All opinions shared are our own, and have not been influenced by advertisers.

The post We Tried 10 Brands to Find the Best Vanilla Ice Cream appeared first on Taste of Home.