Delicious, refreshing ice cream is a beloved treat for both children and adults alike. With an array of ice cream flavors and forms, ranging from classic mint chocolate chip to extravagant cakes, there’s a favorite for everyone. The list of ice cream brand names is as diverse as a geographical map, with each country adhering to its own production secrets and traditions, often symbolized in unique and memorable brand names.
When you visit the supermarket in search of the tastiest ice cream, it’s easy to be overwhelmed by the abundance of choices. The market is saturated, with new brands and flavors like premium ice cream and egg-based varieties emerging daily. The range of ice cream has expanded far beyond the once standard flavors of vanilla, chocolate, and crème brûlée.
Amidst the colorful labels, producers compete to promise natural ingredients and classical recipes reminiscent of the ‘good old days’. However, the actual taste of purchased ice cream doesn’t always live up to these bold package claims.
So, how can you avoid disappointment and choose a truly quality product? Let’s delve into this together. This rating presents the best ice cream brands, carefully selected for their exceptional quality and range of flavors, from traditional to innovative, ensuring there’s a perfect scoop for every ice cream enthusiast.
A legend from the ice cream world: this American brand is the most popular in the world. The company first appeared on the Russian market back in 1988, but it only really took off after 2010. “Baskin Robbins” is a delicious ice cream in catchy pink plastic buckets. The assortment is impressive: the Moscow factory produces more than 129 varieties! The most popular flavors among Russians are praline with cream and almond and pistachio.
Another brand has an interesting history of creation – the famous Häagen-dazs. Its founder was Ruben Matus, a Pole who immigrated to the US and started selling ice cream there. In 1961 Matus took a risky step in the face of fierce competition and tried to break into the luxuru segment. To do this he chooses only quality ingredients and invents a new name for his product, Häagen-dazs, presenting it as Danish. For the sake of credibility, the label bears a map of the country. The entrepreneur reasoned rightly that a dessert from Denmark would find loyal customers among Americans, and the country was famous for its dairy products.
But the name had only an indirect relation to the Danish language: it did not have a combination of the letters zs and the letter a with dots on top. Matus wanted to invent an original and unique name with a “Danish” sound, and simply thought of a word combination that could not be translated into any language and he liked it. Calculation of the creator was fully justified – the “Danish” name has brought love and popularity to the brand not only in America, but also in many parts of the world.
Swiss brand Movenpick was founded in 1948 in Zurich by hotelier Ueli Prager. The first ice cream was made under the brand in 1968. Today the assortment includes different kinds of delicacies: sorbet, classic ice cream in a bucket, plombard. The name of the brand encapsulates its philosophy, though it was born quite by accident. Once Prager was walking along the quay and feeding the seagulls, the man noticed that the seagulls were very selective in their choice of food. This scene gave birth to the Movenpick name (move from German “seagull”, pick from English “to choose”), turning into the brand concept – to choose only the best and natural ingredients for ice cream.
The company-producer of ice cream Blue Bell Creameries opened in 1907 and took its name after the Texas Bluebell flower with the same name. Blue Bell symbolized summer, the season of the bell flower, and a hot season for ice cream business owners.
Italy is considered the birthplace of the classic creamy dessert, Italian ice cream serves as a benchmark for many world producers. One of the most recognizable Italian ice cream companies is Cornetto, founded in 1959 in Naples. The name means “little horn” in Italian, indicating the shape of the dessert – a cone.
Since 1954 the family-run ice cream company Berthillon, named after its founder Raymond Berthillon, has been flourishing in Paris. This name has been a symbol of delicious ice cream made from natural ingredients for many years.
French Carte D’or was founded in 1977 as a supplier of ice cream for cafes and restaurants. From the very beginning the brand positioned itself as the best dessert of European restaurants, distinguished by an exquisite combination of flavors, which was proved by the name itself – “golden card”.
Glacio is a brand from Belgium, founded in 1972 in Berse. The company’s distinctive feature was that in addition to the standard plombières and sorbets the range included the so-called “ice desserts” – the true works of culinary art. This is evidenced by the brand name: in Latin Glacio means “I am made of ice.
The Belgian ice cream company, Magnum, known outside the country, was founded in 1989. Initially, the product was produced in the form of popsicles, then – cones and sandwich briquettes. The name in translation from Latin means “big”: the weight of the original dessert was 86 grams.
Finnish brand Valio is the largest brand of lactose-free ice cream. The company was founded in 1905 as an exporter of Finnish butter, and the Finnish word Valio, which means “select, elite”, was chosen for its name.
India’s largest producer of ice cream, the Amul brand was created in 1946 by Tribhuvanandas Patel. Amul is not a word from the Indian language, but only an abbreviation for a company that produces dairy products.
In 1975, the Indian city of Mangalore launched the production of ice cream with the pretentious name Ideal Ice cream (“perfect ice cream”). The name really brought success to the product and today it is one of the most famous Indian brands. Generally speaking, the “speaking” names of ice-cream companies are often used in India: Mother Dairy, Natural Ice Cream.
Canadian ice cream products from Cows Creamery are on the list of the best ice cream not only in the producing country, but also in the world. Founded in 1983 in Cavendish, the company has a very telling name – “Cow Creamery,” after the main ingredient of the treat.
America is home to many world-renowned ice cream companies. One of them is Rocky Road founded in 1929 in Oakland, California by Joseph Edey and William Dreyer. After creating a dessert with chocolate chips, the companions named their venture Rocky Road. In English, the word combination means “rocky road”: it is a symbol of the difficult path of people living during the “Great Depression” and at the same time represents a tasty chocolate chip. HEB Rocky Road is a decadent ice cream that combines rich chocolate ice cream with the perfect mix of marshmallows and crunchy roasted almonds. It’s a classic treat that offers a delightful texture contrast and is a favorite among those who crave a sweet adventure with a Texas twist, courtesy of the HEB brand known for its quality groceries and unique offerings.
Many fans of the American frozen dessert Drumstick are perplexed as to why the ice cream is produced by a company whose name means a completely different product. Drumstick (translated from English as “chicken leg” or “shank”) was founded in 1928, but the history of the name began much earlier. At an ice cream show in 1904, one of the participants used a rolled-up waffle as a container for his product, later, in 1928, the Parker brothers supplemented this invention with chocolate and peanut brittle, and the wife of one of the brothers noticed that this delicacy looked like a chicken leg. The comparison was so accurate that the unconventional name, under which the product is still produced today, was retained.
Hailing from the quaint town of Le Mars, Iowa, Blue Bunny has etched its mark in the ice cream chronicles since 1913. Celebrated for its artistic approach to flavors, Blue Bunny offers a symphony of taste from timeless classics to avant-garde creations. Not just a treat for the taste buds, the brand’s dedication to sourcing authentic ingredients means that every spoonful is a trip down a genuine flavor lane. Continually evolving, Blue Bunny introduces seasonal specials and unique ice cream treats, solidifying its place as a dynamic player in the dairy delights domain.
An ice cream for the modern era, Halo Top emerged in 2011 as the answer to the prayers of the health-focused sweet tooth. This brand has masterfully crafted a formula that blends low calorie, rich protein, and moderated sugar, all while ensuring the ice cream remains a delightful indulgence. It’s not just about fewer calories; Halo Top excels in delivering unexpected flavor marvels, transforming the humble ice cream pint into a dietary-friendly treasure.
Carrying a dual identity as Edy’s in the West and Dreyer’s in the East, this brand’s legacy in the ice cream saga dates back to the roaring 20s. The brainchild of Joseph Edy and William Dreyer, the brand shines with its luxurious churned offerings. Venturing beyond traditional flavors, Edy’s Slow Churned line is a testament to the brand’s prowess in delivering creamy textures with a thoughtful nod to calorie content. Throughout its journey, the brand has also dabbled in myriad collaborations, ensuring that there’s always a fresh scoop waiting for enthusiasts.
Embarking on its journey as a modest neighborhood creamery in 1935, Springfield’s Friendly’s has since burgeoned into a name synonymous with familial warmth. The brand’s flavor library is reminiscent of comforting memories and hearty laughs. Adhering to a pledge of quality, Friendly’s ensures that every dollop of its super-premium range is a creamy cascade of naturally sourced ingredients. Their singular Sundae Cups and iconic shakes are a testament to the brand’s undying spirit of innovation and joy.
Tracing back to William A. Breyer’s modest kitchen in Philadelphia, Breyer’s isn’t just a dessert—it’s a legacy in frozen perfection. With roots deeply connected to artisanal churns, Breyer’s stands as a beacon of authenticity. Their ‘Pledge’ is not just a tagline; it’s a manifesto of unwavering commitment to pristine, non-GMO ingredients. With every Breyer’s scoop, you’re embracing a tale of uncompromised quality and timeless taste.
Emerging from the châteaux of Belgian chocolate decadence, Magnum is an ambassador of opulence in the ice cream world. Every bar is not merely a dessert but a ceremony—where the silken ice cream meets the audacious crackle of thick chocolate. The majestic stick serves as both handle and herald, announcing a moment of pure, unadulterated luxury.
Turkey Hill channels the pastoral symphony of Pennsylvania’s Lancaster County. More than just flavors, Turkey Hill narrates stories of dew-kissed mornings and tranquil countryside ambiances. Diversifying beyond just frozen desserts, their portfolio paints a broader pastoral canvas, ensuring that every spoonful or sip transports you to tranquil farm horizons.
Drawing inspiration from a magical corner of New York City, Serendipity ice creams are like bottled enchantment. Each flavor unfurls a narrative, echoing tales of iconic desserts and moments of pure, unexpected delight. Delving into Serendipity is akin to uncovering delightful secrets, where every creamy taste is a serendipitous adventure waiting to be unraveled.
From the heart of Cincinnati, Graeter’s is not just ice cream—it’s a handcrafted masterpiece. Employing the age-old French Pot method, Graeter’s champions the art of small-batch perfection. Each creamy blend, punctuated with their signature gargantuan chocolate chunks, is a testament to a tradition where patience, passion, and precision converge.
From its roots, Talenti isn’t just about gelato—it’s about an exploration of palates. Encased in its unmistakable clear jar, each layer of gelato is a chapter of stories from distant lands, where ancient Italian crafting methods are the unsung heroes. Every swirl, whether the lush embrace of Mediterranean Mint or the exotic dance of Alphonso Mango, is a passport stamp to a new flavor destination, showing that transparency in both presentation and ingredients can be a journey in itself.
More than just an ice cream brand, Ben & Jerry’s is a chronicle of activism, nestled within a cacophony of flavors. Founded in the heart of Vermont, each pint captures a fusion of fun and fervor. With a mosaic of vibrant titles like ‘Chunky Monkey’ and deeper narratives like ‘Justice ReMix’d’, this brand isn’t just serving dessert; it’s offering a manifesto—one where indulgence meets integrity, and every bite champions a cause.
A testament to Oregon’s dairy tapestry, Tillamook’s ice creams are where heritage meets harmony. As custodians of a rich legacy, each churn and swirl embodies the essence of the Pacific Northwest. Savoring their Honey Lavender or Udderly Chocolate is akin to embarking on a sensory odyssey through lush fields and cascading waterfalls, echoing the ethos of a brand that treasures both tradition and terrain.
Drawing breath from New York’s picturesque mountain ranges, Adirondack Creamery is the alchemy of landscape and lusciousness. With every scoop, it’s a serenade to the untouched meadows and crystalline lakes of its namesake. Delving into flavors like Whiteface Mint Chip or Lake Placid Lemon, one doesn’t just taste ice cream, but also the whispers of nature, rendered in the most delectable form.
A vanguard in the realm of ice cream, San Francisco’s Humphry Slocombe revels in the avant-garde. Here, ice cream is not just a dessert, but a tapestry of taste experiments. Daring concoctions like ‘Prosciutto Ice Cream’ or ‘Hibiscus Beet Sorbet’ beckon the adventurous, affirming that with every chilly bite, boundaries are pushed, and culinary norms are redefined.
Elevating the realm of plant-based indulgence, So Delicious has a unique approach that challenges the conventional ice cream paradigm. Every scoop they offer is a testament to the power of botanical ingredients. Coconut, almond, cashew—they masterfully transmute these plant sources into velvety masterpieces that defy the norms. So Delicious isn’t just an alternative; it’s a rebirth of flavor, blending nature’s best with sweet artistry.
From the artistic heart of Brooklyn, Ample Hills is not just about ice cream—it’s a canvas of frozen innovation. Every flavor is a chapter, rich in narrative and imagination. It’s where traditional dairy craft meets contemporary inspiration, producing tales that one can taste. Their handcrafted batches speak of a dedication that goes beyond mere production—it’s the alchemy of passion and creativity.
Out of Portland’s effervescent culture springs Salt & Straw, a brand that has turned ice cream creation into avant-garde art. Their flavors aren’t just unexpected—they’re explorations, challenging the palate’s frontiers. Think of the unimagined, from infusing botanicals to blending in savory elements, and Salt & Straw likely has crafted it into a pint, echoing the essence of culinary audacity.
Charting its course from New York’s bustling streets, Van Leeuwen’s narrative is one of evolution and essence. They sculpt ice creams that echo the simplicity of nature and the complexity of gourmet craft. Be it a robust classic or a plant-based symphony, their flavors resonate with authenticity. In a world of artificial blitz, Van Leeuwen stands as an oasis of genuine taste.
Jeni’s doesn’t just make ice creams; they curate gastronomic experiences. Under the visionary guidance of Jeni Britton Bauer, every flavor is sculpted as a masterpiece, balancing ingredients with innovation. Eschewing the ordinary, Jeni’s delves deep into the essence of pure flavors, resulting in creations that are not just splendid, but transcendent. It’s where culinary craft meets frozen poetry.
Emerging from the fertile soils and committed hands of farmers, Frozen Farmer introduces a new dimension to the realm of frozen treats. It’s not merely a product; it’s a celebration of agrarian passion and sustainability. By marrying farm-fresh ingredients with artisanal craftsmanship, Frozen Farmer crafts delights that resonate with the heartbeat of the countryside. Every flavor carries whispers of the fields, forests, and pastures, making it more than just a dessert – it’s a journey through nature’s bounty.
Originating from the expansive meadows and clear skies, Sassy Cow proudly wears its heart on its sleeve, or rather, its label. This brand melds audacity with authenticity, constantly churning out flavors that tantalize and surprise. Beneath its playful demeanor, Sassy Cow is deeply rooted in an unwavering dedication to organic and pure dairy. Each pint is a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, wrapped in a promise of quality.
Coolhaus is where culinary genius meets architectural brilliance. Inspired by the world of design and art, every flavor is meticulously crafted as a masterpiece in its own right. The brand prides itself on transcending the ordinary, offering ice cream enthusiasts an experience that tickles both the palate and the intellect. With Coolhaus, each bite is a journey through layers of creativity, challenging the very definition of conventional ice creams.
A time capsule of flavors, Whitey’s is a cherished emblem of yesteryears. With its roots sinking deep into the annals of ice cream history, the brand effortlessly marries the charm of the old with the zest of the new. Every scoop of Whitey’s resonates with tales of bygone eras, yet constantly evolves to cater to contemporary tastes. It’s a harmonious blend of memories and modernity, creating timeless delights.
Bearing the legacy of New England’s pristine landscapes and generations of dedicated dairy artisans, Gifford’s stands as a beacon of excellence. Each tub of ice cream is a testament to a rich family heritage that has been refined over the decades. From sun-kissed summers to snow-clad winters, Gifford’s flavors echo the changing seasons and the steadfast commitment to unparalleled quality. When you delve into Gifford’s, you’re not just tasting ice cream; you’re becoming part of a storied tradition.
Smitten breaks the mold, combining cutting-edge technology with age-old ice cream crafting techniques. Employing liquid nitrogen to freeze each batch instantly, the brand guarantees peak freshness and an unmatched velvety texture. Beyond the science, Smitten’s heart beats with an artist’s spirit, experimenting and innovating relentlessly. Each serving is a theatrical performance, blending the drama of the freezing process with the romance of flavors so profound they captivate every taste bud.
There are many types of ice cream. All types of ice cream can be divided into 4 categories: by composition, by consistency, by taste, and by packaging. If you go by composition, then ice cream can be:
Plombir (it is based on whole cow’s milk, which is the most fatty ice cream)
Dairy (it is also based on whole cow’s milk, but the ice cream is less fatty)
Everyone knows that ice cream contains fat and carbohydrates, which means it is a high-calorie product. Here’s how many calories 100 grams contains:
Thousands of tons of ice cream are eaten each year, with the main consumption peak observed during hot summer months. Besides the usual ice cream in packs, there are many other alternatives, including private label brands and artisan flavors. For instance, I love visiting a wonderful cafe in the old town of Trebinje, a small town in the south of Bosnia, which offers more than 20 kinds of ice cream. Their offerings are delicious and creative, featuring unique blends like vanilla bean and honeycomb, reminiscent of flavors from Brenham, known for its exquisite ice cream varieties.
One standout example is the Picasso ice cream, served on a palette-shaped plate where each well contains a different colored ball of ice cream, all drizzled with colorful jam. However, as always in the world, there are very expensive types of ice cream that are not available to everyone. These might include gourmet varieties with high-quality ingredients like real vanilla bean or honeycomb, often found in private label products that cater to a more exclusive market. Such premium offerings can be found in various places, from small artisanal shops in Trebinje to renowned ice cream parlors in Brenham.
The ice cream will be accompanied by a precious port, and a jazz band will accompany the eating action.
The Absurdity Sundae is more than just a dessert. As in the case of our #1 ice cream, it comes with something, namely a trip to Africa to Mount Kilimanjaro, a 5* hotel, a hike to the very top, where you will be served the dessert, which, among other things, includes ice from the glaciers of Kilimanjaro.
Frrrrozen Haute Chocolate Ice Cream is served at Serendipity3, a Hellenic restaurant in New York City, a joint creation of its chef and Euphoria New York jewelers. and can be taken with you.
“It’s not just ice cream” is the sauce used to sell all the world’s most expensive desserts. Three exceptional flavors are guaranteed with sauces made from three outstanding wines, and the order comes with exclusive 1850 design spoons.
Golden Opulence Sundae includes exceptional ice cream, gorgeous vanilla and chocolate, as well as truffles, caviar (dessert), marzipan, golden dragons and edible gold. And there’s a lot of other expensive stuff that not only embellishes this dessert, but also adds to its value.
Gold isn’t absent either, but the key to the price is the exclusive ingredients. Three varieties of vanilla – from Mexico, Tahiti and Madagascar, exclusive chocolate, the most delicate whipped cream, caramelized nuts, caramel, hot fudge, and yes, gold flakes, and an edible chocolate crown – can all be found in the most expensive ice cream in Chicago with Louis XIII de Rémy Martin.
Gorgeous vanilla ice cream, macaroons, cookies, truffles, whipped cream, golden flakes, sherbet. Exclusive spirits often accompany the world’s most expensive desserts, and Mauboussin Mega Sundae will delight you with a vodka-based chocolate liqueur. But that’s not all. The plombard is served with a platinum ring from Mauboussin with diamonds.
The Black Diamond ice cream is sold to you in Dubai. Along with beautiful memories of the delicate vanilla-truffle flavor with precious saffron and golden flakes, you’ll take home an exclusive cup and spoon.
Chicago is known not only for gangsters, but also for knowing how to live here. And as one of the manifestations of hedonism – great ice cream, as much as six pints (about three kilograms)! Enough for a long time!
Truffle Chocolate Ice Cream by Masa Takayama is served at barMASA (Los Angeles). The truffle and creamy flavor is complemented by edible gold decorations.