For any culinary enthusiast, there is no denying the allure of a creamy, decadent scoop of cookies and cream ice cream. But not all brands are created equal. I recently embarked on a steely-eyed mission to find the best version out there, and I’m excited to share the indulgently sweet and crunchy results with you.
Finding the best cookies and cream ice cream
Driven by an insatiable desire for the perfect balance of cookie crunch and creamy goodness, I blind-tasted a dozen cookies and cream ice creams from various brands. Tasting this beloved, Oreo-inspired flavor wasn’t just a matter of balancing the cookie-to-cream ratio. It was equally about assessing the quality of the ingredients, texture, and taste.
The assessment criteria
The contenders were judged using a straightforward system of scratch scoring. The first criterion was the cookie factor—both the quantity and quality of cookie pieces were scrutinized and scored. The second judgment focused on the ice cream base, considering its creaminess, sweetness, and flavor depth. Finally, each brand was scored for their mix—the degree to which the cookie pieces and ice cream base worked together to create a harmonious and delectable whole.
The top picks and why they stood out
Although each brand brought its unique take to this classic flavor, two brands stood out from the crowd—the Trader Joe’s Joe-Joe’s Cookies & Cream Light Ice Cream and Häagen-Dazs’s Cookies and Cream ice cream.
Trader Joe’s Joe-Joe’s Cookies & Cream Light Ice Cream
Undeniably, the Trader Joe’s version was a surprise. Despite being a “light” ice cream, this brand offered an impressive cookies-to-cream ratio with wonderfully chunky cookie pieces. More notably, its ice cream base had a stunning complexity of flavor—tasting lusciously creamy with an unanticipated, delicate note of salt bringing out the sweetness. Its impressive taste demonstrated that low-calorie ice cream could indeed be flavorful and satisfying.
Häagen-Dazs’s Cookies and Cream ice cream
Häagen-Dazs’s offering position was not surprising given its reputation for luxurious ice creams. Its Cookies and Cream flavor was rich, penetratingly creamy, and studded with satisfyingly sizable cookie chunks that provided a nice crunch against the smooth base. Another note-worthy point was the deliciously subtle hint of pure vanilla in the base—creating a multi-dimensional flavor experience that was both comforting and sophisticated.
These ice cream tastings were indeed a delightful achievement. While I love to experiment with the latest plant-based ice creams and avant-garde flavors, sometimes there’s nothing better than a classic done right. And when that classic is cookies and cream, the satisfaction is tenfold.
I hope this guide helps to make your next ice cream purchase a more informed one—whether you’re on a craving for nostalgia or seeking out the best quality cookie crumb flavor. No matter what you prefer, there’s an ice cream out there to please every palate and dietary preference.
So the next time you’re in the freezer aisle, wondering which brand to choose, remember this: the best cookies and cream ice creams exude the right balance of creamy texture, high-quality ingredients, and a harmonious blend of cookies and cream. Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about the crunch—it’s about an unforgettable flavor experience that keeps you coming back for more.
Kate Robinson is a culinary writer and food critic with a deep passion for gastronomy and a keen palate that appreciates flavors from around the world. At 31 years old, Kate’s background is as rich and diverse as her taste in food. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in Culinary Arts from the Culinary Institute of America, she has worked in various roles within the food industry, from a line cook in bustling New York City restaurants to a food stylist for culinary magazines.
Her transition into writing was driven by a desire to share her love for food and cooking with a wider audience. Now, as a prominent contributor to a leading online food and gastronomy news platform, Kate explores a wide array of topics, including restaurant reviews, recipe development, and the latest trends in food and dining.
Kate’s writing is distinguished by her ability to transport readers to the heart of the dining experience, whether she’s describing the subtle notes of a rare wine or the vibrant atmosphere of a street food market in Southeast Asia. Her reviews are honest and insightful, offering readers a comprehensive guide to the world’s culinary delights.
Beyond reviews, Kate is passionate about sustainable eating practices and often features articles on farm-to-table dining, organic farming, and ethical food sourcing. Her features on international cuisines and culinary traditions aim not only to educate her audience but also to inspire them to explore new flavors and cooking techniques.
Kate’s engaging writing style, combined with her extensive knowledge of the culinary world, has made her a favorite among food lovers. Whether her readers are experienced chefs or home cooks looking to broaden their culinary horizons, Kate provides valuable insights and inspiration to elevate their food experiences.
In addition to her writing, Kate regularly hosts online cooking classes and workshops, where she shares her expertise and enthusiasm for cooking with participants eager to learn. Her commitment to exploring and celebrating the world of food has established her as a respected voice in the gastronomy category, inspiring a deeper appreciation for the art and culture of food.
