Viennetta ice cream cake is a nostalgic dessert that blends creamy ice cream with crisp chocolate layers. Launched by Wall’s in 1982, it became a beloved treat in the UK and beyond, known for its elegant, wavy design. Its unique texture and rich flavors make it a standout for celebrations.
This iconic dessert, once a staple in the 1990s, has seen a revival in the US under Good Humor. With flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and mint, it’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or casual gatherings. Its layered look adds a touch of sophistication to any dessert table.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best Viennetta ice cream cake options, homemade recipes, and serving tips. From store-bought classics to DIY versions, you’ll find ways to enjoy this retro treat. Let’s dive into the creamy, crunchy world of Viennetta!
The Appeal of Viennetta Ice Cream Cake
Viennetta’s charm lies in its layered design. Alternating waves of ice cream and thin chocolate sheets create a delightful texture. This makes every bite creamy and crunchy.
The dessert’s elegant look elevates it beyond standard ice cream. Its signature ripples, dusted with cocoa or topped with cream, feel festive. It’s a go-to for special occasions like birthdays or barbecues.
Viennetta is versatile and widely loved. Available in flavors like vanilla and mint, it suits various tastes. Its affordability, at $5.49–$6.99, adds to its appeal.
History of Viennetta
Viennetta was created in 1982 by Wall’s, a British ice cream company under Unilever. Developed by Kevin Hillman and team, its patented extrusion technique forms wavy ice cream layers. Launched as a holiday treat, it became a year-round favorite by 1984.
The dessert gained global popularity, reaching the US in the late 1980s via Breyers. Discontinued in the 1990s, it returned in 2021 under Good Humor due to nostalgic demand. Its iconic status endures in countries like the UK and Australia.
In Spain, it was called Comtessa until a 1990s rebrand. A 2008 poll favored the original name, showing its cultural impact. Viennetta’s unique design remains a dessert icon.
What Is the Best Viennetta Ice Cream Cake
To answer the question, “What is the best Viennetta ice cream cake?” Good Humor’s Vanilla Viennetta is a top choice for its classic flavor and creamy texture. Priced at $5.49 for a 650ml loaf, it features wavy vanilla ice cream with crisp chocolate layers, earning a 4.6/5 rating on Kroger’s site. It’s widely available at Walmart and Kroger.
For homemade options, a vanilla Viennetta recipe from Confessions of a Baking Queen uses a 1.5-quart tub of Breyers French Vanilla and melted chocolate, praised for its ease and nostalgic taste. It takes 10 minutes to prep and costs about $5 in ingredients. Food & Wine lauds its authentic look.
A tiramisu-inspired Viennetta from The Spruce Eats blends vanilla and coffee ice creams with mascarpone cream, rated 4.5/5 on their site. It’s a sophisticated twist for $6–$8 in ingredients, ideal for coffee lovers. These options cater to both store-bought and homemade preferences.
Comparison of Viennetta Ice Cream Cake Options
Here’s a table comparing three Viennetta ice cream cake options:
| Option | Key Features | Price (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Good Humor Vanilla | Wavy vanilla, crisp chocolate layers | $5.49 (650ml) |
| Homemade Vanilla | Breyers ice cream, easy prep, nostalgic | $5 (ingredients) |
| Tiramisu Viennetta | Coffee/vanilla, mascarpone cream, elegant | $6–$8 (ingredients) |
This table highlights the variety in Viennetta options. Good Humor offers convenience, homemade vanilla is budget-friendly, and tiramisu adds sophistication. Choose based on time and taste preferences.
Homemade Viennetta Recipes
A simple homemade Viennetta starts with a 1.5-quart tub of vanilla ice cream. Soften for 5–8 minutes, layer in a loaf pan with melted chocolate, and freeze for 2 hours. Pipe whipped cream on top for the iconic look.
For a mango twist, try a recipe blending mango and coconut milk ice creams. Layer with white chocolate and top with mango curd, as seen on Not Quite Nigella. It takes 20 minutes and serves 12 for $8–$10.
A no-churn version uses whipped cream, condensed milk, and dark chocolate. Layer in a loaf pan, freeze for 6 hours, and dust with cocoa. This recipe, from Mashed, yields a creamy, decadent result.
Dairy-Free Viennetta Options
Dairy-free Viennetta is easy to make with coconut milk ice cream. Blend 2 cans coconut milk, ¾ cup sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla, then layer with vegan chocolate. Freeze for 4–6 hours for a creamy, vegan treat.
So Delicious Coconut Milk Vanilla can replace dairy ice cream in store-bought recipes. Pair with melted vegan chocolate for crisp layers. It’s available at Whole Foods for $5.49 per pint.
Add fruit purees like raspberry for a dairy-free twist. Blend with coconut milk for a vibrant sorbet layer. This keeps the dessert inclusive and flavorful.
Tips for Perfect Viennetta Texture
Chill the loaf pan before layering to keep ice cream firm. This prevents melting and ensures clean chocolate layers. A cold pan is key for crisp results.
Use a warm knife to cut clean slices. Dip the knife in hot water and wipe dry between cuts to show off the wavy layers. This enhances presentation.
Work quickly when layering to avoid melting. Freeze each layer for 20–30 minutes before adding the next. This maintains the dessert’s structure and texture.
Serving Ideas for Viennetta
Serve Viennetta slices on chilled plates for a polished look. Dust with cocoa powder or add fresh berries for color. It’s a simple yet elegant dessert.
Pair with warm brownies for a hot-cold contrast. The chocolate layers complement the brownies’ fudginess. This is perfect for dinner parties.
Create mini Viennetta cakes using silicone molds. Layer ice cream and chocolate for individual servings. These are great for kids’ parties or gatherings.
Storing Viennetta Ice Cream Cake
Store Viennetta in an airtight container at 0°F to prevent freezer burn. Cover with plastic wrap before sealing to maintain freshness. It lasts up to a month.
Avoid repeated thawing to preserve texture. Slice only what you need and return the rest to the freezer. Small portions reduce ice crystal formation.
For homemade versions, use a loaf pan lined with parchment paper. This makes unmolding easy and keeps the cake intact. Label with the freezing date.
Where to Buy Viennetta Ice Cream Cake
Good Humor Viennetta is available at Walmart, Kroger, and Target for $5.49–$6.99. Check store apps for sales, often dropping to $4.99. Online delivery is offered via Instacart.
Whole Foods and Sprouts carry ingredients for homemade versions, like Breyers Vanilla ($4.99) and dark chocolate ($2–$3). Amazon sells vegan chocolate for dairy-free recipes.
For specialty flavors, check international markets or Unilever’s website. Some regions offer mint or chocolate Viennetta. Prices vary by location and season.
Viennetta for Events
Viennetta ice cream cake shines at celebrations. Serve thin slices (1.5cm) for large gatherings, as it serves 12–18 people. Top with sprinkles for a festive touch.
Set up a dessert bar with Viennetta as the centerpiece. Offer toppings like caramel sauce or crushed nuts for customization. Guests love the interactive experience.
For kids’ parties, cut into small squares and add colorful candles. The wavy layers make it visually appealing. Pair with fruit for a balanced treat.
Summary
Viennetta ice cream cake is a nostalgic, elegant dessert with creamy ice cream and crisp chocolate layers. Good Humor’s Vanilla Viennetta is a top store-bought pick, while homemade recipes offer budget-friendly customization. Dairy-free versions with coconut milk cater to vegan diets, and creative serving ideas like sundaes elevate any event. With proper storage and simple techniques, this treat brings retro charm to 2025 gatherings. Enjoy its creamy, crunchy perfection at your next celebration!
FAQ
What is the best Viennetta ice cream cake?
Good Humor’s Vanilla Viennetta is a top pick for its creamy waves and chocolate layers, priced at $5.49. Homemade versions using Breyers Vanilla or tiramisu-inspired recipes are also excellent. Find them at Walmart or make your own for $5–$8.
Can I make a dairy-free Viennetta?
Yes, use coconut milk ice cream with vegan chocolate for layers. Blend coconut milk, sugar, and vanilla, then freeze with chocolate sheets. So Delicious Vanilla is a great base for $5.49.
How do I make homemade Viennetta ice cream cake?
Layer softened vanilla ice cream with melted chocolate in a loaf pan. Freeze each layer for 20–30 minutes, then top with whipped cream. Freeze for 2–6 hours before slicing.
Where can I buy Viennetta ice cream cake?
Good Humor Viennetta is at Walmart, Kroger, and Target for $5.49–$6.99. Ingredients for homemade versions are at Whole Foods or Amazon. Instacart offers online delivery.
How long does Viennetta last in the freezer?
Store in an airtight container at 0°F for up to a month. Cover with plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Slice only what you need to maintain texture.