Ice cream cakes bring joy to any celebration. They combine creamy ice cream with tasty layers and toppings. Many people love them for birthdays, parties, or just a sweet treat.
These frozen desserts stay popular year after year. You can find classic flavors like chocolate and vanilla or fun new ones. Options suit different tastes and budgets.
Finding the right place to buy one is easy with so many choices. From local shops to big chains, there are spots near you. Some even offer custom designs.
Why Ice Cream Cakes Are a Great Choice
Ice cream cakes offer a cool twist on traditional desserts. They feature layers of ice cream, crunchies, and frosting. This mix of textures makes every bite exciting.
They work well for summer events or hot days. Kids and adults both enjoy the fun flavors. Many brands use high-quality ingredients for better taste.
You can pick ready-made cakes or order custom ones. Personal messages or themes add a special touch. They often serve more people than regular cakes.
Where to Buy Ice Cream Cake
You have many reliable places to buy ice cream cakes. Popular chains and stores offer great options. Here are some top spots:
- Specialty Ice Cream Shops: Chains like Carvel, Dairy Queen, Baskin-Robbins, and Cold Stone Creamery specialize in them. They provide custom and signature cakes.
- Grocery Stores: Places like Walmart, Target, Safeway, and Kroger stock frozen ones. Brands include Carvel, Friendly’s, and Oreo.
- Premium Brands: Shops like Ben & Jerry’s or Salt & Straw offer unique flavors. Some ship nationwide.
- Local Bakeries: Independent spots often make fresh, handmade versions.
Look for stores with good reviews and fresh stock. Many have online locators to find nearby locations.
Popular Brands and Their Features
Several brands stand out for quality and variety. Here’s a comparison to help you choose:
| Brand | Key Features | Price Range (8-10 inch cake) | Availability | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carvel | Famous crunchies layer, soft serve base, classic designs like Fudgie the Whale | $25-$40 | Shops and grocery stores | Nostalgic, crunchy textures |
| Dairy Queen | Fudge and crunch center, Blizzard options, soft serve | $28-$45 | DQ locations | Creamy fudge lovers |
| Baskin-Robbins | 31 flavors, real cake layers in some, custom pies | $30-$50 | Baskin-Robbins shops | Flavor variety |
| Cold Stone Creamery | Mix-ins, moist cake layers, rich ganache | $35-$55 | Cold Stone locations | Custom mix-ins |
| Ben & Jerry’s | Chunky flavors, vegan options available | $40-$60 | Scoop shops | Unique chunks, dairy-free |
| Friendly’s | Affordable, chocolate crunchies | $20-$30 | Grocery freezers | Budget-friendly |
| Oreo/Carvel Collab | Cookie-themed, widely available | $25-$35 | Grocery stores | Cookie fans |
| Salt & Straw | Gourmet flavors, layered decadence | $50-$80 | Shops and shipping | Premium tastes |
This table shows options for different needs. Grocery brands are cheaper and easy to grab. Shop chains allow more personalization.
Many testers rate Dairy Queen high for its fudge layer. Carvel wins for classic crunch. Cold Stone shines with custom touches.
Tips for Choosing and Buying
Consider the event size first. Small cakes serve 6-8 people. Larger ones feed 12-20. Check flavors and dietary needs. Some offer gluten-free or vegan. Ask about allergens like nuts.
Order ahead for customs, usually 24-48 hours. Ready-made are available same-day.
Store in freezer until serving. Let sit 10-15 minutes for easier cutting. Look for sales or coupons online. Chains often have deals.
Delivery and Online Options
Many places now offer delivery. Use apps like Uber Eats or DoorDash for local shops.
Some brands ship nationwide. Goldbelly partners with premium makers. Morgenstern’s ships unique cakes.
Ben & Jerry’s and Salt & Straw have shipping too. Dry ice keeps them frozen. Check shipping costs and times. Plan for special occasions. Local grocery delivery via Instacart works for frozen ones.
Summary
Ice cream cakes make any gathering sweeter. Top places include Carvel, Dairy Queen, Baskin-Robbins, and grocery stores like Walmart. Choose based on flavor, price, and customization.
With options from classic to gourmet, there’s something for everyone. Buy in-store, order custom, or get delivered. Enjoy this tasty treat soon.
FAQ
What is the best place to buy ice cream cake?
Dairy Queen often ranks top for its creamy layers and fudge. Carvel is great for crunchies. Try local shops for fresh options. It depends on your taste.
How much does an ice cream cake cost?
Prices range from $20 for grocery brands to $60 for premium customs. Average is $30-$45 for an 8-10 inch cake serving 10-15 people.
Can I get ice cream cake delivered?
Yes, many chains partner with delivery apps. Some like Salt & Straw or Morgenstern’s ship nationwide with dry ice. Check local availability.
Are there dairy-free or vegan ice cream cakes?
Ben & Jerry’s offers vegan options at scoop shops. Some brands have non-dairy versions. Ask in advance for custom needs.
How far in advance should I order?
For custom cakes, order 24-72 hours ahead. Ready-made are available immediately at most stores.