Ice cream bars are the ultimate grab-and-go dessert, perfect for cooling off on a hot day. They combine creamy ice cream with crunchy coatings, offering a satisfying treat in every bite. From classic chocolate-dipped bars to innovative flavors, there’s something for everyone.
These portable delights are a staple in grocery store freezers and ice cream trucks. Their convenience makes them ideal for picnics, beach trips, or a quick indulgence at home. With so many brands and varieties, choosing the best can feel overwhelming.
This guide explores the best ice cream bars available, highlighting top picks, unique flavors, and dietary options. Whether you’re a chocolate lover or seeking vegan treats, you’ll find the perfect bar here. Let’s dive into the world of frozen goodness!
Why Ice Cream Bars Are a Summer Favorite
Ice cream bars are a nostalgic summer treat for many. Their portable design means no scooping or mess, just pure enjoyment. They’re perfect for kids and adults alike, offering a quick way to cool down.
The variety of ice cream bars has exploded in recent years. From low-calorie options to decadent, premium bars, there’s a flavor for every palate. Brands compete to offer the creamiest ice cream and richest coatings.
Quality matters when it comes to ice cream bars. The best ones balance creamy interiors with sturdy, flavorful shells. This ensures a delightful texture and taste that holds up even on the hottest days.
Top Brands for Ice Cream Bars
Several brands stand out in the crowded ice cream bar market. Each offers unique flavors and textures that elevate the classic treat. Here are some of the best names to look for in stores.
Häagen-Dazs is a top contender for premium ice cream bars. Their Vanilla Milk Chocolate Bars use rich vanilla ice cream and thick chocolate coatings. They’re a favorite for their indulgent, creamy texture.
Magnum is known for its luxurious bars, like the Double Caramel. These feature a thick chocolate shell with a caramel layer, encasing creamy ice cream. They’re perfect for those craving decadence.
Klondike offers classic and budget-friendly options. Their Original Vanilla Bar, with its iconic chocolate shell, is a nostalgic choice. It’s widely available and loved for its simplicity.
Where to Find the Best Ice Cream Bars
To answer the question, “What are the best ice cream bars?” it depends on your taste and needs. Häagen-Dazs Soft Dipped Vanilla Bars top many lists for their rich flavor and thick chocolate shell. They earned high praise in taste tests for their creamy texture.
Magnum’s Double Chocolate Bars are a close contender, especially for chocolate lovers. Reviewers on sites like Influenster rave about their indulgent ganache coating. They’re ideal for those seeking a premium treat.
For budget-conscious shoppers, Blue Bell Krunch Bars are a standout. Priced at $5.97 for a 12-pack, they offer creamy vanilla ice cream with a crispy chocolate-rice coating. They’re a great value without sacrificing quality.
Unique Flavors to Try
Ice cream bars aren’t just about vanilla and chocolate anymore. Brands are getting creative, offering bold flavors to excite your taste buds. These unique options make every bite an adventure.
Magnum’s Non-Dairy Sea Salt Caramel Bar is a vegan delight. It combines creamy cashew milk ice cream with a rich chocolate shell. Fans love its balance of sweet and salty notes.
Halo Top’s Peanut Butter Chocolate Keto Pops cater to low-carb diets. With only 3g net carbs, they offer a creamy peanut butter center and a crunchy chocolate coating. They’re a guilt-free indulgence.
GoodPop’s Orange Cream Bars bring nostalgic creamsicle vibes. These dairy-free bars blend vanilla ice cream with a tangy orange shell. They’re perfect for a refreshing, fruity treat.
Dietary-Friendly Ice Cream Bars
Many brands now offer ice cream bars for specific diets. Vegan, low-calorie, and low-sugar options are widely available. These bars ensure everyone can enjoy a frozen treat.
So Delicious offers cashew milk-based bars, like their Salted Caramel Cluster. These vegan bars mimic the creamy texture of dairy ice cream. They’re a hit for their bold flavors.
Enlightened’s low-sugar bars are a great choice for health-conscious eaters. Their vanilla bars have 150 calories and 5g of sugar per serving. They taste natural without a strong aftertaste.
Yasso Frozen Greek Yogurt Bars are another low-calorie option. Their chocolate-dipped bars offer 100 calories and 13g of sugar per bar. They’re creamy and protein-packed, ideal for a lighter treat.
Comparison of Top Ice Cream Bars
Here’s a table comparing three top ice cream bars to help you choose:
| Brand | Flavor | Key Features | Price (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Häagen-Dazs | Vanilla Milk Chocolate | Rich vanilla, thick chocolate shell | $4.39 for 3 bars |
| Magnum | Double Caramel | Creamy ice cream, caramel-chocolate layers | $4.98 for 3 bars |
| Blue Bell | Krunch Bars | Vanilla with crispy chocolate-rice coating | $5.97 for 12 bars |
This table shows the diversity in price, flavor, and features. Häagen-Dazs offers premium quality, Magnum delivers indulgence, and Blue Bell provides value. Choose based on your budget and taste.
Tips for Choosing Ice Cream Bars
Check the ingredient list for quality. Brands like Häagen-Dazs avoid gums and artificial thickeners, ensuring a creamy texture. This makes a big difference in taste.
Consider portion size and calorie count. If you’re watching calories, Yasso or Enlightened bars are lighter options. For indulgence, Magnum or Dove bars are worth the splurge.
Look for bars with sturdy coatings. A thick, crunchy shell, like those on Blue Bell Krunch Bars, prevents messy melting. This is key for enjoying bars on the go.
Hidden Gems in the Freezer Aisle
Some lesser-known ice cream bars deserve more attention. These hidden gems offer unique flavors and great value. They’re perfect for trying something new.
Good Humor’s Strawberry Shortcake Bar is a nostalgic favorite. Its pink-and-white coating and vanilla center evoke ice cream truck memories. It’s a fun, affordable treat at $2.99 for six.
Nestlé Drumstick’s Vanilla Caramel Cone is a bar in cone form. It’s packed with nuts and a chocolate-lined cone for extra crunch. Fans love its rich, layered flavors.
Snickers Ice Cream Bars blend peanuts, caramel, and chocolate. They mimic the classic candy bar but with creamy ice cream. They’re a satisfying pick for candy lovers.
Ice Cream Bars for Every Occasion
Ice cream bars are versatile for any event. They’re great for barbecues, pool parties, or solo snacking. Their no-fuss design makes them a crowd-pleaser.
For kids’ parties, Good Humor’s Mickey Mouse Bars are a hit. Their fun shape and creamy vanilla center delight young eaters. They’re also easy to find at grocery stores.
For adult gatherings, Magnum’s Double Raspberry Bars add sophistication. Their fruity, chocolatey layers impress guests. Pair them with coffee for a decadent dessert.
Where to Buy the Best Ice Cream Bars
Grocery stores like Walmart and Costco stock a wide variety of ice cream bars. Walmart carries Great Value Fudge Bars and Klondike Originals at budget-friendly prices. Costco’s Kirkland Signature Bars, with almonds, are a great bulk buy.
Specialty stores like Whole Foods offer organic options. Their 365 brand chocolate-dipped bars are pricier but use high-quality ingredients. They’re ideal for those seeking organic treats.
Online retailers like IceCreamSource.com ship frozen treats nationwide. They offer brands like Good Humor and Klondike, guaranteed to arrive frozen. This is perfect for hard-to-find flavors.
Summary
Ice cream bars are a timeless treat, offering something for every taste and diet. Häagen-Dazs and Magnum lead for premium indulgence, while Blue Bell and Klondike deliver value and nostalgia. Vegan and low-calorie options like So Delicious and Yasso ensure inclusivity. From unique flavors like sea salt caramel to classic vanilla, the best ice cream bars combine creamy textures with sturdy, flavorful coatings. Stock your freezer with these top picks for a refreshing treat anytime.
FAQ
What are the best ice cream bars for chocolate lovers?
Magnum Double Chocolate and Häagen-Dazs Vanilla Milk Chocolate Bars are top choices. Their thick chocolate shells and creamy centers deliver rich flavor. Both are widely praised on review sites like Influenster.
Are there vegan ice cream bars available?
Yes, So Delicious and GoodPop offer vegan bars. So Delicious’ Salted Caramel Cluster uses cashew milk for a creamy texture. GoodPop’s Orange Cream Bars are dairy-free and refreshing.
Which ice cream bars are budget-friendly?
Blue Bell Krunch Bars and Klondike Original Bars are affordable options. Priced at $5.97 for 12 and $2.99 for six, respectively, they offer great value. They’re available at Walmart and other retailers.
What are the best low-calorie ice cream bars?
Yasso Frozen Greek Yogurt Bars and Enlightened bars are great choices. Yasso offers 100 calories per bar, while Enlightened has 150 calories with low sugar. Both are creamy and satisfying.
Where can I buy ice cream bars online?
IceCreamSource.com ships brands like Klondike and Good Humor nationwide. They guarantee frozen delivery for freshness. Check their site for specialty flavors and bulk options.