Thrifty ice cream holds a special place in many hearts. Its creamy texture and unique flavors bring back childhood memories. The iconic cylinder scoops stand out from regular round ones.
This California classic started in 1940 at Thrifty Drug Stores. It quickly became famous for affordable, high-quality treats. Fans still love it decades later.
Even with changes in ownership and stores, Thrifty keeps going strong. New owners plan to expand distribution. You can find it in tubs or by the scoop.
The History of Thrifty Ice Cream
Thrifty ice cream began in West Hollywood. Brothers Harry and Robert Borun, with brother-in-law Norman Levin, made it for their drug stores. They wanted a tasty, cheap treat to draw customers.
Early scoops cost just pennies. The special cylinder scoop made perfect portions. Flavors like Rocky Road won awards fast.
By the 1970s, it reached cult status on the West Coast. Celebrities mentioned it often. Production moved to El Monte in 1976.
Rite Aid bought the chain in 1996 but kept the ice cream brand. Scoop counters stayed in many stores. It won over 1,600 gold medals in dairy competitions.
What Makes Thrifty Ice Cream Special
Thrifty uses Real California Milk and quality ingredients. The texture stays rich and creamy. Dutch cocoa adds depth to chocolate flavors.
The cylinder scoop creates flat tops and sides. It stacks neatly on cones. Many say it tastes better than pricier brands.
Limited-time flavors keep things exciting. Circus Animal Cookies uses real cookies. Nostalgia drives its popularity.
Production happens in one El Monte plant. Long-time workers ensure consistency. It’s kosher except for Rocky Road.
Where to Buy Thrifty Ice Cream
Thrifty ice cream remains widely available in 2026. Grocery stores carry 48-ounce tubs in freezer sections. Chains like Ralphs, Vons, Safeway, Albertsons, Food 4 Less, and Pavilions stock it often.
Some independent shops and parlors serve scoops. Look for places in California, Arizona, and parts of Mexico. New owners expand to more regions.
Online delivery works through Instacart or store apps. Bulk 3-gallon tubs suit parties via distributors.
Check the official site for updates. Availability grows with new distribution.
Popular places include:
- Ralphs and Kroger family stores
- Albertsons, Vons, Safeway
- Food 4 Less and similar discount grocers
- Select independent ice cream shops
Tubs cost around $5 to $7 on sale. Scoops vary by location.
Top Thrifty Ice Cream Flavors
Thrifty offers over 40 flavors. Classics lead the pack. Chocolate Malted Krunch tops many lists with its crunchy bits.
Mint Chip delivers fresh taste. Rocky Road mixes marshmallows and nuts. Butter Pecan appeals to nut lovers.
Circus Animal Cookies brings fun with cookie pieces. Black Cherry features real fruit. Coconut Pineapple feels tropical.
Other favorites:
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough
- Pistachio Nut
- Cookies ‘n Cream
- Mocha Almond Fudge
- Birthday Cake
Seasonal options appear sometimes.
| Flavor | Key Ingredients/Taste Notes | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Chocolate Malted Krunch | Chocolate ice cream with malted crunchies | Crunch lovers, nostalgic fans |
| Mint Chip | Mint base with chocolate chips | Refreshing classic |
| Rocky Road | Chocolate with marshmallows and almonds | Texture variety |
| Butter Pecan | Vanilla with roasted pecans | Nutty richness |
| Circus Animal Cookies | Vanilla with frosted animal cookies | Fun, kid-friendly |
| Black Cherry | Cherry ice cream with real cherries | Fruit-forward |
| Coconut Pineapple | Coconut base with pineapple pieces | Tropical escape |
| Pistachio Nut | Pistachio flavor with nuts | Unique green treat |
| Cookies ‘n Cream | Vanilla with cookie pieces | Everyday indulgence |
| Mocha Almond Fudge | Coffee chocolate with almonds and fudge | Coffee fans |
This table highlights top picks. Try several to find yours.
Recent Changes and Future Plans
Rite Aid faced challenges and closed all stores by late 2025. Scoop counters ended there. The brand sold to Hilrod Holdings in 2025.
New owners include Monster Beverage executives. They keep original recipes. Plans include more flavors and wider reach.
Production stays in California. Grocery tubs continue strong. Scoop spots shift to independents.
Fans worried at first but now see growth. Availability improves in 2026.
Tips for Enjoying Thrifty Ice Cream
Let tubs soften slightly for easier scooping. Use a warm scoop for cylinders at home. Pair flavors like vanilla with toppings.
Store in the freezer tightly sealed. Eat within a few months for best taste. Share big tubs at gatherings.
Watch for sales at grocers. Delivery apps bring it fast. Try new limited editions when available.
For nostalgia, stack scoops high. The flat shape helps.
Summary
Thrifty ice cream delights with its history and taste. Find it mainly in grocery stores like Ralphs, Vons, and Albertsons in tubs. Some shops offer scoops, with more coming.
Classics like Chocolate Malted Krunch shine. New ownership brings expansion. Enjoy this affordable treat anytime.
FAQ
Where can I buy Thrifty ice cream now?
Look in freezer sections at Ralphs, Vons, Safeway, Albertsons, and similar chains. Some independent parlors serve scoops. Availability expands in 2026.
Is Thrifty ice cream still available after Rite Aid closed?
Yes, the brand continues under new owners. Tubs sell in many groceries. Scoop counters moved to other spots.
What is the most popular Thrifty flavor?
Chocolate Malted Krunch often tops lists for its crunch and malt taste. Mint Chip and Rocky Road follow close.
How much does Thrifty ice cream cost?
48-ounce tubs run $5 to $8, often on sale. Prices vary by store. Bulk options cost more.