Top Store-Bought Ice Cream in Canada: Flavors, Brands & Reviews

Craving a sweet escape? Look no further! In this comprehensive article, we're taking a deep dive into the delightful world of store-bought ice cream, with a special emphasis on the vibrant Canadian ice cream scene. Whether you're an ice cream aficionado constantly on the hunt for your next favorite scoop or simply seeking a reliable and tasty treat for a cozy night in, you'll find a plethora of fantastic recommendations and insights here. From classic, comforting flavors to innovative gourmet options and essential dairy-free delights, we've got your cravings covered. Join us as we explore the very best ice cream selections readily available in grocery stores across Canada and beyond.

This extensive guide compiles authentic insights and enthusiastic recommendations directly from various Reddit communities, including r/AskACanadian, r/FoodToronto, and r/icecream. By leveraging the collective wisdom of these passionate ice cream lovers, we aim to provide a truly comprehensive and relatable resource for discovering the top store-bought ice cream options available today.

Canadian Ice Cream Favorites: A Reddit Roundup

When it comes to selecting the best store-bought ice cream in Canada, the sheer variety can be overwhelming. However, certain brands and unique flavors consistently rise to the top in discussions among Canadian consumers. Here's what the Reddit community has highlighted as their absolute must-try picks:

• Righteous Carrot Cake & Cream Cheese Gelato: This particular flavor from Righteous Gelato receives an overwhelming amount of praise and special mention for its incredibly unique and undeniably delicious combination. According to Reddit user CrypticWeirdo9105, it's not just a top pick but a truly exceptional experience. Righteous Gelato, an artisanal producer based in Calgary, Alberta, is renowned for its commitment to using high-quality, natural ingredients and crafting small-batch gelato with intense, authentic flavors. Their Carrot Cake & Cream Cheese Gelato perfectly balances the spiced sweetness of carrot cake with the tangy, rich cream cheese swirl, offering a sophisticated and comforting dessert experience that transcends typical ice cream. It's often found in specialty grocery stores and larger supermarkets across Canada, appealing to those looking for a premium, gourmet option.
• Farm Boy Roasted Banana Blast Ice Cream: Another highly favored choice, this ice cream from Farm Boy offers a delightful and unexpected twist on a classic fruit flavor. Farm Boy is a Canadian grocery chain, particularly popular in Ontario, known for its emphasis on fresh, local, and often gourmet products. Their Roasted Banana Blast stands out because the roasting process deepens and caramelizes the banana's natural sugars, creating a more complex and intense flavor profile compared to simple banana ice cream. This rich, sweet, and slightly smoky taste makes it a unique find and a favorite among those seeking something beyond the ordinary. It exemplifies Farm Boy's dedication to innovative and high-quality private label products.

The original poster from r/AskACanadian, CrypticWeirdo9105, initiated a lively discussion by specifically asking for flavor recommendations, emphasizing the desire for unique and specific options rather than just generic brands. This query ignited a passionate exchange, with numerous Canadians eagerly sharing their personal favorites and hidden gems, showcasing the diverse and rich landscape of Canadian ice cream preferences. Beyond these two standout mentions, other widely loved Canadian brands include Kawartha Dairy, known for its rich, creamy texture and classic flavors; Chapman's, a household name offering a vast range of options including many allergen-friendly choices; and President's Choice, Loblaw's in-house brand, which frequently introduces innovative and high-quality ice cream flavors that often rival premium brands.

Beyond Canada: Global Ice Cream Discoveries and Cult Classics

While Canada certainly boasts its share of exceptional ice cream, the global landscape of frozen desserts is vast and incredibly varied, offering unique experiences and cult favorites from around the world. One such beloved brand that frequently garners international attention, particularly from those in the United States, is Rite Aid's Thrifty Ice Cream.

• Rite Aid's Thrifty Ice Cream (Birthday Cake Flavored): This iconic brand consistently receives high praise for its distinctively tasty and remarkably delicious flavors, especially considering its origin as a pharmacy chain's house brand. Thrifty Ice Cream has a long and storied history, dating back to 1940 in California. It's particularly famous for its unique cylindrical scoops, which are a hallmark of its hand-dipped service. The Birthday Cake flavor, in particular, is a fan favorite, celebrated for its vibrant mix of creamy vanilla ice cream, colorful sprinkles, and delightful cake pieces that evoke a sense of nostalgic celebration with every bite. The texture is often described as denser and richer than many other mass-produced ice creams, contributing to its loyal following. One Reddit user enthusiastically shared an image of the Birthday Cake flavor, expressing their profound love for it, highlighting its status as a beloved treat for many.

However, the journey of Thrifty Ice Cream has not been without its challenges. The recent waves of Rite Aid store closures across the United States have created a bittersweet reality for many fans. One user from r/RiteAid humorously (and perhaps a little sadly) shared their excitement about no longer having to scoop ice cream due to store closures, while also mentioning the occasional encounter with rude customers. This sentiment underscores the emotional connection consumers have with their favorite treats, even when faced with the broader shifts in retail landscapes. The discontinuation or reduced availability of a beloved product, like Thrifty's hand-dipped ice cream, can evoke a strong sense of loss and nostalgia for many who grew up with it.

Navigating Dietary Needs: The Rise of Dairy-Free Ice Cream Options

For individuals with dietary restrictions, allergies, or those simply choosing a plant-based lifestyle, the quest for the perfect dairy-free ice cream has become increasingly important. Thankfully, the market for non-dairy frozen desserts has exploded in recent years, offering an impressive array of delicious alternatives that can truly be game-changers. The r/dairyfree community is a testament to this growing demand, with users constantly sharing recommendations and tips for finding the best plant-based scoops.

• Cold Stone Creamery: While primarily known for its customizable, mix-in laden dairy ice cream, Cold Stone Creamery has made efforts to cater to the dairy-free community by offering a good vegan option, typically a sorbet or a plant-based 'cream' flavor. However, as one user pointed out, the availability and specific offerings can sometimes be unreliable, varying by location and time, which can be a source of frustration for those seeking consistent options.

The dairy-free ice cream landscape is incredibly diverse, utilizing a wide range of plant-based milks to achieve varying textures and flavor profiles. Common bases include almond milk, which offers a neutral taste; coconut milk, known for its rich creaminess and subtle tropical notes; oat milk, which provides a smooth, naturally sweet base; and cashew milk, often used for its luxurious, fatty texture that closely mimics dairy. Brands like So Delicious, NadaMoo!, and Oatly have become staples in many grocery stores, offering a wide array of flavors from classic chocolate and vanilla to more inventive combinations.

Beyond these, even major players like Ben & Jerry's have introduced extensive lines of non-dairy ice creams, often replicating their most popular flavors with plant-based ingredients. These advancements mean that being dairy-free no longer means sacrificing the joy of ice cream. However, as Reddit user RoseGoldLeaves highlighted in their search for reliable dairy-free ice cream or milkshakes in the Atlanta area, consistency and widespread availability of truly delicious vegan options remain a key challenge for many consumers. The dairy-free community actively shares tips on identifying products without hidden dairy ingredients, recognizing the best plant-based textures, and finding local spots that prioritize inclusive dessert menus.

The Ninja Creami Craze: Revolutionizing Homemade Ice Cream Adventures

The advent of kitchen gadgets often sparks new culinary trends, and few have made as significant an impact on the world of frozen desserts as the Ninja Creami. This innovative appliance has truly revolutionized the homemade ice cream scene, transforming how enthusiasts create custom frozen treats right in their own kitchens. The dedicated r/ninjacreami community is a buzzing hub of creativity, sharing recipes, tips, and experiences with this versatile machine.

• Cost-Effective Recipes: A recurring theme among Ninja Creami users is the exploration of the most budget-friendly ingredients to create respectable and delicious ice cream bases. While the initial investment in the machine itself can be substantial, users quickly realize that continually buying individual gourmet ingredients can sometimes make homemade ice cream more expensive than simply purchasing store-bought tubs. This has led to a collective effort within the community to discover clever hacks and simple ingredient combinations that yield fantastic results without breaking the bank. Common cost-saving strategies include using frozen fruit as a primary base, incorporating affordable protein powders for a healthier twist, and experimenting with various sweeteners and flavor extracts to achieve desired tastes.

Reddit user calsonicthrowaway specifically asked about the most cost-effective recipes, igniting a vibrant discussion on budget-friendly ingredients and techniques for maximizing the value of the Ninja Creami. Users frequently share insights on where to find affordable bulk ingredients, how to repurpose leftovers into frozen treats, and how to achieve creamy textures with minimal additions. The Ninja Creami's appeal lies in its ability to transform almost any frozen liquid or solid into a creamy, scoopable dessert, from sorbets and gelato to milkshakes and "nice creams." This level of customization allows users to control sugar content, incorporate dietary preferences (like dairy-free or high-protein), and experiment with an endless array of flavors not typically found in commercial ice creams. It empowers individuals to become their own ice cream artisans, fostering a sense of culinary adventure and self-sufficiency in dessert making.

The Emotional Connection: When Your Favorite Ice Cream Disappears

Ice cream is far more than just a sweet treat; for many, it's deeply intertwined with emotions, memories, and comfort. The discontinuation of a beloved flavor or brand can therefore evoke a profound sense of loss, akin to saying goodbye to an old friend. This emotional connection is vividly illustrated by a user on r/icecream who shared their devastation over the disappearance of Fatboy ice cream quarts:

"The mint cookie and churro fried ice creams brought me so much life... I don't have words to express how deeply this loss has affected me." - Reddit user 77287

This heartfelt lament highlights the significant impact that a favorite flavor can have on an individual's daily life and well-being, especially when it's suddenly no longer available. For many, specific ice cream flavors are tied to childhood memories, celebrations, or simply moments of solace and indulgence after a long day. The sensory experience—the taste, the texture, the aroma—can transport individuals back to cherished times. When a company discontinues such a product, it's not just a commercial decision; it's perceived as the removal of a small, yet significant, source of happiness and nostalgia. This phenomenon isn't unique to ice cream; numerous online communities and petitions exist for other discontinued food items, from specific snack chips to beloved breakfast cereals, all underscoring the powerful role food plays in our emotional landscapes and cultural identity. The collective mourning over a lost ice cream flavor serves as a poignant reminder of how deeply personal our relationship with food can be.

Delivery Mishaps: The DoorDash Ice Cream Saga

In the age of on-demand convenience, food delivery services have become an integral part of modern life. However, ordering delicate items like ice cream through these platforms can often turn into an unexpected adventure, sometimes with frustrating outcomes. One user on r/doordash vividly recounted their exasperating experience with incorrect flavors and inadequate refund issues when ordering ice cream from DashMart, a DoorDash-owned convenience store service.

Here's a detailed summary of the saga:

• Incorrect Orders: The user repeatedly received the wrong ice cream flavor. Their consistent order for cookies n' cream was met with chocolate chip cookie dough, a frustrating mix-up that happened on multiple occasions. This highlights a common issue in food delivery: the challenge of ensuring order accuracy, particularly when dealing with specific product variations.
• Refund Troubles: To compound the frustration, the refunds provided by DoorDash were deemed inadequate. They often failed to cover the entire cost, specifically excluding the service and delivery fees, leaving the customer feeling short-changed despite not receiving their correct order. This is a frequent point of contention for users of delivery apps, who expect full compensation for errors not of their making.
• Dasher Dilemma: The user, sahltypeach, also expressed empathy for the DoorDash driver, who was inadvertently caught in the middle of these flavor mix-ups. Delivery drivers often pick up sealed bags, making it impossible for them to verify the contents inside. This structural limitation of many delivery services places the onus of accuracy squarely on the vendor, but leaves the customer and driver in a difficult position when mistakes occur.

The user's experience underscores the critical need for improved order verification processes, especially for items where specific flavors or variations are crucial. DoorDash's policy of not allowing dashers to open bags, while intended for hygiene and security, inadvertently creates a blind spot that can lead to customer dissatisfaction. This saga serves as a cautionary tale for both consumers and delivery platforms, emphasizing the importance of clear communication, accurate inventory management, and robust customer service protocols to ensure a smooth and satisfying delivery experience for highly specific or temperature-sensitive items like ice cream.

Unconventional Pairings: Ice Cream with... Cheese Balls?

While classic pairings like ice cream and hot fudge or sweet and salty combinations are universally beloved, some food enthusiasts dare to venture into truly unique and unexpected culinary territory. The world of snacking is ripe for experimentation, and sometimes the most unlikely combinations yield surprisingly delightful results. On r/snacking, users engaged in a fascinating discussion about their "sleeper pick" sweet and salty pairings, revealing some truly unconventional yet intriguing preferences.

• Nacho Cheese Doritos with Chocolate Chip Cookies: This pairing, while perhaps initially surprising, resonates with many as a nostalgic favorite. It often brings back memories of late-night gaming sessions or spontaneous snack attacks where the distinct, savory, and slightly spicy crunch of Nacho Cheese Doritos provides a stark contrast to the soft, sweet, and comforting chewiness of a chocolate chip cookie. The combination of intense umami and sweet chocolate creates a complex flavor profile that is surprisingly addictive.
• Utz Cheese Balls with Ice Cream: This is where the pairings truly take an unconventional turn. The idea of alternating bites of crispy, intensely cheesy Utz Cheese Balls with creamy, cold ice cream might sound bizarre to some, but for its proponents, it offers a unique "palate-cleansing" experience. The sharp, savory, and almost pungent flavor of the cheese balls cuts through the sweetness and richness of the ice cream, creating a fascinating textural and flavor interplay. Some describe it as a bizarre yet compelling dance between opposing tastes, where each bite prepares the palate for the next, enhancing the overall snacking experience. This particular combination challenges traditional notions of dessert and savory snacks, inviting adventurous eaters to explore new frontiers of flavor.

These unconventional pairings showcase the creative and deeply personal ways people enjoy their snacks. They remind us that taste is subjective and that sometimes, the most unexpected combinations can lead to the most memorable culinary moments. It's a testament to the adventurous spirit of snackers who are willing to push boundaries and discover new dimensions of flavor and texture, proving that the rules of culinary harmony can sometimes be delightfully broken.

The Quest for the Perfect Ice Cream: Recommendations and Reviews

The pursuit of the perfect ice cream is a journey many undertake, whether it's seeking out the best local scoop shop or finding that ideal pint in the grocery store freezer. Finding the best ice cream often involves a combination of personal preference, word-of-mouth recommendations, and diligent research through reviews. Online communities and local guides play a crucial role in directing enthusiasts to their next favorite frozen treat. Here are some insights gleaned from various discussions about finding top-tier ice cream:

• Columbus, OH: One family embarked on an ambitious and delightful summer project: to visit and thoroughly review numerous ice cream places across Columbus, Ohio. This kind of systematic exploration, often documented on social media or personal blogs, generates invaluable recommendations for locals and visitors alike. Their detailed reviews likely covered aspects such as flavor variety, ingredient quality, texture, ambiance, and service, providing a comprehensive guide for fellow ice cream lovers in the area. Such localized efforts highlight the vibrant and diverse ice cream scene that exists in many cities, often featuring both established creameries and innovative new shops.
• Toronto, ON: In a more specific quest, some consumers in Toronto, Ontario, expressed a desire for all-natural ice creams, particularly those free from carrageenan or other common stabilizers. This reflects a growing trend towards "clean label" products, where consumers are increasingly concerned about the ingredients in their food. Finding such options often requires careful label reading and seeking out artisanal or smaller-batch producers who prioritize natural formulations. Toronto, as a major culinary hub, likely offers a range of options, from large-scale brands with natural lines to local creameries dedicated to pure ingredients.
• NYC: The dynamic food scene of New York City provides an endless array of dessert options. Discussions about NYC bakeries and coffee shops often include detailed reviews of their ice cream and gelato offerings. Beyond traditional flavors, NYC is a hotbed for unique and exotic finds, such as ube/pandan ice cream sandwiches. Ube (purple yam) and pandan (a fragrant green leaf) are popular ingredients in Southeast Asian desserts, and their incorporation into ice cream showcases the city's diverse culinary influences and its willingness to embrace global flavors. These unique offerings cater to adventurous palates and contribute to NYC's reputation as a global food destination.

Collectively, these examples demonstrate that the search for the "best" ice cream is highly individualized, driven by factors ranging from local availability and ingredient preferences to the desire for nostalgic comfort or adventurous new flavors. Online reviews, community forums, and local food blogs are indispensable tools in this sweet quest, guiding consumers toward their ideal scoop, whether it's a classic vanilla or an exotic ube creation.

Humor and Ice Cream: A Lighthearted Take

Beyond its delicious taste and comforting qualities, ice cream can also serve as a delightful source of humor and lighthearted moments, often finding its way into pop culture, memes, and comedic sketches. Its universal appeal makes it a relatable subject for a wide range of comedic interpretations. One particularly amusing post on r/IThinkYouShouldLeave titled "The Ice Cream Store is Closed Today…" perfectly encapsulates this humorous approach, reminiscent of the popular Netflix sketch comedy show's quirky and often absurd style.

The post, shared by Reddit user RickyFatstax, featured a photo (presumably of an ice cream store) accompanied by a snippet of text that perfectly mimicked the show's signature humor:

"Yep, that’s right. The Fortnite store closes by 9:00 PM so the skins can rest. And I’m married, too. I have a beautiful wife. And I didn’t even want to marry her! She proposed to me! But I love her. But she’s dying…"

For fans of "I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson," this snippet immediately evokes the show's unique comedic style: non-sequiturs, sudden shifts in tone, awkward oversharing, and characters who quickly spiral into bizarre or uncomfortable personal revelations. The humor here doesn't come from a direct joke about ice cream itself, but rather from the absurd juxtaposition of a mundane setting (an ice cream store) with an unexpected, deeply personal, and darkly comedic monologue. It showcases how a simple image of an ice cream shop can be a starting point for highly specific, niche humor that resonates deeply with a particular audience. This demonstrates the versatility of ice cream as a cultural touchstone, capable of inspiring not just culinary delight but also unexpected laughter and quirky content creation.

Conclusion: A World of Ice Cream Awaits Your Scoop

From the cherished local favorites in Canada to globally recognized cult classics, and from innovative dairy-free alternatives to the exciting realm of homemade creations with tools like the Ninja Creami, the world of store-bought ice cream is truly boundless and full of delightful surprises. Our deep dive into various Reddit communities has revealed a vibrant tapestry of preferences, emotional connections, and shared experiences centered around this universally beloved dessert. We've seen how a simple pint can evoke strong feelings of nostalgia, spark lively debates, and even inspire comedic interpretations.

Whether you're seeking the comforting familiarity of a classic vanilla, daring to try an unconventional flavor pairing, or exploring healthier plant-based options, there's undoubtedly an ice cream flavor and brand out there perfectly suited for your palate. The collective wisdom of online communities, coupled with personal exploration, makes the quest for the perfect scoop an enjoyable and rewarding journey. So go ahead, arm yourself with a spoon, open your freezer, and embark on your own delicious ice cream adventure. The next time you're at the grocery store, consider trying one of the highly recommended Canadian gems or an international favorite, or perhaps even get inspired to create your own unique blend at home. The possibilities are as endless as the flavors themselves.

What are your absolute favorite store-bought ice cream flavors and brands? Have you discovered any hidden gems or unique pairings? Share your recommendations, insights, and personal ice cream stories in the comments below! We'd love to hear what's currently filling your freezer!