Going on a quest to rank Trader Joe’s scoopable ice creams is no insignificant undertaking it’s a commitment to flavor, texture, and the occasional sugar headache. Our fearless taster took on 14 contenders, strictly choosing only pints and quarts, with two parameters: flavor that lives up to its promise and texture that’s luxurious. I can identify with the excitement of opening a fresh pint, dreaming of that ultimate harmony of rich smoothness and strong flavor. Mix-ins, being a delight, weren’t required, but by goodness, did they serve to take the classics to legendary heights.
Competition was stiff, with every flavor bringing its own twist to the game. Trader Joe’s has mastered the art of meshing tradition with innovation, from traditional vanilla to far-out yuzu. Prices, between $3.79 and $4.99, put these premium cookies within reach, and the “super premium” designation indicating high-quality ingredients, more fat, and low overrun guarantees an extra-dense, rich experience. Let’s travel through the rankings, beginning with the dark horses and ending with the champion, while threading in the overall buzz from TJ’s enthusiasts and aficionados.
This is not about one person’s taste bud it’s about the collective enthusiasm for TJ’s frozen treats, where each scoop has a story to tell. From non-dairy surprises to flavor-of-the-season sensations, here’s how the roster stacked up, with a highlight of why Horchata took home the title and why the battle for “best” is as delectable as the ice cream itself.
Key Elements of the Quest:
- Emphasizing scoopable pints and quarts, dairy and non-dairy.
- Ranked by intense flavor and velvety texture.
- Indulgent prices ($3.79-$4.99) make it affordable for the wallet.
Even Trader Joe’s “least favorites” aren’t complete losers, but in a field this competitive, someone has to sit at the kiddie table. These contestants, though not the best, exemplify TJ’s dedication to diversity, particularly for those with non-dairy preferences. I’ve experienced my fair share of freezer aisle flops, but there’s always a silver lining such as an extra chewy boba pearl or a tangy surprise that leaves you wanting to know more.
These lower-rated flavors emphasize the difficulty in reconciling robust flavor with velvety texture, particularly in non-dairy versions. They’re not failures by any stretch, but they’re up against stiff competition in a category of big guns. Let’s take a look at the bottom tier, respecting their efforts and pointing out where they lagged behind.
Strawberry Non-Dairy Oat Frozen Dessert ($3.99/pint)
Leading off the rankings is the Strawberry Non-Dairy Oat Frozen Dessert, a noble effort at an old favorite. Its pale pink color and oat milk base promised well, sidestepping the gross artificial glow of cheaper brands. I was looking forward to tasting it, hoping to get a blast of strawberry nostalgia, but the flavor fell short. The strawberry flavor was weak, and oat milk had an unpleasant note that didn’t coalesce. Candied strawberry bits brought a chewy element and a hint of flavor, but were too scattered to rescue the situation.
Our sampler was candid: “I won’t be repurchasing this.” Nevertheless, TJ’s gets credit for providing non-dairy alternatives, and to one in the mood for a lighter, plant-based dessert, it’s not a complete loss merely not a winner in this saturated category.
Why It’s Last:
- Strawberry flavor is weak, a disappointment.
- Oat milk foundation doesn’t feel right, with a lack of depth.
- Meager mix-ins can’t make up for the deficiency.
Cold Brew Coffee and Boba Coconut Non-Dairy Frozen Dessert ($4.49/pint)
Following is the Cold Brew Coffee and Boba Coconut Non-Dairy Frozen Dessert, an ambitious combination of coconut milk, cold brew, and chewy tapioca pearls. The light color was disappointing for a coffee aficionado such as myself, and the boba pearls weren’t easily discernible, making their effect questionable. The chewy boba was a novelty I enjoyed, but the cold brew flavor had no bold kick I need in my morning latte.
The coconut base, though good, couldn’t compete with the richness of dairy, and the whole experience seemed to be trying too hard without quite succeeding. It’s an original idea, but in a field of giants, it didn’t quite deliver.
What Held It Back:
- Disappointing cold brew flavor.
- Coconut base is missing the creaminess of dairy.
- Boba provides playfulness but not much punch.
The Yuzu Ripple Coconut Non-Dairy Frozen Treat captured our attention with its citrusy allure. Released in February 2025, this coconut dessert featuring yuzu curd ripple had a soft, sorbet-like consistency and neon orangey-yellow speckles. The initial taste was a zing of citrusy grapefruit-lemon-mandarin, and I was instantly hooked until it wasn’t. The sweetness became overpowering, and the yuzu developed a medicinal bitterness over time, quelling the initial high.
Though it has a fan base, as commented on X posts in appreciation of its originality, it wasn’t able to maintain the magic for our reviewer. It’s an ambitious attempt, but the flavor fatigue prevented it from rising further.
Pros and Cons:
- Fresh, citrusy yuzu begins boldly.
- Medicinal aftertaste and cloying sweetness.
- Creamy texture surprises for non-dairy.
Mint Chip Ice Cream ($4.49/quart, Super Premium)
Moving on to dairy, the Mint Chip Ice Cream, a super premium item, impressed our taster, who is not a fan of mint. Its natural, non-green color and rich, creamy texture filled with chocolate pieces were a hit. The taste, similar to Andes Chocolate Mints, steered clear of the toothpaste abyss, with bitter chocolate cutting into the minty zing.
Still, individual bias against mint kept it at the bottom, but its rich texture was complimented. For those who love mint chip, this will probably be a favorite, showing that TJ’s can make even divisive flavors work.
Why It’s Here:
- Rich, thick texture is wonderful.
- Well-balanced mint-chocolate taste.
- Individual taste caps its ranking.
Speculoos Cookie Butter Ice Cream ($4.99/quart, Super Premium)
Speculoos Cookie Butter Ice Cream had all the makings of a star: a vanilla base with swirls of that addictive, gingerbread-like cookie butter. I’m guilty of spooning cookie butter straight from the jar, so expectations were sky-high. The visible swirls and dense texture delivered visually, but the flavor fell flat, leaning too sweet without enough gingery spice.
Elsewhere, this flavor reigns supreme, with judges deeming it “a work of ice cream art” due to its snappy cookie bits and sweet-and-savory balance. Our reviewer’s letdown demonstrates how tastes vary, but its super premium texture renders it dignified.
Mixed Reviews:
- Smooth texture and detectable swirls wow.
- Misses sharp gingery flavors for some.
- A classic favorite among others, demonstrating the subjectivity of taste.
Now we’re hitting the highlights flavors that begin to come into their own with big profiles and innovative twists. These middle-tier pints walk the line between creativity and execution, providing textures and flavors that cause you to slow down and appreciate. I’ve found myself in TJ’s freezer section where a pint like these brings me to a standstill, offering something exciting. These are the ones you find yourself stocking up on, just in case they’re limited-time.
This level is where TJ’s creativity with unusual ingredients and international influences begins to shine through. From non-dairy twists to iconic flavors executed well, these pints are fan favorites that promise greatness. Let’s dive in and explore why they’re on the rise.
Chocolate Non-Dairy Frozen Dessert ($3.99/pint)
The Chocolate Non-Dairy Frozen Dessert was a revelation, demonstrating that plant-based is as good as the best. Its coconut foundation provided an “amazingly creamy” texture that could trick anyone into believing it’s dairy. The chocolate taste, though not as dark as our taster wished, was strong and fulfilling, receiving high marks for a plain, mix-in-free pint.
I was hesitant about non-dairy chocolate, but this converted me it’s rich without being heavy. It’s a perfect choice for vegan dessert enthusiasts or anyone who wants a plain chocolate fix.
Unexpected Strengths:
- Creamy texture competes with dairy ice cream.
- Tough chocolate flavor, just not dark enough.
- Ideal for plant-based dessert enthusiasts.
Black Tea and Boba Coconut Non-Dairy Frozen Dessert ($4.49/pint)
The Black Tea and Boba Coconut Non-Dairy Frozen Dessert was serious business. Its earthy, slightly bitter black tea flavor, combined with chewy boba and a light brown sugar swirl, was a winner. The presence of visible boba and tea-infused color provided visual interest, and the flavor filled the mouth with scented richness.
This one’s a gem for less-sweet, complex dessert lovers. It’s not as rich as dairy-based, but its distinct profile makes it a winner, particularly for boba enthusiasts like myself who adore a chewy twist.
Why It Excels:
- Intense black tea flavor wows.
- Chewy boba adds texture pop.
- Less sweet, ideal for discerning palates.
Chocolate Raspberry Swirl ($3.79/pint, Seasonal)
The Chocolate Raspberry Swirl, available seasonally, is a timeless combination executed to perfection. Chocolate ice cream and tart raspberry sorbet get together in perfect harmony, sitting atop a rich, but not overpowering, creamy base. The bright, natural raspberry flavor of the sorbet cuts into the chocolate, delivering an indulgent yet refreshing bite.
I adore how this one tastes like a special you’d get at a high-end ice cream store, but at TJ’s value. Its seasonal availability makes it emergency-esque get it while it’s gone!
Classic Well Done:
- Ideal chocolate-raspberry ratio.
- Rich ice cream, zesty sorbet.
- Seasonal scarcity creates thrills.
When Life Gives You Lemons Make Ice Cream ($3.79/pint, Seasonal)
This playfully named seasonal flavor, When Life Gives You Lemons Make Ice Cream, is a dream come true for citrus enthusiasts. Back for its 2022 return, it includes lemon juice and zest ice cream with a lemon swirl and shortbread cookie pieces. With its pale yellow color and smooth texture, it’s pure summer, and the sweet-tart lemon taste is contrasted by buttery, ever-so-slightly salty shortbread.
I can picture this as the ultimate barbecue finale, its cooling zing piercing the heat. It’s a result of TJ’s skill in taking ordinary ingredients and turning them into something truly special.
Citrusy Charm:
- Zesty lemon brightness in creamy base.
- Buttery balance added by shortbread.
- Seasonal return is the reason to try.
We’ve reached the elite, where flavors don’t just satisfy they captivate. These top-tier pints are where Trader Joe’s magic shines brightest, blending bold innovation with flawless execution. I’ve cleared freezer space for these gems, knowing they’re the ones I’ll crave long after the last scoop. From unique global inspirations to classic perfection, these are the pints that make TJ’s a dessert destination.
This level is where individual tastes intersect with collective appreciation, with tastes that are polarizing and inciting devotion. The competition is neck-and-neck, but each one is a work of art. Meet the champions.
Ube Ice Cream ($3.79/pint, Seasonal)
Ube Ice Cream is a stunner, its purple color a sight to behold. Crafted with Filipino purple yams, it’s sweet, earthy, and slightly nutty with coconut flavors, tasting like “vanilla ice cream that traveled abroad.” Our tester adored its creamy texture and offbeat taste, a view shared in X posts and reviews pronouncing it a star of TJ’s “ube moment” in 2024.
This pint is a cultural experience in dessert form that suits people who enjoy sampling something different. Its spring seasonal comeback makes it an absolute grab.
Why It’s a Star:
- Gorgeous purple hue impresses the eye.
- Smooth, nutty taste with coconut undertones.
- Rich, creamy texture for a special treat.
French Vanilla Ice Cream ($4.49/quart, Super Premium)
The French Vanilla Ice Cream is a class in itself, its custard-white color and firm, creamy texture the benchmark. Our tester found it evocative of childhood but longing for vanilla bean specks, but it ultimately won them over with its “creamiest, richest, smoothest” texture. Another taster described it as a “runner-up,” admiring its “custard-like” texture and real vanilla taste. This is the vanilla you’d desire with warm pie or alone, demonstrating TJ’s nails the basics with pizzazz.
Classic Perfection:
- Unmatched creamy, rich texture.
- Real vanilla, a touch of nostalgia.
- Flexible for pairings or alone.
Wildberry Cheesecake Ice Cream ($3.79/pint)
Wildberry Cheesecake Ice Cream is a customer favorite, and it’s easy to understand why. Sweet cream ice cream with cheesecake pieces and a swirl of mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, blackberries) provides a chorus of flavors. Our sampler enjoyed the sour cheesecake pieces and berry swirl, though hoped for a more tarty berry punch. Other customers rate it 9/10, labeling it a top contender due to its balanced decadence. This pint is a party in each scoop, ideal for a dessert with attitude.
Near Perfection:
- Cheesecake tang and fruit swirls delight.
- Cream base holds it all together.
- Fan favorite status well-deserved.
The runner-up, Coffee Bean Blast Ice Cream, is a coffee lover’s dream. Its rich, dark color and ground Colombian coffee beans deliver an “intense, robust” flavor that leaves no doubt. Our taster adored its bold, bitter-sweet balance, though a slight grit from the beans kept it from the top. Other panels agreed, calling it “everything I’ve ever wanted in a coffee ice cream.” This is the pint I’d reach for after a long day, its bold flavor a wake-up call in dessert form.
Almost the Best:
- Bold, rich coffee flavor dominates.
- Creamy with slight grit from beans.
- A coffee lover’s must-have.
Horchata Ice Cream ($3.79/pint, Seasonal)
All hail the winner: Horchata Ice Cream, the summertime sensation that took home the top prize. Drawing inspiration from the Latin American beverage, its cinnamon-brown rice-sea salt foundation is peppered with horchata-flavored cookies. Our reviewer was wowed by the “powerful cinnamon” and silky, creamy texture, with bits of cookies providing a “lovely crunch.” Other reviewers awarded it 8/10, admiring its “f*cking delicious” originality and farmer’s market feel.
Back in summer 2025, this pint is short-lived bliss, inciting X posts of fans hoarding. It’s just the right mix of spice, sweetness, and texture, so each scoop is a celebration.
Why It’s King:
- Strong cinnamon and cookie crunch elevate.
- Creamy, smooth, not sweet.
- Seasonal scarcity drives the frenzy.
The charm of Trader Joe’s ice cream is the variety of its fans and opinions. Our taster’s adventure anointed Horchata, but other polls reveal a different tale. Speculoos Cookie Butter led another group’s list as “true love’s kiss,” and Dulce de Leche, not in our original lineup, received 9.5/10 for its “decadent, handmade” depth of caramel-cream. Fudgy Cookie Dough, with sea salt fudge swirl, was a “yin-yang dream” for others, and Passion Fruit Sorbet’s creaminess and tang won others over with an 8.5/10.
Even lower-tier flavors such as Mint Chip had champions, rated #3 mint chip for its “clean, balanced” taste. New additions such as Banana Pudding and Italian Pistachio & Fior di Latte join the fray, with the former conjuring “a Southern granny’s kitchen” and the latter delivering “fancy” gelato feels. This variety demonstrates that TJ’s has something for every palate, stoking arguments that are as much fun as the ice cream itself.
Varied Favorites:
- Speculoos and Dulce de Leche make the rest of the lists.
- Passion Fruit Sorbet and Banana Pudding are surprises.
- TJ’s ice cream passion is fueled by fan debate.
The Seasonal Magic: Why Limited Editions Like Horchata Steal Hearts
Trader Joe’s limited flavors are the ultimate high, inducing panic that drives enthusiasts into stores en masse. Horchata Ice Cream, a repeat summer comer since 2022, is the face of this frenzy, its cinnamon-cookie enchantment inciting stockpiling riots. Ube, Chocolate Raspberry Swirl, and When Life Gives You Lemons also have fun playing this game, cropping up here and there to delight us and poof, leaving us in anticipation till the next season.
This limited-time allure is TJ’s secret weapon, making each pint feel like a special event. The “ube moment” of 2024, with its mochi and pancake mix, shows TJ’s knack for trendsetting, introducing global flavors like yuzu and horchata to mainstream freezers. It’s a chase that keeps us hooked, freezer stocked, and ready for the next surprise.
Seasonal Allure:
- Horchata’s summer return sparks frenzy.
- Ube, lemon, and raspberry add seasonal excitement.
- Global flavors keep TJ’s innovative.
Why Trader Joe’s Ice Creams Are a Lifestyle
Trader Joe’s isn’t just about ice cream it’s about the experience. The freezer aisle, packed with everything from Mandarin Orange Chicken to croissants, is a haven of convenience and adventure. I’ve laughed with cashiers over my cart full of nothing but pints, their knowing smiles part of the TJ’s charm. The “super premium” quality, affordable prices, and inventive flavors make every scoop a steal.
TJ’s dares to be different, mixing up classic bases with novel twists yuzu ripples or boba swirls, for example that taste like homemade goodness at supermarket value. The shared experience, from X posts to in-store conversation, adds to the fun, making shopping a treasure hunt. Team Horchata, Speculoos, or Dulce de Leche, there’s a pint for every taste.
