As autumn progresses, Columbus Monthly, in collaboration with The Dispatch, set out to discover the finest fall ice cream flavors from three local purveyors. With several seasonal offerings disappearing by the end of October, now is the perfect time to explore these unique treats.
The tasting included ten distinct flavors, starting with Graeter’s Ice Cream, where testers sampled classic pumpkin and cinnamon options. The exploration expanded at Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, where the team purchased the entire fall collection, featuring innovative flavors like Pumpkin Seed and Rye Cookie, Miso Butterscotch Brownie, Bay Leaf Cheesecake, and Sweet Potato Marshmallow Praline. By the time they reached Johnson’s Real Ice Cream, they were ready to indulge in five more pints, including their take on pumpkin, Apple Strudel, Buckeye Fever, Caramel Kettle Corn, and a green apple sorbet, which was included for fun but not in the competition.
Each flavor was rated on a scale of one to five based on flavor, balance, consistency, and overall appeal, with total scores determining the ultimate autumn ice cream champion.
Unlike previous taste tests that yielded a clear winner, this time opinions varied widely. Although Graeter’s scores did not place them among the top contenders, several tasters hailed their pumpkin and cinnamon flavors as favorites, with one describing them as “creamy and dreamy” and another lauding the texture of the cinnamon ice cream.
Tying for third place were Johnson’s Buckeye Fever and Caramel Kettle Corn. Buckeye Fever, while a seasonal menu item, is a traditional favorite at Johnson’s. Tasters noted its sophisticated flavor, highlighting the saltiness from locally made Krema peanut butter and the rich chocolate chips that provided a pleasant contrast.
Caramel Kettle Corn proved to be the most divisive flavor. Critics offered mixed reviews, with one finding it “too salty” and another calling it “aggressively sweet.” However, fans described it as “addictive,” praising the buttery toffee pieces for their texture and flavor.
Jeni’s reputation for inventive flavor combinations shone through, as their offerings secured the top two scores. The Pumpkin Seed and Rye Cookie placed second, featuring an unexpected pale green hue from the pepitas and cookie pieces that enhanced its complexity. One taster noted its nuanced flavor, stating it “feels like fall” despite not being overtly pumpkin-flavored.
The standout flavor was the Miso Butterscotch Brownie, which begins with a base of Jeni’s popular Salted Caramel ice cream, enhanced by yellow miso to add depth. Gluten-free dark chocolate brownies provide a sweet contrast to the miso’s umami. Tasters praised the balance and distinct flavor layers, with one remarking, “Surprisingly good!”
For those eager to try the champion flavor, Jeni’s Miso Butterscotch Brownie is available this fall.
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