As the holiday season rolls in, many families have their own special traditions — whether it’s crafting garlands from lima beans or setting out food for a unique version of Santa Claus. For some, it’s the simple pleasure of enjoying a scoop of peppermint ice cream after decorating the tree. In the spirit of holiday indulgence, I embarked on a mission to find the best peppermint ice cream on the market, sampling various brands to see which one delivered the most satisfying balance of texture, flavor, and holiday cheer. Here’s how they stacked up.
10. Blue Bunny Peppermint Stick
Blue Bunny’s Peppermint Stick ice cream brings to mind the nostalgic appeal of Friendly’s peppermint offering. While the peppermint flavor is solid, there’s a surprising graininess to the texture — a kind of wheat-like undertone that occasionally shifts to something like corn or grass. While the candy pieces are a bit underwhelming, the smoothness of the ice cream itself makes it a good option for pairing with toppings like hot fudge. It’s not the best in the bunch, but its creamy base and dense texture might be just right for those seeking a less intense peppermint experience.
9. Jeni’s White Chocolate Peppermint
Jeni’s White Chocolate Peppermint has a more subtle peppermint flavor, which may be a plus for those who prefer a lighter mint experience. The white chocolate mix-ins add a satisfying crunch but also contribute to a slightly grainy texture, making this a good choice for those who don’t want an overpowering mint flavor. While this one may not top everyone’s list, its moderate mintiness and creamy base could be just right for those seeking a balanced holiday treat.
8. Favorite Day Peppermint Bark
As Target’s in-house brand, Favorite Day’s Peppermint Bark brings a fluffy, smooth texture and a classic peppermint profile. The ice cream’s base isn’t overly minty, staying closer to the coolness of gum rather than intense peppermint. The crushed peppermint bark pieces offer a delightful crunch, making this a solid choice for those who love a bit of texture with their dessert. While the ice cream might resemble chocolate chip at a glance, the peppermint bark adds a unique twist that makes this flavor stand out.
7. MyMochi Cool Peppermint
These bite-sized morsels from MyMochi are a fun departure from traditional ice cream. Encased in a chewy tapioca shell, each piece offers a perfect balance of peppermint flavor and creamy texture. The chewiness is complemented by a subtle crunch from the peppermint, creating a delightful mouthfeel. Though unconventional, these frozen treats are a playful way to enjoy peppermint ice cream and are ideal for those who prefer smaller, controlled portions of ice cream.
6. Hood Peppermint Stick
Hood’s Peppermint Stick flavor offers a nostalgic experience similar to Friendly’s but with its own unique twist. The candy cane pieces are larger than usual, providing a satisfying crunch without being overly gummy. The peppermint flavor is intense but not overwhelming, with a subtle fruity undertone that differentiates it from other brands. This is a great option for those who like a little more bite in their ice cream but don’t want to stray too far from classic peppermint.
5. Friendly’s Peppermint Stick
Friendly’s Peppermint Stick holds a special place in my heart due to childhood memories, but it earns its top ranking for good reason. With its smooth, creamy base and perfectly balanced peppermint flavor, this is the classic holiday ice cream. The candy cane bits are small but crisp, offering a satisfying crunch without dominating the flavor. Whether enjoyed on its own or with a drizzle of chocolate syrup, Friendly’s delivers a perfect scoop every time.
4. Clementine’s Peppermint Candy
Clementine’s Peppermint Candy stands out not only for its delicious flavor but also for its visual appeal. The candy cane and chocolate bark swirls create a striking appearance, while the creamy base carries the peppermint flavor with a smooth, luxurious mouthfeel. The chocolate adds depth without overwhelming the mint, making this one of the most harmonious peppermint ice creams on the list. It’s a bit more refined than other options and perfect for those looking for a more sophisticated take on holiday ice cream.
3. Brigham’s Peppermint Stick
Brigham’s Peppermint Stick, a regional favorite, delivers a perfect balance of peppermint flavor and creamy texture. The candy cane pieces are crunchy and a little chewy, providing great texture throughout. The ice cream itself is rich and buttery, with a smooth finish that’s neither too sweet nor too intense. This is a perfect choice for those who want a solid, dependable peppermint ice cream with a touch of elegance.
2. Van Leeuwen Peppermint Stick
Van Leeuwen’s Peppermint Stick is a luxurious, premium offering that lives up to its high price tag. The ice cream is incredibly rich and creamy, with a real creaminess that melts quickly on the tongue. The peppermint flavor is intense but balanced, making this a standout in terms of flavor purity. However, it could benefit from a few more crunchy elements, which would elevate the overall experience. Even so, this is an excellent choice for those who appreciate high-quality, indulgent ice cream.
1. Graeter’s Peppermint Stick
Graeter’s Peppermint Stick is the clear winner of this ranking. The French pot process that Graeter’s uses gives the ice cream an impossibly smooth, silky texture that melts beautifully on the tongue. The peppermint flavor is potent yet well-balanced, with large chunks of candy cane that provide an irresistible crunchy contrast. Whether you prefer to savor each bite slowly or devour it in one sitting, Graeter’s Peppermint Stick is a true holiday indulgence that’s sure to satisfy both texture and flavor lovers alike.
Methodology
As a lifelong peppermint ice cream enthusiast, we’ve ranked these flavors based on their balance of peppermint intensity, texture, and overall holiday appeal. While some ice creams are better suited for those who like a strong, minty punch, others shine with subtlety and balance. Ultimately, the perfect peppermint ice cream is one that brings joy, whether it’s through its nostalgic flavors or its innovative twists. Each of these ice creams offers something unique — and we hope this ranking helps you find your perfect holiday scoop.
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