Salt & Straw is a well-known ice cream brand famous for its creative and gourmet flavors. It started in Portland, Oregon, and has expanded to many locations across the United States. The company is known for using high-quality ingredients and crafting unique flavor combinations that surprise and delight ice cream lovers.
One of its most popular flavors is Almond Brittle with Salted Ganache. This flavor has gained a strong fan following due to its perfect balance of crunch, creaminess, and sweetness. But is it really as good as people say? Let’s dive into the details and explore what makes this flavor special.
What Is Salt & Straw’s Almond Brittle with Salted Ganache?
Salt & Straw’s Almond Brittle with Salted Ganache is a combination of textures and flavors that create an indulgent ice cream experience. It includes:
- Almond Brittle – A crunchy, caramelized almond candy that adds sweetness and texture.
- Salted Ganache – A rich, smooth chocolate sauce with a hint of salt for depth.
- Vanilla Ice Cream Base – A creamy, smooth foundation that ties everything together.
The contrast between the brittle, the chocolate ganache, and the creamy ice cream is what makes this flavor stand out. The balance of sweet and salty flavors keeps each bite interesting and satisfying.
What Makes the Almond Brittle So Special?
Almond brittle is a classic confection that combines sugar, butter, and roasted almonds. It is cooked to a golden brown and then cooled into a hard, crunchy candy. Salt & Straw makes their brittle from scratch, ensuring the highest quality.
The brittle in this ice cream is not too hard, so it doesn’t hurt your teeth. Instead, it provides the perfect crunch before melting in your mouth. The caramelized sugar in the brittle adds a deep, nutty sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the smooth ice cream.
How Does the Salted Ganache Enhance the Flavor?
Chocolate ganache is a thick, smooth mixture of chocolate and cream. Salt & Straw takes it a step further by adding just the right amount of salt. This small touch enhances the richness of the chocolate and balances the sweetness of the brittle.
The salted ganache is swirled into the ice cream, creating pockets of intense chocolate flavor. Unlike other chocolate add-ins that can be too sweet or overpowering, this ganache complements the almond brittle beautifully.
How Is the Ice Cream Base Different?
Salt & Straw’s ice cream base is made with high-quality cream and real vanilla. Unlike commercial ice creams that can feel overly airy, their ice cream has a dense, creamy texture. This thickness helps carry the brittle and ganache evenly throughout each scoop.
The vanilla base acts as a neutral background, allowing the almond brittle and salted ganache to shine. It has a subtle sweetness that prevents the ice cream from becoming too rich.
What Does the First Bite Taste Like?
The first spoonful of Almond Brittle with Salted Ganache is a mix of textures and flavors. Here’s what you experience:
- Creamy and smooth vanilla ice cream – The first sensation is rich and velvety.
- Crunchy almond brittle – The sweetness of caramelized almonds quickly follows.
- Decadent salted ganache – The deep chocolate flavor adds a final luxurious note.
The combination of these elements creates a complex but well-balanced bite. The contrast between crunchy and smooth textures makes it an exciting ice cream to eat.
How Does Salt & Straw Source Their Ingredients?
One reason Salt & Straw’s ice cream stands out is its dedication to high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. The almonds come from trusted farms, and the chocolate is carefully selected to ensure richness. The company also prioritizes sustainability, using organic and fair-trade ingredients whenever possible.
Their commitment to quality is evident in the way their ice cream tastes. Each component is thoughtfully chosen, ensuring that every scoop delivers the best possible flavor and texture.
Who Would Love This Ice Cream?
Almond Brittle with Salted Ganache is perfect for:
- Nut lovers – The roasted almonds in the brittle provide a deep, toasty flavor.
- Chocolate fans – The salted ganache adds an irresistible richness.
- People who enjoy sweet and salty combinations – The balance of flavors is carefully crafted.
- Texture seekers – The crunch of the brittle contrasts beautifully with the smooth ice cream.
If you enjoy classic flavors with a gourmet twist, this is an ice cream you should definitely try.
How Does It Compare to Other Salt & Straw Flavors?
Salt & Straw is known for creating adventurous flavors, such as Pear & Blue Cheese or Arbequina Olive Oil. While those flavors appeal to bold palates, Almond Brittle with Salted Ganache is a more approachable choice. It takes familiar flavors—vanilla, almonds, and chocolate—but elevates them with high-quality ingredients and expert craftsmanship.
Compared to other nut-based ice creams, such as Butter Pecan or Pistachio, this flavor stands out because of its brittle texture. The caramelized almonds provide a more intense nutty experience than simple chopped nuts.
Is It Worth the Price?
Salt & Straw is considered a premium ice cream brand, and their pints are more expensive than grocery store ice creams. However, the quality and uniqueness of their flavors justify the price. Here’s why:
- Handmade ingredients – The almond brittle and salted ganache are made from scratch.
- Dense and creamy texture – There’s less air in the ice cream, making each bite richer.
- Balanced flavors – Thoughtful combinations create a unique, satisfying taste.
If you are looking for a special treat rather than an everyday ice cream, the price is well worth it.
Where Can You Buy It?
Salt & Straw has scoop shops in several major cities, including:
- Portland, OR
- Los Angeles, CA
- San Francisco, CA
- Seattle, WA
- Miami, FL
You can also order their ice cream online and have it shipped to your home. They offer pint delivery in special packaging that keeps the ice cream frozen.
How Should You Enjoy It?
For the best experience, try these tips:
- Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes – This softens the ice cream slightly, making it easier to scoop and enhancing the flavors.
- Pair it with a warm dessert – A scoop of this ice cream on top of a warm brownie or slice of pie is pure indulgence.
- Try it with a drizzle of caramel or extra chocolate – If you love rich desserts, this takes it to the next level.
Conclusion
Absolutely! Salt & Straw’s Almond Brittle with Salted Ganache is a well-crafted, gourmet ice cream that offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The caramelized almond brittle provides a satisfying crunch, while the salted ganache adds an indulgent chocolate touch.
If you appreciate premium ice cream with unique flavors, this is a must-try. It’s a perfect blend of sweet, salty, crunchy, and creamy, making every bite a delightful experience.
So, is Salt & Straw’s Almond Brittle ice cream worth the hype? Yes! If you get the chance, treat yourself to a scoop (or a pint) and enjoy one of the best nut-based ice creams available.
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