In a recent Bon Appétit taste test of 10 popular supermarket coffee ice cream brands, Trader Joe's Coffee Bean Blast, costing just $4.99 a quart, was crowned the definitive choice for espresso enthusiasts.
Consumers often look for a singular 'best' coffee ice cream, but the top picks actually cater to two very different flavor preferences.
Therefore, shoppers should consider their personal taste profile before buying, as the market offers excellent, distinct options for both bold coffee and sweet, creamy palates.
What are the top rated coffee ice creams in 2026?
Trader Joe's Coffee Bean Blast, at just $4.99 a quart, earned the top spot for espresso lovers in Bon Appétit's recent taste test. This intensely flavored option delivers a robust coffee experience, featuring brewed Colombian coffee and French-roasted bean flecks, making it an accessible choice for coffee purists. This pricing strategy and flavor profile suggest a deliberate market position, targeting a niche of consumers who prioritize a strong, authentic coffee hit over broader appeal.
What is the best coffee ice cream brand for sweet and milky?
For those preferring a sweeter, milder profile, Jeni’s House Coffee stood out as the best sweet and milky option. Bon Appétit praised its ultra-rich, silky texture and lighter coffee flavor, accented with caramelly notes. This premium offering signals a market segment willing to pay for nuanced flavor and luxurious mouthfeel. The stark contrast between Jeni's and Trader Joe's highlights a clear bifurcation in the coffee ice cream market: one side prioritizes bold, affordable espresso, the other, refined sweetness and texture.
The coffee ice cream market appears to be solidifying into clear segments, suggesting future innovations will likely cater specifically to either bold coffee aficionados or those seeking a sweeter, creamier indulgence.
