dairy-free ice creams deserve a double take

A Ben & Jerry’s classic: Caramel Almond Brittle.

I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream! Any dairy-free people out there know how hard it is to find DF ice cream that meets the standards of regular ice cream. After a long search, I’ve landed on three finalists that everyone, dairy-free or not, can enjoy. Stalk and Spade’s “Rocky Road Shake”, Trader Joe’s “Cold Brew Coffee & Boba”, and Ben & Jerry’s “Caramel Almond Brittle”, give the creamy delicacy a run for its money.

Stalk and Spade – Rocky Road Shake

Rocky Road ice cream typically contains three ingredients: chocolate ice cream, marshmallows, and peanuts. You can’t beat this classic. S&S’s Rocky Road shake has the perfect amount of smoothness and crunch. Their mini marshmallows are not only adorable, but they’re also firm yet fluffy and have the ideal density. The peanuts are fairly self-explanatory, but it wouldn’t be the same without them. They break up the smoothness in a polite way. Stalk and Spade recently changed their chocolate base to a richer flavor, but it’s equally as delectable as the previous contestant. There are no complaints here!

Trader Joe’s Cold Brew Coffee & Boba Coconut Non-Dairy Dessert

This is a newer addition to the Trader Joe’s lineup, but it’s not one to pass up. The cold brew base is apparent but not overpowering, which is an important factor in any coffee-flavored ice cream. The boba (aka tapioca pearls) is quite a unique surprise. They don’t pop in your mouth like some might expect, but rather they’re more jellylike. I’d be lying if I said it didn’t take a little convincing, but now I’m hooked. The boba is chewy and adds a fun texture to the smooth cold brew flavor. If you see this in the Trader Joe’s ice cream section, don’t hesitate to give it a try!

Ben & Jerry’s Caramel Almond Brittle

Everyone knows what Ben & Jerry’s is, but not all know about Caramel Almond Brittle. The base is a smooth and sweet vanilla flavor that scoops easily which is a factor that many overlook. The almonds are small enough for a little crunch and texture without stealing the show. They add a little pizazz to every bite. It’s no surprise that the creamy, caramel ribbons bring this dessert together. They are sweet, salty, and oh so ooey-gooey. If you’re looking for a reliable classic, the Caramel Almond Brittle is for you.