7 Trader Joe’s Ice Creams That Taste Cheap and 5 That Are Worth the Spoon

Trader Joe’s offers a wide range of ice creams that promise delightful flavors and unique experiences. However, not all of them live up to expectations. In this detailed guide, we explore seven ice creams that fall short and five that truly deliver on taste and quality. Whether you’re a fan of traditional flavors or adventurous creations, this list will help you make informed choices on your next visit to Trader Joe’s.

1. Soy Creamy Cherry Chocolate Chip

In the world of non-dairy ice creams, not all are created equal. Trader Joe’s Soy Creamy Cherry Chocolate Chip stands out, but not for the right reasons. Its texture is oddly gummy, leaving a peculiar mouthfeel that’s hard to ignore. The cherries are reminiscent of cough syrup, giving it a medicinal quality that isn’t appealing. Chocolate bits, instead of providing a satisfying crunch, feel waxy and artificial. The overall experience makes you question the balance of flavors and the choice of ingredients. It’s a miss in terms of texture and taste.

2. Vanilla Non-Dairy Frozen Dessert (Made with Almonds)

Vanilla might be timeless, but Trader Joe’s Vanilla Non-Dairy Frozen Dessert struggles to capture its essence. Attempting a creamy profile, it unfortunately veers into watery and flat territory. The almond base, intended to offer richness, instead imparts a bitter aftertaste that lingers uncomfortably. Toppings fail to rescue this dessert from mediocrity. Those seeking a satisfying vanilla flavor will find it lacking. It’s a lesson in how crucial it is to balance flavors and achieve the desired creaminess without compromising taste.

3. Cold Brew Coffee and Boba Coconut Non-Dairy Frozen Dessert

The idea of combining cold brew coffee with boba in a frozen dessert is intriguing, yet the execution here is flawed. Trader Joe’s version has boba pearls that turn chewy, not in a pleasing way, disrupting the overall texture. The coffee flavor, instead of being smooth and rich, leans towards bitterness, overshadowing any coconut undertones. Enthusiasts of coffee and boba might find this blend disappointing. This frozen dessert serves as a reminder that innovative concepts need precise delivery to truly succeed.

4. Southern Peach Crisp Ice Cream

Peachy promises abound but Trader Joe’s Southern Peach Crisp Ice Cream doesn’t fully deliver. Instead of a fresh, vibrant peach flavor, it offers an overly sweet and artificial taste. The oat crumble, meant to add texture, stays soggy, failing to provide the desired contrast. This combination leaves you longing for more authenticity in flavor and crunch. It’s an example of how important texture and natural flavors are in crafting a satisfying peach ice cream.

5. Mango Sorbet

Trader Joe’s Mango Sorbet promises a tropical escape but feels more like a detour. Its texture is more icy than smooth, detracting from the expected creamy experience of a sorbet. The mango flavor, instead of being fresh and juicy, evokes canned fruit, which can be disappointing to true mango aficionados. This sorbet highlights how critical texture and authentic fruit flavors are to creating a refreshing dessert. It leaves you wishing for a more genuine mango experience.

6. Chocolate Non-Dairy Frozen Dessert (Made with Coconut Milk)

Chocolate lovers might approach this non-dairy dessert with high hopes, but Trader Joe’s Chocolate Non-Dairy Frozen Dessert with coconut milk doesn’t quite hit the mark. The coconut flavor overwhelmingly dominates, masking the chocolate and leaving a less rich, more muted taste. The texture is icy, resembling frozen fudge rather than the creamy delight expected from chocolate ice cream. This dessert illustrates the challenges of balancing flavors and textures in non-dairy options, making it less than ideal for chocolate purists.

7. Strawberry Non-Dairy Oat Frozen Dessert

Strawberry desserts often promise sweet nostalgia, but Trader Joe’s Strawberry Non-Dairy Oat Frozen Dessert misses the mark. Instead of a creamy texture, it’s grainy, and the flavor is oddly sour, reminiscent more of freezer-burned yogurt than strawberry shortcake. The oat base fails to meld with the strawberry, creating an uneven taste experience. This dessert underscores the importance of creating harmonious flavors and textures, especially when using non-dairy ingredients. It leaves you craving a more authentic strawberry flavor.

8. Brownie Crisp Coffee Ice Cream Sandwiches

In the realm of indulgent desserts, Trader Joe’s Brownie Crisp Coffee Ice Cream Sandwiches are a standout treat. Despite their petite size, they pack a punch with bold coffee ice cream nestled between rich, brownie-like wafers. The combination is perfectly balanced, offering a chewy, deeply satisfying experience. These sandwiches are a testament to how thoughtful pairings can elevate simple ingredients into a memorable dessert. It’s a delightful pick for coffee lovers seeking a sweet escape.

9. French Vanilla Ice Cream

Trader Joe’s French Vanilla Ice Cream revives the classic with rich, eggy undertones that evoke nostalgia. Its creamy texture and traditional flavor profile make it a timeless favorite. This ice cream serves as the perfect base for sundaes or pies, enhancing any dessert it accompanies. Such simplicity in flavor highlights the beauty of well-executed basics. It’s a nod to the potential in doing the classics right, celebrating the enduring allure of vanilla when done with precision.

10. Speculoos Cookie Butter Ice Cream

With its spiced cookie swirls, Trader Joe’s Speculoos Cookie Butter Ice Cream captures the essence of cozy, nostalgic flavors. The creamy vanilla base complements the speculoos crunch perfectly, creating a symphony of textures and tastes. This ice cream is peak Trader Joe’s, offering a sweet escape that’s as comforting as it is delicious. It’s a must-try for those who appreciate a unique twist on traditional ice cream flavors. The blend of spice and creaminess sets it apart as a truly special treat.

11. Wildberry Cheesecake Ice Cream

Trader Joe’s Wildberry Cheesecake Ice Cream delivers a delightful blend of cream cheese base with vibrant berry swirls and crunchy graham cracker chunks. The smooth, tangy cream cheese contrasts beautifully with the sweet berries, providing layers of flavor and texture in every bite. This ice cream is a celebration of cheesecake-inspired creativity, offering a rich and satisfying experience. It’s an ideal choice for those who enjoy the complexity of cheesecake and the freshness of berries in one frozen delight.

12. Matcha Green Tea Ice Cream

For those with a penchant for unique flavors, Trader Joe’s Matcha Green Tea Ice Cream is a subtle delight. Its earthy matcha flavor is perfectly balanced, not too sweet, bringing a sophisticated touch to the creamy texture. This dessert is ideal for those who enjoy a more grown-up taste profile, offering a refreshing change from conventional ice cream flavors. The blend of creaminess with matcha’s distinct character makes it a standout choice. It’s perfect for adventurous dessert lovers seeking something special.