Skip These Overrated Ice Cream Flavours & Give These Underrated Ones A Try
When it comes to ice cream, everyone's got their favourites. But let's be honest, some ice cream flavours are pretty overrated for what they are, while others stay hidden in the dark, overshadowed by these common flavours. Whether it's a lack of complex flavours, overwhelming sweetness, or simply too common, here are 10 overrated ice cream flavours you should skip the next time you're picking out a flavour, and here are 10 amazing underrated ones you need to give a try.
1. Mint Chocolate Chip
Mint chocolate chip is arguably one of the most polarizing ice cream flavours out there; while it has a dedicated fan base that raves about it, others find the combination of mint and chocolate chips to be overrated. Some comment that the mint flavour can be too overpowering, too toothpaste-like, and completely overshadows the chocolate.
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2. Vanilla
We all know what it means to be "vanilla". Often considered the default or "plain" choice, vanilla is frequently criticized for being overly simplistic and lacking in much excitement. Despite its versatility in pairing with other desserts and toppings, vanilla is usually seen as unadventurous. Not to mention, many vanilla ice creams lack much vanilla flavour at all and instead just taste sweet.
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3. Chocolate
Chocolate is a classic favourite for many, but some argue that it's overrated because of how common it is. If you really think about it, how many AMAZING chocolate ice creams have you had in your life? This heavy flavour often overshadows more unique and complex flavours, with some suggesting it can be somewhat boring in taste.
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4. Strawberry
For people who crave something sweet and fruity, strawberry ice cream is likely one of your top choices. But for many people, they state that it's overrated because of how artificial it tastes in most commercial varieties. Strawberry ice cream rarely tastes like actual fresh strawberries, leading to a somewhat disappointing experience.
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5. Rocky Road
Rocky Road, with its heavy mix of marshmallows, nuts, and chocolate, is sometimes seen as overrated because of its inconsistent texture and overload of sweetness. For some, the combination of chewy, crunchy, and creamy elements is more uncomfortable and disconcerting than enjoyable. Especially for people who are big on texture, Rocky Road ice cream is simply too overwhelming.
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6. Neapolitan
Neapolitan is an ice cream flavour that combines chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry into one easy bite. Though it sounds good in theory, it often gets criticized for being overrated thanks to the compromise in flavour quality. Instead of elevating the overall experience, each flavour component tends to be a weaker version of its usual standard, leading to a less satisfying experience than what you were hoping for.
7. Peanut Butter
Peanut butter ice cream can be an overrated flavour when the intense peanut flavour is too overwhelming. When done right, it can be rich, creamy, and have an extraordinary nutty flavour, but when done wrong, it'll completely dominate the palate. Its heaviness can also be too much for people who crave a more balanced flavour.
8. Cookie Dough
Cookie Dough ice cream, with its big chunks of dough and sweet base, is a popular choice in the US. However, it's often criticized as overrated because the raw cookie dough pieces can be overly sweet and gritty, detracting from the overall ice cream experience. Additionally, the flavor sometimes lacks complexity, relying too much on the novelty of eating raw dough.
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9. Bubble Gum
Bubble gum flavoured ice cream is a hit or miss for most people. Known for its vibrant colour and fun appeal, many people claim the artificial bubble gum flavour is far too overpowering, and doesn't always translate well into an ice cream flavour. It tends to be more appealing to kids than adults, lacking a flavour profile that grown-ups tend to be attracted to (typically something not overly sweet!).
10. Cookies and Cream
Here's one that's hotly debated: cookies and cream is an overrated flavour. Beloved for its mix of cookie pieces and creamy base resembling an Oreo, some online have commented it's an overrated flavour due to its overly sweet profile and lack of depth in flavour. It's a one-note flavour that doesn't give you much else other than a sweet taste.
1. Salted Caramel
Salted caramel is a pleasant mix of sweet and savory flavours that often goes underrated. It's got a sophisticated flavour profile, giving you the perfect balance of rich caramel sweetness with a hint of salt that makes it an addictive choice. For someone looking beyond the typical traditional flavours, salted caramel is definitely a step up.
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2. Earl Grey Tea
An underappreciated flavour that often flies under the radar, earl grey tea ice cream is an elegant option that's both creamy and not too sweet. The distinct bergamot orange flavour combined with the smooth, creaminess of the ice cream creates a unique and distinct taste that's ideal for those with a more mature palate.
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3. Butterscotch
Butterscotch ice cream is an often underrated flavour that definitely deserves more recognition. If you've got a sweet tooth, you'll certainly appreciate the deep, buttery sweetness that feels so much more complex than your basic chocolate or vanilla. There's a hint of salt in there that helps it taste rich and indulgent, and its classic flavour that feels reminiscent of old-fashioned candies provides you with a comforting experience.
4. Coffee
Coffee ice cream is loved by many for its rich, bold flavour that isn't too sweet. If you're someone who loves an earthy, deep flavour, coffee flavoured ice cream is definitely the best choice for you. Each bite will pack a surprising amount of coffee flavour!
5. Black Sesame
Black sesame ice cream is an Asian-inspired flavour that's rich, nutty, and so so addictive. It's a hidden gem of a flavour, offering you a deliciously toasty and mildly sweet taste that you won't be able to stop eating. If you're looking for something completely new and out of your comfort zone, definitely give this underrated flavour a try.
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6. Matcha Green Tea
Matcha green tea ice cream is a versatile but underrated flavour that perfectly balances earthiness and subtle sweetness. There's a matcha craze going around, and ice cream definitely isn't left out. Not only is it rich in antioxidants, it also provides a distinct, smooth taste that is refreshingly different from the more common flavours.
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7. Mango Chili
For an interesting combination of sweet and spicy, try something totally unique with this Mango chili flavour. Mango is already a beloved ice cream flavour, providing you with that tasty tropical sweetness, but when you add in that bit of chili, it's a fun kick that any adventurous eater would appreciate.
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8. Taro
Another Asian-inspired flavour, Taro ice cream has a gentle taste that's often overlooked in America. It's got this beautiful purple colour to it, and a natural, sweet and nutty flavour that even the biggest sweet tooth can appreciate.
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9. Butter Pecan
For something a bit more sweet, butter pecan is a beloved favourite that often gets forgotten among the rest of the more ordered flavours. When done right, the caramelized Pecans add a delightful crunch to the creamy ice cream, and the flavours pair beautifully together.
10. Pistachio
Pistachio ice cream is frequently underestimated in its appeal. This flavor offers a delightful combination of nutty richness and subtle sweetness, which is often overshadowed by more common nut-based flavors. Its natural, earthy taste and creamy texture make it a sophisticated and satisfying choice!