Graeter’s Coconut Chip

Graeter’s Review No. 10: I'm getting pretty far down on my checklist of Graeter's flavors I haven't tried. (I even have the dreaded Cotton Candy waiting in my freezer). I’ve come to Coconut Chocolate Chip. I know Mounds and Almond Joy are a thing, but I’m not sure I’ve ever tried one. Whether it had nuts or not, it just never seemed like a pairing I got excited about in an aisle full of candy. I am a fan of chocolate and fruit — even the controversial citrus combo — but tropical flavors and chocolate just seem like a mishmash to me. But who cares: This is Graeter’s and if they’re pairing their signature chocolate with an ice cream flavor, I’m here to try it. 

What I liked: The coconut flavor. At first I worried as the initial scent gave a bit of Malibu Coconut Rum, so I thought it might lean too heavily into that sun tan lotion experience. But it’s a nice balance of a stronger, sweeter coconut that also feels natural. The shredded coconut pieces provide nice texture and flavor, though I could see how some might despise them. As always, the texture is dense, creamy, lovely. And the chocolate and coconut? They are pretty happy companions.

What could be better: Although their chocolate is always well done, Graeter’s has shown with a handful of flavors they can have fun with more creative mix-ins. I think this is one where they could have done something a little different for a more memorable pint. I used to love a Thrifty flavor with a coconut base and macaroon pieces. That would be a dream here with Graeter’s quality ice cream. Or how about coconut cake? Maybe a swirl of raspberry jam or lemon curd, too?

How it compares: I tried a bunch of coconut cream for a dairy-free taste test in January, and it’s interesting how it often has too much personality to vanish behind certain flavors but doesn’t quite have that coconut pop to stand on its own (though it worked fine for Jeni’s Cold Brew Coffee with Coconut Cream). For coconut-focused ice creams, my favorite is Häagen-Dazs’ Pineapple-Coconut, which gives a refreshing piña colada vibe. Despite that name, coconut really has top billing.

Possible pairing: Graeter’s’ Banana Chocolate Chip for tropical synergy. Or pair it with the winter limited flavor Chocolate Coconut Almond Chocolate Chip, which is still available. I haven't had a chance to try that. Maybe next year.

Final thought: I don’t think this is an essential part of Graeter’s’ esteemed lineup — I’d be unlikely to get it again given the depth of their selection — I’m glad I tried it and realized that chocolate’s group of friends is incredibly vast and encompasses coconut, too. Not that I plan to get a Mounds or Almond Joy anytime soon.

Score: 8.2/10