Consumer Reports tests the best store-bought chocolate ice cream

Consumer Reports tests the best store-bought chocolate ice cream

Consumer Reports went to the freezer aisle and put 11 brands of chocolate ice cream to the test, evaluating flavor, texture and overall value to see which ones rose above the competition.

MILWAUKEE —

It’s a tough job, but somebody has to do it. Consumer Reports went to the freezer aisle and put 11 brands of chocolate ice cream to the test, evaluating flavor, texture and overall value to see which ones rose above the competition.

“The big-name brands Breyers and Häagen-Dazs got top marks for taste,” said Consumer Reports nutritionist Amy Keating.

Keating says shoppers can also save money with store brands — though the results varied.

“Some of the supermarket offerings were just OK,” Keating said. “But the good news: Others were very tasty at a fraction of the price.”

In the blind taste testing, Wellsley Farms Premium Chocolate Ice Cream from BJ’s Wholesale Club stood out for its deep dark chocolate flavor.

Specially Selected Aldi Super Premium Chocolate Ice Cream was another strong value. Testers said it tasted similar to Häagen-Dazs, but cost about 65% less. It was dense and creamy, with a milk chocolate flavor and some nutty notes.

Testers also praised 365 Whole Foods Market Chocolate Ice Cream for its bittersweet chocolate flavor and hints of caramel.

For dark chocolate fans, Trader Joe’s Super Premium Ice Cream, Ultra Chocolate, was another favorite.

Consumer Reports notes that ice cream generally falls into two categories: regular and premium. Regular ice cream typically contains about 150 to 250 calories per 2/3 of a cup, while premium varieties can have twice the fat and around 250 to 300 calories or more.

Consumer Reports has created a list of five frozen fruit desserts as healthy alternatives to ice cream. You can find the recipes here.