Ice cream favorites in America revealed as new flavors spike in popularity

As ice cream season ramps up across the country, data shows Americans are still reaching for familiar favorites, but some adventurous flavors are also starting to gain traction.

Vanilla remains the most popular ice cream flavor in the U.S., purchasing data shows from Instacart, Analyzing orders for summer 2024.

In addition to chocolate, cookies and cream followed closely behind, completing the top three flavors nationwide.

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Other favorites include strawberry, mint chocolate chips, cookie dough, coffee and butter pecans, according to the report.

The findings are consistent with a survey of more than 2,200 U.S. adults conducted in 2024. International Dairy Association, It was determined that vanilla, chocolate and strawberry were among the top three most popular flavors among Americans.

The same study found that nearly all Americans are screaming for ice cream.

Overall, 97% said they either “liked” or “loved” the frozen treat.

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Data shows that while top picks may seem predictable, they’re just the tip of the iceberg.

With significant growth in recent years, more people are willing to expand their palates with more unique flavors.

More adventurous ice cream options, such as pistachio and green tea, are gaining popularity across the country. (iStock)

According to Instacart data, orders for green tea-flavored ice cream increased by 24% compared to the previous year, while peanut and pineapple coconut increased by 25% and 37%.

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Brands are also pivoting to meet consumers’ preferences for healthier, lighter options.

While big names like Häagen-Dazs, Ben & Jerry’s and Tillamook continue to be among the fastest-growing ice cream brands in the country, smaller companies offering “better-for-you” options are also gaining traction.

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Brands like Halo Top and Arctic Zero now offer lower-calorie, reduced-sugar ice cream options, while Yasso uses a Greek yogurt base to provide more protein and So Delicious produces dairy-free varieties made from plant-based milks like coconut, almond and oat.

Ice cream remains a multibillion-dollar industry, with sales of approximately $7.5 billion, according to Circana. (iStock)

Dairy-free alternatives are so popular they’re even changing the frozen dessert category, according to data from research firm Circana. Dairy Magazine.

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While ice cream sales fell slightly in 2025, lighter alternatives saw a 29% increase in sales. The data showed that sherbet and sherbet products were also on the rise.

Fans are also picking up more artisanal, small-batch ice creams made with high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, according to a recent report. Toast POS, It was also seen that international flavors such as ube, chai and dulce de leche were on the rise.

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The restaurant technology company also found that social media platforms helped drive demand for visually appealing and creative ice cream flavors, especially among younger consumers.

As consumer preferences change, demand for lighter frozen desserts such as sorbet is also increasing. (iStock)

However, the enduring popularity of traditional flavors may ultimately depend on their familiarity and versatility.

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Vanilla, for example, is often used as a base for desserts and pairs well with other foods and sauces, helping maintain its widespread appeal.

Whatever the choice, Americans’ appetite continues to fuel the multibillion-dollar industry, according to Circana; ice cream generates sales of approximately $7.5 billion.