Ice cream trend overview

Ice Cream Trends 2025: A Vegan Snack on the Rise

Social buzz around ice cream jumped by 25.18% in 2025, with 27.14% of restaurants offering it on their menus.

As a top vegan snack, ice cream’s versatility and indulgence keep it a favorite for consumers seeking plant-based and dairy-free options.

Current Trends in the Ice Cream Market By Taste

• Classic Vanilla: Continues to dominate as a timeless favorite, appealing to a wide range of consumers due to its versatility and simplicity.
• Decadent Chocolate: Rich and indulgent flavors like dark chocolate or fudge ripple are increasingly popular among chocolate enthusiasts.
• Salted Caramel: This sweet and savory combination has gained traction for its unique and sophisticated taste profile.
• Fruity Blends: Flavors like mango, strawberry, and mixed berry are favored for their refreshing and natural appeal.
• Plant-Based Options: Almond, coconut, and oat-based ice creams featuring flavors like mocha or matcha cater to the growing vegan market.
• Exotic Tastes: Unique options such as black sesame, lavender, or ube highlight consumer curiosity for global and artisanal experiences.
• Nostalgic Treats: Flavors inspired by childhood favorites, such as birthday cake or cookies and cream, evoke a sense of nostalgia while boosting joy.
• Limited Edition Flavors: Seasonal or collaboration flavors keep consumers interested and create buzz for brands.
• Healthy Alternatives: Low-calorie, low-sugar, and high-protein options cater to health-conscious individuals without compromising on flavor.

What is the trend in ice cream for Gen Z?

• Bold Flavors: Gen Z craves unique, unexpected flavors that reflect their individuality, from spicy chili to tangy pickle.
• Dairy-Free Options: With growing interest in plant-based diets, Gen Z prefers dairy-free ice cream made from almond, coconut, or cashew milk.
• Instagram-Worthy Treats: Social media influences Gen Z’s choices, drawing them to visually striking treats like rainbow swirls or rolled ice cream.
• Customizable Creations: Personalization matters to Gen Z. They love mixing and matching flavors, toppings, and textures to create their ideal scoop.
• Eco-Friendly Packaging: Socially conscious Gen Z supports sustainable packaging, like biodegradable materials or reusable containers.

Popular Ice Cream Flavors

Classic flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry dominate ice cream trends, while innovations with plant-based milk alternatives continue to grow in popularity.

Ice cream remains a key player in the vegan dessert category.

FAQ

What are the main ingredients in ice cream?

Ice cream is typically made from milk, cream, sugar, and flavorings, with a process that involves churning and freezing.

Is ice cream gluten-free?

Many plain ice creams are gluten-free, but some flavors, especially those with added ingredients like cookies or cake pieces, may contain gluten. It’s best to check the label.