Ice Cream Taste Test: 99 Weird Flavors Ranked for 2026 2026

Ice cream taste test results are in, and 2026's weirdest flavors range from dinner-party worthy to truly unlickable. We sampled 99 tubs to help you decide which novel scoops deserve your freezer space.

Why Are Ice Cream Flavors Getting Weirder?

Supermarkets and indie brands are competing to outdo each other with bizarre combinations. From savory roasts to high-protein claims, the ice cream aisle has never been more adventurous. But novelty doesn't always equal delicious.

The Rise of Savory Ice Cream

Savory ice creams, like Paxo sage and onion stuffing, are pushing boundaries. While some offer a nostalgic twist, others miss the mark. Our taste test reveals which savory scoops actually work.

Top 5 Best Weird Ice Creams of 2026

After ranking all 99, a few stood out for their balance of flavor and creativity. Here are the must-try tubs:

• Matcha and white chocolate – creamy and subtly sweet
• Olive oil and sea salt – surprisingly refreshing
• Black sesame and honey – nutty and rich
• Lavender and blueberry – floral without being soapy
• Miso caramel – salty-sweet perfection

Bottom 5: The Unlickable

On the flip side, some flavors should never see a cone. Avoid these at all costs:

• Paxo sage and onion stuffing – tastes like stuffing, not dessert
• High protein chocolate brownie – claggy and artificial
• Crunchie – sickly sweet with weird foam texture
• Hobnobs – grainy and overly sweet
• Caramelised biscuit swirl – low-calorie disaster

Comparison Table: Top vs. Bottom Flavors

Key Takeaways from the Taste Test

• Weird doesn't always mean bad – some unconventional flavors are delightful.
• High-protein and low-calorie ice creams often compromise on taste.
• Savory ice creams are a hit-or-miss; only a few are worth trying.
• Price doesn't guarantee quality – some expensive tubs scored terribly.
• Stick to trusted brands for classic flavors unless you're adventurous.

How We Ranked the Ice Creams

Each flavor was judged on taste, value for money, and originality. We considered texture, sweetness balance, and whether we'd buy it again. The goal was to identify which weird ice creams are actually worth your money.

What Makes a Great Weird Ice Cream?

A great weird ice cream surprises you with a flavor that works, not just shocks for the sake of it. It should be creamy, well-balanced, and leave you wanting another scoop. The worst ones are gimmicky and forgettable.

FAQ

In summary, 2026's ice cream trends are bold but polarizing. While some weird flavors are surprisingly delicious, many are just marketing stunts. Use our taste test as your guide to avoid the unlickable and find your next favorite scoop.