99 Unusual Ice Cream Flavors of 2026: Taste Test Reveals Best & 2026

We tasted 99 of the most unusual ice cream flavors from 2026, ranging from savory roast dinner scoops to protein-packed disappointments. Our ranking separates the sublime from the downright unlickable.

Why Are Ice Cream Flavors Getting So Weird?

Supermarkets and indie brands are competing to create the most novel alternatives to vanilla. From cheese and onion to high-protein brownie, the boundaries of what can be frozen and sold are being tested. Anya Hindmarch’s Ice Cream Project, a yearly summer hit, partners with brands like Paxo and Oxo to create nostalgic, sometimes bizarre, flavors that draw queues around the block.

The Best of the Bunch: Dinner Party‑Worthy Scoops

While many flavors flopped, a few stood out for their balance, creativity, and real ice‑cream texture. These are the ones we’d actually serve to guests.

Key Takeaways from the 2026 Ice Cream Taste Test

• Savory ice creams rarely work – stuffing, cheese, and Oxo flavors scored lowest.
• Low‑calorie ice creams often sacrifice texture – Oppo’s protein‑bar flavor was a “disgraceful, claggy excuse”.
• Big brands can disappoint – Cadbury Crunchie was sickly sweet with a foamy texture; McVitie’s Hobnobs was grainy.
• Fashion collabs are hit or miss – Anya Hindmarch’s nostalgic novelty tubs are expensive and often miss the mark.
• The best flavors balance sweetness with creativity – floral, herbal, and savory‑sweet hybrids like fig & thyme topped our list.

FAQ: Unusual Ice Cream Flavors

Ready to discover the full ranking? Browse our complete list of 99 ice creams – from the unbeatable to the unlickable – and find your next freezer favorite.