Vivacious vanilla: five great ice cream picks
This article was originally published in June 2012
Who says vanilla has to be boring? Whether your prefer Danish, French or Madagascar-inspired vanilla ice cream, we have outstanding pints to pair with your favorite cake or pie, add to a waffle cone or simply eat alone by the spoonful.
Three Twins Organic Madagascar Vanilla
Six simple, organic ingredients make up this outstanding pint, including Madagascar vanilla, which contains 2,000-plus flavor compounds to provide plenty of vanilla punch.
Snoqualmie Danish Vanilla Bean
Using vanilla beans sourced from hand-pollinated tropical orchids raised by third generation farmers, this luxurious ice cream is handcrafted in small batches in Maltby, Wash.
Double Rainbow French Vanilla
Double Rainbow sampled over 30 vanilla extracts before finding the one that was just right for its rich vanilla ice cream, a Bay Area favorite for more than 35 years.
Straus Family Creamery Organic Vanilla Bean
Reminiscent of fresh-churned ice cream, this pint is flavored by the organic cream from the farm’s own dairy and vanilla extract with flecks of real vanilla bean.
Coconut Bliss Vanilla Island
Certified organic and fair trade, this luscious, non-dairy delight is made with coconut milk, lending a tropical undertone to the rich vanilla flavor. Plus it’s vegan and gluten and soy free for the perfect alternative treat.