(RNN) – Vanilla ice cream may reign as America’s favorite flavor, but chocolate-filled flavors are nipping at the champ’s heels, according to a survey by the International Dairy Foods Association.
A longtime bestseller, vanilla is popular in large part because of its versatility, says ice cream expert and IDFA vice president Cary Frye.
"Vanilla has long been the best-selling ice cream flavor not only because it is creamy and delicious, but also because of its ability to enhance so many other desserts and treats. It tastes great topped by whipped cream and fudge sauce in a sundae, with root beer in a float or atop a warm slice of apple pie,” Frye said.
While vanilla reigns supreme, chocolate-filled flavors round out the top five, starting with chocolate itself at No. 2, followed by Cookies N’ Cream, Mint Chocolate Chip and Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough.
This just in: Vanilla Reigns Supreme; Chocolate Flavors Dominate in Top 5 #IceCream Favorites https://t.co/kQlGT4tmUV #NationalIceCreamMonth pic.twitter.com/y7Qh3yDTPz
— IDFA (@dairyidfa) July 1, 2017
The survey also revealed pecans and strawberries are the most popular ingredients to add to ice cream, as the most popular nut or nut flavoring and the most popular fruit, respectively.
When asked to name their most creative flavors, respondents, including ice cream makers and retailers, listed options like Lemon Poppyseed Muffin, Black Sesame and a bourbon- and caffeine-spiked flavor called Exhausted Parent.
IDFA released the survey results as part of its celebration of National Ice Cream Month, which runs throughout the month of July.
President Ronald Reagan designated July as National Ice Cream Month in 1984, recognizing ice cream as a fun and nutritious food.
Copyright 2017 Raycom News Network. All rights reserved.
