Not all ice cream flavors are meant to last. Over the years, brands have experimented with some wild and whimsical varieties—many of which melted away into history. Here’s a look back at 19 retired ice cream flavors that stirred curiosity but never stuck around.
1. Ben & Jerry’s Wavy Gravy
Ben & Jerry’s Wavy Gravy was a tribute to the iconic hippie activist, blending caramel, cashew, and Brazil nuts in a unique mix. This flavor, introduced in the 1990s, captured the essence of free-spiritedness and adventure.
Despite its creative inspiration, mainstream audiences didn’t embrace it, and it was retired in 2001. Fans of the flavor recall its distinct nuttiness and the harmony it brought to each scoop.
Even though it didn’t last, Wavy Gravy remains a nostalgic memory for those who appreciated its daring composition and the spirit of peace and love it symbolized.
2. Haagen-Dazs Black Walnut
Haagen-Dazs Black Walnut was the epitome of elegance and simplicity. Its rich, nutty flavor had a loyal following among those who appreciated its understated sophistication.
Introduced in the late 20th century, it quietly disappeared from shelves in the early 2000s, leaving behind a legacy of refined taste.
The deep, earthy notes of black walnut provided a unique twist on traditional nut flavors, creating an ice cream experience that was both luxurious and comforting. Although it’s no longer available, Black Walnut holds a special place in the hearts of its fans.
3. Baskin-Robbins Lunar Cheesecake
Baskin-Robbins Lunar Cheesecake was a celestial treat released to commemorate a moon landing anniversary. This limited-time flavor combined the creamy richness of cheesecake with delightful chocolate pieces.
Its unique concept captured the imagination of ice cream lovers, transporting them to a world beyond the ordinary.
Although it eventually faded from orbit, Lunar Cheesecake remains a fond memory of innovation and exploration in the ice cream world, showcasing how flavors can celebrate significant moments in history through delicious creativity.
4. Ben & Jerry’s White Russian
Ben & Jerry’s White Russian was a bold creation inspired by the classic cocktail. This blend of coffee and Kahlúa offered a taste of sophistication and indulgence.
Introduced in the 1980s, it appealed to those with a taste for adventure and a love for unique flavor combinations.
However, its boozy theme may not have resonated with a wide audience, leading to its retirement in 1996. Despite its short-lived presence, White Russian is remembered for pushing the boundaries of traditional ice cream flavors.
5. Dreyer’s/Edy’s Nestlé Crunch
Dreyer’s/Edy’s Nestlé Crunch was a delightful nod to the beloved candy bar. This chocolatey treat with crunchy bits captured the essence of childhood joy and sweet indulgence.
Its introduction brought smiles to those who adored the combination of smooth ice cream and crispy chocolate.
Though it was discontinued without much fanfare, Nestlé Crunch ice cream remains a cherished memory for many, embodying the simple pleasures of enjoying a classic candy bar in frozen form. Its legacy lives on in the hearts of those who crave nostalgia in every bite.
6. Ben & Jerry’s Festivus
Ben & Jerry’s Festivus was a holiday-themed delight inspired by the fictional holiday from “Seinfeld.” This flavor featured brown sugar cinnamon ice cream, gingerbread pieces, and caramel, creating a festive symphony of tastes.
Introduced during the holiday season, it captured the spirit of celebration and togetherness.
Although it didn’t achieve lasting success, Festivus remains a nostalgic reminder of how pop culture can influence culinary creations. Its whimsical nature and connection to a beloved TV show continue to hold a special place in fans’ hearts.
7. Baskin-Robbins Apple Pie à la Mode
Baskin-Robbins Apple Pie à la Mode was a delicious tribute to a classic dessert. This flavor captured the essence of apple pie, complete with flaky crust pieces and a hint of cinnamon.
Its introduction brought the comforting feeling of homemade desserts to ice cream lovers everywhere.
Though it didn’t secure a permanent spot on the menu, Apple Pie à la Mode remains a fond memory for those who appreciated its ability to evoke the warmth and nostalgia of a beloved dessert in every scoop.
8. Haagen-Dazs Mayan Chocolate
Haagen-Dazs Mayan Chocolate was an adventurous flavor that drew inspiration from ancient recipes. Infused with cinnamon, it offered a bold twist on traditional chocolate ice cream.
This daring creation was introduced to bring a taste of history and culture to the modern palate.
However, its boldness may have been ahead of its time, leading to its eventual disappearance from shelves. Mayan Chocolate remains a testament to the power of flavor innovation and the desire to explore new culinary horizons.
9. Ben & Jerry’s Economic Crunch
Ben & Jerry’s Economic Crunch was a playful creation in response to tough times. This flavor combined vanilla ice cream with chocolate-covered nuts, offering a sweet escape from economic challenges.
Introduced after the 1987 stock market crash, it served as a lighthearted reminder to find joy in difficult situations.
Though it was eventually retired, Economic Crunch is remembered for its clever concept and the way it used humor to address real-world issues. Fans appreciated its unique approach to combining taste with social commentary.
10. Baskin-Robbins Grape Ice Cream
Baskin-Robbins Grape Ice Cream was an adventurous departure from traditional flavors. With its vibrant purple hue and bold grape taste, it dared to defy conventional expectations.
Introduced as a novelty, it intrigued those who sought unique and daring flavors.
Though it struggled to win over mainstream tastes, Grape Ice Cream remains a cherished memory for those who appreciated its audacity and willingness to explore new territory in the world of frozen treats. Its rarity adds to its mystique and allure.
11. Ben & Jerry’s Oh Pear!
Ben & Jerry’s Oh Pear! was a refreshing departure from traditional flavors. With its fruity blend, it offered a unique and tantalizing taste experience.
Introduced in the mid-’90s, it aimed to capture the essence of pear in a creamy, delightful form.
Despite its short-lived presence, Oh Pear! is remembered for its bold attempt to bring a lesser-known fruit into the ice cream world. Fans appreciated its commitment to innovation and the exploration of new flavors beyond the ordinary.
12. Haagen-Dazs Caramelized Pear & Toasted Pecan
Haagen-Dazs Caramelized Pear & Toasted Pecan was a sophisticated seasonal offering that brought together the elegance of caramelized pear and the richness of toasted pecans.
Its introduction was marked by a sense of refinement and indulgence, appealing to those who sought an elevated ice cream experience.
Though it didn’t secure a permanent spot, this flavor is fondly remembered for its ability to capture the essence of seasonal elegance and sophistication. Fans continue to cherish its unique flavor profile and the sense of luxury it provided.
13. Ben & Jerry’s Urban Jumble
Ben & Jerry’s Urban Jumble was a chaotic mix of flavors that aimed to capture the essence of urban life. With its combination of chocolate, peanut butter, caramel, and pecans, it offered a whirlwind of tastes and textures.
Introduced as a bold experiment, it intrigued those who craved excitement in their ice cream.
However, its overwhelming nature may have been too much for mainstream audiences, leading to its eventual retirement. Urban Jumble remains a reminder of the daring spirit of flavor innovation and the desire to push boundaries in the culinary world.
14. Baskin-Robbins Piña Colada
Baskin-Robbins Piña Colada was a tropical escape in ice cream form. With its pineapple and coconut flavors, it embodied the refreshing essence of a beachside cocktail.
Introduced during the tiki craze, it offered a taste of paradise to those longing for sun-soaked getaways.
Though its popularity waned as trends shifted, Piña Colada remains a cherished memory for those who appreciated its ability to transport them to a tropical oasis with every spoonful. Its legacy as a refreshing indulgence continues to be celebrated by fans.
15. Ben & Jerry’s Rainforest Crunch
Ben & Jerry’s Rainforest Crunch was a flavor with a mission. Made with Brazil nuts and cashews, it aimed to raise awareness about environmental issues and sustainable sourcing.
Introduced as a socially conscious option, it resonated with those who valued ethical considerations in their food choices.
However, concerns about nut sourcing led to its discontinuation. Despite its short run, Rainforest Crunch remains a symbol of the connection between food and environmental consciousness, reminding us of the impact our choices can have on the world around us.
16. Haagen-Dazs Sticky Toffee Pudding
Haagen-Dazs Sticky Toffee Pudding was a tribute to the beloved British dessert. With its rich toffee swirls and pudding elements, it offered a taste of indulgence and tradition.
Introduced to bring a touch of British flair to ice cream lovers, it captured the essence of a classic treat.
Though it wasn’t widely embraced in the U.S., Sticky Toffee Pudding ice cream remains a cherished memory for those who appreciated its nod to British culinary heritage. Its presence in the ice cream world showcased the power of cultural fusion in flavor creation.
17. Baskin-Robbins Date Nut Ice Cream
Baskin-Robbins Date Nut Ice Cream was a flavor that harkened back to mid-20th-century preferences. With its combination of sweet dates and crunchy nuts, it offered a taste of nostalgia.
Introduced during a time when simpler flavors were favored, it appealed to those who appreciated classic combinations.
As tastes shifted toward chocolate and cookie-based varieties, Date Nut Ice Cream disappeared from shelves. However, it remains a fond memory for those who fondly recall its simplicity and the comfort it brought in every scoop.
18. Ben & Jerry’s Miz Jelena’s Sweet Potato Pie
Ben & Jerry’s Miz Jelena’s Sweet Potato Pie was inspired by a real activist, blending sweet potato with marshmallows to create a flavor that celebrated both culinary innovation and social impact.
Introduced as a tribute, it aimed to honor the spirit of activism and creativity.
Despite its unique combination, it didn’t win mass appeal and was eventually pulled. Miz Jelena’s Sweet Potato Pie remains a symbol of how food can reflect broader societal themes and the power of flavor to tell meaningful stories.
19. Haagen-Dazs Chocolate Chocolate Chip
Haagen-Dazs Chocolate Chocolate Chip was a flavor that embraced indulgence. With its double chocolate elements, it offered a rich and satisfying experience for chocolate lovers.
Introduced to delight those who craved a chocolate fix, it became a favorite among fans of deep, intense flavors.
However, competition with similar options led to its retirement. Despite its absence, Chocolate Chocolate Chip continues to be fondly remembered by those who appreciated its dedication to decadence and its ability to satisfy even the most fervent chocolate cravings.
