Best and Worst Frozen Desserts are more controversial than you’d think—especially when chefs start throwing in their two scoops. Some freezer treats are absolute winners that deserve a permanent spot in your shopping cart. Others? Let’s just say they’re cold for all the wrong reasons. If you’ve ever been duped by a pretty package only to be met with freezer-burned regret, you’re not alone. Chefs are naming names, so you don’t have to learn the hard way.
Vanilla Ice Cream Sandwich
These check every nostalgic box without going overboard. The soft wafers hold just enough vanilla ice cream to be comforting without feeling overly sweet. They don’t reinvent anything, but you wouldn’t expect them to. For frozen dessert rankings, they’re firmly middle-of-the-pack but dependable.
Butter Flavored Streusel Coffee Cake
The buttery name might sound promising, but this one leans too hard into artificial territory. It thaws fast, which is a plus, but flavor-wise, it’s all shortcut and no payoff. You miss the flaky layers and golden richness real butter brings. It lands near the bottom, and not just for the ingredients list.
Birthday Cake Pops
These bounce back from the flop that was the chocolate version. The sprinkle-coated shell and soft center come together better than expected. Texture’s still a bit doughy, but at least it tastes more like cake and less like freezer burn. It proves frozen desserts can surprise you, even if only mildly.
Neapolitan Ice Cream Sandwich
You get three classic flavors in one bite, which helps if you can’t decide. The strawberry and chocolate layers lift it slightly above the vanilla-only version. Nothing fancy, but it does the job when you want something cold and familiar. It ranks just high enough to stand out in the freezer aisle.
Chocolate Ice Cream Stroopwafel Caramel Sandwiches
This is what happens when someone finally decides to do something different. The stroopwafels add a chewy texture and caramel warmth you don’t see in typical freezer treats. The ice cream actually complements the cookie part instead of fighting with it. Easily one of the few frozen desserts that earns its spot.
New York Style Cheesecake
From the outside, it passes as a high-end bakery slice, which earns it points. The top has that baked cheesecake look you want, even if slicing it turns into a bit of a mess. Still, the flavor is rich, and the crust holds together better than you’d expect. This one proves not every frozen dessert has to taste frozen.
Hip Chip Ice Cream Sandwiches
Two cookies, a fat slab of ice cream, and a shell of mini chips — it’s a full-on sugar bomb in the best way. The texture doesn’t get soggy, even after sitting out for a few minutes. Everything holds up surprisingly well, right down to the outer crunch. Easily one of the best options in the frozen section.
Classic Cheesecake
This looks more like a layered mousse than a proper cheesecake, which isn’t a total dealbreaker. The sour cream topping is a surprise but keeps it from feeling too heavy. Crust could use some crunch, but flavor-wise, it’s not bad at all. It’s not top-tier, but it clears the low bar many frozen desserts set.
Dutch Apple Pie
The filling is sweet, but the weird jelly coating makes it taste more like apple jam than pie. The crumb topping tries to help but doesn’t fully mask the filling issues. You can do better even with canned pies. This one just doesn’t earn a spot near the top.
French Style Strawberry Cheesecake
This slice shows up dressed for a party, which gives it an edge in presentation. The piped border and pretty top layer make it feel less store-bought, at least visually. Underneath, though, the cheesecake feels whipped instead of dense. It’s not bad, just not all that close to what a cheesecake should taste like.
Orange Sherbet Tubes
These are simple, sweet, and practically made for hot afternoons. You won’t remember them an hour later, but they’re cold, fruity, and easy to eat. Think nostalgia in a tube with a subtle citrus kick. They’re fun, but they don’t exactly scream best-of-the-best.
Chocolate Cake Pops
These look promising but fall flat once you bite in. The chocolate coating cracks nicely, but inside, it’s dry and crumbly instead of rich. You’re better off with the birthday version if you have to pick one. Low-tier freezer treat with not much going for it beyond appearance.
Fudge Bars
These don’t need bells or whistles — they just need to work, and they do. Creamy, chocolatey, and just the right size, they’re perfect for when you want something cool and not too messy. You won’t crave them, but you’ll never regret grabbing one either. They’re near the top for a reason.
Pumpkin Pie
The filling tastes more like spiced gelatin than actual pumpkin. The texture is off and the spices overwhelm instead of enhance. One bite is enough to confirm it’s a pass. Even among freezer pies, this one doesn’t come close to cutting it.
Chocolate Dipped Vanilla Ice Cream Cones
They hold their own against name-brand Drumsticks with that crunchy chocolate cap and vanilla center. The cone stays crisp, which is half the battle. Bonus points if you hit the chocolate plug at the bottom. Easily one of the stronger frozen options you’ll find.
Freedom Pops
The flavors are there but a little too faint to be memorable. These melt fast, taste like slightly watered-down fruit, and won’t impress anyone over the age of 10. If you want a frozen dessert that sticks with you, this isn’t it. Good in a pinch, but there’s better stuff to reach for.
