Last updated: May 10, 2026
When temperatures rise, nothing satisfies quite like a frozen treat. The frozen dessert aisle has evolved far beyond basic popsicles. From artisan ice cream bars to international frozen novelties, 2026 offers more options than ever for cooling down in style.
Classic Ice Cream Bars: The Hall of Fame
Klondike Bar
Iconic square of vanilla ice cream wrapped in chocolate shell. Rating: 8/10
Dove Bar
Premium chocolate-covered ice cream using actual Dove chocolate. Rating: 9/10
Haagen-Dazs Bars
Rich, dense ice cream in thick chocolate coating. Coffee and vanilla almond are stellar. Rating: 9/10
Magnum Bars
Belgian chocolate coating and creamy centers. Rating: 9/10
Best Magnum Varieties: Double Caramel, Classic, White, Almond, Dark Chocolate
Ice Cream Sandwiches
Chipwich
Chocolate chip cookies sandwiching vanilla ice cream, rolled in mini chips. Rating: 8.5/10
It's-It
San Francisco legend: oatmeal cookies dipped in chocolate. Rating: 9/10
Fruit-Based Frozen Treats
Outshine Fruit Bars
Real fruit, lower calories than ice cream. Strawberry, mango, pineapple are standouts. Rating: 8/10
Yasso Greek Yogurt Bars
Protein-packed. Mint Chocolate Chip and Coffee Brownie are best. Rating: 8/10
Dole Whip Bars
The Disney Parks flavor in your freezer. Rating: 8/10
Nostalgic Favorites
- Bomb Pop - Red, white, blue rocket. Essential for summer holidays. 8/10
- Fudgsicle - Simple frozen chocolate satisfaction. 7.5/10
- Creamsicle - Orange ice with creamy vanilla core. Timeless. 8/10
- Drumstick - Ice cream cone with chocolate plug at bottom. 8/10
International Frozen Treats
Mochi Ice Cream
Japanese treat with ice cream wrapped in sweet rice dough. Unique texture! Rating: 8.5/10
Best Brands: My/Mo Mochi, Bubbies, Mikawaya
Paletas
Mexican-style fruit popsicles with chunks of real fruit. Rating: 8.5/10
Boba Ice Cream Bars
Brown sugar boba in milk tea ice cream. Surprisingly delicious. Rating: 8/10
Better-For-You Options
- Nick's Swedish Ice Cream Bars - Low sugar, high protein. 8/10
- Enlightened Bars - Lower calorie. 7.5/10
- Halo Top Pops - Light option. 7/10
Best Frozen Treats by Situation
Kids' Parties: Bomb Pops, Drumsticks, Ice cream sandwiches
Adult Entertaining: Magnum, Haagen-Dazs, Mochi variety
Hot Summer Days: Outshine fruit bars, Bomb Pops, Paletas
Watching Diet: Yasso, Nick's, Enlightened
Best Indulgence: Magnum Double Caramel, Haagen-Dazs Coffee Almond Crunch
Building the Perfect Freezer Stash
Everyday: Ice cream sandwiches, Fudgsicles, Fruit bars
Premium: Magnum or Haagen-Dazs, Mochi, Drumsticks
Adventure: International options, Trending items
Storage Tips
Placement: Store in main freezer body, not door (temps fluctuate)
Temperature: 0 degrees F (-18 degrees C) is ideal
Prevent Freezer Burn: Keep in original packaging, press out air
FAQ
Best overall ice cream bar?
Magnum Classic or Haagen-Dazs Vanilla Milk Chocolate. Premium ingredients, perfect chocolate-to-ice cream ratio.
Are frozen fruit bars actually healthy?
Healthier than ice cream bars. Brands like Outshine and Chloe's use real fruit and minimal added sugar.
Why do some frozen treats get icy?
Temperature fluctuations cause ice crystals. Proper storage prevents this - don't store in the door.
What's the best frozen treat for hot outdoor events?
Fruit-based popsicles hold up better than ice cream bars. Bomb Pops and Outshine are good choices.
StackCart at 77 West State St, Granby keeps a selection of frozen treats from classic favorites to trending options. Stop by before the summer heat hits - the freezer section is always cool!