When it comes to classic ice cream flavors, two come to mind: vanilla and chocolate. These are the undeniable quintessential ice cream flavors that you can find just about everywhere, from grocery store aisles to gourmet restaurants.
With chocolate’s utter sweetness and decadence and vanilla’s light and creamy subtlety, it can be challenging to pick which one to order or purchase. And that’s why I’m here to help.
Howdy, ice cream lovers! My name is Michelle, and like you, I can’t get enough ice cream. And, like most of you, I shudder when it comes to having to choose which ice cream flavor I want. I decided to dig deep to find out which one should truly meet your grocery basket.
Here’s what I found.
Chocolate vs Vanilla Ice Cream (How to Choose)
Choosing between vanilla or chocolate ice cream isn’t as simple as it might appear. There are a couple of things to take into consideration. Let’s dive in!
1. Light Flavors – Choose Vanilla
One of the best things about vanilla ice cream is its light. Whether you opt for traditional “vanilla” or dive into one of the many variations, such as French vanilla or vanilla bean, you can rely on the fact you will be getting light and creamy dessert that isn’t overpowering.
2. Decadent Flavors – Choose Chocolate
On the other hand, if you’re ready to surrender to your richest taste bud desires, you will want to go the chocolate route. Chocolate is simply decadent, a sultry treat that will hit all of those indulgent flavor profiles easily.
3. Toppings – Choose Vanilla
If you order a sundae from a restaurant, such as Dairy Queen, you will notice that the base for all of their sweet treats is vanilla – not chocolate. Why is that?
Well, think about it this way. Vanilla can be topped with all your favorite goodies, whether you want the fruity pleasure of a banana split or go knee-deep into satiation with pieces of brownie, fudge topping, and sprinkles. Either way, the treat won’t be so sweet that you can’t finish it.
Now, think of all of these toppings on top of the already-decadent chocolate ice cream. It simply becomes a sweet-toothed nightmare that even the biggest chocolate cravers won’t be able to eat much of.
That said, if you’re looking to make a sundae or other tasty concoction at home, it’s recommended to use vanilla as your light, subtle, and not-to-sweet base. And yes – it pairs with everything, so don’t be afraid to step out of the ice cream box.
4. Slightly Healthier – Choose Vanilla
Okay, so if you’re scooping up a bowl of ice cream, you know you’re not eating something that’s labeled “healthy” – don’t attack me!
All I’m saying is that vanilla is the slightly healthier option. It’s a minor difference, but something to consider nonetheless.
Vanilla typically has 273 calories per serving size, with 31 grams of carbohydrates and 28 grams of sugar.
Chocolate has a bit more calories, at 285 calories per serving plus 33 grams of carbohydrates and 33 grams of sugar. Vanilla and chocolate have approximately the same fat and protein content.
Keep in mind that this is for regular vanilla and chocolate ice cream. Obviously, these numbers can vary depending on the brand, any present mix-ins, and if you opt for “healthier” types of ice cream like low sugar, low carb, or dairy-free.
5. Choose Based on your Favorite Flavor
Still don’t know which ice cream flavor to choose? Then look to your trusty taste buds to guide you.
If you love, love, love chocolate, you might consider ordering chocolate ice cream to subdue your chocolatey cravings.
If you can’t stand plain chocolate (like me – sorry), you will want to go the vanilla route.
And if you’re still running your mind wild, wondering which one to choose, why not get the best of both worlds with a swirl? Problem solved!
FAQs
It can be hard to decide which flavor of ice cream to choose, especially when dealing with the two most classic flavors. But I hope this article gave you a helping hand! If you want to keep learning, here are a few more questions you’ll want to read.
Which ice cream is better, chocolate or vanilla?
It can be almost impossible to determine which ice cream flavor is better, as everyone will have their own opinion. However, we can claim that chocolate is better for those craving decadent flavors, while vanilla is lighter and more subtle, creating the perfect base for toppings and mix-ins.
Is chocolate or vanilla ice cream more popular?
Many polls have been done to know whether vanilla or chocolate is the more popular ice cream. Typically, chocolate eked out on top – but just barely. In some other polls, vanilla ranked as the “top dog.” That said, it can be hard to know which one truly is the most popular.
What came first, vanilla or chocolate ice cream?
Chocolate-flavored ice cream came before vanilla – are you as surprised as I am? While it might seem like chocolate would have been an afterthought, it actually came first. So, if you want to stick with the absolute classics, you should opt for chocolate – it’s the “O.G. ice cream,” after all.
Do most people prefer chocolate or vanilla cake?
The great chocolate vs. vanilla debate extends to other desserts, too, like cake and cupcakes. When it comes to cake, the results are about the same. There is a cult following for both types, although chocolate cake claims the number one spot – but just barely. They’re both delish!
Final Words
Chocolate and vanilla are two top-notch ice cream flavors, and they both have their place. If you prefer decadent desserts, choose chocolate. Choose vanilla if you want something light and subtly sweet, or plan to make an ice cream dessert riddled with toppings and mix-ins. When all else fails, swirl the two together.
What is your favorite ice cream flavor? Are you team chocolate or team vanilla? (I’m team vanilla!).
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