Why Canadian Ice Cream Deserves More Attention
Canada may be known for its cold winters, but that doesn’t stop us from loving ice cream. In fact, Canadians are among the world’s top ice cream consumers per capita!
While big international brands like Häagen-Dazs and Ben & Jerry’s dominate grocery stores, there’s a growing movement to support Canadian-made products—including ice cream. Many Canadian brands use 100% local dairy, create unique flavors, and even focus on sustainability.
If you’re looking for delicious, homegrown ice cream options, here are the best Canadian ice cream brands you need to try!
- Chapman’s Ice Cream – The Affordable Classic
✔ 100% Canadian dairy
✔ Affordable and widely available
✔ Offers nut-free, lactose-free, and dairy-free options
Where It’s Made: Markdale, Ontario
Best Flavors to Try:
- Dutch Chocolate - Rich and creamy
- French Vanilla – A classic done right
- Black Cherry – Perfect balance of fruit and cream
- Premium Plus Cookies & Cream – Extra creamy with crunchy cookie pieces
Where to Buy: Walmart, Loblaws, Sobeys, No Frills, and most major grocery stores across Canada.
Fun Fact: Chapman’s is one of the few ice cream brands in Canada offering allergy-friendly products, making it a top choice for families.
- Kawartha Dairy – Ontario’s Nostalgic Favorite
✅ Why It’s Special
✔ Super creamy texture with high butterfat content
✔ Ontario-based, family-owned since 1937
✔ Unique, nostalgic flavors
Where It’s Made: Ontario
Best Flavors to Try:
- Moose Tracks – Chocolate peanut butter cups & fudge
- Death by Chocolate – Rich chocolate explosion
- Salty Caramel Truffle – A perfect blend of sweet & salty
Where to Buy: Primarily available in Ontario at independent grocers, Kawartha Dairy retail locations, and some national grocery stores.
Did You Know? Kawartha Dairy has remained a family-run business for over 85 years!
- Cows Creamery – PEI’s Iconic Ice Cream
✅ Why It’s Special
✔ Handcrafted ice cream using premium PEI dairy
✔ Famous for fun flavors and quirky branding
✔ Expanding across Canada
Where It’s Made: Prince Edward Island
Best Flavors to Try:
- Gooey Mooey– Caramel swirls & praline pecans
- Wowie Cowie – A mix of toffee, chocolate, and cookie chunks
- PEI Blueberry– Made with real island blueberries
Tip: If you ever visit PEI, a stop at Cows for fresh ice cream is a must!
- Central Smith – Small-Batch Ice Cream Perfection
✅ Why It’s Special
✔ Small-batch, handcrafted ice cream
✔ Supplies many independent ice cream parlors
✔ Unique, gourmet flavors
Where It’s Made: Ontario
Best Flavors to Try:
- Apple Pie – Tastes just like grandma’s homemade dessert
- Honey Lavender– Floral and creamy
- Raspberry Lemonade– Refreshing and tangy
Where to Buy:Available at select ice cream shops and specialty stores in Ontario.
Pro Tip:Many independent ice cream parlors across Canada use Central Smith’s ice cream without labeling it, so you might have tried it without knowing!
- Earnest Ice Cream – BC’s Sustainable & Trendy Brand
✅ Why It’s Special
✔ Small-batch, handcrafted ice cream
✔ Uses reusable glass jars instead of plastic
✔ Focus on local and organic ingredients
Where It’s Made: British Columbia
Best Flavors to Try:
- Whiskey Hazelnut – A boozy, nutty delight
- London Fog – Inspired by the classic Earl Grey tea latte
- Cardamom – A unique, spiced twist on ice cream
Where to Buy: Earnest Ice Cream shops in Vancouver and select specialty grocers in BC.
Eco-Friendly Bonus:Earnest Ice Cream uses reusable glass jars—return them for a discount on your next purchase!
Why You Should Choose Canadian Ice Cream
Supporting Canadian ice cream brands isn’t just about great taste—it’s about supporting local farmers, ethical sourcing, and businesses that care about quality. Whether you’re looking for affordability (Chapman’s), nostalgia (Kawartha Dairy), or small-batch luxury (Earnest Ice Cream), there’s a perfect Canadian brand for you.
Next time you’re at the grocery store, skip the international brands and try something Canadian—you might just find your new favorite!
