1. Plant-Based Perfection
Plant-based ice creams continue to gain momentum, with consumers seeking indulgence that aligns with their values. The United States leads in non-dairy ice cream and frozen yogurt product launches, according to Innova, with brands focusing on plant-based protein. Capitalize on this trend by innovating products with plant-based proteins like walnuts. Walnuts are a perfect match for dairy-free delights. Walnut milk, with its mild, nutty profile, is gaining popularity as a key ingredient in plant-based frozen desserts. Brands are pairing it with trendy flavors like matcha, yuzu and even lavender for a luxurious twist.
Chocolate Walnut Brownie, Cosmic Bliss
Cosmic Bliss describes Chocolate Walnut Brownie as “an off-the-wall chocolate scoop checkered with walnutty brownie chunks.” This dairy-free frozen dessert is organic and entirely plant-based. Cosmic Bliss delivers a dessert that satisfies sweet cravings while aligning with wellness goals. Free from artificial flavors, colors and preservatives.2. Texture Is Everything
Today’s consumers crave multisensory experiences in their treats. Walnuts, with their natural crunch, add the perfect contrast to smooth ice cream bases. Whether mixed into chocolate swirls or sprinkled as a topping, walnuts’ versatility enhances both classic and novel flavor profiles. Think caramel walnut fudge or black sesame walnut crunch—textures that excite the palate.
Deluxe Banana Chocolate Chunk, Martin’s
The perfect combination of crunchy walnuts, creamy banana ice cream and decadent chocolate chunks. This delightful treat is crafted with high-quality ingredients that deliver a rich and indulgent flavor experience.3. Global Inspirations
Ice cream flavors inspired by global cuisines are heating up. Mediterranean flavors like honey walnut and fig, or Middle Eastern combinations like walnut rose and saffron, are enticing adventurous eaters. Walnuts’ rich cultural history makes them a natural fit for these globally inspired creations.
Syrian Date & Walnut, Adirondack Creamery
This flavor was inspired by the Middle Eastern treat—Ma’amoul, a shortbread pastry filled with dates and nuts. Ingredients include walnuts, date paste, cream, milk and cane sugar.
Walnut Maru Ice Bar, Haitai Ice
The Walnut Mari Ice Bar is a delightful frozen treat that combines the rich, nutty flavor of walnuts with a creamy, smooth texture. Each bar is infused with real walnut pieces, offering a satisfying crunch in every bite. Perfect for those seeking a unique and indulgent dessert experience, this product delivers a harmonious blend of taste and texture that walnut enthusiasts will love.4. Better-for-You Indulgence
Health-conscious consumers are seeking guilt-free indulgence. Walnuts offer a mix of protein (4 grams per ounce), and the total fat in walnuts (18 grams) is mostly comprised of polyunsaturated fats (13 grams per ounce), including omega-3 ALA (2.5 grams per ounce) making walnuts an ingredient for brands looking to balance indulgence with nutrition. Ice creams with walnut inclusions or walnut-based recipes are being marketed as mindful treats, meeting the demand for snacks that nourish while satisfying sweet cravings.
Banana Walnut, Nature’s Organic Ice Cream
This wonderful blend of ripened fresh bananas and California walnuts come together in a timeless classic. Nutty, slightly bitter notes are balanced beautifully with fruity sweetness, creating this simple, yet delicious organic banana walnut ice cream. Ingredients used in Nature’s Ice Cream are always consciously sourced and are free of dyes, extracts or harmless emulsifiers.5. Limited Editions and Newstalgia
Limited edition flavors that play on nostalgia plus modern spins are creating a buzz. Walnuts are starring in recipes like maple walnut swirl and butter pecan-inspired creations. By offering a modern take on retro classics, CPG brands can capture the hearts (and taste buds) of multigenerational audiences.
Maple Walnut Premium Ice Cream, Hershey’s Ice Cream
Consumers can indulge in the timeless taste of Hershey’s Maple Walnut Ice Cream, a rich and creamy treat that perfectly balances sweet maple flavor with the crunch of roasted walnuts. Crafted with premium ingredients, this luscious dessert is a perfect example of newstalgia.Want more inspiration for incorporating walnuts into your CPG products? Contact DMikolajcik@walnuts.org for ideas and insights into how walnuts are the perfect inclusion for your next ice cream innovation!
These products are mentioned for informational purposes only, and inclusion does not imply an endorsement.
