Ice cream sandwiches will be summer 2016’s hot new trend,according to research from Mintel.
Gourmet ice cream sandwich shops have emerged in major cities over the past two years, sparking a trend that is now hitting mainstream retail. Part of the treat’s appeal is that it is photogenic due to its contrasting colors and textures, a characteristic that has increasing importance in an era of social media.
A number of food companies have recently developed ice cream products in a sandwich form. Krispy Kreme launched a sandwich in Japan that combines vanilla and raspberry ice cream with their glazed donut. Pop Tarts and Friendly’s partnered to introduce an ice cream sandwich, and Ben & Jerry’s released Son of a ‘Wich ice cream sandwiches in single and sharing formats.
Other companies are exploring innovative forms for ice cream sandwiches that take advantage of contrasting textures and flavors. Others are designing the cookies in shapes intended to appeal to different age group