Top 10 Most Expensive Ice Creams in the World
Ice cream, a beloved frozen treat, holds a special place in the hearts of people of all ages. Its creamy texture and array of delightful flavors have the remarkable ability to evoke joy and create cherished memories. Whether relished in a crispy waffle cone on a sunny day or savored as a decadent dessert after a satisfying meal, ice cream’s versatility makes it an enduring indulgence.
While classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate continue to enthrall our taste buds, the world of ice cream also boasts extraordinary creations that redefine the concept of luxury. These frozen delicacies push the boundaries of decadence, presenting ice cream as a medium for opulence and indulgence.
Yet, indulging in these frozen treasures is not solely about the taste; it is an immersive experience that combines culinary artistry, refined elegance, and pure extravagance.
From the moment you take your first bite, these extraordinary frozen creations transport you to a realm where creativity and luxury intertwine. Every element is meticulously crafted, from the exquisite flavors to the captivating presentation. It is an experience that envelops all your senses, leaving an indelible mark on your palate and etching unforgettable memories in your mind.
These extraordinary frozen creations redefine the traditional perception of ice cream, showcasing the boundless possibilities that exist within this beloved treat. They invite you on a sensory journey, where each spoonful delights not only your taste buds but also your soul. It is a testament to the culinary mastery and innovation that intertwines with the realm of luxury.
So, whether you find yourself savoring a scoop of vanilla atop a warm pie or indulging in an intricately designed ice cream creation, remember that these frozen delicacies offer more than just a sweet treat. They provide an extraordinary experience that combines the artistry of flavors, the elegance of presentation, and the essence of pure indulgence.
1. Strawberries Arnaud by Arnaud’s Restaurant, New Orleans (USA) | $9.85 Million
Treat yourself like royalty with Strawberries Arnaud, the most expensive ice cream in the world, priced at a staggering $9.5 million! You can only try this insanely-priced dessert at Arnaud’s Restaurant in New Orleans, Louisiana. It’s a heavenly mix of juicy strawberries, smooth vanilla ice cream, and a rich blend of wine, spices, and mint.
Now, here’s the story behind it: the regular Strawberries Arnaud costs just $9, which is not that bad. For $9.85 million, you get some jaw-dropping extras. They’ll treat you to a fancy cocktail with Cristal Champagne and even edible 24-carat gold leaf flakes!
But what makes the million dollar price tag is the breathtaking 10.06-carat royal blue diamond engagement ring.
Back to the dessert, the preparation of this delicacy involves a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adorned with luscious Louisiana strawberries. A drizzle of ruby port and red burgundy-style wine infused with spices like cloves and cinnamon, along with hints of orange and lime, further enhances the exquisite flavors.
To top it off, a dollop of whipped cream, a whole strawberry, and a sprig of fresh mint serves as the perfect garnish.
Sounds delish, but if you’re not in the market to splurge millions on a diamond engagement ring, just stick to the regular dessert.
2. The Frrozen Haute Chocolate by Serendipity 3, New York City (USA) | ~$25.000
The Frrrozen Haute Chocolate ice cream sundae holds the title as the world’s most expensive dessert, debuting on the menu of New York’s renowned Serendipity 3 restaurant on November 7, 2007, with a price tag of $25,000 (£12,000).
Crafted by the skilled chefs at Serendipity 3, this dessert is a symphony of luxury, starting with a decadent chocolate ice cream infused with a blend of the world’s most extravagant cocoas—28 in total, including 14 of the world’s priciest, in partnership with luxury jeweler Euphoria New York.
The presentation is just as extravagant! The sundae comes in a goblet lined with 5 grams (0.17 oz) of edible 23-karat gold. You’ll also get an 18-karat gold bracelet with a sparkling 1-carat white diamond. And you get to keep a gold spoon with white and chocolate-colored diamonds as a souvenir!
This sundae is simply amazing and looks like a work of art! It has luxurious whipped cream and delicate gold decorations, making it even more special. And to make it even more indulgent, they serve it with a delicious truffle delicacy from the famous Knipschildt Chocolatier. It’s truly a treat fit for royalty!
3. Byakuya by Cellato, Osaka (Japan) | ~$6.696
At the pinnacle of our list, we find not one, but two former Guinness World Records linked to ice cream. This was the most expensive dessert ever created centered around ice cream and also the most expensive ice cream in existence.
This extraordinary frozen delight, known as “Byakuya,” showcases a unique blend of imported white truffles from Alba, Italy, renowned Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, and sake lees—an exquisite byproduct derived from the sake production process. The result is a frozen masterpiece with a jaw-dropping price tag of ¥873,400 ($6,696) for a mere 130 ml (4.4-ounce) serving, leaving onlookers utterly astounded.
Cellato, a renowned Japanese ice cream brand synonymous with ultra-luxury, proudly claims on its official website that its gelato has the power to “delight even your cells.” While this claim may hold true, the brand’s extravagant desserts might not bring the same delight to your wallet.
And no, you don’t get any expensive piece of jewelry when buying this ice cream.
4. Bear Extraordinaire ay Baccarat Hotel in Manhattan, NY (USA) | ~$1.500
Unleashed upon New York City’s exclusive clientele at the price of $1,500, the Bear Extraordinaire broke new records, claiming the title of the most expensive ice cream in the U.S. when it was first launched in 2018.
The mastermind behind this opulent ice cream creation is renowned pastry chef Rosario Wakabayashi, celebrated not only for her signature scone recipes but also for other exquisite dessert dishes.
In Manhattan’s Baccarat Hotel, the Bear Extraordinaire offers a unique ice cream experience. Diners crack open the ice cream egg to reveal layers of lavish flavors hidden inside. It features imported Madagascan vanilla, white chocolate, black truffle crumble, dark chocolate, and gold cocoa nibs. With hibiscus champagne sauce, citrus meringue, and edible gold and silver leafing, it’s a delightful indulgence.
The Bear Extraordinaire is elegantly presented in a Baccarat “Zoo Bear” crystal bowl figurine, individually numbered and signed by the designer, boasting a value of $1,200.
For those seeking a more affordable experience, the option to enjoy the exquisite ice cream in a regular bowl is available at a price of just $30.
5. Golden Opulence Sundae by Serendipity 3, New York City (USA) | ~$1.000
Indulgence reigns at Serendipity 3, where alongside the extravagant Frrrozen Haute Chocolate Sundae, a no less opulent yet more budget-friendly alternative awaits—the Golden Opulence Sundae. For this extraordinary experience, patrons are advised to notify the restaurant 48 hours in advance, ensuring meticulous preparation upon their arrival.
While the Golden Opulence Sundae may lack the gold goblet of its counterpart, it is nonetheless elegantly presented in a glass goblet, accompanied by a lavish golden spoon.
The journey to pure decadence commences with the richness of melted Amedel Porcelana, the world’s most expensive Italian chocolate, its chocolate syrup adorned with luscious Chuao chocolate chunks, sourced from the cocoa beans of Venezuela’s coastal region.
This luxurious ice cream masterpiece is adorned with candied fruits, gold almonds, marzipan cherries, and chocolate truffle pieces. Served in a Baccarat Harcourt crystal goblet, it becomes a treasured keepsake for customers.
In the past, it held the Guinness World Record for the most expensive dessert, priced at $1,000. Though it’s a pricey treat, it offers a taste of luxury without a major financial investment. A golden opportunity worth savoring!
6. The Victoria at Langham Hotel, Chicago (USA | ~$1.000
Exclusive to the Pavilion Restaurant at the Langham Hotel in Chicago, Illinois, The Victoria stands as an amazing ice cream dessert reserved for the super rich. This exquisite sundae harmoniously combines the flavors of both vanilla and chocolate ice cream, expertly infused with the richness of Hennessy VSOP cognac.
As a finishing touch, the sundae is adorned with a sprinkle of gold dust and crowned with a decadent 24-karat gold leaf. The privilege of savoring this indulgent creation comes at a price of $1,000, reflecting its exceptional quality and luxurious ingredients.
7. Mauboussin Mega Sundae by Bagatelle, New York City (USA) | ~$1.000
Enjoy the heavenly mix of vanilla ice cream, chocolate truffles, and macarons. Topped with whipped cream, brownies, and sorbet. A rich chocolate vodka sauce and gold leaves add a touch of luxury to the Mauboussin Mega Sundae.
As an extra delight, partaking in this extraordinary sundae comes with a surprise gift—an exquisite Mauboussin ring, crafted with precision and elegance by the renowned French jewelry company. This perfect memento ensures that the experience leaves a lasting impression, becoming a cherished memory for years to come.
8. The Black Diamond by Scoopi Cafe, Dubai (United Arab Emirates) | ~$817 a scoop
While many expensive ice creams are commonly found as elaborate sundaes, there are also individual scoops of ice cream that come with exorbitant price tags. Among them, Scoopi’s Black Diamond ice cream stands out as the most extravagant, priced at $817 per scoop, and served in an elegant Versace-designed bowl.
At the heart of this ice cream creation lies a simple yet luxurious Madagascar vanilla bean-flavored base. However, it is the incorporation of other exceptional ingredients that contributes to its steep cost. The ice cream is adorned with delicate 23-karat gold flakes, adding a touch of opulence to every spoonful.
Furthermore, it features rare and enticing Iranian saffron, the most expensive spice in the world, renowned for its unique and ambrosial qualities. To further elevate the indulgence, Italian truffles are carefully incorporated into the ice cream, providing an exquisite depth of flavor.
9. Capannari Ice Cream, Chicago (USA) | ~$190
Capannari Ice Cream, located in Chicago, offers a unique ice cream experience priced at $190 for six pints. A talented master chef takes charge of crafting a diverse range of flavors, including delightful options like black raspberry chips and Irish coffee ice cream. Among the gourmet choices, the ginger and chocolate hazelnut ganache flavor stands out as a true delicacy.
This family-owned business takes great pride in creating each pint of ice cream with distinction and care. Master chef Jim Capannari starts with only the freshest and finest ingredients, expertly blending just four gallons of ice cream at a time, ensuring the freshest and most flavorful results.
While offering a wide variety of timeless classics, Jim masterfully crafts distinctive and mouth-watering flavors, ranging from the rich and decadent Black Raspberry Chip to seasonal favorites like Irish Coffee and Pumpkin. The gourmet selection, including Ginger and Chocolate Hazelnut Ganache, showcases the chef’s culinary prowess.
10. Black Truffle Ice Cream at at barMasa, Las Vegas (USA) | ~$95
Chef Masa Takayama, the culinary master behind barMasa, presents an exquisite truffle ice cream priced at $95.
The truffle ice cream features a luscious white truffle flavor, elegantly adorned with gold leaf and served in an elegant glass.
These top 10 most expensive ice creams are not merely indulgent treats; they represent a fusion of art, luxury, and culinary mastery. From the extravagance of 24-karat gold and diamonds to the rare and exotic flavors of black truffles and saffron, each ice cream creation invites us to experience a world of opulence that goes beyond taste. But are they truly worth their insane price?
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