Here's the scoop: Australians are serious about their ice cream. So serious, in fact, that more than 2,500 of them recently told Canstar about their favourite brands and flavours, and whether or not they eat it straight from the tub (no judgement here).
The results of the 2026 Most Satisfied Customers Awards for ice cream tubs and multipacks awarded Cadbury the top spot for best ice cream tub, while ALDI's budget-friendly Monarc Crowns reclaimed the title for the ultimate multipack.
- Canstar Most Satisfied Customers Award for Tubs: Cadbury
- Cadbury Most Satisfied Customers Award for Multipacks: Monarc Crowns
Unfortunately, for those hoping to pick up a tub of Cadbury ice cream in their next grocery shop, Peters Ice Cream has since confirmed the Cadbury Dairy Milk ice cream tub range has been discontinued. If you're looking for a top-rated alternative, Bulla also earned a five-star satisfaction rating in the tubs category.
Ice cream eaters are picky, vanilla reigns supreme
Canstar's survey revealed insights into how Australians like to buy and enjoy their frozen sweet treats. The data shows shoppers are picky with their choices, with only 13% of Australians buying the cheapest ice cream available. However, they are still keen on a bargain, with over half (58%) buying ice cream when it is on special.
When it comes to enjoying ice cream, the research shows:
- 48% mainly eat ice cream as an after-dinner treat, rather than during the day.
- 21% admit to eating ice cream straight from the tub.
- 21% like to spruce up their sweet treat by adding toppings such as sprinkles or syrups.
For preferred flavours, the classics continue to dominate, with respondents’ top picks:
- Vanilla - 27%
- Chocolate - 15%
- Cookies & cream - 10%
- Caramel/Salted caramel - 10%
- Mint chocolate chip - 7%
Canstar spokesperson, Eden Radford, says, “Ice cream is a favourite Australian treat, and Canstar’s research shows just how much we love to indulge, right down to the 21 per cent of us who skip the bowl and eat it straight from the tub.
“While we love our ice cream, shoppers are savvy when it comes to making their pick, whether it’s a tub or a multipack. While over half will make the most of a special, just 13 per cent will opt for the cheapest option available, proving that consumers are looking for a balance of quality and value rather than just a budget buy.
“Canstar’s Most Satisfied Customers Awards recognise the brands that deliver exactly what shoppers are looking for in satisfaction, and they’ve decided that Cadbury and ALDI’s Monarc Crowns hit the sweet spot when it comes to ice cream tubs and multipacks, respectively.
“Whether you're part of the majority who stick to a classic vanilla, or you prefer to load up your bowl with toppings, choosing an award-winning brand is a great way to guarantee that your after-dinner treat hits the mark.”
