Indulging in a scoop of ice cream is pure bliss, offering a creamy texture and refreshing flavors that bring sweet satisfaction to people of all ages. In India, the passion for this frozen treat is unmatched, with countless brands catering to the nation’s insatiable craving for ice cream. From classic favorites to innovative creations, ice cream continues to be a beloved snack, whether enjoyed as a dessert after dinner or a quick daytime treat.

Despite efforts to cut down on sugar, ice cream remains a cherished delight. Its delectable flavors and creamy consistency make it an irresistible option, perfect on its own or paired with desserts like brownies, gulab jamuns, and milkshakes. With the rise of sugar-free and natural options, even health-conscious individuals can enjoy this delicious treat guilt-free. 

In this blog, readers will discover the top 15 ice cream brands in India for 2024. We’ve curated a selection of leading ice cream manufacturers renowned for their diverse flavors and exceptional quality. Whether you're exploring new tastes or sticking with classic favorites, this guide will help you find the perfect ice cream to satisfy your cravings.

The Origin Story Of Ice Creams

The origin of ice cream dates back to ancient civilizations, where early forms of frozen desserts were enjoyed. The earliest records come from China, around 200 BC, where a mixture of milk and rice was frozen in snow. Similarly, in Persia, around 500 AD, a frozen dessert made from milk and rosewater was enjoyed by the elite. These early creations were the precursors to what we now know as ice cream, reflecting the ingenuity of these ancient cultures in creating chilled treats.

The modern version of ice cream began to take shape in Europe during the Renaissance. Italian and French chefs refined the dessert, incorporating ingredients like cream, sugar, and eggs. By the 17th century, ice cream had spread to England and was introduced to America by European settlers. The invention of the ice cream maker in the 19th century, combined with advancements in refrigeration, helped popularize ice cream as we know it today. This evolution transformed ice cream from a luxury enjoyed by the elite into a beloved treat accessible to people around the world.

How is ice cream made?

Ice cream is made through a process that involves mixing ingredients, freezing, and churning to create its smooth texture. The basic process begins with combining key ingredients: cream, milk, sugar, and often eggs, along with flavorings. These ingredients are heated to pasteurize the mixture, which helps ensure a smooth texture and eliminates bacteria.

Next, the mixture is cooled and aged to enhance flavor and consistency. Once aged, it is churned in an ice cream maker while being gradually frozen. Churning incorporates air into the mixture, giving ice cream its light and creamy texture. After churning, the ice cream is further frozen to harden before being packaged and ready for consumption. This combination of careful ingredient preparation and precise freezing techniques results in the deliciously creamy treat we enjoy.

What makes an ice cream brand the best?

An ice cream brand is considered the best based on several key factors. First, high-quality ingredients are crucial; premium brands use fresh, natural ingredients and avoid artificial flavors and preservatives, ensuring a rich and authentic taste. Secondly, texture and flavor consistency are essential; top brands achieve a perfect balance of creaminess and smoothness while offering a wide range of unique and well-balanced flavors.

Additionally, innovation and creativity play a significant role. The best ice cream brands continually experiment with new flavors and ingredients, setting trends and delighting consumers with inventive options. Lastly, a commitment to customer satisfaction and sustainable practices can enhance a brand’s reputation, making it stand out in a competitive market. Overall, it’s the combination of quality, consistency, innovation, and responsible practices that defines the best ice cream brands.

Our Top 15 Picks For Best Ice Cream Brands In India

When it comes to satisfying your ice cream cravings, the options are endless, but only a few truly stand out. In India, where the love for this frozen treat runs deep, selecting the best ice cream brands can be a delightful challenge. Our curated list of the top 15 ice cream brands in India showcases those that excel in flavor, quality, and creativity. Whether you're a fan of classic favorites or adventurous new tastes, these brands offer something special for every palate. Discover which names made the cut and find your new go-to ice cream indulgence.

1. Amul Ice Cream

Amul, a renowned name in the Indian dairy industry, stands as a leader in the ice cream sector, celebrated for its extensive and delectable range of flavors. Since its inception, Amul has captured the hearts of consumers with its rich, creamy texture and a diverse assortment of flavors that cater to every taste preference. From classic varieties like vanilla and chocolate to innovative Indian-inspired flavors such as Rajbhog and Kesar Pista, Amul consistently delivers quality and taste.

Founded in 1946 in Anand, Gujarat, by the Gujarat Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF), Amul has expanded its offerings well beyond ice cream. The brand boasts an impressive portfolio of over 200 products, including milk, yogurt, cheese, buttermilk, shrikhand, chocolate, flavored milk, and milk powder. Amul introduced its ice cream to the market in Gujarat in 1996, marking a significant milestone in its journey. Since then, the brand has grown exponentially, establishing itself as a household name and a symbol of quality in the Indian dairy industry.

Amul is also distinguished for its camel milk ice cream, a unique offering that sets it apart from other brands. Made from 100% camel milk, this variety is a healthier alternative, containing only 4.4% fat, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious consumers. This commitment to providing authentic and innovative products reinforces Amul’s position as a top contender in the Indian ice cream market, continually setting the standard for excellence in taste and quality.

2. Kwality Walls

Kwality Walls has been a beloved name in the ice cream industry for years, symbolizing joy and indulgence with its diverse range of frozen desserts. Known for its iconic Magnum series, which features a rich, thick chocolate coating, Kwality Walls has captivated taste buds across the nation. Their Cornetto range, with its perfect combination of crunchy wafer and creamy ice cream, also enjoys widespread popularity. As part of Unilever, Kwality Walls, also known as Kwality Ice Cream in India, stands out as a major player in the Indian ice cream market.

Kwality Walls, a trusted brand under Hindustan Unilever, offers a variety of ice cream products, including popular flavors like Orange Mahabar, Lemon Blast, Cola Blast, Cloud Bite - Aamras, Mango Zap, and Chocobar. The brand has cemented its reputation as one of the top ice cream brands in India, thanks to its high-quality products and innovative flavors.

Founded with a vision to delight customers, Kwality Walls has expanded its reach globally, with its ice creams available in over 50 countries. In India, the brand operates more than 300 Kwality Walls parlors, offering a wide selection of ice creams and sundaes. Notably, Kwality Walls' frozen desserts also include vegetable-based options, catering to a variety of dietary preferences. The brand's enduring popularity and commitment to quality continue to make it a favorite among ice cream enthusiasts.

3. Vadilal Ice Creams

Ranked among the top ice cream brands in India, Vadilal is a well-established name that has earned a special place in the hearts of ice cream enthusiasts across the country. The Vadilal Group, renowned for its focus on ice creams and candies, has successfully captured the essence of Indian tastes and preferences, making it a leading player in the market. Originating with its first outlet in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, Vadilal has grown significantly and now offers over 200 flavors to cater to a diverse clientele.

Vadilal's extensive range includes traditional kulfis, as well as innovative categories like gourmet, Badabite, Flingo, and ice cream cakes designed to appeal to younger audiences seeking unique flavors. The brand provides its ice cream in various forms such as cones, shakes, and lollipops, and has diversified into other products like bread and processed items. With a robust network of around 250 ice cream parlors, predominantly franchise-operated, and over 50,000 independent retailers across India, Vadilal stands out for its accessibility and variety.

Founded in 1907 by Vadilal Gandhi with a modest soda fountain, the company underwent significant transformation under the leadership of Ranchod Lal Gandhi in 1926. Ramchandra and Lakshman Gandhi further modernized the business, leading to its evolution into a prominent corporate entity by the 1970s. Vadilal’s legacy is a testament to its commitment to quality, innovation, and adaptation, solidifying its status as a pioneering ice cream brand in India.

4. Mother Dairy Ice Creams

Mother Dairy is a prominent name in the Indian ice cream industry, comparable to other major brands like Amul. Renowned for its high-quality dairy products, including milk, buttermilk, and a variety of other dairy items, Mother Dairy has established itself as a trusted brand across the country. Owned by the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), the company has become a staple in Indian households, earning a place on our list of top ice cream brands.

Founded in 1974 as part of Operation Flood, Mother Dairy was created to enhance India's self-sufficiency in milk production. As a wholly owned subsidiary of NDDB, it has played a crucial role in improving the nation's dairy sector through innovative programs and initiatives. Today, Mother Dairy offers a broad range of products, including milk, cultured dairy items, ice creams, and ghee, catering to a wide array of consumer preferences. Known for its commitment to quality and sustainability, Mother Dairy maintains a leading position in the branded milk segment and continues to support dairy farmers across India, solidifying its reputation as a top choice for delicious and reliable ice cream.

5. Baskin Robbins

Baskin Robbins, an international ice cream giant, has captured the hearts of Indian ice cream lovers with its famous 31 flavors, ensuring a delightful taste for each day of the month. Renowned for its popular offerings like Pralines 'n Cream and the zesty Orange Sherbet, Baskin Robbins promises a unique and exciting taste adventure for all.

As a premium ice cream brand, Baskin Robbins is an American multinational chain of ice cream and cake specialty shop restaurants owned by Inspire Brands. Recognizing the immense love for ice cream in India, Baskin Robbins launched in the country in 1993, establishing its first manufacturing unit outside North America in Pune. This strategic move has allowed the brand to cater to the growing demand for high-quality ice cream among Indian consumers. Despite its premium positioning, Baskin Robbins has managed to establish itself as one of the top ice cream brands globally, although its reach in rural parts of India remains limited.

Baskin Robbins has a significant presence in India, with hundreds of franchises and parlors spread across major cities and emerging communities. The brand, formed by the merger of Burt Baskin and Irv Robbins in 1945, offers over 100 ice cream flavors in 30 countries, boasting 5,800 locations worldwide. Baskin Robbins has become one of the largest selling ice cream brands globally, with popular flavors like Rum Raisin, Gold Medal Ribbon, and Love Potion delighting taste buds everywhere. With its extensive range and commitment to quality, Baskin Robbins continues to be a favorite choice for ice cream enthusiasts in India and beyond.

6. Havmor Ice Creams

Havmor Ice Creams has established a robust presence across many Indian cities, earning a dedicated fan base with its delicious and innovative offerings. Renowned for excelling in traditional Indian flavors like Paan, Kesar Pista, and Anjeer Badam, Havmor provides a nostalgic touch that resonates with ice cream lovers across the nation.

Founded by Satish Chandra Chona in Karachi in 1944, Havmor made its way to India in 1947 following the partition. This brand has stood strong in the competitive ice cream industry for decades, maintaining its reputation as a top contender among India's leading ice cream brands. Havmor is especially popular for its diverse range of ice creams and cones, boasting a product basket with more than 160 varieties, including ready-to-eat products, novelties, and authentic kulfis.

Havmor’s extensive network includes 72,000 retail locations and over 200 store locations spread across 18 states and five union territories in India. The company prides itself on using high-quality ingredients to create its ice creams, ensuring a premium experience with every scoop. Constantly innovating, Havmor introduces fresh flavors every season, catering to diverse palates and preferences.

In 2017, Havmor was acquired by Lotte International, which has further propelled its growth and expansion. With its commitment to quality, tradition, and innovation, Havmor continues to be a beloved choice for ice cream enthusiasts, offering a versatile range of products that include kulfis, ice creams, and family packs. The brand's dedication to excellence ensures it remains a staple in the Indian ice cream market.

7. Creambell Ice Creams

A relatively newer player in the market, Creambell Ice Creams has quickly carved out a niche for itself with its innovative flavors and premium quality offerings. Every spoonful of their ice cream tubs delivers a delightful punch of taste, and the brand frequently introduces limited-edition flavors to surprise and excite their customers.

Creambell, an Indian ice cream company headquartered in New Delhi, was established by RJ Corp in 2003. Despite being a newer entrant, Creambell has successfully won the hearts of Indian ice cream consumers. The brand boasts an impressive portfolio of 136 varieties, catering to the diverse taste buds and preferences of various age groups. Currently, Creambell is present in 19 states and serves the top 40 cities in the country, making it one of the fastest-growing ice cream brands in India.

With a strong focus on quality and international standards, Creambell ensures that only the best products reach its consumers. The brand controls around 15% of the Indian ice cream market, a testament to its popularity and rapid growth. In addition to ice creams, Creambell has diversified into the dairy market, offering milk and value-added dairy products. This diversification further strengthens the brand's presence in the Indian food industry, providing a wide array of options to its loyal customer base.

Creambell's commitment to innovation and quality has solidified its position as a top ice cream brand in India. Whether it’s through their classic flavors or their exciting limited-edition offerings, Creambell continues to delight ice cream lovers across the nation, promising a premium experience with every scoop.

8. Dinshaw’s Ice Creams

Dinshaw’s Ice Creams, which started as a hand-crafted company, has successfully maintained a strong presence in the market over the decades. Known for serving exceptional flavors made with high-quality ingredients, Dinshaw’s has become a favorite among ice cream lovers in India. Some of their popular flavors include classics like Caramel and Chocolate, as well as unique offerings like Frolix, Sensation, and Fruit Tree.

Founded in 1932 by two enterprising brothers, Dinshaw and Erachshaw Rana, Dinshaw's Ice Cream was a dream come true. The brothers’ unwavering commitment to quality and innovation led to the creation of delightful ice creams that quickly won over consumers. This success allowed Dinshaw's to expand into several other dairy products, further solidifying its reputation as a premium brand.

Dinshaw’s operates in more than 12 states across India, including Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Orissa, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Goa, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Delhi, and Haryana. Headquartered in Gittikhadan, Nagpur, the company has been adding wholesome goodness to the lives of thousands since its inception. The brand's extensive menu boasts a variety of ice cream flavors that cater to diverse tastes and preferences, making it a household name in many regions.

Over the years, Dinshaw’s has become synonymous with superior traditional flavors and high-quality ice cream. Their constant emphasis on quality consciousness and flavor innovation has enabled them to build a solid fan base and become one of the premium ice cream brands in India. Whether it’s their classic flavors or their more adventurous offerings, Dinshaw’s continues to delight ice cream enthusiasts with every scoop.

9. Nirulas Ice Cream

Nirulas is one of India’s most established ice cream brands, boasting a significant presence across multiple regions. Known for offering a wide variety of ice cream flavors, Nirulas also delights its customers with ice cream sodas, desserts, and milkshakes. With a major footprint in the ice cream market, Nirulas continues to be a beloved brand among Indian consumers.

Founded in 1934, Nirulas is not only one of the oldest but also one of the most famous fast-food chains in India. Headquartered in New Delhi, the brand primarily operates in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi. Its ice cream parlors are popular hangout spots for the youth, especially in Delhi, where their ice creams are considered some of the best.

Beyond ice cream, Nirulas outlets offer a range of quick snacks, including fresh burgers and pizzas, making them a favorite for casual dining. The brand's rich history and consistent quality have cemented its place at the pinnacle of the Indian ice cream industry. From classic favorites to innovative new flavors, Nirulas continues to delight customers with its exceptional offerings and remains a major chain in the competitive ice cream market.

10. Arun Ice Cream

Arun Ice Creams is perhaps the most renowned brand under Hatsun Agro Products. While many ice cream brands focused on opening parlors in urban areas, Arun strategically expanded into suburban regions, bringing delightful flavors to a wider audience. Each season, Arun Ice Creams introduces new flavors like Strawberry, Vanilla, Mango, Pista, Butterscotch, Kaju Kismis, Rose Magic, and Milk Fantasy, ensuring that customers always have something fresh and exciting to look forward to.

The company operates approximately 1,000 unique outlets, with 148 in Karnataka, 670 in Tamil Nadu, and additional locations in Andhra Pradesh and Kerala. Their extensive product range includes ice cream cones, scoops, and small bars, offering a variety of crunchy ice creams in multiple delectable flavors and sizes.

Founded by Mr. R. Ganesan in 1970, Arun Ice Creams is headquartered in Tamil Nadu and is a prominent brand in the southern region of India. Owned by Hatsun Agro Product, Arun Ice Creams has become a household name in Tamil Nadu, where many people enjoy its wide array of ice cream offerings. With more than 2,000 parlors in the southern part of the country, Arun Ice Creams has established a strong presence and continues to delight its customers with quality and innovation.

11. Top ‘N Town Ice Creams

Top'N Town is a beloved and established ice cream brand in India, with a significant presence across nearly eight regions. Known for its extensive and diverse range of flavors, Top'N Town crafts its ice creams and desserts using the finest ingredients. The brand offers a variety of delicious products, including cakes, shakes, kulfi, cones, bars, and other delectable delicacies, making it a major chain in the Indian ice cream market.

Operating successfully for the past 40 years, Top'N Town has firmly registered its name among the top ice cream brands in India. The company's robust distribution network spans close to 28,000 retail outlets and 300 distributors nationwide. Despite India's lower per capita ice cream consumption compared to other major markets, the industry is evolving and growing at a compound annual rate (CAR) of approximately 10-15 percent. This positive growth trend bodes well for the industry, encouraging continued innovation and expansion, especially in branded and new categories.

With a growing consumer base, increasing disposable income, and a greater trend toward dining out, the Indian ice cream market is poised for significant growth. Top'N Town stands ready to incorporate these changes, welcoming bigger players and introducing more innovative concepts to delight its customers and keep the market moving at a brisk pace.

12. Naturals Ice Creams

Naturals Ice Cream is celebrated for its commitment to crafting all-natural ice creams using genuine dairy and fresh ingredients. Since its inception in 1984 by Raghunandan Srinivas Kamath, the brand has become a sensation with its emphasis on natural flavors and sweeteners, making it a favorite among ice cream enthusiasts who prefer preservative-free options. Naturals has grown to over 135 stores across India, combining a mix of franchisee and company-owned locations, ensuring widespread availability.

This entirely vegetarian brand appeals to both children and adults alike, offering a delightful range of flavors that cater to diverse tastes. The ISO-certified brand prides itself on delivering original flavors, ensuring a pure and authentic ice cream experience. Naturals’ dedication to quality and freshness has solidified its reputation as a top choice for ice cream lovers who seek natural and wholesome indulgence. Whether you're a fan of classic flavors or eager to explore unique combinations, Naturals Ice Cream promises a delectable treat that stands out in the crowded ice cream market.

13. Giani’s Ice Creams

Giani’s Ice Cream masterfully blends nostalgia with innovation, offering a delightful array of classic flavors like Belgian Chocolate alongside inventive creations such as chocolate whisky ice cream. This beloved home-grown brand brings together the traditional taste of rabri faluda and mango milkshakes from Chandni Chowk with modern twists like frozen yogurts, meringues, and pistachio gelato.

Founded in 1956 by Giani Gurcharan Singh as Giani-di-Hatti, the brand has established a strong foothold in the Indian dessert sector. Known for its authentic flavors and high-quality ingredients, Giani’s has become synonymous with delectable treats that cater to both traditional and contemporary palates. Headquartered in Delhi, Giani’s has expanded its presence across the country, offering a wide variety of desserts, shakes, and ice creams that have captured the hearts of many.

Giani’s Ice Cream continues to innovate while staying true to its roots, ensuring that every bite is a celebration of rich flavors and cherished memories. With its diverse range of products and unwavering commitment to quality, Giani’s remains a favorite among dessert lovers, providing a perfect blend of the old and the new.

14. Häagen-Dazs Ice Creams

Established in 1960 by Reuben and Rose Mattus, Häagen-Dazs is an iconic American ice cream brand that has made a significant mark in India. Headquartered in Minnesota, New York, Häagen-Dazs is renowned for its exquisite range of sorbets, ice creams, frozen yogurts, and ice cream bars. The brand brings a touch of global inspiration to its traditional American flavors, captivating the taste buds of ice cream enthusiasts worldwide.

In India, Häagen-Dazs ice cream is available at its exclusive parlors and select retailers, making it accessible to a discerning audience. The brand is celebrated for its commitment to quality and its innovative flavor profiles that offer a unique tasting experience. From the rich, creamy textures to the diverse array of flavors, Häagen-Dazs has become a favorite among Indian consumers.

Häagen-Dazs continues to delight ice cream lovers with its premium offerings, ensuring every scoop is a luxurious indulgence. Its unique and delectable flavors, crafted with the finest ingredients, make Häagen-Dazs a standout brand in the Indian market, catering to those who seek a superior ice cream experience.

15. Nestlé Ice Creams

Nestlé Ice Cream, part of the world's largest food and beverage corporation, is synonymous with creating delightful experiences for every occasion. Whether it's a family reunion, a special celebration, or simply treating yourself, Nestlé's frozen desserts bring a touch of magic to each moment. Their extensive range includes everything from rich ice creams to indulgent chocolate bars, all crafted with the highest quality ingredients to ensure every bite is a delicious treat.

Nestlé's commitment to quality and innovation is evident in their diverse product offerings. Each ice cream and dessert is designed to cater to a variety of tastes and preferences, making it a go-to brand for many. Their frozen treats are not just about satisfying a sweet tooth but also about creating memorable experiences for families and individuals alike.

Nestlé Ice Cream stands out in the crowded marketplace by consistently delivering products that combine taste, quality, and indulgence. Whether you crave the classic flavors or seek out new, innovative creations, Nestlé Ice Cream ensures that each product is a delightful blend of flavor and quality, making it a favorite among ice cream enthusiasts in India and around the world.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the diverse landscape of ice cream brands in India offers something delightful for every palate. From the nostalgic flavors of traditional favorites like Amul and Mother Dairy to the innovative and premium offerings from brands like Baskin Robbins and Häagen-Dazs, the Indian ice cream market is rich with variety and quality. Each brand brings its unique touch, whether it's the all-natural ingredients of Naturals or the global flavors introduced by international giants like Kwality Walls and Vadilal. The growth of local brands like Havmor and Creambell showcases the dynamic nature of this industry, continually evolving to meet the tastes and preferences of Indian consumers.

As the love for ice cream continues to flourish across the country, these brands not only compete but also drive each other towards innovation and excellence. Whether you’re a fan of classic cones, exotic sundaes, or health-conscious frozen treats, the top 15 ice cream brands in India are sure to satisfy your cravings. So, next time you’re in the mood for a sweet escape, try exploring these brands and discover the myriad of flavors that make the Indian ice cream experience truly special. Indulge in the creamy, refreshing delight that has captured the hearts of millions and continues to be a beloved treat for all ages.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best ice cream brand in India?

The best ice cream brand in India is subjective and depends on personal taste. However, Amul is often regarded as the best due to its extensive range of flavors, high-quality ingredients, and widespread availability. Its reputation for consistent quality and innovation keeps it a favorite among consumers.

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2. What are the top 10 brands of ice cream?

The top 10 ice cream brands in India are Amul, Kwality Walls, Vadilal, Mother Dairy, Baskin Robbins, Havmor, Creambell, Dinshaw’s, Naturals, and Giani’s. These brands are renowned for their variety of flavors, quality ingredients, and strong market presence, catering to diverse tastes across the country.

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3. Which is the original ice cream in India?

The original ice cream brand in India is generally considered to be Kwality, which started in 1956. As one of the first commercial ice cream brands in the country, Kwality has played a significant role in popularizing ice cream among Indian consumers with its wide array of flavors and innovations.

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4. Which is the ice cream capital of India?

The ice cream capital of India is often considered to be Gujarat. The state is home to several major ice cream brands, including Amul, and has a long history of dairy and ice cream production. Its vibrant dairy industry has earned it this title among enthusiasts.

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5. Which ice cream is very costly?

The most costly ice cream in India is typically found in premium brands like Häagen-Dazs and Mövenpick. These brands offer luxurious, high-quality ice creams made with exotic ingredients, which are priced significantly higher than regular brands. Häagen-Dazs, in particular, is known for its premium pricing.

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6. What is the most sold ice cream brand?

Amul is the most sold ice cream brand in India. Its extensive distribution network, wide variety of flavors, and consistent quality make it a favorite across the country. Amul's affordable pricing and innovative marketing strategies have helped it maintain a dominant position in the Indian ice cream market.