Gabe Hauari reports that vanilla remains the most popular ice cream flavor in America as National Ice Cream Day approaches.
Gabe Hauari reports that vanilla continues to be the most-ordered ice cream flavor in the United States, accounting for nearly 21% of all orders in 2025. Data from Instacart shows that vanilla held the top spot in every state and Washington, D.C., for three consecutive years. Chocolate, cookie dough, and cookies & cream followed as the next most popular choices. To celebrate National Ice Cream Day on July 19, numerous brands are offering consumer deals. Friendly's will provide a free cone or dish, while Dippin' Dots will offer free mini cups for a two-hour window. Wendy's will feature a $1 Frosty from July 20 through August 23, and Shake Shack will offer custard for $3 using a specific promo code. Other rewards include 4x points at Dunkin' and various sweepstakes from Cold Stone Creamery and Kilwins. These promotions highlight the enduring popularity of the dessert, which was officially designated for celebration by President Ronald Reagan in 1984.