With its long coastline, and hot summers, NJ is lousy with ice cream shops. If it’s the best ice cream in Monmouth County NJ you seek, than that’s a whole other ball game. And it just so happens that we’ve prepared for just such an occasion.
Worry not, ice cream enthusiasts, because this guide will take you on a delicious journey through Monmouth County’s creamiest contenders, in no particular order.
The Best Ice Cream In Monmouth County NJ
Hoffman’s Ice Cream
Hoffman’s story began in 1955 when they started as one of the original New Jersey Carvel stores. Over the years, the desire to create their own identity led them to switch to the Hoffman name in 1976. They experimented with flavors and recipes, and became the renowned ice cream parlor they are today. Their Monmouth County locations are in Point Pleasant, Spring Lake, and Long Branch.
Hoffman’s features classic flavors alongside seasonal delights, cakes, milkshakes, and even novelty items like Oreo Pie.
Their ice cream and cakes are made in-house, and feature such classic favorites like chocolate chip cookie dough to unique seasonal offerings like peach or pumpkin. Sink your spoon into a decadent ice cream sundae, indulge in a refreshing Italian ice, a sundae or grab a slice of their homemade cake.
Jersey Freeze
This local favorite has locations in Freehold and Holmdel (inside Bell Works). Jersey Freeze serves delicious soft-serve ice cream as the main draw, and has plenty of outdoor seating to boot, which makes it the perfect spot for a summer evening outing.
Jersey Freeze is on Manalapan Avenue, and has been churning out delicious soft-serve ice cream since its doors first opened. Even offering milkshakes…we’re talking Strawberry Shortcake or Eclair Milkshakes (both topped with their respective ice cream bars). They also offer more than ice cream with a full menu of American favorites to satisfy hunger pangs alongside your sweet tooth; juicy burgers, wraps, salads, pulled pork, and more.
Sundaes The Ice Cream Place
Craving a classic sundae? With locations in Manasquan, Aberdeen, Point Pleasant, and Toms River, this quintessential ice cream shoppe has a wide variety of flavors and toppings for creating your own masterpiece.
For over 30 years, Sundaes the Ice Cream Place has been the destination for ice cream lovers of all ages. This family-owned shop, located on Highway 35, offers a combination of homemade ice cream, friendly service, and a taste of Jersey Shore nostalgia.
They craft their ice cream in-house using fresh ingredients for a smooth, creamy texture.
If you’re someone that likes to keep it interesting, the extensive menu has over 40 flavors, ranging from classic favorites like chocolate chip cookie dough to adventurous selections like pistachio. Grandma’s Apple Pie and Nutella Graham. With new seasonal options constantly popping up, there’s always something new to discover at Sundaes.
If you prefer the classic hot fudge and whipped cream combo, or if or crave something more decadent, like brownie bites or peanut butter sauce, the options are there for the buying. Don’t forget to explore their selection of waffle cones, dipped cones, and sundae cups.
Nicholas Creamery:
Nestled in the heart of charming Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey, Nicholas Creamery isn’t your average ice cream shop. It’s renowned for its small-batch, handcrafted ice cream, bursting with unique flavors and made with the freshest, seasonal ingredients.
They have locations in Atlantic Highlands, Fair Haven, Tinton Falls, and Long Branch with options like “Jersey Blueberry” and “Booskerdoo Coffee Crunch.”
Unlike chain stores offering mass-produced ice cream, Nicholas Creamery takes pride in the artisanal approach. Their team churns out small batches of ice cream daily, ensuring the highest quality and freshness in every scoop.
Forget boring vanilla and chocolate – Nicholas Creamery boasts a rotating menu of creative and mouthwatering flavors. Craving a taste of Jersey? Dive into their “NJ Blueberries & Cream” or savor the classic “Tahitian Vanilla” made with homemade vanilla extract. Feeling adventurous? Opt for the “Goat Cheese” ice cream, a surprisingly delightful option.
They also offer vegan options, catering to those with dietary restrictions, and a selection of waffle cones, cakes, pies and homemade brownies to elevate your ice cream experience.
During the summer months, the sidewalk seating transforms into a vibrant hub for locals and visitors alike. Located within walking distance of the harbor and overlooking the stunning New York Bay views, it’s the perfect spot to cap off a day of exploring the charming town.
Ryan’s Homemade Ice Cream
This humble counter-serve shop in Tinton Falls, Hazlet, and Oakhurst offers not just house-made ice cream but also frozen yogurt and Italian ice.
Another family-owned establishment, Ryan’s is famous for their unique flavors and dedication to using fresh, local ingredients.
Their rotating menu is a playground for the adventurous palate. Craving a taste of Jersey? Dig into their “Jersey Peach” or “Salty Caramel Pretzel” with local ingredients. Relive childhood memories with their “Birthday Cake” or “Cookies & Cream.” You can even be bold and try the “Lavender Honey” or the intriguing “Kentucky Pig” (don’t worry, it’s bourbon and pecan, not pork!).They offer a selection of vegan ice cream flavors, ensuring everyone gets to indulge.
Additionally, their house-made waffle cones and decadent brownies add another layer of deliciousness to your ice cream experience.
Its convenient location near Sycamore Village makes it the perfect pit stop after shopping or exploring the charming borough. And the outdoor patio provides ample space to enjoy your ice cream while catching up with friends and family.
Cookman Creamery
Located in the heart of Asbury Park, Cookman Creamery offers a delightful twist with unique flavors and vegan options like their popular cookie butter ice cream.
Vanilla lovers will find solace in their classic Madagascar Vanilla, while chocolate enthusiasts can indulge in their decadent Belgian Chocolate. But for those seeking an adventure for their taste buds, Cookman Creamery shines. Their rotating menu features unique and delectable flavors, like the ever-popular “Cookie Butter” or the refreshing “Lavender Honey.”
The vegan ice cream options are made with a plant-based base, which are just as delicious and creamy as their traditional flavors.
They also offer a selection of house-made waffle cones and delectable baked goods to complete your sweet treat.
During the summer months, the sidewalk seating becomes a vibrant hub for people-watching and enjoying the legendary Asbury Park spirit and outdoor concerts.
Fable Creamery Vegan Ice Cream & Confections
Located in the heart of Red Bank, Fable Creamery is another spot for delicious vegan ice cream. Their creamy concoctions prove you don’t have to sacrifice taste for a plant-based treat. It caters specifically to vegan ice cream enthusiasts with a delightful selection of cruelty-free and dairy-free treats that redefine the meaning of vegan indulgence.
They offer a delightful array of vegan confections including decadent brownies, ice cream cakes, cookies, and other baked goods, all made with plant-based ingredients. They also offer vegan waffle cones. If you’re a dedicated vegan, lactose-intolerant, or simply curious about exploring plant-based options, you’re sure to feel right at home.
With so many options, the “best” ice cream in Monmouth County ultimately comes down to your personal preference. Whether you’re a classic cone kind of person, a flavor adventurer, or a vegan ice cream enthusiast, the jersey shore has a scoop (or three) waiting for you.
Best Ice Cream In NJ Bonus Picks:
- Holsten’s Brookdale Confectionery (Bloomfield): This iconic spot has been a local favorite for almost a century, since 1926. Holsten’s has a traditional take with a vast selection of house-made ice cream flavors.
- The Original Kohr Brothers Frozen Custard (Multiple Locations): Though this one specializes in custard, it’s a Jersey Shore staple, Kohr’s offers rich, dense frozen custard in a variety of flavors. Perfect for grabbing a cone while strolling the boardwalk.
- Nasto’s Ice Cream Co. (Newark): This old-fashioned gem offers a delightful throwback experience. Their ice cream cakes are legendary, but don’t miss the chance to try their classic flavors by the scoop.
- The Bent Spoon (Princeton): This award-winning creamery is known for its unique flavors. Think goat cheese cherry or lavender honey.
- Torico Ice Cream (Jersey City): This hip spot uses fresh, seasonal ingredients to create gourmet ice cream with exciting flavor combinations.
- Surreal Creamery (New Brunswick, Ridgewood, Westfield): This small chain offers a constantly rotating selection of out-of-the-box flavors alongside their core crowd-pleasers.
- Applegate Farm (Montclair): This working farm uses its own dairy products to create delicious ice cream with a focus on fresh, natural ingredients.
- Windy Brow Farms (Fredon Township): This family-run farm offers homemade ice cream alongside stunning views of the Kittatinny Mountains.
- Hoffman’s Ice Cream (Point Pleasant Beach & Other Locations): Another Jersey Shore favorite, Hoffman’s is known for their wide variety of flavors and friendly service.
- Denville Dairy (Denville): A beloved North Jersey spot with a loyal following thanks to their generous portions and classic flavors.
