A Deep Dive into the Base Ingredients
Ben and Jerry's Coffee Toffee Bar Crunch's creamy foundation is primarily composed of dairy ingredients like cream and skim milk, alongside sweeteners such as liquid sugar and sugar. Coffee extract provides the distinct coffee flavor. Emulsifiers and stabilizers, including egg yolks, soy lecithin, guar gum, and carrageenan, are added to create a smooth texture and prevent ice crystal formation.
The Star of the Show: Fudge-Covered Toffee Pieces
The fudge-covered toffee pieces are a key textural and flavor component. They consist of toffee, a fudge coating made with ingredients like cocoa and coconut oil, and almonds for added crunch. The inclusion of almonds means this flavor contains tree nuts. Ben and Jerry's sources Fairtrade certified and non-GMO ingredients for these inclusions.
Comparison of Ingredients in Base vs. Inclusions
| Ingredient Category | Ice Cream Base | Fudge-Covered Toffee Pieces | 
|---|---|---|
| Dairy | Cream, Skim Milk | Milk, Butter (in toffee) | 
| Sweeteners | Liquid Sugar, Sugar | Sugar | 
| Flavoring | Coffee Extract, Vanilla Extract, Natural Flavor | Cocoa (processed with alkali), Natural Flavor | 
| Fats | Coconut Oil, Safflower Seed Oil, Canola Oil | Coconut Oil, Butter (in toffee) | 
| Emulsifiers | Soy Lecithin, Egg Yolks | Soy Lecithin | 
| Stabilizers | Guar Gum, Carrageenan | Carrageenan | 
| Key Texture Element | Smooth & creamy ice cream | Crunchy & chewy pieces | 
Potential Allergens and Certifications
Ben and Jerry's Coffee Toffee Bar Crunch contains milk, eggs, almonds, and soy. Due to shared equipment, it may also contain peanuts, wheat, and other tree nuts. The product is certified gluten-free. Key ingredients like coffee, sugar, vanilla, and cocoa are Fairtrade certified, and all ingredients are non-GMO.
Conclusion: More Than Just a Treat
Ben and Jerry's Coffee Toffee Bar Crunch is a complex blend of dairy, sweeteners, coffee extract, and fudge-covered toffee pieces, reflecting the brand's commitment to both flavor and ethical sourcing. The combination of creamy coffee ice cream and crunchy inclusions creates a popular dessert. The use of Fairtrade and non-GMO ingredients underscores Ben & Jerry's dedication to sustainability and transparency. For more detailed and current ingredient information, consumers should consult the product's packaging or the official Ben & Jerry's website.