Costco fans know a good freezer find when they see one—and few items have sparked as much buzz lately as Nightingale’s gourmet ice cream sandwiches. What began as a local gem in Richmond, Virginia has snowballed into a cult-followed sensation. Now, shoppers across the country are racing to snag boxes before they disappear. And let’s be clear—these aren’t your run-of-the-mill, convenience-store ice cream sandwiches. We’re talking bold, chef-inspired flavors like Miso Churro and Banana Pudding, all tucked between soft, chewy cookies that taste like they came straight from a bakery.
With up to eight rotating flavors popping up in limited regions and at unpredictable times, tracking them down has become something of a sport. But once you’ve got your hands on them, the real question is: which ones actually live up to the hype? Some flavors are flavor-bomb revelations you’ll want to hoard in bulk. Others might leave you wondering what all the fuss was about. That’s where we come in. We tried them all—from the nostalgia-packed Classic and the fruity, social-media-famous Strawberry Shortcake to daring options like Chocolate French Roast and the sweet-salty combo that is Miso Churro.
So, is Cookie Monster really the king of cookies? Does Key Lime Pie deliver that zesty punch? And is Banana Pudding the sleeper hit or a one-note wonder? Whether you’re a Costco regular stocking up for summer or a curious newcomer ready to try what the internet’s obsessing over, we’ve got the scoop. From least impressive to downright dreamy, this is our definitive ranking of every Costco-exclusive flavor of Nightingale ice cream sandwiches—judged on taste, texture, creativity, and whether they’re truly worth your freezer space. Ready? Let’s dig in—before they melt.
8. Miso Churro
This flavor kicks off with ambition, blending sweet and savory in a way that’s bound to divide fans. The cinnamon churro ice cream has strong carnival vibes, while the miso note adds a subtle umami edge that lingers.
As creative as the combo sounds, the execution leans a bit heavy on the novelty. The spice isn’t bold enough to dazzle, and the miso can feel oddly out of place, especially for those expecting a classic dessert profile.
You have to admire its risk-taking spirit, but this one’s more of a conversation starter than a freezer staple. Adventurous? Yes. Irresistible? Not quite.
7. The Classic
Sometimes simple works—but in this case, simplicity leans a little too safe. The Classic offers your standard vanilla ice cream hugged by soft chocolate chip cookies, aiming for nostalgia over surprise.
While the cookie has a nice chew and the vanilla is smooth, it’s missing that wow factor Nightingale has become known for. It’s dependable, sure, but feels a little overshadowed next to bolder flavors in the lineup.
This is the one you reach for when you want comfort, not adventure. It’s pleasant and familiar but lacks the indulgent edge that makes the other sandwiches stand out.
6. Banana Pudding
Fans of Southern sweets will be drawn to this comforting blend of banana pudding ice cream, vanilla wafers, and brown sugar cookies. It’s creamy and nostalgic, echoing potluck desserts and grandma’s kitchen.
The banana flavor is pronounced but never artificial, and the cookie crunch adds texture. Still, the overall richness can become a bit much halfway through, making it feel more like a once-in-a-while treat than a regular craving.
If you love layered banana desserts, this will hit the spot. But for those chasing contrast or complexity, it’s more of a creamy cuddle than a flavor thrill ride.
5. Chocolate French Roast
Coffee lovers, take note—this one’s for you. The French roast ice cream delivers a roasty, slightly bitter intensity that feels grown-up, balanced out by soft brownie-style cookies.
There’s a satisfying depth to the flavor, but it never overwhelms. The texture of the cookie adds softness that pairs well with the boldness of the ice cream, giving it that latte-meets-dessert appeal.
It’s not overly sweet, which may surprise some expecting a mocha milkshake vibe. Still, for those who like their sweets with a touch of espresso sophistication, this flavor quietly earns its place in the middle of the pack.
4. Chocolate Blackout
This one doesn’t mess around—it’s an unapologetic celebration of all things chocolate. Brownie cookies sandwich rich chocolate ice cream speckled with cake bits, giving it double (maybe triple) chocolate energy.
You’ll notice the texture first: chewy, soft, and ultra-fudgy. Then the flavor hits—a cocoa explosion that borders on decadent but stays just shy of too much, thanks to its balanced sweetness.
It’s a dream for chocoholics, though maybe too rich for everyday snacking. Still, if you want a dessert that doubles as a chocolate therapy session, this is the sandwich to beat. Dark, dense, and deeply satisfying.
3. Strawberry Shortcake
From the first bite, this one tastes like a summer picnic. The strawberry ice cream is bright and creamy, while the brown sugar cookies add a sweet, buttery hug that elevates everything.
What makes it sing is the freshness of the berry flavor—tart enough to wake up your taste buds, but mellowed by a rich dairy base. It’s nostalgic but not childish, like a homemade treat made with real ingredients.
It’s not the flashiest flavor in the bunch, but it’s arguably the most balanced. Sweet, fruity, and satisfying—it’s easy to see why this one’s become a viral Costco darling.
2. Cookie Monster
This flavor brings playful energy in all the right ways. Cookie Monster features a vanilla ice cream base packed with chocolate cookie chunks, all sandwiched between chewy chocolate chip cookies.
There’s crunch, creaminess, and just enough chocolate to keep it exciting without feeling overdone. The contrast between the soft cookie and the mix-in-loaded ice cream keeps your mouth guessing in the best way.
It’s easy to see why this one flies off the shelves. It taps into childhood favorites while offering enough indulgence to thrill grown-up palates. Fun, flavorful, and fabulously balanced—it’s a top-tier treat by every measure.
1. Key Lime Pie
A bold opening burst of citrus sets this one apart immediately. The ice cream hits with tangy key lime freshness, followed by a mellow sweetness that balances each bite like a perfectly made pie.
The brown sugar cookies bring a graham cracker-style base note that grounds the flavor, transforming it from just fruity to fully dessert-worthy. The combo is crisp, creamy, and utterly refreshing.
Out of all the sandwiches, this is the one that surprises in the best way. It’s bright, zesty, and impossible to forget. If you try just one, make it this. Your taste buds will thank you.
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