Discover the nostalgic taste of gold medal ribbon ice cream, chocolate, vanilla & caramel in one legendary Baskin-Robbins flavor.
Let me go back to a summer afternoon that is forever cemented in my mind. It was an afternoon hot and sticky enough that the sun didn’t shine so much as sizzle. I must have been 10 at the time, my face still flushed from a spontaneous game of street basketball, and completely convinced that I might actually die without a cold treat in my stomach. That’s when I first discovered gold medal ribbon ice cream, a taste that remained my faithful companion ever after.
You might be thinking to yourself: What’s so special about this ice cream? It’s not trendy, it’s not high end, but oh, is it iconic. And honestly, is gold medal ribbon ice cream anything if not the perfect combination of creamy nostalgia and good old-fashioned indulgence?
In today’s article, we’re going in-depth on what makes gold medal ribbon ice cream truly the unsung hero of cold treats. From its taste profile through its availability and even how to prepare it yourself, we’re going on a complete adventure. And believe me, it’s going to be scrumptious. And if you’ve ever wondered just how much of this creamy goodness fits in a container, check out our Pint of Ice Cream Size Explained guide to get the scoop, literally.
Article Breakdown
What is Gold Medal Ribbon Ice Cream?
Let’s get the most obvious out of the way first, gold medal ribbon ice cream is a Baskin-Robbins exclusive. That in itself creates a nostalgic appeal, but the real showstopper is in the mix of flavors. Take creamy chocolate ice cream, and mix in smooth vanilla and a decadent golden caramel ribbon running right through it. It’s like a Neapolitan you never even realized you wanted.
Actually, gold medal ribbon Baskin-Robbins aficionados swear by this combination of flavors. Gold medal ice cream is normally expected to have that comforting and rich taste, but even so, it is light enough to be consumed on a sunny day.
The taste debuted decades ago (some trace its origins as far back as the 1970s), and as trends have risen and fallen, unicorn flavors, charcoal cones, and all manner of oat milk swirls come to mind, this old favorite quietly persists.
In all honesty, I believe some of its allure is that it tastes like a memory. That scoop you received after visiting the dentist as a reward for making it through a cleaning. Or is it that thing that your father always ordered when your family went on those occasional, spur-of-the-moment ice cream runs after supper? Whatever its connection is, it stays with you even after finishing it.
Let’s Discuss Flavour: An Ode to Sweetness
Okay, flavor geeks, let’s get into it.
The Chocolate
The chocolate aspect isn’t bitter or dark; it’s more a milk chocolate feel, but it’s rich and accessible at the same time. It’s not dominating; it’s being a good team player. ???? The Vanilla Surprisingly enough,
The vanilla
in gold medal ribbon ice cream stands up on its own. It is not that bland, low-cost kind that is essentially cold nothingness. Nope. This is creamy and contains a custard-like undertone that actually counteracts the chocolate’s sweetness.
The Golden Caramel Ribbon
And now comes the surprise that holds it all together, the ribbon. This is no ordinary caramel sauce. Gooey but never sticky. Sweet but never cloying. There is a buttery richness to it that literally dissolves into each spoonful. So golden is it that some even dub it golden ribbon ice cream and who’s to say they’re wrong? Gold medal in the title for a gold medal taste for a reason.
And let me tell you: when you have all three elements in a single bite? Pure harmony. It’s the ice cream equivalent of an awesome soundtrack, a each piece complements the others and together they take everything to an even higher level.
Where to Buy Gold Medal Ribbon Ice Cream
Now let’s get to the part that may actually get you to jump up from your couch and out the door.
Baskin-Robbins
The most likely place is obviously Baskin-Robbins. While not all stores have every kind all year-round, gold medal ribbon ice cream is among their staples so it is likely to be found.
Use the store locator on Baskin-Robbins’ website prior to going out. Or better still, call ahead. There is nothing as bitter as going all that way and being informed, “Sorry, we’re out.”
It is actually officially referred to as Baskin-Robbins Gold Medal Ribbon on their menu and is usually included on their “Top 10 Flavors” list based on region. And if you take a closer look, some stores even feature it as part of fun seasonal promotions as well.
Grocery Stores
Depending on where you’re located, certain Baskin-Robbins flavors can be found in carton form at big box grocery stores. I’ve spotted gold ribbon Baskin-Robbins packaging appearing in stores such as Walmart, Kroger, and even smaller local independent convenient stores. Watch for them in the freezer aisle. \
Food delivery apps
Companies like DoorDash, Grubhub, and UberEats usually collaborate with Baskin-Robbins. So yes, it is possible to get it delivered to your door. Is ordering a pint of gold ribbon ice cream delivery a little bougie? Perhaps. Is it worth it? Also yes.
Homemade Gold Medal Ribbon Ice Cream:
How to Make It at Home Now, if you happen to be someone who enjoys being a little creative in the kitchen, here’s a surprise, you can actually prepare it yourself at home.
What You Will Need:
- 1 pint chocolate ice cream (see below for do-it-yourself recipe).
- 1 pint of vanilla ice cream
- 1 cup homemade or store-bought caramel sauce
- Optional: a dash of sea salt for a caramel with a salty kick
Instructions:
- Let chocolate and vanilla ice cream stand for a few minutes to soften so they’ll be more easily layered.
- In a big mixing bowl, fold together the two flavors carefully, not too strongly! You want separate whirls.
- Drizzle layers of caramel ribbon as you spoon mixture into a freezer-safe container.
- Use the butter knife to mix it all together just a bit more.
- Freeze 2-4 hours to firm up.
Boom. Now you’ve got yourself a homemade rendition of Baskin-Robbins gold medal ribbon style dessert. Will it be 100% identical to the original? Maybe not. But there’s something really satisfying about knowing you made it yourself.
What is being said about it?
I couldn’t compose this post without consulting with fellow fans of the taste. So I dove deep into food blogs, Yelp opinions, and Reddit forums. What did I uncover?
“Gold Medal Ribbon is my childhood in a cup. My dad used to take me every Friday after school, still my go-to.” , @sarahscoops, Reddit
“No other ice cream flavors balance nostalgia and taste as well as it does. It’s criminally underappreciated.”
“If you’ve never attempted gold medal ribbon Baskin-Robbins, do you even have a life?” , Anonymous Yelp review that resides rent-free in my brain
It is obvious that this flavor has a loyal following. And I don’t blame them?
Surprising facts you didn’t know
Let’s get nerdy for a second.
- How did you get it? The name Gold Medal Ribbon represents winning flavors united, just as a gold medal winner stands atop the stage.
- It dates back to the 70s. That is correct, it existed even before the Internet.
- It is one of the flavors with all three elements (chocolate, vanilla, caramel), making it universally appealing to people from all age groups.
- It is still called gold ribbon ice cream by old-school fans, a nostalgic term that’s lasted for decades.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gold Medal Ribbon Ice Cream
Q: What is gold medal ribbon ice cream composed of?
A chocolate and vanilla ice cream combination swirled with a golden caramel ribbon throughout. Simple yet strong.
Q: Is gold medal ribbon ice cream gluten-free?
A: Depending on batch and region, it might be. Check with the store or packaging for sure. If you are extremely sensitive, making it yourself might be your best option.
Q: Is it a lasting taste?
A: Yes! It is one of Baskin-Robbins’ “31 originals.” However, certain stores might periodically rotate it out.
Q: Can I order it online?
A: Yes. Either through Baskin-Robbins’ website or third-party delivery
Key Takings:
So, what have we learned on this frozen journey?
We’ve discovered that gold medal ribbon ice cream is more than just a dessert, it’s a time capsule. It’s a blend of simple, satisfying flavors that, when combined, create something truly magical. It’s the kind of treat that brings you back to the good stuff: childhood memories, carefree summers, and ice cream runs after Little League games.
For me, it’s a reminder that you don’t always need exotic ingredients or over-the-top trends to make something memorable. Sometimes, all it takes is a little chocolate, a little vanilla, a ribbon of caramel, and a scoop of nostalgia. Whether you know it as baskin robbins gold medal ribbon, gold medal ribbon baskin-robbins, or just the best part of your summer night, this flavor has rightfully earned its legendary status.
Additional Resources:
- Baskin-Robbins Official Gold Medal Ribbon Flavor Story: Discover the origin and unique blend of vanilla, chocolate, and caramel that makes Gold Medal Ribbon a timeless Baskin-Robbins classic since 1979.
Find Gold Medal Ribbon ice cream available for purchase in stores and online, complete with size and nutritional information.
- Gelson’s Market – Baskin-Robbins Gold Medal Ribbon: Buy Gold Medal Ribbon at Gelson’s, a high-end grocery store offering this nostalgic treat in convenient 14 fl oz containers.
