Here's How To Get Your Own Ben & Jerry's Flavor

If you're part of the greater half of the population that prefers ice cream as their No. 1 dessert, then Ben & Jerry's customer-focused initiative is meant for you. Since the late 1970s, the famous Vermont-based ice cream company has known how to keep its clients interested. With an ever-changing assortment of flavors including Netflix & Chill'd, gluten-free, and dairy-free options, there's something for all tastes (via Ben & Jerry's). Not to mention Doggie Desserts, designed for dogs with a sweet tooth.

According to the company website, some of the most popular Ben & Jerry's flavors were actually the result of customer suggestions. Cherry Garcia and Chubby Hubby are two prime examples, both regularly topping lists of the best flavors (via Thrillist). Of course, not everyone shares the same wild tastes, and the ice cream giants have seen it all. On the Ben & Jerry's website, a list of some of the funniest suggestions received includes Gorgonzola, pepperoni, macaroni, french fry, and jalapeño ice cream. While those flavors likely won't ever hit the market, others made it to stores but were less than successful with consumers. Evidently, one person's dream flavor won't be considered quite so tempting to all. Nevertheless, it's worth it to try your hand at creating your very own ice cream flavor for Ben & Jerry's. If you've always imagined the perfect combination, hoping that the ice cream gods would hear your plea, it's time to step in. 

The company website displays a simple outline to guide you in your flavor creation, but the details are all up to you. When designing your dream ice cream, you might want to consider choosing a base flavor and accompanying it with chunks and swirls for contrast. Nuts can be caramelized to add an extra sweet crunch, or go ahead and incorporate a caramel swirl for the ultimate decadent touch. Next, your flavor needs a name, and it's going to have to be more creative than a summary of its ingredients. If you've ever had Ben & Jerry's ice cream, you'll know that part of the enjoyment comes from the quirky names given to the flavors. The company suggests using rhymes, short or long, as long as it's fun and gets the point across.

Once you've finished deliberating over the details of your product, it's time to submit your idea. Head to the Ben & Jerry's contact page and fill out the form with the flavor name and description, along with your own contact information. You might want to read the small print which explains the company's process upon receiving submissions. It's also worth noting that if your ingenious idea is accepted, Ben & Jerry's has no legal requirement to award you with prizes, free ice cream, or public recognition. Essentially, once you send it off, it's out of your hands. If that's a dealbreaker for you, then you can always try making it yourself!