After trying their Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Sensation a few weeks ago, I was encouraged to further explore the new limited edition offerings from Publix. Themed around a Broadway production, Publix Premium's latest comes in the form of New York Cherry Cheesecake. Although I've had quite a collection of cheesecake creations over my ice cream career, Jeni's Splendid Goat Cheese with Red Cherries was the only one to revolve around the small red fruit. Although I'm not expecting the same quality in this carton, the description of cheesecake-flavored ice cream with a tart cherry ribbon and graham crust pieces keeps me optimistic, especially after popping off the top and taking a peek inside.
In addition, since this only contains 170 calories per serving, it's a lot less calorie dense than it's adversary from Jeni's. Thick enough to resist the edge of my spoon, I finally get a bowl filled with the impressive looking ice cream above. The vivid red stripes of cherry sauce and dark pieces of graham cracker crust look even more enticing when contrasted against the light-colored cheesecake base. Since I'm well versed in the realm of cheesecake-flavored ice cream, and haven't had any from Publix Premium, I'm looking forward to my first experience. The bright white base leads with the familiar taste of cream cheese, but has a nice balance of sweetness on the back end. Although this isn't on the level of Jeni's when it comes to complexity, the mildness should allow the mix-ins to flourish.
The density of the cheesecake ice cream walks the line between the lower-calorie likes of Edy's and Blue Bunny and the premiums like Ben & Jerry's. The cherry swirl seemingly makes it's way into nearly every bite, adding an aesthetically pleasing red-striped design throughout the entire carton. The taste didn't have the bitter tartness of other sour swirls I've seen, but instead acts much like the finishing drizzle of sauce placed on an authentic piece of cheesecake, only adding a slight sweetness and a bit of a texture. The final component, the graham crust pieces, are among the most unique pie crust pieces available. Where most are slightly crunchy and finish with a gritty feel, these share the same consistency as a soft, chewy cookie. So if you're in the mood for Jeni's Goat Cheese with Red Cherries and money is an issue, as well as availability, Publix Premium's product should act as an acceptable substitute.
Where I Found It: Publix
Grade: C
