11 Best Pumpkin Spice Ice Creams In Washington DC This Fall
Golden leaves crunch underfoot as crisp air carries the scent of cinnamon and nutmeg through bustling streets. Autumn cravings take a creamy turn as pumpkin spice drifts from steaming mugs into chilled, velvety scoops.
In Washington DC, ice cream shops embrace the season with inventive flavors that swirl comfort and indulgence together, transforming a fall tradition into something refreshingly unexpected.
1. Ice Cream Jubilee’s Pumpkin Honeycomb
Tucked in Navy Yard, this beloved Washington shop transforms fall into a sweet experience with their signature seasonal scoop. The combination of smooth pumpkin base with crunchy honeycomb pieces creates magical texture contrasts.
Each spoonful delivers warm autumn spices that dance with the subtle honey notes. Perfect for enjoying during a waterfront stroll as the leaves change color.
2. Kilwins’ Classic Pumpkin Pie Delight
The Wharf location brings nostalgic holiday flavors to life with their pumpkin pie creation. Rich, velvety pumpkin cream studded with actual pie crust pieces makes this feel like dessert in double form.
Aromatic cinnamon, nutmeg and clove notes perfectly capture grandmother’s pumpkin pie in frozen form. Grab a scoop before exploring the waterfront shops and harbor views.
3. Pitango Gelato’s Silky Pumpkin Creation
European technique meets American autumn at this Washington gelato institution. Using farm-fresh pumpkins and organic ingredients, they craft a remarkably smooth, less-sweet interpretation of the season’s favorite flavor.
The dense, silky texture showcases the natural pumpkin taste without overwhelming spices. Their multiple DC locations make it convenient to satisfy cravings throughout the city.
4. Dolcezza’s Farm-To-Scoop Pumpkin Gelato
Small-batch dedication shines through in this locally-sourced seasonal masterpiece. Using pumpkins from nearby farms, the gelato artisans create a flavor that’s authentically earthy yet luxuriously creamy.
Their minimal-ingredient approach lets the pure pumpkin essence take center stage. Visit their Union Market location for the freshest batches, often made the same day they’re served.
5. Jeni’s Splendid Pumpkin Cake Roll
Creative genius meets fall comfort in this innovative flavor. Rather than simple pumpkin spice, Jeni’s transforms the experience of a rolled pumpkin cake into creamy form, complete with cream cheese swirls.
The complex flavor profile features caramelized notes alongside traditional spices. Their 14th Street location often hosts special tastings of their seasonal collection during peak autumn weeks.
6. Thomas Sweet’s Georgetown Pumpkin Tradition
A Washington institution since 1979, their pumpkin offering embodies old-school ice cream perfection. No frills or gimmicks – just perfectly balanced pumpkin flavor that generations of Washingtonians have enjoyed.
The creamy texture and consistent quality make it a reliable fall favorite. Enjoy your scoop while strolling the historic cobblestone streets as autumn transforms the neighborhood.
7. Cold Stone’s Customizable Pumpkin Creations
Washington chain convenience meets seasonal fun with their pumpkin base as a canvas for endless mix-in possibilities. Watch as staff fold caramel, pecans, or graham crackers into pumpkin ice cream on the frozen stone.
Their Signature Pumpkin Pie Creation combines all the traditional elements in one bowl. Multiple DC locations make this an accessible option when cravings strike during fall shopping trips.
8. Van Leeuwen’s Pumpkin Cheesecake
Brooklyn-born but beloved in Washington DC, this artisanal creamery elevates pumpkin with a New York twist. Chunks of house-made cheesecake fold into a pumpkin base that’s both sophisticated and comforting.
Their dedication to quality ingredients is evident in the pure flavor. The Union Market location offers pints to take home when you inevitably crave more after your first taste.
9. Baskin-Robbins’ Pumpkin Cheesecake
Nationwide favorite brings serious seasonal game with their pumpkin cheesecake flavor. Cheesecake pieces and graham cracker ribbon swirl through pumpkin ice cream for a dessert that combines two fall favorites.
Their scoops are generously sized and reasonably priced. The Capitol Hill location offers seasonal sundae creations that pair this flavor with caramel and whipped cream for the ultimate autumn indulgence.
10. Häagen-Dazs’ Pumpkin Spice Latte
Premium ingredients define this luxury brand’s take on the seasonal classic. Their Georgetown and Chinatown shops transform their signature dense, creamy base into a pumpkin lover’s dream with perfectly balanced spices.
Beyond basic scoops, try their Pumpkin Spice Dazzler with hot fudge and candied pecans. Their late hours make this a perfect after-dinner or post-theater treat during cool autumn evenings.
11. Dolci Gelati’s Shaw Pumpkin Pie Gelato
Italian technique meets American tradition in this Shaw neighborhood gem. The master gelato maker uses a secret blend of five spices to create a remarkably authentic pumpkin pie experience in frozen form.
The dense, less airy texture of gelato intensifies the flavor experience. Their pumpkin offering frequently wins local food awards and sometimes sells out on busy October weekends.
