Eskimo Pie and Klondike Bar have delighted generations of Americans with their unique flavors and textures. Although these two ice cream bars may seem similar, they differ in several key aspects, including their origins, taste, and even cultural significance. This article explores what makes these two iconic treats distinct.
Origins of the Eskimo Pie
Christian Kent Nelson, a schoolteacher from Iowa, invented the Eskimo Pie in 1921. Nelson combined vanilla ice cream with a chocolate coating after noticing a boy struggling to choose between the two treats at a local store. His invention quickly gained popularity under the name “I-Scream Bar.” After partnering with candy maker Russell Stover, Nelson rebranded his creation as Eskimo Pie. The new name evoked the cold Arctic, which helped market the treat (Miss Buttercup) (Wise-Answer).
Due to growing awareness of cultural sensitivity, Dreyer’s Grand Ice Cream decided to rename Eskimo Pie to Edy’s Pie in 2021. The company named the product after Joseph Edy, one of its founders, to avoid potentially offensive references to indigenous Arctic communities. You can read more about the history of the Eskimo Pie.
The Klondike Bar’s Beginnings
Meanwhile, the Klondike bar has an equally fascinating origin story. It was introduced in the early 1920s by the Isaly Dairy Company, a family-owned business based in Ohio. The Klondike bar was named after the Klondike River in the Yukon Territory of Canada, a region synonymous with cold, harsh conditions. The name referenced the frigid image of the area, suggesting that the treat was as cold and refreshing as the tundra.
The Klondike Bar was different from other ice cream bars of its time. Its square shape, lack of a stick, and foil wrapper made it stand out on freezer shelves. The lack of a stick was a deliberate choice by Henry Isaly, one of the creators, who wanted to distinguish the Klondike Bar as a more adult-friendly treat. He believed that removing the stick would make it less of a “children’s dessert” and more of a sophisticated indulgence.
Though it was originally sold only in Isaly’s stores in Ohio and Pennsylvania, the Klondike Bar gradually gained nationwide popularity. In 1976, Henry Clarke, a Pittsburgh native and owner of the Clabir investment firm, purchased the brand from the Isaly family. Clarke had no experience in the ice cream industry but recognized the potential of the Klondike Bar and set about expanding its distribution. By the early 1980s, the Klondike Bar had become a national sensation, and its sales skyrocketed from $800,000 to $60 million annually.
Today, the Klondike Bar remains one of the most beloved frozen treats in the U.S. Its rich history is a testament to the power of clever branding, quality ingredients, and a touch of nostalgia. You can read more about the Klondike Bar’s 100-year history in this CNN Business article.
Production Methods and Innovations
One of the key differences between the two treats lies in their production methods and the technological advancements that have shaped them.
Eskimo Pie Production
The original Eskimo Pies were handmade, with Nelson dipping ice cream squares into chocolate by hand before packaging them for sale. Over the years, production became more automated, but the essence of the treat—a combination of simple vanilla ice cream and a chocolate coating—remained the same. Dreyer’s Grand Ice Cream continues to produce Edy’s Pie using a highly automated process, though the focus remains on quality and tradition.
Klondike Bar Production
The Klondike Bar also began as a handmade treat, with workers dipping ice cream into chocolate by hand. However, this changed in 1931 with the invention of the Polarmatic machine, a revolutionary piece of equipment that could produce 75 Klondike Bars per minute. This machine not only increased production but also helped the Klondike Bar gain a reputation for consistent quality. Today, modern factories can produce up to 1.2 million Klondike Bars per day. Yet, the basic production process has remained relatively unchanged, staying true to the original formula created nearly a century ago.
Flavor and Texture Differences Between Eskimo Pie and Klondike Bar
When comparing Eskimo Pie and Klondike Bar, one of the most noticeable differences is in their flavors and variety.
Eskimo Pie Flavors
The Eskimo Pie (now Edy’s Pie) has traditionally been focused on simplicity. It features smooth vanilla ice cream encased in a thin layer of chocolate. This flavor combination is a classic that evokes nostalgia and has remained largely unchanged since the treat’s inception in 1921. Unlike its competitor, Eskimo Pie does not offer an extensive range of flavors, sticking mainly to its vanilla roots【6†source】. This consistency appeals to fans who appreciate its timeless appeal.
Klondike Bar Flavors
The Klondike Bar, on the other hand, is known for its wide variety of flavors and offerings. In addition to the original vanilla, Klondike Bars are available in flavors such as caramel, mint, cookies and crème, Reese’s, Heath Bar, and more. Seasonal and limited-edition flavors, such as strawberry and unicorn swirls, also make appearances from time to time.
Beyond the flavors, Klondike has expanded its product line to include different formats, such as sandwiches, cones, and minis. There are even dietary options, such as sugar-free and gluten-free versions, ensuring that there is a Klondike Bar for everyone.
Dietary Considerations
For those with specific dietary needs, the Klondike Bar offers more variety. From gluten-free to sugar-free options, Klondike caters to a range of preferences and restrictions. In contrast, Eskimo Pie remains more traditional and does not offer the same breadth of options.
Taste and Texture Comparison
Taste and texture are arguably the most critical factors when comparing these two treats.
Eskimo Pie Taste and Texture
The Eskimo Pie is known for its light and refreshing vanilla ice cream. The chocolate coating is relatively thin, providing a delicate crunch without overpowering the ice cream. The combination of the smooth ice cream and the light chocolate makes for a balanced treat that is not too sweet or rich, appealing to those who prefer a simpler dessert.
Klondike Bar Taste and Texture
In contrast, the Klondike Bar is more indulgent. Its chocolate coating is thicker and has a richer taste, with some describing it as having subtle coffee undertones. The ice cream inside is denser and creamier than that of Eskimo Pie, providing a more substantial mouthfeel. For those who enjoy a more decadent treat, the Klondike Bar delivers a satisfying experience.
The texture difference is further enhanced by the variety of flavors and coatings available with the Klondike Bar. For instance, the Heath Bar version includes bits of toffee in the chocolate coating, adding an extra layer of crunch, while the cookies and crème version includes cookie pieces for added texture.
Nutritional Comparison: Eskimo Pie vs Klondike Bar
The nutritional profiles of Eskimo Pie and Klondike Bar also differ, with each treat offering its balance of indulgence and moderation.
Eskimo Pie Nutrition
The Eskimo Pie is generally smaller and contains fewer calories compared to the Klondike Bar. A typical Edy’s Pie has about 160 calories, with a moderate amount of sugar and fat. Its smaller size and simpler ingredients make it a lighter choice for those watching their calorie intake.
Klondike Bar Nutrition
The Klondike Bar, on the other hand, is known for being more calorie-dense. A standard Klondike Bar contains around 250 calories, 23 grams of sugar, and 14 grams of fat, with 11 grams of saturated fat. These numbers make the Klondike Bar one of the more indulgent frozen treats continued…**
on the market. The nutritional density comes from the richer chocolate coating and the larger portion size, which appeals to those seeking a more indulgent dessert. For those concerned with sugar intake or fat content, the Klondike Bar might be less appealing, but it remains a favorite for those who prioritize flavor over calorie count.
Cultural Legacy of Eskimo Pie and Klondike Bar
Both Eskimo Pie and Klondike Bar have left indelible marks on American culture. Their popularity extends beyond just their taste; these ice cream bars have influenced advertising, branding, and even social change.
Eskimo Pie’s Cultural Legacy
As one of the first chocolate-covered ice cream bars in the U.S., Eskimo Pie revolutionized the frozen dessert industry. Its introduction in 1921 paved the way for a wave of similar treats, solidifying its place in ice cream history. Over the decades, Eskimo Pie became synonymous with summer treats and family-friendly indulgence. Even with the recent rebranding to Edy’s Pie, the legacy of the original Eskimo Pie persists, with many consumers continuing to refer to the product by its former name out of nostalgia.
Beyond its contributions to dessert innovation, Eskimo Pie also played a role in the evolving conversation about cultural sensitivity and brand responsibility. The 2021 rebranding was seen by many as a positive step toward inclusivity, reflecting a broader shift in how companies engage with social issues. This move has helped to ensure that Eskimo Pie (now Edy’s Pie) remains relevant in the modern era.
Klondike Bar’s Cultural Impact
The Klondike Bar has had an equally significant impact, particularly in the realm of advertising and branding. Its famous slogan, “What Would You Do For A Klondike Bar?” became a cultural touchstone, spawning a series of humorous commercials and becoming a part of the American lexicon. This marketing strategy not only boosted sales but also embedded the Klondike Bar into pop culture.
The Klondike Bar‘s association with daring, fun, and indulgence continues to resonate with consumers today. The brand has managed to keep its image fresh by introducing new flavors and limited-edition products while maintaining the classic appeal of its original offering. The slogan remains one of the most memorable in advertising history, and its influence can still be seen in modern campaigns.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about Eskimo Pie and Klondike Bar:
- What happened to Eskimo Pie?
- The original Eskimo Pie was rebranded to Edy’s Pie in 2021 to avoid using terminology that could be offensive to indigenous Arctic communities.
- Why doesn’t the Klondike Bar have a stick?
- The Klondike Bar was designed without a stick to distinguish it from children’s ice cream treats and to create a more “adult-friendly” image. Henry Isaly, one of the creators, believed that removing the stick made the treat more sophisticated.
- Which has more flavor options?
- The Klondike Bar offers a wider range of flavors, including original vanilla, mint, cookies and crème, and Reese’s, among others. By contrast, Edy’s Pie primarily sticks to its traditional vanilla and chocolate combination.
- Are Eskimo Pies still available?
- Yes, although the Eskimo Pie has been rebranded as Edy’s Pie, it is still available in stores across the United States.
- What is the origin of the Klondike Bar’s name?
- The Klondike Bar was named after the Klondike River in Canada, reflecting the cold, rugged nature of the region and associating the product with a refreshing, icy experience.
Conclusion
In summary, Eskimo Pie and Klondike Bar each offer unique experiences. The Eskimo Pie maintains a simpler, classic appeal with its vanilla and chocolate combination, while the Klondike Bar boasts a wider variety of flavors and a richer taste. Both treats have become beloved parts of American culture, each catering to different preferences. Whether you enjoy the nostalgia of an Eskimo Pie or the indulgence of a KlondikeBar, these iconic frozen desserts will continue to satisfy ice cream lovers for generations to come.