Plant-based living has come a long way, and so has non-dairy ice cream. Gone are the days of icy, bland substitutes. Today, there are rich, creamy, flavor-packed vegan options made from ingredients like coconut, almond, cashew, oat, and even avocado. But what makes one vegan ice cream better than another?
We asked a registered dietitian to break down the best picks—not just based on taste, but also what’s inside. Let’s scoop into the 7 best vegan ice creams that satisfy sweet cravings without skipping on nutrition.
Table of Contents
1. So Delicious Dairy Free Cashew Milk Ice Cream
Why It Stands Out:
Creamy texture, clean ingredients, and multiple classic flavors
Nutrition Highlights (per 2/3 cup):
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Calories: ~200
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Sugar: 14g
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Saturated Fat: 6g
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Protein: 2g
Dietitian’s Notes:
Cashew milk has a naturally rich and smooth feel, making it perfect for mimicking traditional dairy ice cream. So Delicious offers a great balance of texture and flavor, with options like Salted Caramel Cluster and Dark Chocolate Truffle. It’s also gluten-free and made without artificial sweeteners or preservatives.
2. Oatly Frozen Dessert
Why It Stands Out:
Made with oat milk, great for nut allergies
Nutrition Highlights (per 2/3 cup):
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Calories: ~230
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Sugar: 16g
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Saturated Fat: 4g
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Protein: 1g
Dietitian’s Notes:
Oatly uses oats as its base, which gives the dessert a mild, slightly earthy flavor and thick texture. It’s an excellent choice for those avoiding nuts or soy. The Chocolate and Strawberry flavors are standouts. It’s a bit higher in sugar, so treat it as an occasional indulgence.
3. NadaMoo! Dairy-Free Frozen Dessert
Why It Stands Out:
Lower sugar, organic ingredients, coconut milk-based
Nutrition Highlights (per 2/3 cup):
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Calories: ~140
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Sugar: 10g
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Saturated Fat: 5g
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Protein: 1g
Dietitian’s Notes:
NadaMoo! is a great option for folks who want a plant-based dessert that’s also lower in calories and sugar. The coconut milk base gives it a smooth mouthfeel, and flavors like Birthday Cake and Pistachio Nut are both fun and different.
4. Ben & Jerry’s Non-Dairy Ice Cream
Why It Stands Out:
Indulgent, chunky mix-ins, strong flavor choices
Nutrition Highlights (per 2/3 cup):
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Calories: ~300
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Sugar: 20g
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Saturated Fat: 6g
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Protein: 3g
Dietitian’s Notes:
While this isn’t the lightest option, it’s one of the most flavorful. The almond milk base works well with Ben & Jerry’s signature cookie chunks, fudge swirls, and brownie bits. Try Netflix & Chill’d or Peanut Butter Half Baked. Just don’t forget: portion size matters here!
5. Coconut Bliss Organic Ice Cream
Why It Stands Out:
Organic, minimal ingredients, coconut-based
Nutrition Highlights (per 2/3 cup):
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Calories: ~210
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Sugar: 13g
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Saturated Fat: 8g
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Protein: 2g
Dietitian’s Notes:
This brand focuses on purity—simple ingredients you can pronounce. It’s fully organic, dairy-free, and soy-free, which is great for sensitive eaters. The coconut flavor comes through clearly, so if you’re a fan, this one’s a winner.
6. Trader Joe’s Non-Dairy Frozen Dessert (Soy or Oat-based)
Why It Stands Out:
Budget-friendly, easy to find, solid flavor choices
Nutrition Highlights (per 2/3 cup):
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Calories: ~180
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Sugar: 13g
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Saturated Fat: 4g
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Protein: 2g
Dietitian’s Notes:
Trader Joe’s offers several vegan options made with soy, oat, or almond milk. The Vanilla and Cherry Chocolate Chip versions are well-loved for their taste and price point. While not all ingredients are organic, the nutritional profile is still reasonable.
7. Eclipse Plant-Based Ice Cream
Why It Stands Out:
Innovative base that mimics dairy creaminess without nuts
Nutrition Highlights (per 2/3 cup):
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Calories: ~250
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Sugar: 17g
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Saturated Fat: 7g
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Protein: 2g
Dietitian’s Notes:
Eclipse uses a blend of potato, corn, and other plants to create a texture almost identical to dairy. It’s allergen-friendly—no nuts, soy, or coconut. The flavors are bold, and the mouthfeel is excellent. It’s newer on the market, but worth trying if you spot it.
What Dietitians Look for in Vegan Ice Creams
Here’s what makes a vegan ice cream “dietitian-approved”:
✅ Ingredient Simplicity
Fewer additives and clean labels mean your body knows what it’s getting.
✅ Balanced Sugar
While it is a dessert, lower sugar versions keep your blood sugar steadier.
✅ Reasonable Saturated Fat
Coconut-based options can be high in saturated fat. Watch the numbers if heart health is a concern.
✅ Allergen-Friendly Options
Many vegan desserts are naturally free of common allergens like dairy, eggs, and gluten—but it’s always smart to double-check.
How to Enjoy Vegan Ice Cream in a Balanced Way
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Stick to a small bowl instead of eating from the tub
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Pair with fruit or sprinkle in chopped nuts for extra fiber and healthy fats
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Make your own sundae bar with kids or friends using chopped banana, peanut butter, and vegan chocolate chips
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Use it as a topper for warm baked apples or oat crumble
Vegan doesn’t always mean low-calorie or sugar-free, so portion awareness still matters.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is vegan ice cream healthier than dairy ice cream?
Not always. It depends on the brand, ingredients, and portion. Vegan versions may be better for those with allergies or ethical diets, but they can still be high in sugar or fat.
2. What’s the best vegan ice cream for protein?
Options with added pea protein or made with soy tend to have more protein. Eclipse and some Trader Joe’s varieties rank a bit higher.
3. Are all vegan ice creams dairy-free?
Yes. Vegan means no animal products, so that includes milk, cream, and eggs.
4. Can I eat vegan ice cream if I’m lactose intolerant?
Absolutely. That’s actually one of the top reasons people choose dairy-free desserts.
5. Does vegan ice cream taste good?
Taste has come a long way. With brands like Ben & Jerry’s and Oatly leading the charge, many people can’t even tell the difference.
6. Can I make vegan ice cream at home?
Yes! You can blend frozen bananas, almond milk, and a touch of maple syrup for a quick version. Add cocoa, vanilla, or berries for flavor.
Conclusion
Whether you’re avoiding dairy for health reasons, ethical beliefs, or just out of curiosity, today’s vegan ice creams give you a guilt-free way to indulge. From nut-based to oat-based, light and clean to indulgent and chunky, there’s something for everyone.
With a little label reading and portion control, vegan ice cream can absolutely be part of a smart, enjoyable diet.