A healthy ice cream has fewer calories (under 150 per serving), less sugar (less than 10 grams), and more protein (around 5 grams). Look for labels that say “low-fat” or “no added sugar,” but watch out for sneaky ingredients like artificial sweeteners or lots of saturated fat!
Who doesn’t love a scoop of ice cream on a sunny day or as a late-night treat? The challenge for many, however, is enjoying it without feeling guilty about the sugar and calories. But guess what? Healthy ice cream options are on the rise, and they’re not only delicious but also good for you. Let’s dive into the world of guilt-free, nutritious ice creams that satisfy your sweet tooth and keep you on track with your health goals!
What Makes Ice Cream “Healthy”?
Low Sugar Content: Many healthy ice creams use natural or alternative sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit to reduce the sugar load.
Fewer Calories: Some brands have managed to keep their ice cream under 300 calories per pint, making them a fantastic option if you're counting calories.
Protein-Packed: Some healthier options include extra protein, which helps keep you full for longer.
Non-Dairy Options: For those who are lactose intolerant or vegan, many healthy ice creams are made with almond, coconut, or oat milk.
No Artificial Ingredients: A clean label is important! Look for ice creams made without artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
Healthy Ice Creams Brands to try
Halo Top This is one of the most well-known healthy ice cream brands, and for good reason. Halo Top offers a wide range of flavors with as little as 280 calories per pint! They use stevia as a sweetener and pack their ice cream with protein, making it a guilt-free indulgence. They even have dairy-free options for those following a plant-based diet.
Check out Halo Top’s full range of flavors here.
Arctic Zero If you’re looking for something ultra-light, Arctic Zero is your go-to. Their ice creams are low in calories (some even as low as 160 calories per pint!) and are sweetened naturally. Arctic Zero is perfect if you’re watching your sugar and fat intake but still want to enjoy a creamy, delicious dessert.
Learn more about Arctic Zero’s offerings here.
Yasso Greek Yogurt Bars Yasso is a little different because they offer frozen yogurt bars rather than ice cream pints. However, these are a fantastic healthy alternative if you're looking for something pre-portioned and packed with flavor. Plus, they’re made with Greek yogurt, which means they’re high in protein and probiotics, making them a great choice for a balanced dessert.
Find your favorite Yasso bars here.
So Delicious Dairy-Free For those who can’t or don’t want to consume dairy, So Delicious is a game-changer. Made from coconut milk or cashew milk, their ice creams are smooth, creamy, and totally plant-based. They’re also free from artificial ingredients and come in a variety of flavors that cater to different dietary needs.
Browse So Delicious products here.
DIY: Make Your Own Healthy Ice Cream!
Who says you need a fancy machine or hours of prep time to make delicious and healthy ice cream? With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up your own nutritious frozen treats at home.
1. Creamy Avocado Ice Cream
Don’t be fooled by the avocado! Its creamy texture makes this ice cream velvety and rich without the need for dairy. Plus, it’s packed with heart-healthy fats.
Ingredients:
1 cup coconut milk (or almond milk)
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of sea salt
Directions:
Scoop out the flesh of the avocados and place it in a blender.
Add coconut milk, honey, vanilla extract, and sea salt.
Blend until smooth and creamy.
Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container and freeze for 2-3 hours.
Stir the ice cream halfway through freezing to ensure a smoother texture.
Enjoy this silky, satisfying treat that’s perfect for avocado lovers and skeptics alike!
2. Berry Blast Frozen Yogurt
Frozen yogurt is a healthier alternative to ice cream, but making it yourself ensures you can control the sugar content and add as many delicious fruits as you like!
Ingredients:
2 cups plain Greek yogurt
1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
2 tablespoons honey or agave syrup
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Directions:
In a blender, combine the Greek yogurt, mixed berries, honey, and lemon juice.
Blend until smooth.
Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and follow the manufacturer’s instructions, or place in a freezer-safe container.
Freeze for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally for a creamy texture.
This recipe is packed with protein and antioxidants from the berries, making it a refreshing, healthy treat for any time of day!
3. Peanut Butter Banana Nice Cream
If you're a fan of rich, nutty flavors, this peanut butter banana "nice cream" is for you. It’s dairy-free, gluten-free, and naturally sweetened!
Ingredients:
3 ripe bananas (frozen)
2 tablespoons natural peanut butter
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
A splash of almond milk (optional for smoother blending)
Directions:
Slice and freeze ripe bananas for at least 4 hours.
In a blender or food processor, blend the frozen bananas until creamy.
Add peanut butter and cinnamon, and blend again until well combined.
If needed, add a splash of almond milk to help with blending.
Serve immediately or freeze for a firmer texture.
You’ll love this creamy, decadent, and healthy version of a classic peanut butter treat!
4. Mango Coconut Sorbet
This tropical sorbet is the ultimate refreshing dessert for summer days. It’s dairy-free, refined sugar-free, and bursting with fruity goodness!
Ingredients:
2 cups frozen mango chunks
1/2 cup coconut milk
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
Directions:
In a blender, combine frozen mango, coconut milk, lime juice, and honey.
Blend until smooth.
Pour the mixture into a container and freeze for 2-3 hours for a firmer texture.
Scoop and serve!
This naturally sweet sorbet brings a taste of the tropics to your kitchen with minimal ingredients and maximum flavor!
5. Chocolate Almond Ice Cream
For all the chocolate lovers out there, this rich and creamy chocolate almond ice cream is just what you need. The best part? It’s vegan and low in sugar!
Ingredients:
2 frozen bananas
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup almond butter
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup almond milk
Directions:
Slice and freeze the bananas overnight.
Blend the frozen bananas, cocoa powder, almond butter, vanilla extract, and almond milk until smooth and creamy.
Pour into a container and freeze for 2-3 hours for a thicker consistency.
For an extra crunch, sprinkle some chopped almonds on top before serving!
This chocolate almond ice cream is indulgent without the extra sugar, making it a perfect healthy dessert option.
6. Banana Ice Cream Recipe
Ingredients:
3 ripe bananas (frozen)
1 tablespoon almond butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A splash of almond milk (or any milk of choice)
Directions:
Peel and slice the bananas, then freeze them overnight.
In a blender or food processor, combine the frozen bananas, almond butter, vanilla, and a splash of almond milk. Blend until smooth.
If you want a firmer texture, pop the mixture into the freezer for 30 minutes before serving.
These simple recipes are not only delicious but also naturally sweetened and dairy-free. It’s a perfect option for those craving a treat that’s good for the body and the taste buds.
Conclusion
Healthy ice cream doesn’t mean you have to compromise on taste. With so many options available today, from dairy-free to protein-packed and low-calorie, there’s a scoop (or two) for everyone! Whether you're enjoying a pint of Halo Top or making your own banana ice cream at home, you can indulge in this sweet treat without the guilt.
So, next time you’re craving something sweet, why not give one of these healthy options a try? Your taste buds—and your body—will thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where to get healthy ice cream?
Healthy ice cream options can be found at most grocery stores, particularly in the frozen food aisle. Popular health food stores, such as Whole Foods, Sprouts, or Trader Joe’s, also offer a range of healthier ice cream brands. Online retailers like Amazon or direct websites from brands like Halo Top, Arctic Zero, or Enlightened offer convenient options for purchasing healthy ice creams.
Which is healthy ice cream?
Healthy ice creams are those that use lower sugar content, natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit, and may be lower in fat and calories. Brands like Halo Top, Enlightened, and Arctic Zero are known for making healthier versions of traditional ice creams. Vegan or dairy-free options made from coconut, almond, or oat milk can also be healthier, especially when they avoid artificial ingredients.
How healthy is ice cream for you?
Regular ice cream is typically high in sugar, saturated fat, and calories, which can lead to weight gain and increased blood sugar levels if eaten in excess. However, moderation is key. Healthier options with reduced sugar and fat can be a better choice, though they should still be enjoyed as an occasional treat, not a daily food.
How to make healthy ice cream?
You can make healthy ice cream at home by blending frozen fruits like bananas or berries with yogurt, low-fat milk, or dairy alternatives like almond milk. Add natural sweeteners like honey or agave if needed, or a bit of vanilla extract for flavor. Using an ice cream maker can give it a creamy texture, but even a blender can create a smooth, tasty dessert.
How to make healthy ice cream in a blender?
To make healthy ice cream in a blender, start by freezing fruits like bananas or strawberries. Blend them with a splash of almond milk, coconut milk, or yogurt until you get a smooth consistency. You can add a touch of honey, maple syrup, or vanilla extract to enhance flavor.
How healthy is vanilla ice cream?
Vanilla ice cream is generally high in sugar and saturated fat, making it less healthy when consumed frequently. Healthier options include versions with reduced sugar or those made with natural, lower-calorie ingredients. Vanilla ice cream made from alternative milks, like almond or coconut, may also be a healthier choice.
How healthy is Rebel ice cream?
Rebel ice cream is marketed as a low-carb, keto-friendly ice cream. It uses natural sweeteners like erythritol and monk fruit, making it lower in sugar. While it’s lower in carbs, it’s still relatively high in fat, so it’s healthier for those following a low-carb diet but should still be consumed in moderation.
How healthy is Tillamook ice cream?
Tillamook ice cream tends to be richer and creamier than many other brands, which means it’s higher in fat and calories. It is made with quality ingredients, but its high sugar and fat content make it a less healthy option for regular consumption.
How healthy is vegan ice cream?
Vegan ice creams are typically made from plant-based milk alternatives, such as almond, coconut, or oat milk. They can be healthier because they may contain less saturated fat and cholesterol compared to dairy ice creams. However, some vegan ice creams are still high in sugar, so checking the ingredient list is important.
How healthy is Breyers ice cream?
Breyers ice cream offers a range of products, including options labeled as “no sugar added” or “low-fat.” While these can be healthier compared to regular ice creams, the classic varieties are still high in sugar and fat. Always check the label to choose the healthier options in their range.
How to make healthy strawberry ice cream?
To make healthy strawberry ice cream, blend frozen strawberries with Greek yogurt or a dairy alternative like coconut milk. Sweeten it with a small amount of honey or a natural sweetener like stevia. You can freeze the mixture until firm for a more traditional ice cream texture.
How healthy is natural ice cream?
Natural ice cream, which typically contains minimal additives and is made from whole, simple
ingredients like cream, milk, and sugar, can be healthier than highly processed versions. However, it still tends to be high in sugar and fat, so portion control is important.
What is a healthy ice cream alternative?
Healthy alternatives to ice cream include frozen yogurt, sorbet made from fresh fruits, or homemade banana ice cream (often called “nice cream”), which is made by blending frozen bananas for a creamy, naturally sweet treat.
Can you make healthy ice cream?
Yes, you can make healthy ice cream by using ingredients like frozen fruit, Greek yogurt, and natural sweeteners. Opt for dairy-free milk alternatives for lower calories or sugar-free flavorings for a healthier option.
Can you make healthy ice cream with a Ninja Creami?
Yes, the Ninja Creami is a great tool for making healthy ice cream. You can blend fruits, low-fat yogurt, and other nutritious ingredients to create a smooth, creamy dessert that is lower in sugar and fat compared to store-bought ice cream.