Vegan ice cream has become a game-changer for dessert lovers seeking dairy-free options. Made with plant-based milks like coconut, almond, or oat, it delivers creamy textures and bold flavors. It’s perfect for vegans, lactose-intolerant folks, or anyone craving a lighter treat.
The rise of vegan diets has spurred brands to create delicious alternatives. From rich chocolate to fruity sorbets, these ice creams rival traditional dairy versions. They’re widely available in stores and scoop shops, making them easy to enjoy.
This guide explores the best vegan ice cream options for 2025, covering top brands, flavors, and homemade recipes. You’ll find tips for choosing the creamiest picks and serving ideas. Let’s dive into the world of dairy-free frozen delights!
Why Vegan Ice Cream Is So Popular
Vegan ice cream appeals to a growing number of health-conscious and eco-friendly eaters. It avoids dairy, making it suitable for lactose intolerance and vegan lifestyles. The creamy texture surprises many who expect less from plant-based desserts.
Brands use high-quality ingredients like fair-trade cocoa and organic fruit. This ensures bold flavors and ethical sourcing. It’s a treat that feels good to eat.
The variety of vegan ice cream is impressive. From pints to bars and soft serve, there’s something for every craving. This versatility drives its popularity across all ages.
Key Ingredients in Vegan Ice Cream
Vegan ice cream relies on plant-based milks for creaminess. Coconut milk is a favorite for its rich texture, while almond milk offers a lighter feel. Oat milk creates a smooth, neutral base.
Sweeteners like agave, maple syrup, or cane sugar add sweetness. Natural flavorings, such as vanilla extract or fruit puree, enhance taste. Some brands use stabilizers like guar gum for texture.
For health-focused options, brands avoid artificial additives. Check labels for clean ingredients like organic cocoa or real fruit. This ensures a high-quality, guilt-free dessert.
Top Vegan Ice Cream Brands
Several brands lead the vegan ice cream market with creamy, flavorful options. So Delicious offers coconut milk-based pints like Salted Caramel Cluster. They’re widely available and loved for their rich taste.
Ben & Jerry’s Non-Dairy line includes classics like Cherry Garcia. Made with sunflower or almond milk, these pints mimic dairy versions. They earn high praise on platforms like Influenster.
Talenti’s Sorbettos, like Mango or Raspberry, are dairy-free and refreshing. They use real fruit for vibrant flavors. These are perfect for lighter, fruit-based cravings.
What Are the Best Vegan Ice Creams
To answer the question, “What are the best vegan ice cream brands?” So Delicious Salted Caramel Cluster tops the list with its creamy coconut milk base and 170 calories per serving. It earns a 4.6/5 rating on Reddit for its rich caramel swirls and cashew crunch. It’s sold at Whole Foods for $5.49.
Ben & Jerry’s Non-Dairy Chocolate Fudge Brownie is another favorite, with a fudgy texture and 260 calories per serving. Serious Eats praises its authentic brownie chunks. It’s available at Target for $5.99 per pint.
For a lighter option, Talenti Mango Sorbetto shines with 150 calories per serving and real fruit flavor. It’s a top pick on Food & Wine for its refreshing taste. Find it at Walmart for $5.29.
Comparison of Vegan Ice Cream Brands
Here’s a table comparing three top vegan ice cream brands:
| Brand | Key Features | Price (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| So Delicious | Coconut milk, rich flavors, nutty mix-ins | $5.49 (pint) |
| Ben & Jerry’s Non-Dairy | Sunflower/almond milk, chunky mix-ins | $5.99 (pint) |
| Talenti Sorbetto | Fruit-based, dairy-free, refreshing | $5.29 (pint) |
This table shows the diversity of vegan ice cream. So Delicious offers creamy richness, Ben & Jerry’s adds mix-ins, and Talenti focuses on fruit. Choose based on flavor and texture preferences.
Nutritional Benefits of Vegan Ice Cream
Vegan ice cream is often lower in saturated fat than dairy versions. A serving of So Delicious has 8g of fat versus 14g in traditional ice cream. This makes it a lighter choice.
Some brands use natural sweeteners like agave, reducing sugar spikes. Fruit-based sorbets, like Talenti’s, are low in calories (150–200 per serving). They’re ideal for health-conscious eaters.
Many vegan ice creams are free of cholesterol and lactose. This benefits those with dietary restrictions. Always check labels for added sugars or stabilizers.
Homemade Vegan Ice Cream Recipes
Making vegan ice cream at home is easy with a blender or ice cream maker. Blend 2 cans of chilled coconut milk, ¾ cup maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Churn for 20–30 minutes for a creamy texture.
For a no-churn option, blend frozen bananas with ½ cup almond milk and ¼ cup cocoa powder. Freeze in a loaf pan for 4–6 hours, stirring occasionally. This creates a soft, chocolatey treat.
Add mix-ins like crushed cookies or fruit chunks. Use ripe fruit for natural sweetness. A pinch of sea salt enhances chocolate or caramel flavors.
Serving Ideas for Vegan Ice Cream
Serve vegan ice cream in a chilled bowl with fresh fruit. Pair So Delicious Salted Caramel with sliced apples for a sweet-salty combo. It’s a simple, elegant dessert.
Create a sundae with Ben & Jerry’s Non-Dairy Cherry Garcia. Top with vegan whipped cream and cherries for a classic look. Add granola for crunch.
Blend Talenti Mango Sorbetto into a smoothie with pineapple juice. Serve in a tall glass for a refreshing treat. It’s perfect for hot days.
Tips for Choosing Vegan Ice Cream
Check ingredient lists for clean, natural components. Avoid brands with excessive stabilizers or artificial flavors. So Delicious and Talenti prioritize quality ingredients.
Consider texture when choosing. Coconut milk-based ice creams are richer, while sorbets are lighter. Ben & Jerry’s offers a balance with chunky mix-ins.
Look for fair-trade or organic certifications. These ensure ethical sourcing and better flavor. Whole Foods often stocks such options at reasonable prices.
Vegan Ice Cream for Dietary Needs
Vegan ice cream suits lactose-intolerant and vegan diets. Brands like Nadamoo offer gluten-free options, like Chocolate Peanut Butter, for those with sensitivities. Check labels for allergen info.
Low-sugar vegan ice creams, like So Delicious No Sugar Added Vanilla, use monk fruit. These have 120 calories per serving and minimal sugar. They’re ideal for diabetics or low-carb diets.
Nut-free options, like oat milk-based pints from Oatly, cater to allergy sufferers. They’re creamy and available at Target for $5.99. Always confirm ingredients before buying.
Where to Buy Vegan Ice Cream
Grocery stores like Walmart, Target, and Kroger stock So Delicious and Ben & Jerry’s. Pints range from $5.29–$6.49, with sales as low as $3.99. Check weekly ads for deals.
Whole Foods carries organic and specialty brands like Nadamoo and Oatly. Prices are higher, around $5.99–$7.99, but quality is top-notch. Look for non-dairy sections.
Online, Amazon Fresh and Thrive Market offer bulk deals. They deliver frozen, ensuring freshness. Ben & Jerry’s website also sells direct with vegan options.
Vegan Ice Cream for Events
Vegan ice cream is a hit at parties. Serve Talenti Raspberry Sorbetto in cones for a refreshing, handheld treat. Add vegan sprinkles for a festive touch.
Set up a sundae bar with So Delicious flavors. Offer toppings like coconut whipped cream and crushed nuts. Guests can customize their desserts for fun.
For a unique dessert, layer Ben & Jerry’s Non-Dairy Chocolate Fudge Brownie in parfaits. Alternate with vegan granola and fruit. Serve in clear glasses for a stunning presentation.
Storing Vegan Ice Cream
Store vegan ice cream at 0°F in the freezer’s back to prevent ice crystals. Cover the surface with plastic wrap before sealing. This keeps it fresh for up to a month.
Avoid repeated thawing and refreezing to maintain texture. Scoop only what you need and return the rest quickly. Small containers help with portion control.
For homemade ice cream, use airtight containers. Freeze in small batches for easier serving. Label with the date to track freshness.
Summary
Vegan ice cream offers creamy, delicious options for dairy-free dessert lovers. Brands like So Delicious, Ben & Jerry’s Non-Dairy, and Talenti lead with rich and fruity flavors. Homemade recipes using coconut or almond milk let you customize your treats. Perfect for sundaes, smoothies, or solo enjoyment, vegan ice cream is versatile and widely available. Explore these picks for a guilt-free, flavorful dessert experience in 2025.
FAQ
What are the best vegan ice cream brands?
So Delicious, Ben & Jerry’s Non-Dairy, and Talenti Sorbetto are top choices. So Delicious offers creamy coconut milk pints, Ben & Jerry’s has chunky mix-ins, and Talenti provides refreshing sorbets. They’re sold at Walmart and Whole Foods.
Is vegan ice cream healthier than dairy ice cream?
Vegan ice cream is often lower in saturated fat and cholesterol-free. Brands like Talenti Sorbetto have 150–200 calories per serving. Check labels for sugar content to ensure a healthier choice.
How do I make vegan ice cream at home?
Blend chilled coconut milk, maple syrup, and vanilla, then churn in an ice cream maker. For no-churn, mix frozen bananas with almond milk and freeze. Add mix-ins like fruit or nuts.
Where can I buy vegan ice cream?
Walmart, Target, and Whole Foods stock brands like So Delicious and Ben & Jerry’s. Prices range from $5.29–$6.49 per pint. Amazon Fresh and Thrive Market offer online delivery.
Are there low-sugar vegan ice cream options?
Yes, So Delicious No Sugar Added Vanilla uses monk fruit for sweetness. It has 120 calories per serving and minimal sugar. It’s great for low-carb or diabetic diets.