Ice cream is a beloved dessert enjoyed by millions around the world, but traditional varieties can be high in sugar, saturated fat, and calories. Fortunately, a growing number of healthier options are hitting store shelves, offering indulgence without compromise. Whether you’re lactose-intolerant, watching your sugar intake, or simply aiming to make more nutritious choices, there’s a health-conscious ice cream alternative for you.
Registered dietitians recommend looking for products made with wholesome ingredients, lower sugar content, and added nutrients like protein or fiber. These ice creams not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also support your health goals, from weight management to improved digestion. In this article, we explore nine of the best healthier ice creams that have earned the seal of approval from nutrition experts. With better ingredients and thoughtful formulations, these treats allow you to indulge in a creamy, dreamy dessert—without the usual dietary guilt.
Halo Top
Halo Top has become a household name among health-conscious dessert lovers for its low-calorie, high-protein ice cream. Developed with fitness and wellness in mind, Halo Top uses erythritol and stevia to sweeten its products without adding excess sugar. One pint typically contains between 280 to 380 calories, making it significantly lighter than traditional ice creams. Registered dietitians appreciate that Halo Top also offers a good dose of protein—around 20 grams per pint—making it more satiating.
It comes in a wide variety of flavors, including classic vanilla bean, chocolate, birthday cake, and seasonal favorites. The brand also caters to different dietary needs with dairy-free and keto-friendly options. While the texture may not be quite as creamy as full-fat ice cream, many people find it an excellent trade-off for the nutritional benefits. If you’re looking to enjoy dessert while keeping an eye on calories and sugar, Halo Top is a reliable and tasty choice.
Arctic Zero
Arctic Zero is designed for those seeking a dessert that aligns with clean eating and low-calorie lifestyles. This ice cream alternative is free from artificial sweeteners, GMOs, and preservatives, making it a favorite among health-conscious individuals. Unlike traditional ice cream, Arctic Zero is made with whey protein concentrate and sweetened with monk fruit, providing a modest protein boost with fewer sugars.
Each serving contains as little as 40 to 80 calories, depending on the flavor, which allows for generous portions without derailing your diet. Arctic Zero also offers both light ice cream and dairy-free varieties, making it accessible to those with lactose intolerance or vegan preferences. The consistency is more like a frozen dessert than traditional ice cream, but it still delivers a satisfying, flavorful experience. Registered dietitians often recommend Arctic Zero for clients focused on weight management or those who have specific food sensitivities but still crave a frozen treat.
So Delicious Dairy Free
So Delicious Dairy Free caters to those avoiding dairy while still wanting to enjoy rich and creamy frozen desserts. This brand is particularly popular among vegans and individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. Made from a variety of plant-based milks such as coconut, almond, cashew, and oat, So Delicious offers a diverse range of textures and flavors. Registered dietitians appreciate its commitment to non-GMO ingredients and the absence of artificial additives. Many flavors are also certified organic and use fair-trade certified cocoa and vanilla, appealing to ethically-minded consumers.
While some versions contain added sugars, So Delicious also offers no-sugar-added and light options to suit different dietary needs. With indulgent flavors like Peanut Butter Zig Zag and Snickerdoodle, it’s easy to forget you’re eating a dairy-free dessert. Whether you’re vegan or simply cutting back on dairy, So Delicious provides a creamy, satisfying experience that doesn’t compromise on taste or quality.
Yasso Frozen Greek Yogurt Bars
Yasso takes a different approach to healthy ice cream by using Greek yogurt as its base, resulting in a treat that’s both creamy and protein-rich. Each Yasso bar contains around 100 calories and five to six grams of protein, making it an ideal snack for those looking to maintain energy levels and curb cravings. The bars are sweetened with real sugar in moderate amounts, avoiding the aftertaste that sometimes comes with sugar substitutes.
Yasso offers a wide array of flavors, including Mint Chocolate Chip, Sea Salt Caramel, and Chocolate Fudge, all designed to mimic the indulgence of full-fat ice cream. Registered dietitians often recommend Yasso bars because they offer a balanced combination of protein, carbs, and healthy fats in a convenient single-serving format. They’re also a great choice for families or individuals looking for portion-controlled dessert options that don’t sacrifice flavor or texture while staying aligned with nutritional goals.
Enlightened
Enlightened is another standout in the realm of healthier ice creams, boasting lower calories and higher protein content per serving. This brand focuses on creating guilt-free indulgence by using natural sweeteners like erythritol and monk fruit, significantly reducing sugar content. Each serving typically ranges from 60 to 100 calories and contains around 6 grams of protein, making it both satisfying and waistline-friendly.
Enlightened offers a broad spectrum of products, including light pints, keto-friendly pints, and dairy-free options, ensuring there’s something for everyone. The flavors are inventive and indulgent, from Glazed Donut to Caramel Fudge Pretzel, providing a luxurious dessert experience without nutritional pitfalls. Registered dietitians praise Enlightened for its transparency in labeling and commitment to quality ingredients. While the texture can vary slightly depending on the flavor and formulation, most consumers find it enjoyable and a great alternative to traditional ice cream. It’s particularly suitable for those managing sugar intake or following low-carb diets.
Nick’s Swedish-Style Light Ice Cream
Nick’s brings a unique twist to the healthier ice cream market by offering Swedish-style light ice cream that emphasizes both flavor and texture. Made with a blend of plant-based sweeteners like erythritol, xylitol, and stevia, Nick’s achieves low sugar and calorie counts without compromising on taste. Each pint contains roughly 240 to 360 calories and up to 10 grams of protein, depending on the flavor.
The rich, creamy texture closely mimics that of traditional ice cream, earning high marks from dietitians and consumers alike. Nick’s also includes prebiotic fiber in its formula, which supports gut health and adds to the dessert’s nutritional profile. With a wide range of flavors from Swedish Lemon Bar to Choklad Peanöt Swirl, Nick’s delivers international flair with health-conscious intent. Registered dietitians often recommend it to clients looking for a dessert that satisfies both the palate and dietary restrictions, including keto or low-sugar lifestyles.
Rebel Ice Cream
Rebel Ice Cream is specifically designed for keto dieters and those avoiding sugar but still craving indulgent frozen treats. Made with full-fat cream and natural sweeteners like erythritol and monk fruit, Rebel offers a high-fat, low-carb option that aligns perfectly with ketogenic principles. Each pint typically contains only five to eight grams of net carbs and no added sugars, making it suitable for those managing blood sugar levels.
The fat content gives it a rich, creamy consistency comparable to traditional premium ice creams. Flavors like Butter Pecan, Peanut Butter Fudge, and Cookie Dough are crowd favorites that deliver dessert satisfaction without breaking dietary goals. Registered dietitians appreciate Rebel’s commitment to avoiding artificial additives and focus on using clean ingredients. While higher in calories due to the fat content, Rebel can be a smart choice for those on low-carb diets seeking a treat that won’t spike insulin levels or compromise ketosis.
Snow Monkey
Snow Monkey offers a refreshing take on ice cream by crafting its products entirely from fruit and superfoods, making it vegan, paleo, and allergen-friendly. Designed to be a nutrient-dense treat, each pint is packed with ingredients like bananas, apples, sunflower butter, and hemp seed protein. This results in a dessert that is not only dairy-free but also gluten-free and nut-free, accommodating a wide range of dietary restrictions. Each serving typically contains around 120 calories and four grams of protein, offering a light yet nourishing option.
Registered dietitians recommend Snow Monkey for those looking to fuel their bodies while still enjoying a frozen snack. The texture is more akin to sorbet than traditional ice cream, but it delivers bold, natural flavors like Açai Berry, Chocolate, and Matcha Green Tea. Its clean ingredient list and focus on superfoods make it a favorite among fitness enthusiasts and health-conscious consumers who want more from their dessert.
Cado Avocado Ice Cream
Cado stands out in the healthier ice cream aisle by using avocados as its base, providing a unique blend of creamy texture and healthy fats. This non-dairy, plant-based ice cream is rich in monounsaturated fats, which support heart health and help keep you full longer. Each pint contains around 170 to 230 calories per serving, depending on the flavor, and includes about four to six grams of fiber. Cado avoids artificial flavors and sweeteners, opting instead for organic cane sugar and high-quality ingredients.
Registered dietitians often recommend it to clients seeking dairy-free options that don’t skimp on nutrition or taste. The avocado base gives it a silky texture and a slightly earthy undertone that pairs well with flavors like Mint Chocolate Chip, Deep Dark Chocolate, and Vanilla Bean. Cado is especially suitable for those with lactose intolerance, vegans, or anyone looking for a more nutrient-dense alternative to traditional ice cream.
Last Thought
Choosing a healthier ice cream doesn’t mean sacrificing taste or indulgence. Today’s market offers a wide variety of options that cater to dietary needs and personal preferences while still delivering on flavor and texture. From protein-packed Greek yogurt bars to superfood-infused frozen desserts, these nine options recommended by registered dietitians make it easy to enjoy a sweet treat that aligns with your wellness goals. Whether you’re following a specific diet like keto or simply aiming to eat cleaner, there’s a delicious and nourishing ice cream for you. The key is finding the one that fits your lifestyle and satisfies your cravings.
FAQs
What makes ice cream “healthier”?
Healthier ice creams are lower in calories, sugar, and saturated fat, and often contain added nutrients like protein or fiber.
Are non-dairy ice creams better for you?
Not necessarily—they can be lower in saturated fat, but it’s important to check for added sugars and quality of ingredients.
Can I eat healthy ice cream on a diet?
Yes, many healthier ice creams are diet-friendly, especially those with portion control and high-protein content.
Is protein ice cream good post-workout?
Yes, high-protein options like Halo Top or Yasso can be a convenient and tasty post-workout recovery snack.