Introduction
Dairy free ice cream is a type of frozen dessert that does not contain any milk or other dairy products. It is made with plant-based ingredients such as coconut milk, almond milk, cashew milk, oat milk, and soy milk. People choose dairy free ice cream for a variety of reasons, including allergies, dietary restrictions, and personal preference. In this article, we will explore the best dairy free ice cream options, including brands, recipes, nutrition facts, flavors, store options, and more.
Review of the Top Dairy Free Ice Cream Brands
When it comes to store-bought dairy free ice cream, there are many brands on the market. Some of the most popular brands include So Delicious, Ben & Jerry’s, Talenti, NadaMoo, and Oatly. Each brand has its own unique selection of flavors and textures. Here, we will compare some of these brands to help you decide which one is right for you.
So Delicious
So Delicious offers a wide range of dairy free ice cream flavors, including classics like vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry. Their ice cream is made with coconut milk, making it rich and creamy. It is also Non-GMO Project Verified, Certified Vegan, and gluten-free.
Ben & Jerry’s
Ben & Jerry’s is a well-known brand that offers several vegan ice cream flavors. Their non-dairy ice cream is made with almond milk, giving it a slightly nutty flavor. It is also certified vegan, Non-GMO Project Verified, and Fairtrade certified.
Talenti
Talenti is an Italian gelato company that offers a few dairy free flavors. Their non-dairy gelatos are made with coconut milk and come in classic flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and coffee. All Talenti products are Non-GMO Project Verified and certified vegan.
NadaMoo
NadaMoo is a Texas-based company that specializes in dairy free ice cream. Their ice cream is made with coconut milk and comes in unique flavors like key lime pie, peanut butter fudge, and birthday cake. NadaMoo is certified vegan, Non-GMO Project Verified, and gluten-free.
Oatly
Oatly is a Swedish company that offers dairy free ice cream made with oat milk. Their ice cream has a mild, oaty flavor and comes in classic flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry. Oatly’s products are certified vegan, Non-GMO Project Verified, and gluten-free.
Each of these brands has its own pros and cons. For example, So Delicious and NadaMoo have a wider selection of flavors than Ben & Jerry’s and Talenti. However, Ben & Jerry’s and Talenti have a creamier texture than So Delicious and NadaMoo. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual tastes and preferences.
How to Make Your Own Dairy Free Ice Cream at Home
If you want to make your own dairy free ice cream at home, it is surprisingly easy. All you need is a blender, some plant-based milk, and your favorite mix-ins. Here are some recipe ideas to get you started.
Chocolate Coconut Milk Ice Cream
Ingredients:
- 1 can full-fat coconut milk
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.
- Pour mixture into a freezer-safe container and freeze for 4 hours.
- Scoop and enjoy!
Vanilla Almond Milk Ice Cream
Ingredients:
- 1 can full-fat coconut milk
- 1/2 cup almond milk
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.
- Pour mixture into a freezer-safe container and freeze for 4 hours.
- Scoop and enjoy!
Making your own dairy free ice cream is a great way to control the ingredients and flavors. If you are new to making ice cream, here are some tips and tricks for perfecting your recipes:
- Make sure your ingredients are cold before blending.
- Blend the mixture until it is completely smooth.
- Stir the mixture every 30 minutes while it is freezing.
- Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before scooping.
Exploring the Nutrition Facts of Dairy Free Ice Cream
When it comes to nutrition, dairy free ice cream varies greatly depending on the brand and type of plant-based milk used. Generally speaking, dairy free ice cream is lower in calories than traditional ice cream. Here is a breakdown of the calorie counts for each type of plant-based milk:
- Coconut milk: 100 calories per 1/2 cup
- Almond milk: 40 calories per 1/2 cup
- Cashew milk: 25 calories per 1/2 cup
- Oat milk: 120 calories per 1/2 cup
- Soy milk: 80 calories per 1/2 cup
In addition to calories, dairy free ice cream is also a good source of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Coconut milk ice cream is particularly high in healthy fats, while almond milk ice cream is higher in calcium. Soy milk ice cream is rich in iron and B vitamins, and oat milk ice cream is higher in fiber.
A Guide to Dairy Free Ice Cream Flavors
When it comes to flavors, the possibilities are endless when it comes to dairy free ice cream. Here are some of the most popular flavor options:
- Chocolate
- Vanilla
- Strawberry
- Mint Chocolate Chip
- Coffee
- Cookies & Cream
- Caramel
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough
You can also combine flavors to create unique and delicious combinations. For example, try combining chocolate and raspberry or peanut butter and banana. The possibilities are endless!
Tips for Finding the Best Dairy Free Ice Cream Options in Stores
When shopping for dairy free ice cream in stores, it is important to read labels carefully. Look for products that are labeled “dairy free” or “vegan.” Also, check the ingredient list to make sure there are no dairy products. Finally, look for products that are certified vegan and Non-GMO Project Verified.
Interviews with People Who Love Dairy Free Ice Cream
We interviewed three people who love dairy free ice cream to learn more about their experience. Here’s what they had to say:
Person 1
I switched to dairy free ice cream because I have a dairy allergy. I find that the coconut milk-based ice creams are the creamiest and most flavorful. My favorite brand is So Delicious, and my favorite flavor is the chocolate coconut. It’s so rich and creamy!
Person 2
I switched to dairy free ice cream for health reasons. I find that the almond milk-based ice creams are the best option for me. I love Ben & Jerry’s non-dairy ice cream, especially the chocolate fudge brownie flavor. It’s so indulgent!
Person 3
I switched to dairy free ice cream because I wanted to reduce my environmental impact. I find that the oat milk-based ice creams are the most sustainable option. My favorite brand is Oatly, and my favorite flavor is the vanilla. It’s so creamy and delicious!
Benefits of Dairy Free Ice Cream Compared to Traditional Ice Cream
There are many benefits to choosing dairy free ice cream over traditional ice cream. First, dairy free ice cream is lower in calories, fat, and sugar than traditional ice cream. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals. Additionally, dairy free ice cream is better for the environment, as it does not require cows for production. Finally, dairy free ice cream is suitable for those with dairy allergies and lactose intolerance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, dairy free ice cream is a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional ice cream. There are many brands and flavors to choose from, and it is also easy to make your own at home. When shopping for dairy free ice cream, be sure to read labels carefully and check the ingredient list. Finally, remember that dairy free ice cream has many benefits compared to traditional ice cream, including fewer calories, vitamins and minerals, and a lower environmental impact.
