15 Best Healthier Ice Creams, According to Registered Dietitians
We tried dozens of ice creams and dairy-free alternatives to bring you our favorite low-calorie and low-sugar treats.
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This story was updated in May 2023 to reflect recent testing and to add more choices.
Ice cream season is meant to be enjoyed! While many traditional ice creams remain an indulgence, there are a wide range of ice creams and dairy-free alternatives that are both tasty and more nutritious.
"Ice cream can certainly be a part of a healthy, balanced diet," says Stefani Sassos, RD, CDN, director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Nutrition Lab. "You’ll want to keep in mind moderation and portion control, since the dessert tends to be high in added sugars. That said, there are a variety of better-for-you options on the market that provide quality ingredients and lower sugar counts but still taste great."
The Nutrition Lab pros tested dozens of pints, bars, pops and sandwiches as well as other frozen treats to bring you the best of the best. All of our picks hit the mark when it comes to taste, quality of ingredients, packaging claims and, yes, even nutritional value (because consciously indulging is key to a healthy diet!).
Before you start scooping, take note: "When it comes to what to look for regarding ice cream nutrition facts, I think the most important thing to keep in mind is that 1 tsp of sugar equals 4 g and that the American Heart Association recommends no more than 6 tsp (or 25 g) of added sugar daily," says Sassos. "A 2/3 cup serving of traditional ice cream can be close to that limit, if not more."
You can learn more about how to choose the best ice cream for you at the end of this guide, including the difference between ice cream, gelato and frozen yogurt. If you're in search of more better-for-you treats, check out our picks for the best healthier candy alternatives and healthy snacks that support weight loss.
Yasso scored top points with our testers and nutrition experts for being decadent-tasting treats made with Greek yogurt. They contain live and active cultures with only 3 g of sugar and just 35 calories per Poppable.
Yasso Poppables are a perfect bite-size frozen dessert, according to Sassos. They have a crispy outer shell and ultra-creamy vanilla frozen yogurt inside. "I love that they are mini, so you can enjoy just one or a few, depending on what you’re in the mood for," Sassos adds.
These are also a GH staff favorite! Testers report, "The chocolate was firm and smooth, and the frozen yogurt was just like ice cream. I never would have known it was frozen yogurt. It was creamy!"
| Nutrition facts (per Poppable) | 35 cal, 1.5 g total fat, 1.5 g sat fat, 10 mg sodium, 4 g total carbohydrate, 0 g dietary fiber, 3 g total sugars, 2 g added sugars, 1 g protein |
This award-winning, woman-owned brand labels itself an "ice cream occasion with a superhero cape!" Our testers and experts couldn't agree more. Sweetkiwi is Greek-yogurt based but the creamy texture mimics that of ice cream, and it was one of our staff favorites. It is loaded with probiotics and contains a whopping 6 g of fiber and 9 g of protein per serving.
"I loved that it was creamy, melted right in my mouth ... could have eaten the whole container in one sitting!" reported one tester. Another exclaimed the yogurt was "perfectly sweet with a little more tang than ice cream from the yogurt but still a dessert taste."
| Nutrition facts (per 2/3 cup serving) | 150 cal, 6 g fat, 1 g sat fat, 80 mg sodium, 20 g total carbohydrate, 7 g fiber, 12 g total sugars, 6 g included added sugar, 9 g protein. |
These plant-based morsels are low in calories and sugar, but got great feedback from our taste testers. Dream Pops feature a coconut milk–based ice cream coated in a hard chocolate shell and contain just 10 ingredients. They are available in six flavors including Cookie Dough, Banana Cream and Berry Dreams.
Our testers reported this dessert was "super refreshing and had a perfectly balanced sweetness." Another tester said they loved the "nice chocolate covering that provided a delightful amount of crunch."
| Nutrition facts (1/3 container) | 100 calories, 7 g fat, 5 g sat fat, 0 mg sodium, 7g carbohydrates, 1 g fiber, 4 g total sugar, 4 g added sugar, 2 g protein |
Breyer’s Vanilla Ice Cream Snack Cups are made from simple ingredients, and the single-serving sizes are perfect for when you want a few bites of something satisfying. They're just 100 calories per cup, and they’re a great portable treat for the kids.
According to our testers, there is "nothing plain about Breyer's vanilla: It tastes great on its own or as a topping for any dessert." Another tester reported that they loved the "rich vanilla bean flavor" and that Breyer's incorporates "real vanilla bean specks."
| Nutrition facts (snack cup) | 100 calories, 5 g fat, 3.5 g sat fat, 30 mg sodium, 11 g carbohydrates, 0 g fiber, 10 g sugars, 2 g protein |
These Goodpop bars are decadent and smooth but completely dairy-free. The Orange n' Cream pops are a crowd favorite because they are made from wholesome ingredients — including coconut cream — and are full of flavor, yet lower in calories and sugar than many other desserts. Adults claim these treats make them nostalgic for the orange-cream pops of their childhood, and we have yet to meet a kid who doesn't like them. They are made with USDA-organic ingredients, free from refined and artificial sweeteners and artificial colors and are 90 calorie per pop.
One tester said, "These are hands-down my favorite frozen treat. They are so delicious, satisfying and not overly sweet." If fruit-based flavors aren't for you, Goodpop also offers many other choices. Sassos recommends trying the brand's popular Fudge n' Vanilla Crunch Bars: "The crunchy cacao is the perfect compliment to the smooth, creamy oat milk filling on these bars."
| Nutrition facts (per pop) | 90 calories, 5 g fat, 3.5 g sat fat, 22 mg sodium, 11 g carbohydrates, 0 g fiber, 10 g total sugars, 8 g added sugars, 0 g protein |
Chloe's bars are an amazing find. They're thickened with banana puree as a substitute for cream and contain just 13 g sugar per pop and 60 calories! In addition to these chocolate pops, Chloe's offers a wide range of plant-based treats that contain real fruit and no artificial ingredients, hence the company tagline "A frozen treat with nothing to hide."
Testers raved about these light and "delicious" pops with one tester exclaiming, "Chloe's bars are the perfect snack on a hot day — literally the best thing, my entire family is obsessed with them." Another tester reported, "I love how low-cal they are, but also they are filling and satisfying at the same time. They are also fun and versatile for kids."
| Nutrition facts (per pop) | 60 calories, 0g fat, sat fat 0g, 0 mg, 15g carbohydrate, 1g fiber, 13g total sugars, includes 11g added sugars, 1 g protein |
Sweet Nothings Spoonable Smoothie Cup
Don't let the word smoothie fool you: These frozen single-serving cups are a treat — tasty and refreshing without all the added sugar you find in many ice creams. Sweet Nothings' plant-based cups are USDA-certified organic and dairy free. They're made with nutritious whole foods including strawberries, bananas, cashews, dates and seeds. Each cup contains only 100 calories, no added sugars and 3 g of fiber.
Sassos likes this pick because it’s "packed with nutrient-dense ingredients like fruits, vegetables and nuts and is free from added sugar." She adds, "It’s not only a fantastic option for dessert but also for breakfast and snacking, and even my toddler loves it and it’s something I can feel good about feeding her."
| Nutrition facts (per individual container) | 100 calories, 2 g fat, 0g sat fat, 1 mg sodium, 19 g carbohydrates, 3 g fiber, 12 g total sugar, 0 g added sugar, 2 g protein |
This mochi dessert is a Japanese-inspired treat that combines sweet and slightly chewy rice dough wrapped around creamy, dense ice cream. It has a refreshing taste, and our testers raved about the "tangy and tropical" notes of Bubbie's mango flavor. The mochi shell makes these bites a convenient dessert for all ages and a crowd-pleaser when entertaining. Available in over 25 flavors, Bubbie's is certified gluten-free and just 90 calories a piece.
One of our testers said, "This dessert gives off island-vacation vibes, and the chewy texture of the mochi mixed with the creamy ice cream is outstanding." Another tester reported, "These might be on the smaller size per serving, but they are satisfying and flavor-packed."
| Nutrition Facts (per 1 piece) | 90 calories, 2.5 g fat, 1.5g sat fat, 15 mg sodium, 15 g carbohydrates, 0 g fiber, 10 g total sugar, 9 g added sugar, 1 g protein |
"Light," "fluffy" and "airy" are some of the terms our testers used to describe this low-calorie faba (or fava) bean-based treat from Artic Zero. It is available in multiple fun flavors such as Cake Batter, Cookie Shake and Salted Caramel, and each container is 160 to 180 calories or about 50 calories per serving.
Testers report this dessert has a "creamy and refreshing taste especially for the low amount of calories." Take note: It is on the lighter side, so if you are looking for an indulgent-tasting dessert, this might not be the one for you.
| Nutrition facts (per 2/3 cup serving) | 50 cal, 0 g total fat, 140 mg sodium, 11 g total carbohydrates, 3 g dietary fiber, 8 g added sugars, 2 g protein |
So Delicious Coconut Milk Frozen Dessert Sandwiches
If you love ice cream sandwiches but favor dairy-free desserts, this one is for you. These decadent little treats are full of chocolatey flavor mixed with a vanilla coconut milk center and contain only 100 calories per dessert. They are also relatively in sugar, with 7 g per serving.
According to one tester, "The coconut flavor is strong but delicious, and this ice cream sandwich satisfied my cookie and ice cream cravings in one." Another tester reported that "these are so great for the entire family — we finished off the box in two days. My kids just loved them."
| Nutrition facts (per ice cream sandwich) | 100 calories, 4 g fat, 3.5 g sat fat, 30 mg sodium, 14 g carbohydrates, <1 g dietary fiber, 7 g sugar, includes 7 g added sugars, 1 g protein |
These frozen treat bars are another win from the Kind company, which makes one of our favorite protein bars. These treats hit the mark on multiple taste targets: Our experts give them high points for their "crunchy, chewy, salty and sweet" components all wrapped up into one bar. Our nutrition pros appreciate that they contain 7 g of fiber and just 7 g of added sugar per bar.
Our testers report the bars tasted like a "candy bar mixed with ice cream." One exclaimed, "These bars have so many flavors and textures, they can take care of all of your sweet cravings in one bar."
| Nutrition Facts (per individual bar) | 180 cal, 13 g fat, 4.5 g sat fat, 60 mg sodium, 18 g total carbohydrate, 7 g fiber, 10 g total sugars, 7 g included added sugar, 3 g protein. |
Vanilla ice cream combines with sweet-and-salty caramel and a satisfyingly crunchy cone to provide the perfect hot weather treat. With a focus on reducing calories and fat content, Skinny Cow does not sacrifice flavor with its ice cream cones.
"The best part about these cones is that they taste like the real deal, and the cone stays crisp and crunchy," reported one of our testers. Another one exclaimed, "Skinny Cow hits the spot with these cones. They are the perfect size for a frozen treat, and it feels good to know they aren't loaded with calories and fat."
| Nutrition facts (per 1 cone) | 160 cal, 3.5 g fat, 2.5 g sat fat, 80 mg sodium, 29 g total carbohydrate, 2 g fiber, 18 g total sugars, 3 g protein. |
This ice cream is so unique it blew our testers — and staffers — away. Lower in saturated fat and not overloaded with sugar, these USDA-certified organic pints are made from avocado puree and are full of flavor. The lemon variety was our easy favorite for its simple, refreshing flavor and smart non-dairy innovation.
Testers reported this pick had a "nice, smooth texture from the avocado, and it was light and refreshing." Another tester commented, "It is super creamy — tastes like summer with both tart and sweet flavors, and it's great for those of us who have to avoid lactose."
| Nutrition facts (per 2/3 cup serving) | 170 calories, 12 g total fat, 1.5 g sat fat, 45 mg sodium, 18 g carbohydrate, 1 g fiber, 13 g sugars, 1 g protein |
Slow-churned ice creams are the perfect pick for people who want a bigger bowl (a.k.a. everyone). Edy's ice cream is made using a special slow-churn manufacturing process called low-temperature extrusion, which spreads the fat molecules over smaller ice particles than traditional ice cream. The end result is a smoother finish and creamier taste with less fat (yes, please!).
This pick was a hit with testers. Many reported that this ice cream tastes great on its own or topped with fresh fruit and nuts. Our testers love the rich vanilla, with one saying, "The texture is creamy and right on point — everything you desire in a dessert."
| Nutrition facts (per 2/3 cup serving) | 130 calories, 4 g fat, 2.5 g sat fat, 50 mg sodium, 23 g carbohydrates, 3 g fiber, 17 g total sugar, 12 g added sugar, 3 g protein |
Jeni's makes ice cream fun with inventive and creative flavors, and the dairy-free line does not disappoint. If you're a fan of lemon bars, or even just lemons, this coconut-based dessert is the answer to your frozen dessert dreams. It is tart, sweet, salty, smooth and crunchy all at the same time. This flavor is also available in single-serving cups that come with a little spoon under the lid. Jeni's ice cream is "free of anything fake," according to the company; the milk for its traditional ice creams is sourced from family-run dairies, and the company uses fresh fruit and vegetables in recipes.
According to one tester, "This is non-dairy ice cream at its best. The flavor profile is outstanding: tangy lemon mixed with coconut flavor — just delicious!" While another tester reported, "There is nothing better than Jeni's ice cream, and this one might be the best of them all. It's a real flavor explosion."
| Nutrition facts (per 2/3 cup serving) | 170 calories, 10 g fat, 9 g sat fat, 105 mg sodium, 20 g carbohydrates, 0 g fiber, 16 g total sugar, 15 g added sugar, 1 g protein |
How we tested the best healthier ice creams
The registered dietitians, food and nutrition experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute Nutrition Lab, rigorously evaluate hundreds of ice creams and frozen desserts year-round. Since taste is so subjective, we included a diverse group of ice cream lovers in addition to our in-house team to identify our top choices.
For this review of healthier ice creams, we analyzed over 30 brands and specifically looked for choices that had a range of approximately 100 to 250 calories per serving, lower sugar counts and higher-quality ingredients that were full of flavor. We also prioritized brands that were free from additives, artificial colors and ingredients.
Our experts and ice cream lovers shared their impressions of the frozen treats we reviewed. Our top picks provide a variety of healthier desserts including bars, pops, sandwiches and pints as well as frozen yogurt and more.
How to choose the right healthier ice cream for you
When you find an ice cream treat you like, check the label, read the ingredients and follow these tips:
✔️ Aim for about 100 to 250 calories per serving: Remember that ice cream is not nutrient dense. It can be enjoyed daily, but set a target for yourself. If a brand is too low in calories, that could be a signal that it won’t be as satisfying, which can lead you to consume the whole pint!
✔️Be aware of serving sizes: Serving sizes have been creeping up over the past few years. "A serving size of ice cream used to be half a cup, but to better reflect the serving sizes that people actually eat, the updated Nutrition Facts label now references 2/3 cup serving for ice cream," says Sassos. "That doesn’t mean you have to eat an entire 2/3 cup serving though. If you’re satisfied with the ½-cup serving, stick with that."
✔️ Pay attention to nutrition labels and ingredients: Ice cream that sounds a little too good to be true just might be. Read the ingredients and choose wisely. "Sugar-free or low-fat ice cream doesn’t necessarily mean healthier ice cream," says Sassos. "In fact, they tend to have sugar alcohols and artificial ingredients to help them taste like the real thing, but they still come in at around the same number of calories as traditional ice cream." Additionally, don't be misled by non-dairy alternatives: Non-dairy doesn't mean better nutrition either. As an example, coconut milk can drive up the calories, so if you're looking for a lower-calorie treat, you’re often better off with unsweetened cashew, soy or almond milk as the base.
✔️ Look for real fruit, not juice: Look for water and real fruit (or even veggies!) as the first ingredients in any pop or bar. That’s a good indicator of both the quality and the amount of added sugar in each serving. Beware any fruit-flavor pops and frozen treats that are made from concentrated forms sugar, a.k.a. juice.
✔️ Hydrate before you dive-in for seconds: When it's hot out, it's easy to confuse thirst for hunger — and ice cream is often the number one item we crave when we’re parched. So before you beeline back to the freezer, have a glass of water first.
What is the difference between ice cream, gelato and frozen yogurt?
✔️ Ice cream: Traditional ice cream is made from a few standard ingredients: milk, cream and sugar, plus extra flavors and sometimes eggs, depending on the product. To be considered "ice cream" for retail, a product must have 20% cream, 10% milk and at least 10% total fat per serving. When products are made with more milk than cream (making the product lower in fat) or include alternatives to cow's milk (e.g., almond), they are labeled "frozen desserts."
✔️ Gelato: In Italy, gelato is defined by law as having 3.5% fat — meaning that it's made with less cream and more milk than ice cream — but that isn’t a legal requirement in the U.S.
✔️ Frozen yogurt: Although it contains nonfat milk, and often probiotics, we can’t exactly call it a health food. Frozen yogurt is often much higher in sugar than traditional ice cream, so it can wind up the same calorie-wise for a less satisfying product.
✔️Vegan and plant-based ice creams: These are great if you're vegan or lactose-intolerant, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that they’re better for you! In fact, they’re often much higher in sugar and even saturated fat than dairy ice creams. Since some dairy-free alternatives wear a health halo, you’ll want to check labels and aim for ones with around 15 g of sugar or less and saturated fat under 6 g per serving.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
Amy Fischer is a registered dietitian nutritionist with an M.S. in clinical nutrition from New York University and a B.A. in journalism from Miami University of Ohio. Prior to writing for Good Housekeeping, she worked at one of the largest teaching hospitals in New York City as a cardiac transplant dietitian. She has authored numerous chapters in clinical nutrition textbooks and has also worked in public relations and marketing for food company start-ups. She is a self-proclaimed dessert expert and is constantly in search of healthier ways to satisfy her sweet tooth.
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