Understanding Low-Sugar Options: Which ice cream has the least sugar?

October 10, 2025 •

3 min read

With many traditional premium ice creams packing over 25 grams of added sugar per serving, finding a healthier alternative has become a priority for many people. Navigating the freezer aisle to determine which ice cream has the least sugar can be confusing, but a growing number of brands and types of frozen desserts offer delicious ways to satisfy your sweet tooth with a fraction of the added sugar.

Quick Summary

This article explores the landscape of low-sugar ice cream alternatives, comparing top brands like Halo Top and Rebel Creamery. It provides a guide to understanding nutrition labels and explains the role of sugar substitutes. Additionally, it highlights homemade options for a low-sugar frozen dessert.

Key Points

Check for 'No Sugar Added' or 'Keto' labels: These are the primary types of ice cream formulated with the lowest sugar content, using alternative sweeteners instead of refined sugar.
Read the ingredient list for sweeteners: Be aware of the sugar alcohols and high-intensity sweeteners used (e.g., erythritol, stevia) and any potential digestive sensitivity you may have to them.
Consider plant-based options like Cado or So Delicious: If you want a low-sugar, dairy-free alternative, brands using avocado or coconut milk are good choices, though their fat content may vary.
Texture varies with sugar reduction: Lighter, lower-sugar options like Halo Top may have an icier or less creamy texture compared to higher-fat, low-sugar brands like Rebel Creamery.
Homemade options offer full control: For absolute control over sugar, calories, and ingredients, make your own frozen dessert using blended frozen bananas or avocado.
Moderation is key regardless of sugar content: Even low-sugar ice cream is not a health food and should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Navigating the World of Low-Sugar Ice Cream

For those watching their sugar intake, the frozen dessert aisle has evolved significantly. While traditional ice cream is high in sugar and fat, numerous alternatives now exist that leverage different ingredients to achieve a similar taste and texture with a more favorable nutritional profile. These options are particularly relevant for individuals managing diabetes or seeking a lower-calorie diet.

The Rise of Keto and 'No Sugar Added' Ice Creams

Many modern low-sugar ice creams are formulated to be keto-friendly or have 'no added sugar.' These products typically replace sucrose with alternative sweeteners like sugar alcohols (erythritol, maltitol) or natural, high-intensity sweeteners such as stevia and monk fruit extract. The result is a product that tastes sweet but has a minimal impact on blood glucose levels. However, it's essential to check the ingredient list, as some individuals may experience gastrointestinal side effects like bloating or gas from excessive consumption of sugar alcohols.

Dairy-Free and Plant-Based Alternatives

For those who prefer a dairy-free option or are lactose intolerant, several brands offer low-sugar alternatives made from coconut milk, almond milk, or avocado purée. Brands like So Delicious and Cado provide creamy, low-sugar frozen desserts. While these may be lower in sugar and lactose-free, it's still crucial to check the fat content, as some plant-based versions may use coconut oil, which is high in saturated fat.

Choosing the Right Option for Your Needs

When selecting a low-sugar ice cream, consider the following:

Read the nutrition label: Pay close attention to both the 'Total Carbohydrates' and the 'Sugars' line. Also, look for fiber and sugar alcohols, as these will affect the net carb count if that is a concern.
Consider the sweetener: If you have a sensitive digestive system, be mindful of products containing large amounts of sugar alcohols or certain fibers like inulin.
Prioritize simple ingredients: Some 'light' ice creams can still contain a long list of processed ingredients and emulsifiers. If you prefer a cleaner label, look for brands that use simple, whole-food ingredients.
Don't forget portion control: Just because an ice cream is low in sugar doesn't mean it's calorie-free. Moderation is still key, especially with higher-fat keto versions.

Comparing Popular Low-Sugar Ice Cream Brands


Brand	Style	Sweeteners	Added Sugar (per 2/3 cup)	Calories (per 2/3 cup)	Notes
Halo Top (Light)	Dairy	Stevia, Erythritol	5g	100-160	Known for low calorie and sugar, but texture can be icier than regular ice cream.
Rebel Creamery	Keto (high-fat)	Erythritol, Monk Fruit	0g	~210	Very low carb, but higher in fat and calories. Can be very creamy.
So Delicious (NSA Coconutmilk)	Dairy-Free	Monk Fruit, Stevia	0g	~180	Plant-based, suitable for lactose intolerance. Less sugar but can contain higher saturated fat.
Edy's/Dreyer's (Slow Churned Light)	Dairy	Sugar	11-15g	130-170	Traditional light option, lower fat, but still contains significant added sugar. Avoids alternative sweeteners.

Homemade 'Nice' Cream and Other Alternatives

For complete control over ingredients, making your own frozen dessert is an excellent option. A popular alternative is 'nice' cream, made by blending frozen bananas. Add cocoa powder for a chocolate version or berries for a fruity flavor. Homemade avocado-coconut ice cream is another low-carb, low-sugar recipe that offers a creamy, satisfying texture without added sugars. Other simple substitutes include frozen Greek yogurt with fruit or fruit-based sorbets (though check the sugar content).

Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice

When looking for which ice cream has the least sugar, the answer is not always straightforward and depends on your personal dietary needs and preferences. While 'no sugar added' or keto brands offer the lowest sugar content, they often contain alternative sweeteners that may affect texture or cause digestive issues for some. Traditional light ice creams contain less fat but can still have a moderate amount of added sugar. Ultimately, the healthiest choice is the one that best fits your dietary goals and taste preferences. Moderation remains the most important factor, regardless of the brand or type you choose. For further research on evaluating product claims, consult reliable sources like the Center for Science in the Public Interest.

Frequently Asked Questions

'Low sugar' means the product contains less sugar than the regular version, but it may still have some added sugar. 'No added sugar' means no sugar was added during processing, but the product may still contain natural sugars from milk (lactose) or fruit.

Yes, many low-sugar or 'no sugar added' ice creams are designed with lower carbohydrate and sugar content, making them suitable for people with diabetes in moderation. However, it's important to monitor blood sugar levels and consult a doctor or dietitian.

Sugar alcohols like erythritol and maltitol are sweeteners with fewer calories than sugar and are commonly used in low-sugar products. They are generally recognized as safe, but excessive consumption can cause digestive issues like bloating, gas, and diarrhea for some individuals.

Not necessarily. While some dairy-free options are low-sugar, many are still high in sugar. Always check the nutrition label for the sugar content, as products made with coconut milk can be rich in saturated fat and added sugars.

You can make your own 'nice' cream by blending frozen bananas or avocado with a little milk or cocoa powder. Other alternatives include frozen Greek yogurt or sorbet (though sorbet can still be high in sugar).

Sugar and fat contribute to the creamy texture of traditional ice cream. When these ingredients are reduced, manufacturers often add fibers, protein, or emulsifiers to compensate. This can result in a texture that is denser, icier, or less smooth.

Sorbet is dairy-free and contains no fat, but it can be very high in sugar derived from fruit juice or added sweeteners. It's important to check the nutrition facts, as some sorbets contain as much sugar as premium ice cream.