The Core: Oat Milk Base and Stabilizers
At the heart of the new recipe is the creamy oat milk base, which provides the rich and familiar texture that mimics traditional dairy ice cream. The switch to oat milk from the previous almond milk base was a strategic move by Ben & Jerry's to create a smoother, more neutral-flavored canvas that allows the distinct Tonight Dough flavor components to shine. This base is composed primarily of water and oats, providing the liquid foundation for the frozen dessert. To achieve the desired consistency and mouthfeel, several other ingredients are vital.
The Role of Plant-Based Fats and Proteins
To replicate the fatty richness of dairy cream, coconut oil is added to the mixture. Coconut oil is a popular choice in vegan ice cream production due to its high fat content and ability to solidify when frozen, contributing to a creamy texture. Additionally, the recipe incorporates plant-based proteins from fava beans and peas, which help to add structure and improve the overall mouthfeel. These proteins prevent the dessert from becoming icy and ensure a smooth, cohesive result. Stabilizers and emulsifiers also play a crucial role in the texture, including ingredients like guar gum, locust bean gum, pectin, and soy lecithin. These additives prevent ice crystals from forming, ensuring a consistent and enjoyable texture with every spoonful.
The Sweeteners and Decadent Swirls
The Tonight Dough's decadent sweetness is a result of a combination of different sugars. Liquid sugar (a solution of sugar and water), corn syrup, and brown sugar contribute to the complex sweetness profile. These ingredients not only sweeten the dessert but also influence its texture and freezing point. For the signature caramel and chocolate flavors, the ingredient list includes cocoa (processed with alkali), chocolate liquor, and caramelized sugar syrup. The caramel and chocolate cookie swirls feature these cocoa-derived components, providing a rich, deep flavor that perfectly complements the creamy base.
Cookie Dough Gobs: The Main Attraction
The beloved cookie dough pieces are a blend of several ingredients, including wheat flour, sugar, and various vegetable oils (canola and/or soybean). The mix-ins feature both chocolate chip cookie dough and peanut butter cookie dough. The peanut butter element is derived from peanuts, while the chocolate chips include chocolate liquor and cocoa butter. Leavening agents like baking soda and flavorings such as vanilla extract and natural flavor help create the classic cookie taste that fans expect. Chickpea flour and tapioca flour are also used in the dough components, potentially for texture and binding.
Complete Ingredient List: What Are the Ingredients in Tonight Dough Non-Dairy?
- Base: Oat Milk (Water, Oats), Liquid Sugar (Sugar, Water), Corn Syrup, Water, Coconut Oil
- Sugars & Sweeteners: Sugar, Brown Sugar, Molasses, Caramelized Sugar Syrup
- Fats: Vegetable Oil (Canola and/or Soybean), Cocoa Butter, Coconut Oil
- Proteins: Fava Bean Protein, Pea Protein
- Flavorings: Cocoa (Processed with Alkali), Peanuts, Cocoa, Chocolate Liquor, Natural Flavor, Vanilla Extract
- Dough & Swirl Components: Wheat Flour, Chickpea Flour, Tapioca Flour, Pectin, Molasses
- Stabilizers & Emulsifiers: Guar Gum, Locust Bean Gum, Soy Lecithin, Sunflower Lecithin
- Leavening: Baking Soda
- Salts: Salt, Sea Salt
Comparing Tonight Dough: Dairy vs. Non-Dairy Ingredients
| Ingredient Category | Non-Dairy Tonight Dough | Dairy Tonight Dough |
|---|---|---|
| Base | Oat Milk (Water, Oats) | Cream, Skim Milk |
| Fats | Coconut Oil, Canola and/or Soybean Oil | Butter, Coconut Oil, Soybean Oil |
| Protein | Fava Bean Protein, Pea Protein | Milk, Eggs, Egg Yolks |
| Sweeteners | Liquid Sugar, Corn Syrup, Brown Sugar, Molasses | Liquid Sugar, Sugar, Corn Syrup, Brown Sugar |
| Allergens | Wheat, Oats, Peanuts, Soy | Wheat, Egg, Peanuts, Soy, Milk |
| Other | Certified Vegan | Contains Dairy |
Important Nutritional Considerations and Allergens
For those following a specific nutrition diet, understanding the ingredients is critical. The non-dairy Tonight Dough is certified vegan, making it suitable for plant-based diets. It's essential for individuals with food allergies to read the label carefully. The product contains several major allergens, including wheat, oats, peanuts, and soy. While it is dairy-free, it is not free of all common allergens. Individuals with sensitivities or Celiac's disease should note the presence of wheat and oat products. The presence of pea and fava bean proteins is also a factor for those with legume sensitivities.
Conclusion
The ingredients in Ben & Jerry's Tonight Dough Non-Dairy have evolved to offer a plant-based, creamy, and indulgent experience. By using an oat milk base, combined with plant-derived fats and proteins, the company successfully recreates the signature texture and taste of the original dairy version. The careful balance of sweeteners, cocoa, and stabilizers ensures the rich caramel and chocolate flavors, and the delicious cookie dough gobs are fully realized. This detailed ingredient breakdown allows consumers to make informed dietary choices while still enjoying their favorite frozen dessert.
For more specific ingredient details, refer to the official Ben & Jerry's product page.
