What type of ice cream has no lactose? A guide to frozen desserts

October 13, 2025 •

2 min read

According to Healthline, there are at least seven delicious types of lactose-free frozen desserts available, offering solutions for those with dietary restrictions. If you're wondering what type of ice cream has no lactose, options include lactose-free dairy ice creams and plant-based alternatives.

Quick Summary

This guide explores various options for frozen treats without lactose, from enzymatic dairy ice cream to plant-based alternatives and naturally dairy-free sorbets.

Key Points

Lactose-Free Dairy vs. Dairy-Free: Lactose-free dairy uses enzymatic breakdown, while dairy-free uses plant bases.
Plant-Based Bases: Common bases include coconut, almond, cashew, and oat milk.
Sorbet is Naturally Lactose-Free: Sorbet is made from fruit, water, and sugar.
Labeling Matters: Check ingredient lists for hidden lactose.
Abundant Options: The market offers many delicious lactose-free treats.

Finding a frozen dessert that suits your dietary needs is becoming increasingly easy, even if you are lactose intolerant or avoiding dairy. There are two main categories of lactose-free frozen treats: those made from dairy milk with the lactose removed or broken down, and those made from entirely plant-based ingredients.

The Two Main Routes to Lactose-Free Frozen Desserts

Enzymatic Lactose-Free Dairy Ice Cream

For a taste similar to traditional ice cream, lactose-free dairy options use milk where the lactose has been broken down by a lactase enzyme. This process makes the dairy digestible for those with lactose intolerance while maintaining the familiar creamy texture and flavor. Look for products specifically labeled "lactose-free".

Completely Dairy-Free Frozen Desserts

These desserts are made without any dairy, using plant-based ingredients instead, making them suitable for vegans and those with dairy allergies.

Exploring Plant-Based Creamy Alternatives

Common plant-based options include coconut milk, known for a rich texture and distinct flavor; almond and cashew milk, offering nutty flavors with cashew often being creamier; oat milk for its neutral flavor and creamy consistency; soy milk as a classic option high in protein; and avocado-based desserts for a rich texture.

The Classic Dairy-Free Refresher: Sorbet

Sorbet is naturally lactose-free, made from fruit purée or juice, water, and sweetener, resulting in an icy, dairy-free texture. Sherbet typically contains some dairy.

Reading Labels and Spotting Hidden Lactose

Always check ingredients for hidden lactose sources like milk solids or whey.

Comparison of Lactose-Free Frozen Dessert Options

A comparison of options includes Lactose-Free Dairy (dairy milk, high creaminess, classic flavor, not vegan) and various plant-based options and sorbet which are typically vegan. Details on ingredients, creaminess, and flavor profiles for coconut, cashew, oat, almond, and soy milk bases, as well as sorbet, can be found on {Link: The Spruce Eats https://www.thespruceeats.com/best-dairy-free-ice-creams-1000947}.

Conclusion

Many lactose-free options are available, including lactose-free dairy, plant-based alternatives, and sorbet. Checking labels helps find a suitable treat. More information on dairy-free frozen treats can be found on {Link: The Spruce Eats https://www.thespruceeats.com/best-dairy-free-ice-creams-1000947}.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, traditional sorbet is made from fruit purée, water, and sugar, and does not contain any dairy products or lactose.

For the creamiest texture, options made with coconut milk or cashew milk are often recommended, as their higher fat content mimics the richness of dairy ice cream.

Yes, by definition, any product labeled "dairy-free" contains no dairy and is therefore lactose-free. You should still check the ingredients for other allergens if you have additional sensitivities.

No, sherbet is not lactose-free. Unlike sorbet, sherbet contains a small amount of dairy milk or cream and should be avoided by those with lactose intolerance.

Look for a label that specifically says "lactose-free." For dairy-free products, always double-check the ingredient list for hidden lactose sources like milk solids, whey, or casein.

Yes, you can easily make homemade lactose-free treats, such as a simple 'nice cream' using frozen bananas or coconut milk and other plant-based ingredients.

Yes, many well-known brands have expanded their offerings to include delicious lactose-free dairy and dairy-free frozen desserts, such as Lactaid, Breyers, and Ben & Jerry's.