Skip to content

Which Ben and Jerry's has the least calories?

4 min read

According to the Center for Science in the Public Interest, some Ben & Jerry's pints can contain over 1,000 calories. For those seeking a less indulgent treat, determining which Ben and Jerry's has the least calories requires checking the brand's Moo-phoria line and comparing it with other alternatives.

Quick Summary

The lowest-calorie Ben & Jerry's options are found in the Moo-phoria line, with flavors like Chocolate Milk & Cookies containing 140 calories per half-cup serving. Other options, like sorbets and specific non-dairy flavors, also offer lower calorie counts compared to their standard counterparts. This guide breaks down the best low-calorie choices.

Key Points

  • Moo-phoria is the low-calorie solution: The Moo-phoria line was specifically created to offer a lighter, reduced-fat version of the brand's signature ice cream, with flavors ranging from 140 to 160 calories per half-cup serving.

  • Sorbet offers the fewest calories: For the absolute lowest-calorie option, Ben & Jerry's sorbets like Berry Berry Extraordinary are the best choice, containing no fat and the lowest number of calories.

  • Non-dairy options vary: Non-dairy frozen desserts can be a good alternative, but their calorie counts vary widely and are often higher than the Moo-phoria line.

  • Check updated information: Nutritional facts can change, so it's always best to verify the latest calorie counts on the official Ben & Jerry's website for the most accurate information.

  • Compare by serving size: When comparing, be mindful of the standard half-cup serving size, as eating the whole pint will significantly increase your calorie intake.

  • Flavors change over time: Availability and types of Moo-phoria and sorbet flavors may vary, so check your local store's selection for the most up-to-date options.

In This Article

Finding Your Low-Calorie Ben & Jerry's Fix

Ben & Jerry's is famous for its rich, chunky, and high-calorie ice cream. However, the company has expanded its offerings to include options for consumers seeking a lighter dessert. The definitive answer to which Ben and Jerry's has the least calories almost always points to the brand's Moo-phoria light ice cream series or its fruit-based sorbets. While the classic pints can pack a serious caloric punch, the Moo-phoria line was specifically created to offer the same chunks and swirls with significantly fewer calories and less fat.

The Moo-phoria Line: A Calorie-Conscious Choice

The Moo-phoria line was first introduced to compete with other lighter ice cream brands and provide a less-guilty option for fans. These flavors are crafted with organic milk and cream, contain no artificial sweeteners or sugar alcohols, and maintain a calorie range significantly lower than the standard offerings. For example, the Chocolate Milk & Cookies flavor has been reported to contain just 140 calories per half-cup serving, making it one of the lowest-calorie ice cream flavors in their dairy lineup.

Common Moo-phoria Flavors and Their Calorie Counts

  • Chocolate Milk & Cookies: Featuring a swirl of chocolate and vanilla light ice cream with chocolate chip cookies, this flavor is typically around 140-190 calories per serving, making it a top contender for the lowest calorie option among dairy ice creams.
  • Caramel Cookie Fix: This light ice cream with shortbread cookies and a salted caramel swirl contains about 150 calories per half-cup serving, offering a sweet and salty treat with a reduced calorie count.
  • P.B. Dough: For peanut butter lovers, this option with chocolate light ice cream and gobs of peanut butter cookie dough typically contains around 160 calories per half-cup serving, proving that flavor doesn't have to be sacrificed for fewer calories.
  • Cherry Garcia with a Twist: A lightened-up version of the classic, this cherry-chocolate ice cream with cherries and fudge flakes has been reported to be 140 calories per half-cup serving.

Non-Dairy and Sorbet Options

For those who prefer a dairy-free dessert or are looking for an even lower-calorie treat, Ben & Jerry's offers sorbets. Sorbets are naturally lower in fat and calories because they are water-based and don't contain dairy products.

  • Berry Berry Extraordinary Sorbet: This option is one of the lowest-calorie desserts available at Ben & Jerry's scoop shops. With zero saturated fat and fewer calories, it's a refreshing alternative. The calorie count can be as low as 80 per scoop.
  • Non-Dairy Frozen Desserts: While often not as low-calorie as the Moo-phoria line or sorbets, some of Ben & Jerry's non-dairy options, typically made with almond or sunflower milk, can still be a better choice than their full-fat dairy counterparts. For example, the non-dairy Chocolate Fudge Brownie has a lower calorie count per serving than the standard version.

Comparison Table: Calorie Counts by Flavor Type

Flavor Category Typical Calorie Range (per ½ cup serving) Key Characteristics Best For
Moo-phoria Light Ice Cream 140-190 calories Reduced-fat, lightened ice cream base; retains signature chunks and swirls. Calorie-conscious dessert lovers who still want the classic Ben & Jerry's experience.
Sorbets (Scoop Shop) 80-100 calories Dairy-free, fat-free, water-based fruit dessert. The absolute lowest calorie Ben & Jerry's option; vegan and fat-free.
Non-Dairy Frozen Dessert 280-430 calories Made with almond, sunflower, or oat milk; still indulgent and rich. Dairy-free individuals who want a full, rich flavor profile.
Classic Ice Cream 300-500+ calories Rich, dense, full-fat ice cream with generous chunks and swirls. Indulgence-seekers with no caloric restrictions; the signature Ben & Jerry's taste.

Making the Best Choice for Your Needs

Choosing the best low-calorie Ben & Jerry's flavor depends on your priorities. If your main goal is to minimize calorie intake while still enjoying a creamy, decadent dessert, the Moo-phoria line is the clear winner. If you're avoiding dairy and want a refreshing, fruity option, the sorbets are the lowest calorie choice available. For those who need a dairy-free but still rich and indulgent treat, the non-dairy options provide a suitable middle ground, though with higher calories than the Moo-phoria line.

Remember to always check the most current nutritional information, as flavors and formulations can change over time. When in doubt, the Ben & Jerry's website is the most reliable source for up-to-date data. You can also visit their official flavors page to see the latest nutritional information for each product.

Conclusion

For anyone asking which Ben and Jerry's has the least calories, the answer points to two primary categories: the Moo-phoria light ice cream pints and the fruit-based sorbets. While Moo-phoria flavors offer a creamy, decadent experience with significantly reduced calories, sorbets provide the lowest possible caloric option by being dairy-free. By examining the nutritional data and comparing your options, you can still enjoy a delicious Ben & Jerry's treat without derailing your health goals. Whether it's a lightened-up version of a classic or a fat-free sorbet, there's a satisfying option for every preference.

Frequently Asked Questions

The lowest calorie options are typically the sorbets, such as Berry Berry Extraordinary. These are water-based and dairy-free, resulting in the lowest fat and calorie content compared to any of their ice cream offerings.

No, Moo-phoria flavors typically range from 140 to 160 calories per half-cup serving, depending on the specific ingredients. Flavors with more chunks and swirls might have slightly higher counts.

Non-dairy frozen desserts generally have a higher calorie count per serving than the light Moo-phoria ice creams. They are designed to be rich and creamy, using alternatives like almond or oat milk and coconut oil, which still contain a good amount of calories and fat.

The most accurate information can be found on the official Ben & Jerry's website or on the nutritional label of the product you are purchasing. Manufacturers occasionally update recipes, so checking the packaging is best.

No, the Moo-phoria line is made with organic milk and cream and contains no artificial sugar substitutes or sugar alcohols, which is one of the key differences when compared to some competitor brands.

The difference is substantial. A Moo-phoria pint typically contains fewer than 640 calories total, while many standard Ben & Jerry's pints contain over 1,000 calories for the entire container.

Availability varies by location, but the lowest calorie options available at scoop shops are generally the sorbets. For specific pint flavors, it's best to check with the individual scoop shop.

References

  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3
  4. 4
  5. 5
  6. 6
  7. 7
  8. 8

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.