Which ice cream is lowest in sugar?

According to a study published in Nutrients, many plant-based frozen desserts surprisingly contain high levels of sugar, making it critical to know how to identify genuinely low-sugar options. Understanding which ice cream is lowest in sugar requires looking beyond basic labels and examining ingredients, serving sizes, and the type of sweeteners used.

Quick Summary

This article explores the best low-sugar ice cream brands and frozen dessert alternatives, such as Halo Top, Rebel, and Enlightened, detailing what to look for and compare. It also covers healthy, homemade options and discusses the role of sugar alcohols and artificial sweeteners in reducing sugar content. Consumers learn to make informed choices based on nutritional information and personal dietary goals.

Key Points

• Check Labels Carefully: 'No Sugar Added' and 'Sugar Free' are the best starting points for finding which ice cream is lowest in sugar.

• Consider Sweeteners: Keto brands like Rebel use non-glycemic sweeteners (erythritol, monk fruit) for very low carb and sugar content.

• Be Mindful of Sugar Alcohols: Sugar alcohols in some lower-sugar products can cause digestive discomfort if consumed in excess.

• Explore Homemade Alternatives: Creating 'nice cream' from frozen bananas or Greek yogurt provides a naturally low-sugar, high-nutrient treat.

• Watch Portion Sizes: Always check the nutritional facts per serving, not per container, to accurately gauge sugar intake.

• Understand Natural vs. Added Sugars: Focus on the 'Added Sugars' line on the nutrition label for the clearest picture of refined sugar content.

• Dairy-Free Options Vary: Many plant-based frozen desserts can still be high in sugar, so reading labels is crucial for these as well.

Navigating the Freezer Aisle for Lower Sugar Options

For those watching their sugar intake, the variety of frozen desserts can be overwhelming. While many products claim to be healthy, the sugar content can vary dramatically. Identifying which ice cream is lowest in sugar requires a discerning eye for ingredients, especially hidden sugars and sugar alcohols.

First, consider products labeled "No Sugar Added" or "Sugar Free." Brands like Chapman's offer entire lines sweetened with alternatives like Maltitol and Sucralose. Breyers also has a popular "No Sugar Added" vanilla flavor. However, it's essential to check for other carbohydrates and be mindful of potential digestive side effects from excessive consumption of sugar alcohols.

For genuinely low-sugar options, especially among keto-friendly brands, the focus shifts to different types of sweeteners. Rebel Ice Cream, for example, is sweetened with erythritol and monk fruit, leading to very low net carb counts. Similarly, Halo Top uses a blend of erythritol, stevia, and a small amount of regular sugar. Plant-based brands like Nubocha use allulose, a unique sweetener with minimal impact on blood glucose.

The Importance of Reading the Nutritional Label

When comparing options, the front of the packaging can be misleading. Always turn to the nutritional label to find the grams of 'Sugars' and 'Added Sugars' per serving. Many brands also highlight the total calories per pint, but it is the sugar content that is most critical for those monitoring their blood glucose or managing a low-sugar diet. Consider the following when reading a label:

• Serving Size: The sugar content listed is for a single serving, not the whole container. Be honest about your portion sizes.
• Total Sugars vs. Added Sugars: Some sugar comes naturally from milk (lactose). Focus on the 'Added Sugars' line for a clearer picture of refined sugar content.
• Sugar Alcohols: These are often subtracted from net carbs but can cause gastrointestinal distress in some individuals. Check the ingredients list for erythritol, xylitol, and maltitol.

Comparison of Popular Low-Sugar Frozen Desserts

To provide a clear picture, here is a comparison table of several leading low-sugar and alternative frozen desserts based on general flavor profiles. Keep in mind that nutritional information can vary slightly by flavor.

Brand	Style	Key Sweeteners	Standout Feature	Notes
Rebel Creamery	Keto Ice Cream	Erythritol, Monk Fruit	Very low net carbs	High fat content for a rich, creamy texture.
Halo Top	Light Ice Cream	Stevia, Erythritol	High protein, lower calories	Wide variety of flavors; often seen as a gateway 'diet' ice cream.
So Delicious	Dairy-Free, No Sugar Added	Sugar Alcohols	Vegan and dairy-free option	Uses coconut milk and is sweetened with sugar substitutes.
Enlightened	Keto/Light Ice Cream	Erythritol, Monk Fruit	Multiple diet-friendly lines	Offers both keto and light versions to suit different needs.
Breyers CarbSmart	Frozen Dairy Dessert	Sucralose, Sugar Alcohols	Traditional cream base	A classic low-carb option from a well-known brand.
Yasso Frozen Greek Yogurt	Frozen Greek Yogurt Bars	Sugar	High protein, portion-controlled	Not 'sugar-free,' but uses Greek yogurt for a protein boost.

Healthy Ice Cream Alternatives to Consider

Beyond store-bought frozen desserts, there are numerous healthier alternatives that can satisfy a craving for something sweet and cold.

Homemade "Nice Cream" with Frozen Bananas

Creating your own "nice cream" is one of the simplest and healthiest ways to control your sugar intake. Blending frozen bananas creates a creamy, sweet base without any added sugar.

1. Freeze bananas: Peel ripe bananas and cut them into chunks. Place them in a freezer-safe bag for at least 4 hours.
2. Blend: Place the frozen banana chunks in a high-powered blender or food processor.
3. Add flavors: Blend until smooth, adding a splash of almond milk, cocoa powder, or a scoop of peanut butter for flavor.
4. Serve: Enjoy immediately for a soft-serve consistency or refreeze for a firmer scoopable treat.

Greek Yogurt Popsicles

For a high-protein, low-sugar snack, frozen Greek yogurt bars are an excellent option. Yasso sells pre-made versions, but making them at home gives you full control over the ingredients.

• Mix plain, low-fat Greek yogurt with fresh or frozen berries and a touch of honey or stevia.
• Pour into popsicle molds and freeze for a refreshing, protein-rich dessert.

Avocado-Based Frozen Desserts

Avocados provide a creamy, rich texture without relying on dairy or high-fat coconut oil. Cado is a brand that utilizes this approach, but you can also make it at home.

• Blend ripe avocados with coconut milk, unsweetened cocoa powder, and a sugar substitute like monk fruit for a chocolatey, low-carb frozen dessert.

The Role of Sugar Alcohols and Artificial Sweeteners

Many low-sugar products achieve their sweetness through sugar alcohols (e.g., erythritol) or artificial sweeteners (e.g., stevia, monk fruit, sucralose).

• Sugar Alcohols: These provide sweetness with fewer calories and carbs than sugar. They are not fully digested, so they don't significantly raise blood sugar. However, overconsumption can lead to digestive issues like bloating or a laxative effect.
• Stevia and Monk Fruit: These are natural, calorie-free sweeteners derived from plants. They provide intense sweetness without impacting blood glucose levels.
• Sucralose: An artificial sweetener that is much sweeter than sugar. It is used in products like Breyers CarbSmart.

Consumer preference for these sweeteners can be a matter of taste, as some people find an aftertaste. It is also worth noting that some studies have raised questions about the long-term effects of some artificial sweeteners, so moderation is always key.

Conclusion

While no-sugar-added frozen dairy desserts like Breyers and Chapman's offer classic flavors with zero added sugar, for the absolute lowest sugar content, ketogenic brands like Rebel Creamery, which uses alternative sweeteners, are often the winner. However, the best option depends on your specific dietary needs, such as whether you are managing diabetes, following a keto diet, or avoiding dairy. Homemade alternatives, like banana or Greek yogurt-based "nice cream," offer the ultimate control over ingredients and sugar content. Regardless of your choice, reading the nutritional label carefully will help you make an informed decision to satisfy your sweet tooth responsibly.

Consider your sweeteners carefully when looking for low-sugar ice cream.

Sources

• : Chapman's. (n.d.). No Sugar Added Ice Cream. Retrieved from https://www.chapmans.ca/class/no-sugar-added-ice-cream/
• : Center for Science in the Public Interest. (2025, June 25). Healthy ice cream: Which brands are best?. Retrieved from https://www.cspi.org/article/healthy-ice-cream-which-brands-are-best
• : Dietitian Live. (2025, July 29). The Best Ice Cream for Diabetes: Delicious Options for Sweet Cravings. Retrieved from https://dietitianlive.com/blog/best-ice-cream-for-diabetics/
• : PubMed. (2022, October 6). Nutritional Content of Non-Dairy Frozen Desserts. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36235801/
• : Center for Science in the Public Interest. (2025, June 25). Healthy ice cream: Which brands are best?. Retrieved from https://www.cspi.org/article/healthy-ice-cream-which-brands-are-best
• : Everyday Health. (2025, August 6). Best Ice Creams for Diabetes That Don't Spike Blood Sugar. Retrieved from https://www.everydayhealth.com/diabetes/ice-cream-for-diabetics-that-doesnt-raise-blood-sugar/
• : PureWow. (2024, February 9). The 8 Best Low-Sugar Ice Creams of 2024, Taste-Tested. Retrieved from https://www.purewow.com/food/low-sugar-ice-cream
• : Everyday Health. (2025, August 6). Best Ice Creams for Diabetes That Don't Spike Blood Sugar. Retrieved from https://www.everydayhealth.com/diabetes/ice-cream-for-diabetics-that-doesnt-raise-blood-sugar/
• : MidState Medical Center. (2024, August 23). 5 Healthy Ice Cream Alternatives to Try This Summer. Retrieved from https://midstatemedical.org/about/news-press/news-detail?articleId=58074&publicid=395
• : BetterMe. (2025, June 30). Healthy Alternatives to Ice Cream: 13 Options for Your Health ... Retrieved from https://betterme.world/articles/healthy-alternatives-to-ice-cream/
• : Prime Health MD. (2025, June 26). Navigating Ice Cream Cravings: Healthier Alternatives and Portion ... Retrieved from https://www.primehealthmd.com/pages/navigating-ice-cream-cravings-healthier-alternatives-and-portion-control
• : Baskin Robbins. (n.d.). No Sugar Added (NSA). Retrieved from https://baskinrobbins.pk/no-sugar-added-nsa/

Frequently Asked Questions

Are 'no sugar added' ice creams always sugar-free?

No, 'no sugar added' means no sugar was added during processing, but the product may still contain naturally occurring sugars from ingredients like milk or fruit.

Can I have low-sugar ice cream if I'm on a keto diet?

Yes, but you should choose brands specifically formulated for keto diets, like Rebel Creamery, which use erythritol and monk fruit to keep net carbs low.

What is 'nice cream' and how do you make it?

Nice cream is a homemade frozen dessert typically made by blending frozen bananas until creamy. You can add other frozen fruits or cocoa powder for different flavors without extra sugar.

Do dairy-free frozen desserts have less sugar?

Not necessarily. A study found that many plant-based frozen desserts are high in sugar. Always check the label, as some, like certain Cado or So Delicious products, are formulated to be low-sugar.

What's the difference between sugar alcohols and natural sweeteners?

Sugar alcohols, like erythritol, are a type of carbohydrate that provides sweetness with fewer calories and can cause digestive issues in large amounts. Natural sweeteners, like stevia and monk fruit, are zero-calorie plant extracts that don't impact blood sugar.

What should I look for on the label of a low-sugar ice cream?

Focus on the 'Added Sugars' line to see how much refined sugar is in the product. Also, check the serving size to understand the actual sugar content per portion.

Is Halo Top the lowest sugar ice cream?

While Halo Top is a popular low-calorie and low-sugar option, some flavors do contain added sugar and erythritol. Other keto-specific brands like Rebel Creamery may have even lower net carbs. Comparison is key.