Best Sugar-Free Ice Cream: Top Low-Sugar Options for Guilt-Free Treats

Craving a cold, creamy dessert without the sugar overload? You’re not alone. Traditional ice cream can pack up to three times your daily recommended sugar intake in just one serving, making sugar-free alternatives an increasingly popular choice for health-conscious dessert lovers.

Sugar-free ice cream uses natural or artificial sweeteners to deliver that sweet satisfaction with significantly fewer calories and carbohydrates. Whether you’re managing diabetes, following a keto diet, or simply reducing your sugar intake, these frozen treats can satisfy your cravings without derailing your health goals.

This comprehensive guide explores the best sugar-free and low-sugar ice cream options available, helping you make informed choices for guilt-free indulgence.

Quick Overview: Top Sugar-Free Ice Cream Brands

• Best for Keto Dieters: Rebel Ice Cream
• Best Low-Calorie Option: Enlightened Ice Cream
• Most Widely Available: Halo Top Ice Cream
• Best Dairy-Free Choice: SO Delicious Coconutmilk Frozen Dessert
• Best Traditional Flavors: Keto Pint Ice Cream
• Best Without Sugar Alcohols: Arctic Zero Frozen Desserts
• Best Convenient Format: Skinny Cow Ice Cream Sandwiches
• Best Homemade: Banana Nice Cream and Coconut Milk Ice Cream

How We Selected These Sugar-Free Ice Creams

With countless options flooding grocery store freezers, we evaluated sugar-free ice creams based on several critical factors:

Nutritional Profile

We prioritized products with minimal or zero added sugars while examining their overall nutritional content, including protein, fiber, healthy fats, and total carbohydrates. Products with balanced macronutrients received higher rankings.

Taste and Texture

Sugar-free doesn’t mean flavor-free. We analyzed thousands of customer reviews to identify ice creams with exceptional taste and creamy texture that rivals traditional varieties.

Ingredient Quality

We scrutinized ingredient lists, favoring products made with whole food ingredients and minimal artificial additives. Ice creams using natural sweeteners like monk fruit and stevia scored higher than those relying solely on artificial sweeteners.

Brand Reputation

All featured brands have established track records for quality, safety, and customer satisfaction in the competitive frozen dessert market.

Price Considerations

Our pricing guide helps you find options within your budget:

• $ = under $6 per pint
• $$ = $6–$9 per pint
• $$$ = over $9 per pint

Best Sugar-Free and Low-Sugar Ice Cream Options

1. Rebel Ice Cream – Best for Keto Dieters

Price: $
Popular Flavors: Peanut Butter Fudge, Mint Chip, Chocolate, Cookie Dough
Base: Heavy Cream
Sweeteners: Erythritol, Monk Fruit

Rebel Ice Cream delivers rich, creamy indulgence perfectly tailored for ketogenic diets. With over 14 flavors containing zero added sugar, this brand uses whole ingredients like cream and eggs to maintain authentic ice cream texture.

The combination of erythritol and monk fruit provides sweetness without the blood sugar spike. Monk fruit, a natural zero-calorie sweetener derived from plants, has gained popularity for its clean taste without the bitter aftertaste common in some alternatives.

Nutritional Snapshot (Mint Chip, 2/3 cup):

• Calories: 210
• Fat: 21g
• Protein: 3g
• Net Carbs: 5g (16g total carbs – 11g sugar alcohols)
• Fiber: 4g
• Added Sugar: 0g

Pros: Extremely creamy texture, truly satisfying for keto followers, no added sugar
Cons: Higher in calories and fat than other options, contains sugar alcohols that may cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals

2. Enlightened Ice Cream – Best Low-Calorie Choice

Price: $$
Popular Flavors: Keto PB Cookie & Brownie Dough, Caramel Chocolate Double Dough, Chocolate Peanut Butter
Base: Skim Milk (light versions) or Heavy Cream (keto versions)
Sweeteners: Sugar, Tapioca Syrup, Erythritol, Allulose, Monk Fruit

Enlightened offers versatility with both “light” and “keto” product lines. While not completely sugar-free, these ice creams contain significantly less sugar than traditional options and provide protein and fiber to help stabilize blood sugar levels.

The light versions keep calories remarkably low by minimizing fat content, though this results in a less creamy texture. Keto versions deliver the richness many crave while maintaining low sugar content.

Nutritional Snapshot (Cookies and Cream Light, 2/3 cup):

• Calories: 120
• Fat: 3.5g
• Protein: 6g
• Carbs: 28g
• Fiber: 8g
• Added Sugar: 3g

Pros: Very low calorie, good protein and fiber content, multiple product lines
Cons: Light versions lack creaminess, contains some added sugar

3. Halo Top Ice Cream – Most Popular Choice

Price: $
Popular Flavors: Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, Sea Salt Caramel, Birthday Cake
Base: Skim Milk (dairy) or Coconut Milk (non-dairy)
Sweeteners: Organic Cane Sugar, Erythritol, Stevia

Since revolutionizing the light ice cream market in 2012, Halo Top has become synonymous with healthier frozen desserts. The brand offers extensive dairy and non-dairy options, all featuring reduced calories, sugar, and fat.

Most flavors contain 6 grams or less of sugar per half-cup serving—approximately one-third the amount in traditional ice cream. The addition of protein and fiber helps minimize blood sugar fluctuations.

Nutritional Snapshot (Chocolate Mocha Chip, 2/3 cup):

• Calories: 110
• Fat: 3g
• Protein: 7g
• Carbs: 19g
• Fiber: 2g
• Added Sugar: 4g

Pros: Widely available, affordable, numerous flavors, balanced nutrition
Cons: Not completely sugar-free, lower fat content affects creaminess

4. SO Delicious Coconutmilk Frozen Dessert – Best Dairy-Free

Price: $
Popular Flavors: Vanilla Bean, Mint Chip, Chocolate, Butter Pecan
Base: Coconut Milk
Sweeteners: Erythritol, Monk Fruit

SO Delicious has built its reputation on exceptional dairy alternatives, and their no-sugar-added line doesn’t disappoint. Using coconut milk as the base creates naturally creamy texture perfect for vegan and lactose-intolerant consumers.

These frozen desserts contain zero added sugar, relying on erythritol and monk fruit for sweetness. The notable fiber content promotes satiety and digestive health.

Nutritional Snapshot (Vanilla Bean, 2/3 cup):

• Calories: 130
• Fat: 9g
• Protein: 2g
• Carbs: 24g
• Fiber: 10g
• Added Sugar: 0g

Pros: Completely dairy-free, high fiber, no added sugar, creamy texture
Cons: Limited flavor selection, contains sugar alcohols

5. Keto Pint Ice Cream – Best Classic Flavors

Price: $$$
Popular Flavors: Cake Batter, Triple Chocolate Brownie, Strawberry
Base: Cream, Eggs, Whole Milk
Sweeteners: Erythritol, Stevia, Monk Fruit

Keto Pint represents a newer entry delivering premium quality with whole food ingredients. This brand excels at recreating classic ice cream flavors without compromising on texture or taste.

The combination of cream, eggs, and whole milk creates exceptionally rich, satisfying texture. Multiple natural sweeteners work synergistically to provide clean sweetness without artificial aftertaste.

Nutritional Snapshot (Strawberry, 2/3 cup):

• Calories: 180
• Fat: 17g
• Protein: 4g
• Carbs: 14g
• Fiber: 3g
• Added Sugar: 0g

Pros: Premium ingredients, authentic flavors, very creamy, zero added sugar
Cons: Higher price point, high in fat and calories

6. Arctic Zero Frozen Desserts – Best Without Sugar Alcohols

Price: $$$
Popular Flavors: Cookie Shake, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Hint of Mint
Base: Water
Sweeteners: Allulose, Monk Fruit, Organic Cane Sugar

Arctic Zero stands out for avoiding sugar alcohols entirely—a significant advantage for those who experience digestive discomfort from these sweeteners. The brand uses allulose, a rare sugar with minimal caloric impact and excellent taste profile.

These products contain some organic cane sugar but in much lower amounts than traditional ice cream. The fiber content and absence of sugar alcohols make this option particularly gentle on sensitive digestive systems.

Nutritional Snapshot (Classic Vanilla, 2/3 cup):

• Calories: 50
• Fat: 0g
• Protein: 2g
• Carbs: 11g
• Fiber: 3g
• Added Sugar: 8g

Pros: No sugar alcohols, very low calorie, contains fiber, easier on digestion
Cons: Contains some added sugar, less creamy texture due to water base

7. Skinny Cow Ice Cream Sandwiches – Best Convenient Format

Price: $
Popular Flavors: Vanilla
Base: Skim Milk
Sweeteners: Sorbitol, Sucralose, Acesulfame Potassium

Skinny Cow has served the low-fat dessert market since the 1990s, recently expanding into no-sugar-added territory. These convenient ice cream sandwiches offer portion control and surprising creaminess despite minimal fat content.

The individually wrapped format prevents overindulgence while providing satisfying sweetness and texture. However, ingredient quality doesn’t match premium brands, with several additives and artificial sweeteners.

Nutritional Snapshot (Vanilla Sandwich, 1 sandwich):

• Calories: 130
• Fat: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Carbs: 27g
• Fiber: 3g
• Added Sugar: 0g

Pros: Convenient portion control, affordable, widely available
Cons: Contains artificial sweeteners and additives, limited flavor options

8. Homemade Banana Ice Cream (Nice Cream)

Making sugar-free ice cream at home gives you complete control over ingredients and sweetness levels. Banana-based “nice cream” requires only frozen ripe bananas and a food processor or high-speed blender.

Basic Recipe:

• 2 frozen ripe bananas
• 2-3 tablespoons unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
• Optional: vanilla extract, cocoa powder, nut butter, other frozen fruits

Blend frozen banana chunks with liquid until smooth and creamy. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas eliminates the need for added sweeteners, though you can add stevia or monk fruit drops if desired.

Nutritional Snapshot (1 small banana with 2 oz almond milk):

• Calories: 100
• Fat: 1g
• Protein: 1g
• Carbs: 24g
• Fiber: 3g
• Natural Sugar: 13g (no added sugar)

Pros: Whole food ingredients, customizable, no additives, affordable
Cons: Contains natural sugars, higher carbs, requires preparation, doesn’t store well

9. Homemade Coconut Milk Ice Cream

For a low-carb, dairy-free homemade option, full-fat coconut milk provides rich, creamy base without added sugars.

Basic Recipe:

• 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
• 1-2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Sugar-free sweetener to taste (stevia, monk fruit, or erythritol)

Combine ingredients, freeze in small portions, partially thaw, then blend until smooth and creamy. Add sugar-free mix-ins like cocoa powder, nut butter, or matcha for variety.

Nutritional Snapshot (1/2 cup plain):

• Calories: 223
• Fat: 24g
• Protein: 2g
• Carbs: 3g
• Fiber: 0g
• Natural Sugar: 1.5g

Pros: Very low carb, no added sugar, dairy-free, customizable
Cons: High in fat and calories, requires preparation

Understanding Sugar Alternatives in Ice Cream

Sugar-free ice creams rely on various sweeteners to replicate the taste of traditional varieties. Understanding these alternatives helps you make informed choices.

Natural Sweeteners

Monk Fruit: Extracted from monk fruit (luo han guo), this zero-calorie sweetener provides sweetness 100-250 times stronger than sugar without affecting blood glucose levels. It has a clean taste with minimal aftertaste.

Stevia: Derived from the stevia plant, this natural sweetener contains zero calories and doesn’t impact blood sugar. Some people detect a slight licorice-like aftertaste, though newer extracts have improved taste profiles.

Allulose: A rare sugar occurring naturally in small quantities in certain fruits. It tastes like regular sugar, contains only 0.4 calories per gram (compared to sugar’s 4 calories), and has minimal impact on blood glucose.

Sugar Alcohols

Erythritol: The most common sugar alcohol in sugar-free ice cream, containing 0.2 calories per gram. It typically causes fewer digestive issues than other sugar alcohols and doesn’t affect blood sugar.

Xylitol: Contains 2.4 calories per gram and may impact blood sugar slightly. Some people experience digestive discomfort at higher doses.

Sorbitol: Contains 2.6 calories per gram. Most likely to cause digestive symptoms when consumed in large amounts.

Artificial Sweeteners

Sucralose: Zero-calorie artificial sweetener that doesn’t affect blood sugar. Generally recognized as safe, though some prefer avoiding artificial options.

Acesulfame Potassium (Ace-K): Zero-calorie sweetener often combined with other sweeteners to enhance taste. Approved by FDA but some consumers prefer natural alternatives.

Health Benefits of Sugar-Free Ice Cream

Blood Sugar Management

Sugar-free ice creams help maintain stable blood glucose levels, making them suitable for people with diabetes or those monitoring carbohydrate intake. Many options also contain protein and fiber, which further minimize blood sugar spikes by slowing digestion and absorption.

Weight Management

With significantly fewer calories than traditional ice cream, sugar-free varieties support weight loss or maintenance goals. Lower calorie options allow you to enjoy dessert while staying within your daily calorie targets.

Dental Health

Reducing sugar intake benefits oral health by limiting fuel for cavity-causing bacteria. Some sugar alcohols like xylitol may even provide protective dental benefits.

Reduced Inflammation

High sugar consumption contributes to chronic inflammation linked to various health conditions. Choosing sugar-free alternatives may help reduce inflammatory markers in the body.

How to Choose the Right Sugar-Free Ice Cream

Consider Your Dietary Goals

For Blood Sugar Control: Focus on total carbohydrate content rather than just sugar. Look for options with high fiber and protein to minimize glucose spikes. Keto-friendly brands typically offer the lowest net carbs.

For Weight Loss: Choose low-calorie options, typically those lower in fat. Light versions of Enlightened, Halo Top, or Arctic Zero work well. Pay attention to portion sizes even with reduced-calorie options.

For Keto Diet: Select high-fat, low-carb options like Rebel or Keto Pint. Calculate net carbs (total carbs minus fiber and sugar alcohols) to ensure you stay within daily limits.

For Dairy-Free Needs: SO Delicious coconut milk options or Halo Top’s non-dairy line provide excellent alternatives. Homemade coconut milk ice cream offers complete ingredient control.

Evaluate Ingredient Quality

Read ingredient labels carefully. Premium options use whole food ingredients like cream, eggs, and real vanilla rather than artificial flavors and numerous stabilizers. Shorter ingredient lists typically indicate higher quality products.

Some people prefer avoiding artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. If ingredient quality matters to you, brands like Rebel, Keto Pint, and homemade options deliver the cleanest profiles.

Consider Digestive Tolerance

Sugar alcohols can cause digestive discomfort including gas, bloating, and diarrhea when consumed in large amounts. If you’re sensitive to these sweeteners, look for products sweetened primarily with monk fruit, stevia, or allulose.

Arctic Zero specifically avoids sugar alcohols, making it gentler on sensitive digestive systems. Start with small portions when trying new products to assess your tolerance.

Taste and Texture Preferences

Higher fat content generally means creamier texture. If mouthfeel matters significantly to you, choose full-fat options like Rebel or Keto Pint. If you prioritize calorie reduction and can accept less creamy texture, light versions work well.

Some sugar-free ice creams develop icy or grainy texture. Reading customer reviews helps identify products with the smoothest consistency.

Potential Drawbacks of Sugar-Free Ice Cream

Digestive Side Effects

Sugar alcohols can cause gastrointestinal symptoms in sensitive individuals, particularly when consumed in amounts exceeding 10-15 grams. Symptoms may include bloating, gas, cramping, and diarrhea. Start with small servings to assess tolerance.

Artificial Ingredients

Some sugar-free ice creams contain numerous additives including stabilizers, emulsifiers, artificial colors, and preservatives. While generally recognized as safe in small amounts, some people prefer avoiding these ingredients.

Still Contains Calories

Sugar-free doesn’t mean calorie-free. Some keto-friendly options contain similar or even higher calories than traditional ice cream due to high fat content. Portion control remains important for weight management.

May Not Satisfy Cravings

Some people find sugar-free alternatives don’t fully satisfy their cravings, potentially leading to overconsumption. If you find yourself eating the entire pint, a small portion of regular ice cream might be more satisfying.

Tips for Enjoying Sugar-Free Ice Cream

Practice Portion Control

Even sugar-free options contain calories. Stick to recommended serving sizes, typically 1/2 to 2/3 cup. Consider pre-portioning servings rather than eating directly from the container.

Let It Soften

Sugar-free ice cream often freezes harder than regular varieties. Allow it to sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping for better texture and flavor.

Enhance Flavor and Nutrition

Top your ice cream with fresh berries, chopped nuts, unsweetened coconut flakes, or sugar-free chocolate chips to add nutrients, texture, and flavor variety.

Experiment with Brands

Taste preferences vary significantly. Try several brands to find your favorites. What works for one person may not appeal to another.

Balance Your Diet

Sugar-free ice cream can be part of a balanced diet but shouldn’t replace nutrient-dense foods. Ensure you’re meeting your needs for fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

Sugar-Free Ice Cream for Special Diets

Ketogenic Diet

Keto followers need high-fat, very low-carb options. Rebel, Keto Pint, and Enlightened’s keto line provide suitable choices. Always calculate net carbs to ensure you stay within your daily limits, typically 20-50 grams.

Diabetes Management

People with diabetes benefit from sugar-free ice cream’s minimal impact on blood glucose. However, total carbohydrates still matter. Choose options with the lowest net carbs and highest fiber and protein content. Always monitor blood sugar response to new foods.

Vegan Diet

SO Delicious coconut milk frozen desserts and Halo Top’s non-dairy line suit vegan diets. Homemade options using coconut milk or cashew cream provide additional choices.

Low-FODMAP Diet

Some sugar alcohols like sorbitol and xylitol are high FODMAP and may trigger symptoms in IBS sufferers. Look for products sweetened with stevia, monk fruit, or small amounts of erythritol, which is generally better tolerated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is sugar-free ice cream healthier than regular ice cream?

Sugar-free ice cream typically contains fewer calories and carbohydrates, making it beneficial for weight management and blood sugar control. However, “healthier” depends on your individual health goals and how the product fits into your overall diet. Some sugar-free options contain more additives than premium regular ice cream.

Can I eat sugar-free ice cream every day?

While sugar-free ice cream can be part of a balanced diet, daily consumption may not be ideal. These products often contain sugar alcohols that can cause digestive issues with regular consumption. Additionally, they shouldn’t replace nutrient-dense foods in your diet. Enjoy them as occasional treats rather than daily staples.

Does sugar-free ice cream taste good?

Taste varies significantly by brand and individual preferences. Many premium sugar-free brands like Rebel, Keto Pint, and Enlightened receive excellent reviews for taste and texture. Some people detect aftertastes from certain sweeteners. Trying multiple brands helps you find options you enjoy.

Will sugar-free ice cream raise blood sugar?

Sugar-free ice cream has minimal impact on blood sugar compared to regular ice cream. However, it’s not completely neutral. Some contain small amounts of sugar, and all contain some carbohydrates that can affect glucose levels. People with diabetes should monitor their individual response and consider total carbohydrate content.

Are sugar alcohols safe?

Sugar alcohols are generally recognized as safe by regulatory agencies when consumed in moderate amounts. The main side effect is digestive discomfort in some people, particularly with higher doses. Erythritol typically causes fewer symptoms than other sugar alcohols. If you experience issues, choose products without sugar alcohols.

Can children eat sugar-free ice cream?

Sugar-free ice cream is generally safe for children in appropriate portions. However, children may be more sensitive to sugar alcohols’ digestive effects. Consider limiting portion sizes and monitoring for any discomfort. Focus on whole foods for children’s primary nutrition, using sugar-free treats occasionally.

How do I store sugar-free ice cream?

Store sugar-free ice cream in your freezer’s main compartment, not the door, to maintain consistent temperature. Keep it tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn. These products may freeze harder than regular ice cream due to lower sugar content, which acts as antifreeze.

Conclusion

Sugar-free and low-sugar ice creams offer delicious ways to enjoy frozen desserts while managing sugar intake, supporting weight goals, or controlling blood sugar levels. From keto-friendly high-fat options to low-calorie alternatives and dairy-free choices, today’s market provides something for every dietary need and preference.

The best sugar-free ice cream for you depends on your individual goals, taste preferences, and dietary requirements. Whether you choose premium brands like Rebel and Keto Pint for their creamy texture, budget-friendly options like Halo Top, or homemade varieties for complete ingredient control, you can satisfy your sweet tooth without derailing your health objectives.

Remember that even sugar-free treats should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet rich in whole foods. Pay attention to portion sizes, consider your tolerance for sugar alcohols and other sweeteners, and choose products with quality ingredients that align with your nutritional goals.

With the information in this guide, you’re equipped to make informed decisions about sugar-free ice cream that support both your health and your taste buds. Enjoy your guilt-free frozen treats!

Sources:

• National Institutes of Health – Sugar Alcohols and Digestive Health
• American Diabetes Association – Nutrition Guidelines
• National Institutes of Health – Low-Calorie Sweeteners
• American Heart Association – Added Sugars
• National Institutes of Health – Safety of Artificial Sweeteners