Lowest Calorie Ice Cream: Best Brands, Benefits & Homemade Recipes

Ice cream lovers watching their calorie intake no longer have to give up their favorite frozen treat. The market for lowest calorie ice cream has exploded in recent years, offering delicious alternatives that contain a fraction of the calories found in traditional ice cream.

Whether you’re managing your weight, following a specific diet plan, or simply looking for healthier dessert options, understanding the lowest calorie ice cream choices available can help you enjoy this beloved treat guilt-free.

This comprehensive guide explores the best low-calorie ice cream brands, what makes them healthier alternatives, and provides simple recipes you can make at home.

Understanding Low-Calorie Ice Cream

Traditional ice cream typically contains 200-300 calories per half-cup serving, with high amounts of sugar and saturated fat. The lowest calorie ice cream options, by contrast, range from 40-150 calories per serving.

Manufacturers achieve these lower calorie counts through several methods:

• Protein substitution: Using whey protein or milk protein isolate to create creamy texture while adding nutritional value
• Alternative sweeteners: Incorporating sugar alcohols like erythritol or natural sweeteners like stevia instead of regular sugar
• Milk alternatives: Using almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk instead of full-fat dairy
• Air incorporation: Increasing air content (overrun) to reduce calorie density
• Fiber addition: Adding soluble corn fiber or chicory root fiber for creaminess and bulk

While these methods effectively reduce calories, not all low-calorie ice creams are created equal in terms of overall nutritional value.

Health Benefits of Choosing Lowest Calorie Ice Cream

Switching to the lowest calorie ice cream options can offer several health advantages:

Weight Management Support

The most obvious benefit is calorie reduction. Consuming 70-100 calories instead of 250-300 calories per serving can significantly impact your daily caloric intake, making it easier to maintain or lose weight while still enjoying dessert.

Higher Protein Content

Many low-calorie ice cream brands contain 5-12 grams of protein per serving, compared to 2-4 grams in regular ice cream. This increased protein helps with satiety, muscle maintenance, and blood sugar stabilization.

Lower Sugar Intake

The lowest calorie ice cream options typically contain significantly less added sugar, which can help reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic conditions associated with excessive sugar consumption.

Portion Control Made Easier

With fewer consequences per serving, you may find it easier to enjoy a reasonable portion without derailing your health goals.

Top Lowest Calorie Ice Cream Brands

Here are the best commercially available low-calorie ice cream options ranked by calorie content:

Arctic Zero (35-40 calories per serving)

Arctic Zero holds the title for the lowest calorie ice cream widely available in stores. With just 35-40 calories per 2/3 cup serving, it’s made with monk fruit sweetener and contains no sugar alcohols. The brand offers both dairy-based and non-dairy varieties in flavors like Chocolate Chunk, Vanilla Bean, and Cookie Shake.

Halo Top (60-90 calories per serving)

One of the most popular brands, Halo Top offers approximately 60-90 calories per half-cup serving, depending on flavor. Each serving contains 5-6 grams of protein and uses a blend of organic cane sugar and stevia. The brand boasts over 40 flavors, including both dairy and dairy-free options.

Enlightened (70-100 calories per serving)

Enlightened ice cream contains 70-100 calories per serving with 4-6 grams of protein. The brand uses a combination of milk protein and erythritol, creating a creamy texture. They offer traditional dairy pints, dairy-free varieties, and ice cream bars.

Yasso Frozen Greek Yogurt Bars (80-100 calories)

Made with Greek yogurt, Yasso bars provide 5-6 grams of protein and 80-100 calories per bar. The texture differs slightly from traditional ice cream but offers a creamy, satisfying alternative.

Chilly Cow (90-100 calories per serving)

Using ultra-filtered milk, Chilly Cow delivers 12 grams of protein and 90-100 calories per half-cup serving. The high protein content makes this one of the most filling low-calorie options.

So Delicious Dairy Free (90-120 calories per serving)

For those seeking plant-based options, So Delicious offers varieties made from coconut milk, cashew milk, oat milk, and almond milk. Many flavors use organic ingredients and range from 90-120 calories per serving.

Breyers Delights (90-120 calories per serving)

A more widely available option in mainstream grocery stores, Breyers Delights contains 90-120 calories and 6-7 grams of protein per half-cup serving. The brand uses a stevia and erythritol blend for sweetness.

Nick’s Ice Cream (90-130 calories per serving)

A Swedish brand gaining popularity in the U.S., Nick’s uses only natural ingredients with no artificial sweeteners. Each serving contains approximately 90-130 calories with 6-7 grams of protein.

What to Look for When Choosing the Lowest Calorie Ice Cream

Not all low-calorie ice creams are equally healthy. Use these criteria when shopping:

Check the Ingredient List

Shorter ingredient lists generally indicate less processing. Look for recognizable ingredients like milk, cream, eggs, and natural sweeteners. Be wary of products with long lists of additives, stabilizers, and artificial ingredients.

Evaluate the Serving Size

Some brands use smaller serving sizes (1/3 cup or 1/2 cup) to make their calorie counts appear lower. Compare products using the same volume measurements.

Consider Added Sugar Content

Aim for ice creams with 5 grams or less of added sugar per serving. Remember that sugar alcohols aren’t counted as sugar on labels but may affect some people’s digestion.

Assess Protein Content

Higher protein content (5+ grams per serving) helps increase satiety and makes the treat more nutritionally balanced. Protein also helps slow down sugar absorption.

Review Saturated Fat Levels

Look for options with 3 grams or less of saturated fat per serving. While some saturated fat is acceptable, keeping it moderate helps maintain heart health.

Identify Sugar Substitutes

Common sweeteners in low-calorie ice cream include:

• Erythritol: A sugar alcohol that doesn’t impact blood sugar but may cause digestive issues in large amounts
• Stevia: A natural, plant-based sweetener with zero calories
• Monk fruit: A natural sweetener derived from monk fruit extract
• Allulose: A rare sugar with minimal caloric impact and no blood sugar spike

Watch for Fiber Content

Some brands add significant amounts of fiber (5-15 grams per serving) which can cause digestive discomfort if you’re not used to it. Gradually increase your fiber intake to avoid bloating and gas.

Potential Drawbacks of Low-Calorie Ice Cream

Despite the benefits, there are some considerations to keep in mind:

Digestive Issues

Sugar alcohols like erythritol and high fiber content can cause bloating, gas, and diarrhea in sensitive individuals, especially when consumed in large quantities.

Overeating Risk

The perception that low-calorie ice cream is “healthy” may lead some people to consume larger portions or eat it more frequently, potentially negating the calorie benefits.

Processing Concerns

Many low-calorie ice creams are highly processed and contain numerous additives, stabilizers, and emulsifiers. While generally recognized as safe, some people prefer to minimize processed food consumption.

Taste and Texture Differences

Due to their modified formulations, low-calorie ice creams may have different textures and flavors compared to traditional ice cream. Some people find them less satisfying.

Cost Factor

The lowest calorie ice cream brands typically cost $4-7 per pint, significantly more expensive than regular ice cream.

Homemade Lowest Calorie Ice Cream Recipes

Making your own low-calorie ice cream gives you complete control over ingredients while saving money. Here are four simple recipes:

Banana Nice Cream (90 calories per serving)

This is the simplest lowest calorie ice cream you can make at home.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe bananas, sliced and frozen
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder (optional)
• 2 tablespoons almond milk, as needed

Instructions:

1. Place frozen banana slices in a food processor
2. Pulse until crumbly, then process continuously until smooth and creamy
3. Add vanilla extract and cocoa powder if using
4. Add almond milk if needed to reach desired consistency
5. Serve immediately for soft-serve texture, or freeze for 1-2 hours for firmer consistency

Yields 2 servings at approximately 90 calories each.

Greek Yogurt Berry Frozen Treat (95 calories per serving)

Ingredients:

• 2 cups plain non-fat Greek yogurt
• 2 cups frozen mixed berries
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a food processor or high-powered blender
2. Process until completely smooth, stopping to scrape down sides
3. Pour into a freezer-safe container
4. Freeze for 3-4 hours, stirring every 30 minutes for the first 2 hours
5. Allow to soften at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving

Makes 4 servings at approximately 95 calories each with 10 grams of protein.

Chocolate Avocado Ice Cream (110 calories per serving)

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe avocados
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/3 cup maple syrup or honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
• Pinch of sea salt

Instructions:

1. Blend all ingredients in a food processor until silky smooth
2. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed
3. Transfer to a freezer-safe container
4. Freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm
5. Let stand at room temperature for 10 minutes before scooping

Yields 6 servings at approximately 110 calories each with healthy fats.

Coconut Milk Vanilla Ice Cream (105 calories per serving)

Ingredients:

• 1 can (13.5 oz) light coconut milk
• 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1/3 cup erythritol or preferred sweetener
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum (optional, for creaminess)
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Whisk together coconut milk, almond milk, sweetener, vanilla, xanthan gum, and salt
2. Chill mixture in refrigerator for at least 2 hours
3. Process in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions
4. If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour into a shallow container and freeze, stirring vigorously every 30 minutes for 3-4 hours
5. Store in freezer-safe container

Makes 4 servings at approximately 105 calories each.

Tips for Enjoying Low-Calorie Ice Cream

Maximize your experience with these practical suggestions:

Let It Soften

Low-calorie ice cream often freezes harder than regular ice cream due to lower fat content. Allow it to sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving for better texture and flavor.

Practice Portion Control

Even though it’s lower in calories, measuring your serving size helps you stay within your nutritional goals. Use a measuring cup or food scale initially to understand proper portions.

Pair with Fresh Fruit

Add fresh berries, sliced peaches, or other fruit to increase volume, add natural sweetness, and boost nutritional content without significantly increasing calories.

Add Texture

Top with a small amount of nuts, dark chocolate chips, or granola for added crunch and satisfaction. Just watch portion sizes on these calorie-dense toppings.

Stay Hydrated

Some people experience digestive discomfort from sugar alcohols. Drinking plenty of water can help minimize these effects.

Listen to Your Body

If you notice bloating, gas, or digestive upset after eating low-calorie ice cream, you may be sensitive to certain sugar alcohols or fiber additives. Try different brands or make homemade versions.

Comparing Nutritional Profiles

Here’s how the lowest calorie ice cream compares to traditional ice cream per half-cup serving:

Type	Calories	Fat	Carbs	Protein	Sugar
Traditional Ice Cream	250-300	14-18g	28-32g	3-5g	20-25g
Lowest Calorie Ice Cream	40-100	1-4g	10-20g	5-12g	2-8g
Homemade Low-Calorie	90-120	2-6g	15-22g	6-10g	8-12g

Special Dietary Considerations

Keto-Friendly Options

For those following ketogenic diets, look for ice creams with 5 grams or fewer net carbs per serving. Brands like Enlightened Keto Collection and Rebel Ice Cream specifically cater to keto dieters.

Dairy-Free Alternatives

Plant-based lowest calorie ice cream options include those made from almond, coconut, cashew, and oat milk. These work well for lactose-intolerant individuals and vegans.

Sugar-Free Selections

Some brands offer completely sugar-free versions sweetened entirely with sugar alcohols or alternative sweeteners. These are suitable for diabetics but should be consumed in moderation.

Gluten-Free Varieties

Most low-calorie ice creams are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels, especially for flavors containing cookies, brownies, or other mix-ins.

Sustainability and Environmental Considerations

When choosing the lowest calorie ice cream, you might also consider environmental impact:

• Plant-based options generally have a lower carbon footprint than dairy-based products
• Organic ingredients may reduce pesticide exposure and support sustainable farming
• Local brands can reduce transportation emissions
• Minimal packaging helps reduce waste

The Bottom Line

The lowest calorie ice cream options available today make it possible to enjoy frozen desserts while managing calorie intake. With choices ranging from 35-150 calories per serving, you can find products that fit your taste preferences and nutritional needs.

When selecting commercial brands, prioritize options with shorter ingredient lists, adequate protein content, minimal added sugar, and sweeteners your body tolerates well. Arctic Zero, Halo Top, and Enlightened consistently rank among the best lowest calorie ice cream brands.

For maximum control over ingredients and cost savings, making homemade low-calorie ice cream is surprisingly simple and requires minimal equipment. Banana nice cream, Greek yogurt-based recipes, and coconut milk varieties all deliver delicious results.

Remember that even the lowest calorie ice cream should be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. While these products can support weight management goals, they shouldn’t replace nutrient-dense whole foods. Practice portion control, listen to your body’s response to different ingredients, and don’t forget that occasional enjoyment of regular ice cream in appropriate portions can also fit into a healthy lifestyle.

Whether you choose commercial brands or homemade recipes, the availability of low-calorie ice cream means you no longer have to choose between your health goals and enjoying frozen treats.

Sources:

• National Institutes of Health – Nutrition and Dietary Guidelines
• United States Department of Agriculture – Nutritional Database
• American Heart Association – Saturated Fat Guidelines
• American Diabetes Association – Sugar Intake Recommendations
• U.S. Food and Drug Administration – Food Additives and Sweeteners
• National Center for Biotechnology Information – Research on Sugar Alcohols
• Mayo Clinic – Healthy Diet and Weight Management