Chill Out With Vegan Ice Cream

When summer’s heat has got you feeling hot and sticky, nothing beats a scoop (or three) of ice cream to keep you cool. Next time you’re perusing the ice cream aisle or picking a flavor at your neighborhood ice cream parlor, consider trying the dairy free variety.

Not only is the dairy industry heavily dependent on water, it’s also a major source of pollution and creates harmful runoff that ends up in our waterways and aquifers. With so many plant-based alternatives on the market these days, it’s simple to make the switch to dairy-free. Vegans, plant-based eaters, and lactose-intolerant friends, look no further: we’ve gathered ten vegan ice creams that’ll have you sneaking into the freezer, spoon in hand. Dairy eaters be warned. 


1. Frankie & Jo’s

This Seattle-based company crafts plant-based ice cream in unexpected flavors with the finest ingredients. They make their nut milk bases from scratch, and even use dates to sweeten some of their flavors. If you live in Seattle, stop by their store to try out their homemade maple vanilla gluten free waffle cone. If you live somewhere else, order a pack of four straight to your doorstep.

Learn More About Frankie & Jo’s


2. FoMu 

The folds behind FoMu pride themselves in the rich and creamy, gelato-like texture of their ice cream, created during a special churning process that reduces the amount of air in each serving. Coconut milk makes up the base of most flavors, with the exception of a few nut milk-based pints. Boston folks, head down to FoMu’s storefront for seasonally available ChocoTacos and ice cream sandwiches. If you don’t live in the Greater Boston area, no need to feel guilty about ordering a few pints online – FoMu wraps all shipments in eco-friendly packaging. 

Learn More About FoMu


3. Nora’s

Nora’s started in a Cuisinart home ice cream maker in the founder’s kitchen after one too many run-ins with vegan ice cream that missed the mark. After experimenting with different recipes for 8 months, the company was founded with the intention to create a plant-based ice cream that is just as delicious and creamy as the real stuff. Made in small batches in Vancouver, Nora’s dairy-free ice cream is made with coconut milk and homemade cashew milk. 

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4. Wink

Not your average plant-based ice cream, Wink uses yellow peas as the base for their take on this non-dairy treat. When it comes to making ice cream less of an indulgence and more of a healthy treat, Wink takes it a step further and uses zero-glycemic sweeteners like stevia and monk fruit to make for a dessert that’s actually good for you. At only 100 calories a pint, the people behind Wink are almost asking for you to dig right in, no cup or cone required. 

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5. Häagen-Dazs

Häagen-Dazs recently released their first dairy-free line, with enticing flavors like peanut butter chocolate fudge and coconut caramel. Instead of substituting non-dairy milk for the cow’s milk they use in their traditional recipes, Häagen-Dazs uses a core ingredient, like peanut butter or chocolate, as the base of their non-dairy ice creams, making for a truly decadent experience. 

Learn More about Häagen-Dazs


6. Cado

Didn’t think you could eat your fruits and veggies while also enjoying a cup of ice cream? Think again. Cado turns avocados into a delightfully creamy sweet, perfect for summer evenings. Each pint contains one avocado and their flavors include lemon, mint chocolate chip, and dark chocolate.

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7. Van Leeuwen

New Yorkers and Los Angelenos surely have seen the Van Leeuwen ice cream trucks driving through the streets in the thick summer heat or have stood in the lengthy lines stretching outside their many store fronts. There’s a reason for the hype: Van Leeuwen’s vegan flavors are so creamy, you’ll forget they’re dairy-free. Their unique and seasonal flavors never cease to delight. Pick up a pint at the supermarket or order a few online.

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8. Ben & Jerry’s

A go-to option for impromptu evening runs to the supermarket, Ben & Jerry’s continues to expand their vegan line of ice cream. Replicating favorites like Cherry Garcia and Chunky Monkey, eating dairy-free never has to feel like a sacrifice. 

Learn More About Ben & Jerry’s


9. Virtuous Ice Cream

Canada and Washington State-based company Virtuous Pie has branched out into the world of plant-based ice cream. On their menu you’ll find health-forward flavors like Turmeric & Black Pepper and Matcha & Coconut. Pick up a pint at one of their locations, or get a scoop in either a classic or gluten free waffle cone.

Learn More About Virtuous Ice Cream


10. Chill by CHLOE.

Favorite vegan New York eatery, by CHLOE., recently launched Chill, a line of plant based ice cream with cashews, coconuts, almonds, and hazelnuts at it’s core. Stop by one of their locations for to pick up a pint or two or try one their push pops, which are served with a cupcake, babka, or banana bread.

Learn More About Chill by CHLOE.