The Best Dairy-Free Ice Creams That Actually Taste Like Ice Cream

Once upon a time, going dairy-free meant resigning yourself to a life of icy sorbets and the questionable coconut-based concoctions that tasted like sunscreen. But lo and behold, times have changed. The wizards of the frozen section have conjured up some dairy-free ice creams that truly taste like heaven in a bowl.

Here’s a ranking of the best of the best—creamy, dreamy alternatives that even the most dedicated dairy enthusiasts will struggle to fault.

1. Ben & Jerry’s Non-Dairy (Selection of Flavours)

Ah, Ben & Jerry’s—the brand that understands that if an ice cream doesn’t have at least five different mix-ins, is it even worth eating? Their non-dairy range is made with almond or oat milk, and, unlike some dairy-free options, it’s got the same luscious texture as the real thing. Flavours like ‘Netflix & Chilled, 'Chocolate Fudge Brownie', and of course the classic 'Cookie Dough' are just 'Mwahh, chefs kiss'. The only downside? You’ll still eat the entire tub in one go and regret nothing.

2. Häagen-Dazs Non-Dairy (Multiple Flavours)

Häagen-Dazs may have a name that’s impossible to type correctly on the first try, but their dairy-free line-up is surprisingly effortless. Their chocolate fudge option is so unbelievably rich and smooth and the vanilla flavour is absolutely spot-on—simple, and devoid of that weird artificial aftertaste some plant-based alternatives have.

3. Booja-Booja (Various Flavours)

Booja-Booja sounds like the name of a rogue toddler’s imaginary friend, but don’t let that put you off. This organic, cashew-based ice cream is rich, and packed with natural ingredients. The Caramel Pecan Praline is borderline dangerous, while the Chocolate Salted Caramel is the stuff of dairy-free dreams. Slightly on the pricey side, but then again, so is heartbreak, and honestly this is much more satisfying.

4. Swedish Glace (Vanilla & Raspberry)

If you prefer your ice cream classic, creamy, and without unnecessary frills, Swedish Glace is the one for you. Their vanilla flavour is so smooth it could double as a motivational speaker, and the raspberry option tastes like summer in a scoop. It’s also one of the most affordable dairy-free options out there, so you can eat it straight from the tub without feeling like you’ve made a poor financial decision.

5. Coconuts Organic (Various Flavours)

If you don’t mind a bit of coconut flavour lingering in the background, Coconuts Organic is a brilliant pick. It’s made with just a few natural ingredients, and the texture is super thick and creamy. Their Chocolate Orange Swirl is dangerously moreish—think of it as the ice cream version of those Christmas chocolates you say you don’t love but secretly do.

Honourable Mention: Oatly Ice Cream

Oat milk has been taking over the world one latte at a time, and now it’s making its mark in the ice cream aisle. Oatly’s ice cream is undeniably smooth and indulgent, with flavours like Hazelnut Swirl and Salted Caramel which are really great. It does have a slightly oat-y undertone, so if you’re oat-averse, this might not be your top pick.