Dairy-Free Summer Vibes
Summer brings the heat. And if you’re anything like me, you’re searching for that perfect dairy-free treat to cool down with (in the United States). Whether you’re newly vegan or lactose-intolerant, finding frozen desserts that are actually worth it can be… a journey.
I’ve done the digging for you on VeggL.com and here’s the scoop (literally!) on where you can cool down this summer.
–> Our complete vegan guide for each of these businesses is linked. And other than the brand Oatly, most of the items we share below are accidentally vegan. Oatly is 100% vegan. Cross-contamination can/will occur at an establishment that is not 100% vegan though. You choose your level of comfort.
Let’s get into it!
Andy’s Frozen Custard
Unfortunately, Andy’s has yet to jump on the vegan custard train. But! They do offer Zarlengo’s Italian Ice in flavors like lemon and strawberry, which are totally dairy-free and refreshing on a hot day. Not every location may have them, so check ahead if you’re planning a visit.
Baskin Robbins
Baskin Robbins
has been showing up for us with some non-dairy vegan flavors. Flavors rotate, but some standouts include Non-Dairy Cookies ‘n Creme and Strawberry Streusel. Pair any of them with a cake cone (the sugar cone contains honey) or go for a scoop in a cup when you’re on the go.
Carvel
Carvel might be known for their soft-serve, but they’re making space for us too. Their Italian Ice is dairy-free and accidentally vegan. It comes in a variety of rotating fruity flavors. Oatly (100% vegan) is on the menu as well but you will need to check your location for flavor options. Grab a cone (cake or sugar), which is vegan-friendly if you’re just craving a crunchy, nostalgic bite of summer.
Cold Stone Creamery
Cold Stone Creamery offers Silk Chocolate Almondmilk Frozen Dessert, which you can mix with your favorite vegan mix-ins like almonds, strawberries, peanut butter, and Oreos (yep, they’re accidentally vegan!). You’ll want to skip the cones, though. If you’re not sure what to create, go with a Chocolate Silk Shake or Cold Stone’s Creation, Don’t Cry Over Spilled Silk. It comes with Silk Chocolate Almondmilk Frozen Dessert, banana, peanut butter & roasted almonds.
Insomnia Cookies
Insomnia Cookies is bringing the summer magic with their Vegan Cotton Candy Ice Cream — dreamy, sweet, and totally dairy-free. You can take it up a notch by building your own Vegan Ice Cream Sandwich using their soft-baked Vegan Chocolate Chunk, Double Chocolate Chunk, or Birthday Cake cookies. It’s the perfect late-night (or anytime) summer treat.
Dairy Queen
While Dairy Queen is slow to expand vegan options, they’ve had a win since April 2020 with their Non-Dairy Dilly Bars — made with coconut cream and dipped in chocolate. They’re sweet, nostalgic, and accidentally vegan. Do not discount their Star Kiss Frozen Treat (check with your location for availability) as well. And if you’re in a pinch, their Misty Slushes (like cherry, lemon-lime, or blue raspberry) are also dairy-free and refreshing on a hot day.
Bruster’s
Bruster’s, a very nostalgic place for us, offers oat milk-based flavors that are creamy and flavorful–think Black Raspberry, Chocolate Chip, and Mango (flavors vary by location). They also offer a rotating selection of Italian Ice for something lighter and fruitier. Skip the waffle cone (contains calf’s milk and egg), but their cake and sugar cones are accidentally vegan and perfect for stacking your scoops.
Creamistry
Creamistry is customizable, and that’s their superpower. Start with a non-dairy base like coconut, cashew, or oat milk (there are more options!), then choose from vegan-friendly flavors and mix-ins. It’s a little pricier, but it’s made to order and super creamy.
Ben & Jerry’s
Non-Dairy line uses oat, almond or sunflower butter bases, with indulgent flavors like Cherry Garcia, Lights Caramel Action! and Phish Food. Grab a pint at the store or check scoop shops for availability. Typically a Ben & Jerry’s Scoop Shop will have 1-2 non-dairy flavors. Their sugar cones are an accidentally option as well!
Sub Zero
Sub Zero is another made-to-order spot that lets you choose your base — and yes, they offer vegan-friendly coconut, almond, oat and cashew milk options. Mix in fruit, nuts, or even Oreos. It’s interactive and fun, perfect for kids or date nights.
Final Scoop
Finding dairy-free frozen treats used to feel daunting. These spots are making it easier (and tastier) than ever to stay cool while staying true to your values. If you’re out and about this summer and unsure what you can order at a chain restaurant near you, head to VeggL.com. We do our best to keep our guides updated so you don’t have to stress about what to order.
And if you ever see one of our guide needs updated or you notice a vegan addition can be made, please let us know!
Here’s to joy-filled, cruelty-free moments all summer long.
