8 Best High-Protein Ice Creams To Enjoy in 2025

High-protein ice cream lets you satisfy your cravings without sabotaging your macros. According to Cleveland Clinic, registered dietitian Julia Zumpano, RD, LD, explains that the added protein in ice cream can help stabilize blood sugar by slowing glucose absorption and promoting satiety. Additionally, protein-rich ice cream may help you feel fuller faster, which could naturally reduce portion sizes. 

What if you could enjoy a creamy, indulgent scoop without messing up your protein goals? Whether cutting, bulking or just trying to make smarter choices, the best protein ice cream brands offer sweet satisfaction while controlling sugar and fat.

With so many options on the market, how do you know which ones are actually worth the hype? We’ve rounded up the top high-protein ice cream that delivers on taste, texture and nutrition. Whether you’re in the mood for a pint, a bar or a sandwich, these picks will crush cravings while helping you stay on track.

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• What Is High-Protein Ice Cream?
• The 8 Best High-Protein Ice Cream Brands
• What Is the Best High-Protein Ice Cream?

What Is High-Protein Ice Cream?

High-protein ice cream is a frozen dessert designed to offer more protein per serving than traditional ice cream while keeping sugar and fat in check. Compared to traditional ice cream, which relies on heavy cream and sugar for its rich texture, high-protein versions incorporate ingredients like milk protein concentrate, whey protein or plant-based proteins to deliver a protein boost without excessive calories.

Many high-protein ice cream brands also swap out refined sugar for alternatives like monk fruit, stevia, erythritol or allulose to keep sugar levels low while maintaining sweetness. When choosing the right high-protein ice cream, it's important to look beyond just the protein count. A good option should have a balanced protein-to-calorie ratio, minimal added sugars and natural ingredients without artificial flavors or colors. 

Some options include adding fiber or prebiotic ingredients to support digestion and improve satiety. With a variety of flavors available, ranging from classics like vanilla and chocolate to more creative options like brownie dough or caramel swirl, there’s a choice out there for every taste preference.

The 8 Best High-Protein Ice Cream Brands

1. Halo Top

Halo Top has become a go-to for fitness enthusiasts, dieters and anyone looking for an option that won’t wreck their calorie goals. Each pint packs around 20 grams of protein, making it a solid pick for those trying to hit their daily intake without resorting to bland, chalky protein shakes. A single serving can have as little as 70 calories and 5 grams of protein, which is far better than most traditional ice creams.

When it launched in 2011 (though it gained wider recognition around 2012), nobody expected a low-calorie, high-protein ice cream to outsell industry giants like Ben & Jerry’s and Häagen-Dazs, but it did. The magic behind Halo Top comes from its unique ingredient mix. Instead of loading up on sugar and cream, it uses ultrafiltered skim milk, milk protein concentrate, prebiotic fiber and natural sugar substitutes like stevia and erythritol. This keeps it sweet without a sugar overload, making it a strong choice for high-protein snacks that fit into a balanced diet.

Beyond the macros, Halo Top features a wide selection of flavors to choose from. They deliver on the classics like Chocolate, Vanilla Bean and Cookies & Cream but also mix in bolder options like Turtle Cheesecake, Red Velvet and Oatmeal Cookies. The variety is impressive, and with dairy-free, keto and fruit-based options, it’s a high-protein ice cream that works for almost any diet.

2. Arctic Zero

Arctic Zero isn’t your typical high-protein ice cream. First introduced in 2009, the brand later debuted a plant-based line in 2018 and caters to vegan, keto and low-glycemic diets. Unlike traditional ice creams that rely on dairy and heavy fats, Arctic Zero’s plant-based offerings use faba bean protein concentrate, giving a vegan-friendly protein boost while keeping carbs low, fat minimal and sugar light.

Because of its newer non-dairy line, Arctic Zero is a perfect option for those who avoid or limit dairy. Vegans can enjoy a fully plant-based treat without coconut or nut-based fillers, and lactose-intolerant individuals can skip the digestive discomfort. (Note that Arctic Zero also carries dairy-based “light” ice creams, so not all products are vegan.)

Depending on the flavor, each pint generally contains anywhere from 6 to 12 grams of protein. That’s still more protein than most traditional frozen desserts, and the calories remain impressively low. While precise protein counts vary, Arctic Zero stands out as one of the best healthy snacks available. 

3. Enlightened

Enlightened has been shaking up the high-protein ice cream market since 2012, bringing a low-calorie, low-sugar option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Unlike many light ice creams, it doesn’t just come in pints; it also offers bars, making it an easy, portion-controlled treat. With a focus on real ingredients and natural sweeteners like monk fruit and allulose, Enlightened is one of the healthiest ice cream brands for anyone looking to enjoy dessert without sugar overload.

What sets this brand apart is that it delivers the same creamy indulgence as traditional ice cream while keeping the macros in check. A 2/3-cup serving of their Cookies & Cream pint packs 6 grams of protein, 120 calories and just 7 grams of sugar.

Some flavors, like their keto-friendly options, contain as little as 1 gram of sugar and 2 grams of net carbs per serving, making them a hit for those following a ketogenic diet. While some light ice creams struggle with iciness, Enlightened’s high-protein ice cream formula offers a smoother, silkier consistency, especially after letting it sit for a few minutes. 

4. Skinny Cow

Skinny Cow is all about giving you that classic ice cream experience without the calorie overload. While it may not have the highest protein count among high-protein ice cream options, it still offers a decent boost, typically around 3 to 6 grams per serving. 

This brand leans into lower-fat, lower-calorie indulgence rather than being a hardcore protein-focused brand. Made from a mix of skim milk, cream and buttermilk, it has a smoother, creamier texture than some other high-protein ice cream that rely heavily on sugar alcohols or artificial sweeteners.

For those watching their sugar intake, Skinny Cow still keeps things in check compared to traditional ice creams. Most flavors contain around 14 grams of sugar per serving, significantly lower than what you'd find in a standard scoop of premium ice cream. If you’re looking for variety, the lineup includes nostalgic sandwiches like Vanilla Gone Wild, crunchy cones like Not Fudging Around Chocolate Fudge and rich pints like Brownies & Cookie Dough.

It’s also a solid option for those who want high-protein breakfast ideas that feel enjoyable — because, let’s be honest, sometimes ice cream in the morning just makes sense.

5. Yasso 

Since 2011, Yasso has been redefining high-protein ice cream with its frozen Greek yogurt bars, proving that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for better nutrition. By using real Greek yogurt as the base, Yasso delivers a naturally creamy texture with the bonus of 5 to 7 grams of protein per bar. Unlike some of the best protein ice cream brands, Yasso skips the sugar alcohols and artificial sweeteners, making it a great choice for those who want a more natural frozen treat.

What sets Yasso apart is its smooth consistency and well-balanced sweetness, avoiding the chalky or overly processed feel that some protein-packed desserts have. The flavor selection is equally impressive, ranging from indulgent options like Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough and Chocolate Fudge to fruity choices like Pineapple Coconut and Strawberries & Cream.

Nutritionally, Yasso bars hit the sweet spot between indulgence and smart choices. Each one has between 80 and 140 calories, keeping sugar at bay while delivering a satisfying protein boost. As a result, Yasso remains a standout in the high-protein ice cream category for its clean ingredients and delicious, guilt-free taste.

6. Keto Pint 

Created in 2018, Keto Pint is a brand built with a purpose. This product is designed to offer a premium, zero-added-sugar treat that fits seamlessly into a ketogenic lifestyle. Every pint, bar and cream bar is crafted with healthy fats, moderate protein and minimal net carbs.

Keto Pint swaps out sugar for erythritol, monk fruit and stevia, delivering just the right amount of sweetness without causing blood sugar spikes. This high-protein ice cream is made with milk protein concentrate and egg yolks, providing around 4 grams of protein per ⅔-cup serving. These ingredients not only enhance the creamy texture but also help promote satiety, making it a smart option for those following a low-carb lifestyle. 

This brand takes keto seriously, with flavors designed to satisfy cravings without kicking you out of ketosis. Options like Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, Triple Chocolate Brownie and Mint Chip offer a decadent experience without the usual sugar overload. As a high-protein ice cream designed for those who prioritize clean ingredients, it’s a dessert that fits into a balanced, low-sugar lifestyle without compromise.

7. Snow Monkey

Most frozen desserts are either indulgent or healthy, but Snow Monkey proves you don’t have to choose. Founded by two female athletes, this brand was created to fuel active lifestyles with a dairy-free, paleo-friendly dessert free from common allergens.

Snow Monkey packs real superfoods into every pint, offering a nutrient-dense treat that fuels your body while satisfying your sweet tooth. Instead of dairy or artificial sweeteners, Snow Monkey’s base features banana puree, apple puree and hemp protein powder, offering natural sweetness, fiber and a plant-based protein boost.

Protein content varies slightly by flavor, typically around 5 to 7 grams of protein per serving — making it a solid choice for those looking to get extra nutrition in their high-protein ice cream. The hemp protein offers all nine essential amino acids, while the fruit-based formula delivers gut-friendly fiber. Dairy, gluten, nuts and soy are absent, making this an especially allergen-friendly choice.

Snow Monkey flavors like Acai Berry, Matcha Green Tea, Cinnamon and Passion Fruit each bring naturally occurring vitamins and antioxidants. More traditional options like Cacao and Strawberry feature the same clean ingredient profile. Expect a texture more akin to a frozen smoothie, so if you enjoy fruity, refreshing treats, it’s a delicious fit. For those who want a high-protein ice cream that delivers real nutrition, this one is worth a try. 

8. Simple Truth Low Cow

Simple Truth Low Cow keeps things simple, delivering high protein, low calories and an affordable price point. This high-protein ice cream is Kroger’s take on better-for-you frozen treats that don’t skimp on taste. 

Each half-cup serving has just 60 calories and 6 grams of protein, making it an easy choice for those tracking their macros. Made with skim milk, whey protein concentrate and milk protein isolate, it packs in protein while keeping fat minimal. The sweetness comes from erythritol, monk fruit extract and stevia, providing flavor without the sugar overload. 

Flavors include Chocolate, Vanilla, Sea Salt Caramel, Mint Chocolate Chip, Cookie Dough and Lemon Cake, with Chocolate standing out for its rich, cocoa-forward taste. Some flavors could use a stronger mix-in presence, but overall, it’s a solid pick for an affordable high-protein ice cream that satisfies without the guilt. 

What Is the Best High-Protein Ice Cream?

It depends on what you’re looking for. Some people prioritize the highest protein per serving, while others want something with minimal sugar, all-natural ingredients or a keto-friendly profile. It all comes down to your dietary needs, taste preferences and whether you’re after a creamy, indulgent texture or a lighter, fruit-based treat.

For those focused purely on protein content, Halo Top is the clear favorite, delivering up to 20 grams of protein per pint with a solid variety of flavors. If a low-carb, keto-friendly option is the goal, Keto Pint and Enlightened both offer creamy textures with little to no sugar. 

Arctic Zero and Snow Monkey are great high-protein ice cream options for plant-based eaters, using faba bean and hemp protein as a dairy-free alternative. Lastly, for a budget-friendly pick, Simple Truth Low Cow brings affordability without sacrificing taste.

If none of these fully fit your needs, making high-protein ice cream at home is a great alternative. Using Greek yogurt, blended bananas or cottage cheese as a base, you can customize the protein content and sweetness by adding whey, casein or plant-based protein powder. Whether store-bought or homemade, high-protein ice cream is an easy way to enjoy a frozen treat without derailing your goals.

Finding high-protein ice cream that fits your diet doesn’t mean giving up flavor or enjoyment. No matter your health goals or dietary needs, there’s a frozen treat that delivers protein while keeping sugar, fat or dairy to a minimum.

From keto-friendly picks to plant-based scoops, these high-protein ice cream brands offer something for everyone. Pick the one that works best for your lifestyle and enjoy a sweet treat without the guilt.

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