"Macro Friendly" Ice Cream Brand Review

Introduction

There are few things in life as delightful as indulging in a cold, creamy scoop of ice cream on a scorching summer day. However, for those of us who strive to maintain a healthy and balanced diet, the guilt that often accompanies this indulgence can be overwhelming. Fear not, my fellow health enthusiasts! Today, I present to you a comprehensive review of "macro-friendly" ice cream brands that aim to satisfy both your taste buds and your nutritional goals. Let's face it - traditional ice cream is notorious for its high sugar and fat content. But fret not! In recent years, an increasing number of ice cream manufacturers have emerged with the promise of delivering guilt-free frozen treats that won't sabotage your macros. These brands claim to offer lower calorie options without compromising on taste. Sounds like a win-win situation, doesn't it? Well, let's dive into the world of macro-friendly ice creams and see if they truly live up to their claims. First up is Halo Top - a name that has become synonymous with guilt-free indulgence. With its enticing array of flavors and relatively low calorie count per serving, Halo Top has quickly gained popularity among health-conscious individuals.

Each pint boasts an impressive 280-360 calories range while containing around 20 grams of protein. However, some critics argue that despite these seemingly favorable numbers, the taste can be underwhelming and artificial at times. Next on our list is Artic Zero - another contender in the macro-friendly ice cream arena. Artic Zero prides itself on being lactose-free and vegan-friendly while still providing delectable flavors like Cookie Dough Chip and Salted Caramel Swirls. However, what it gains in dietary restrictions accommodations, it often lacks in flavor depth compared to its counterparts. Some consumers find the texture to be slightly icy rather than creamy like traditional ice cream. Enlightened Light Ice Cream is another brand that aims to please both your palate and your macros. With its wide range of flavors, including fan favorites like Mint Chocolate Chip and Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip, Enlightened offers a healthier alternative to satisfy your sweet tooth. Each pint typically contains around 70-100 calories per serving, with moderate protein content ranging from 6 to 10 grams. However, some consumers claim that the sweetness level of these ice creams can be overpowering, leaving them craving for a more balanced flavor profile. For those seeking dairy-free options, So Delicious Dairy Free Light is a worthy contender in the macro-friendly ice cream market. Made with coconut milk and sweetened with organic cane sugar or stevia extract, this brand offers a range of flavors that cater to various dietary restrictions. From classic Vanilla Bean to indulgent Chocolate Cookies 'n Cream, So Delicious Dairy Free Light provides guilt-free satisfaction for those avoiding animal products or lactose. However, some critics argue that the coconut flavor can sometimes overpower other ingredients in certain variants. Last but not least in our introduction to macro-friendly ice cream brands is Skinny Cow. Boasting an enticing lineup of flavors such as Heavenly Crisp Peanut Butter and Salted Caramel Pretzel, Skinny Cow aims to deliver guilt-free pleasure in every spoonful. With around 150-190 calories per serving and relatively low fat content compared to traditional ice creams, it appeals to those looking for a lighter treat option. Nonetheless, some consumers find the texture too icy or lacking the creaminess they crave. The world of macro-friendly ice cream has expanded significantly in recent years - offering health-conscious individuals an array of options when it comes to indulging their sweet tooth without compromising their dietary goals. While each brand has its merits and drawbacks concerning taste and texture, they all share one common goal: providing us with guilt-free enjoyment during those hot summer days or late-night cravings. Stay tuned as we delve deeper into each brand's offerings and unravel the mysteries of their flavors, ingredients, and nutritional profiles.

Halo Top

Ah, Halo Top. The beloved darling of the macro-friendly ice cream world. It burst onto the scene a few years ago, promising guilt-free indulgence with its low-calorie, high-protein formula. But I must say, I am not entirely enamored with this supposed "health halo" that surrounds Halo Top. Let's start with the flavors. Now, don't get me wrong, they have an impressive array of options - ranging from classics like vanilla and chocolate to more adventurous concoctions like cookie dough and birthday cake. But here's the thing: flavor is only part of the equation when it comes to ice cream. Texture matters too! And I find that Halo Top falls flat in this department. It has an icy consistency that lacks the creamy richness one expects from a pint of heavenly goodness. Now let's talk about sweetness or rather lack thereof. Yes, I understand that reducing sugar is one of Halo Top's selling points, but sometimes it feels like they've taken it a step too far. There's a certain satisfaction in indulging in a dessert that is unabashedly sweet and decadent. But with Halo Top, you're left longing for just a little more sweetness to satisfy those cravings. And let us not forget about portion control. One thing I appreciate about Halo Top is their commitment to providing nutrition information per pint rather than per serving size like traditional ice creams do (as if anyone ever eats just half a cup!). However, here's where my frustration lies: they often advertise their pints as being 280-360 calories each but conveniently fail to mention that those numbers are only for select flavors! Many others tip over the 400-calorie mark which can be quite disheartening when you're trying to stay within your daily caloric limits. Furthermore, while Halo Top does offer some dairy-free options for those who are lactose intolerant or following a vegan lifestyle, they simply do not compare to their dairy-based counterparts. The texture becomes even more compromised, and the flavors fall short of what one would expect from a non-dairy ice cream alternative. While I appreciate Halo Top's attempt to create a guilt-free ice cream experience, I must say that it doesn't quite live up to the hype for me. The lackluster texture, insufficient sweetness, sneaky calorie counts, and underwhelming dairy-free options make me question whether it truly deserves its place on the throne of macro-friendly ice creams. Don't get me wrong: it's not all doom and gloom. If you're looking for a low-calorie option that won't completely derail your diet, Halo Top can certainly fit the bill. But if you're seeking true ice cream bliss, there are better options out there in the ever-expanding world of macro-friendly frozen delights.

Artic Zero

is often hailed as a savior for those watching their macros, but I must say, I am utterly disappointed. This so-called "ice cream" fails to live up to its promises and leaves much to be desired in terms of flavor and texture. Let's delve into the reasons why Artic Zero falls short. First and foremost, the taste of Artic Zero is underwhelming, to say the least. It lacks the richness and creaminess that one expects from a good ice cream. Instead, it has this strange icy texture that simply doesn't satisfy my cravings for a decadent treat. The flavors themselves are also lackluster - they are bland and fail to excite my taste buds. Even with flavors like chocolate or vanilla, which should be classics, Artic Zero manages to disappoint. Furthermore, the sweeteners used in Artic Zero leave an unpleasant aftertaste in your mouth. They claim to use natural sweeteners like monk fruit or stevia, but they just cannot replicate the sweetness of real sugar. Instead, you're left with this strange artificial taste that lingers long after you've finished your spoonful of disappointment. To make matters worse, Artic Zero's consistency is far from desirable. It has an almost watery texture that lacks the creamy mouthfeel we all crave in ice cream. It feels more like eating a frozen protein shake rather than indulging in a delicious dessert. If I wanted something resembling protein powder on ice, I would have made it myself! And let's not forget about the price tag attached to this subpar product! charges a premium for their "healthy" ice cream alternative when it simply doesn't deliver on taste or quality. Why should I pay top dollar for something that barely resembles real ice cream? It seems that they are capitalizing on people's desire for guilt-free indulgence without actually providing a satisfying product. Artic Zero is a letdown in the world of macro-friendly ice cream. Its lackluster taste, artificial sweeteners, watery consistency, and hefty price tag make it an unworthy contender for satisfying our dessert cravings. If you truly want a guilt-free treat that doesn't sacrifice on taste or quality, I suggest looking elsewhere. Don't waste your time or money on this disappointing excuse for ice cream.

Enlightened Light Ice Cream

is a brand that claims to be a guilt-free indulgence, but I must say, I am not convinced. First of all, let's talk about the texture. As soon as you scoop it out of the pint, you can tell something is off. It's icy and lacks the smooth and creamy consistency that you would expect from a truly decadent ice cream. It's almost like eating frozen water with a hint of flavor. And speaking of flavor, don't even get me started on that! offers a wide range of flavors, but unfortunately, most of them fall flat in terms of taste. They are either too artificial or too bland, making it difficult to find one that truly satisfies your sweet tooth cravings. Sure, they may claim to use natural ingredients and low-calorie sweeteners like erythritol or monk fruit extract, but they just can't seem to nail the balance between health-consciousness and deliciousness. Another issue with Enlightened Light Ice Cream is its lackluster variety when it comes to mix-ins and toppings. While other brands offer mouthwatering swirls of caramel or chocolate chunks that add an extra layer of indulgence to each bite, Enlightened seems content with throwing in some small pieces here and there without any real impact on the overall experience. It leaves you wanting more excitement in every spoonful. Now let's talk about portion sizes. One would assume that since this ice cream is marketed as light and macro-friendly, the pints would be quite generous in size to make up for any shortcomings in taste or texture. But unfortunately, this is not the case with Enlightened Light Ice Cream. The pints are disappointingly small compared to other brands on the market. You'll find yourself reaching for another scoop much sooner than expected. Let's address the price point of this supposedly guilt-free treat. For an ice cream that fails to deliver on taste and texture, the price seems unjustifiably high. You're essentially paying a premium for a product that falls short in almost every aspect. In my opinion, if you're going to indulge in a frozen treat, it's worth splurging on something truly delicious and satisfying rather than settling for Enlightened Light Ice Cream. Overall, while I appreciate the effort to create a macro-friendly ice cream option, Enlightened Light Ice Cream simply doesn't live up to the hype. From its lackluster texture and flavor to its underwhelming mix-ins and toppings, it fails to provide the indulgence one seeks from a frozen treat. With its small portion sizes and high price point, it's difficult for me to recommend this brand when there are far superior options available in the market.

So Delicious Dairy Free Light

One brand that claims to cater to the macro-conscious ice cream lovers is So Delicious Dairy Free Light. Now, before we dive into this brand, let me just say that I have some reservations about dairy-free ice cream in general. Call me old-fashioned, but when I think of indulging in a creamy frozen treat, I want the richness and satisfaction that only real dairy can provide. However, for the sake of fairness and open-mindedness, I decided to give So Delicious Dairy Free Light a chance. First things first, let's talk about texture. One of the biggest challenges with dairy-free ice cream is achieving that velvety smoothness that traditional ice cream has mastered. Unfortunately, So Delicious Dairy Free Light falls flat in this department. The texture is disappointingly icy and lacks the luxurious mouthfeel that makes indulging in a bowl of ice cream such a pleasurable experience. Moving on to flavor, or rather lack thereof. Now, I understand that dairy-free alternatives often struggle to match the complexity and depth of flavor found in regular ice cream due to the absence of milk fat. However, So Delicious Dairy Free Light seems to have missed the mark entirely when it comes to creating enticing flavors. The taste is bland at best and leaves you longing for something more exciting and satisfying. Another aspect worth mentioning is the ingredient list.

While it's true that So Delicious Dairy Free Light boasts about using plant-based ingredients and avoids artificial additives, it doesn't necessarily mean they hit the mark on nutritional value. A closer look at their ingredient list reveals an excessive amount of sweeteners like tapioca syrup and cane sugar; not exactly what health-conscious individuals are looking for when opting for a "macro-friendly" treat. But perhaps my biggest gripe with So Delicious Dairy Free Light is its price point. Let's face it; eating healthy already comes at a cost - both financially and taste-wise - so one would expect that splurging on a pint of dairy-free ice cream would at least be justified by a reasonable price. Sadly, that's not the case. is significantly more expensive compared to other brands on the market, making it even harder to swallow the lackluster flavor and texture. I simply cannot recommend So Delicious Dairy Free Light as a satisfying option for macro-conscious ice cream enthusiasts. Its icy texture, lack of flavor variety, questionable ingredient list, and high price point make it an underwhelming choice. If you're truly committed to maintaining your macros while indulging in a frozen treat, I suggest exploring other options that offer a better balance of taste, texture, and value for your money.

Skinny Cow

, oh how I have conflicting feelings about you. On one hand, you're marketed as a guilt-free indulgence, but on the other hand, your nutritional value leaves much to be desired. Let's delve into the world of Skinny Cow and see what it really has to offer. First and foremost, let's talk about the taste. offers a variety of flavors, from classic chocolate to more adventurous options like salted caramel pretzel. While they do manage to capture the essence of these flavors reasonably well, there is an underlying artificial aftertaste that just cannot be ignored. It's as if they tried too hard to make it taste like the real deal without actually using real ingredients. Now let's move on to the ingredient list, or should I say, chemical concoction? One glance at the back of a Skinny Cow dessert will leave you questioning whether you're reading a food label or deciphering a science experiment. Artificial sweeteners like maltitol and sucralose are prominently featured in their products, which can cause digestive issues for some individuals and leave others with an unpleasant metallic taste in their mouths. But wait, there's more! Not only are these desserts packed with artificial sweeteners, but they also contain hydrogenated oils and high fructose corn syrup. These ingredients have been linked to a host of health problems including heart disease and obesity. So much for being "skinny"! It seems counterintuitive that a brand named Skinny Cow would include such unhealthy additives in their products. On top of all this, let's not forget about portion size. Sure, each individual serving may be low in calories and fat content; however, these portions are minuscule! You'll find yourself finishing your ice cream within seconds and left wanting more. It's almost as if Skinny Cow is encouraging binge-eating by making their servings so tiny. (and this might be my biggest gripe), let's talk about the price. products are not cheap, my friends. You'd think that with all these artificial ingredients and small portions, they would at least make it affordable. But no, you'll be shelling out a pretty penny for these subpar frozen treats. While Skinny Cow may market itself as a guilt-free indulgence, it falls flat in several aspects. From the artificial taste and questionable ingredients to the minuscule portion sizes and high price point, there are simply better options out there if you're looking for a truly macro-friendly ice cream experience. Opt for brands that use real ingredients and prioritize your health over catchy marketing gimmicks. Your taste buds and waistline will thank you in the long run!

Snow Monkey

, ah, where do I begin with this so-called "macro friendly" ice cream brand? Let's just say it left me more disappointed than an unfinished puzzle. Now, I understand that taste preferences can vary, but Snow Monkey seems to have taken the concept of healthy ice cream a bit too far. First off, let's talk texture. When you dig your spoon into a pint of Snow Monkey, it feels more like you're scooping out a frozen block of banana-flavored play dough. It's dense, almost gummy-like consistency makes for a less-than-pleasurable eating experience. You'd think that something marketed as "ice cream" would actually melt and have a creamy texture, but Snow Monkey missed the mark completely. Now let's dive into the flavor department - or lack thereof. boasts about using all-natural ingredients and claims to be free from refined sugars and artificial additives. While that may sound appealing on paper, in reality, it tastes like they forgot to add any flavorings at all! The banana flavor is overpowering and strangely artificial - almost as if they used banana-flavored medicine instead of real bananas. Where are the rich chocolate chunks or swirls of caramel? Nowhere to be found. Speaking of ingredients, let's address the elephant in the room: stevia. heavily relies on stevia as its sweetener of choice. And while some people may enjoy its bitter aftertaste and artificial sweetness, I find it utterly off-putting. It lingers on your palate long after you've finished each spoonful and leaves a strange sensation in your mouth that just doesn't belong in an ice cream experience. To make matters worse, Snow Monkey has limited flavor options. Sure, they may boast about their unique combinations such as matcha green tea or turmeric ginger, but when you take a bite (or should I say chew) into these flavors, you're left wondering if you accidentally stumbled upon a health food store instead of an ice cream parlor. Where's the creamy indulgence? Where's the joy? Snow Monkey falls flat in every aspect that makes ice cream enjoyable. From its odd texture to its lack of flavor and reliance on stevia, it simply misses the mark. If you're looking for a truly satisfying and macro-friendly ice cream experience, I suggest venturing elsewhere and leaving Snow Monkey behind in the freezer aisle. Your taste buds deserve better than this disappointing excuse for "healthy" ice cream.

Yasso Frozen Greek Yogurt Bars

Oh, Yasso, where do I even begin with you? These so-called "Greek yogurt" bars are nothing more than a disappointing attempt to pass off as a guilt-free indulgence. First of all, let's address the elephant in the room: their claim of being "macro friendly." Sure, they may have fewer calories and higher protein content compared to traditional ice cream bars, but that doesn't automatically make them a healthy option. Let's talk about taste for a moment. boast a variety of flavors like Mint Chocolate Chip, Cookies and Cream, and Peanut Butter Cup. But don't be fooled by the enticing descriptions on the packaging – these flavors lack depth and intensity. The mint chocolate chip tastes more like toothpaste-flavored frozen yogurt with sad little chocolate flecks that hardly resemble real chocolate chips. And don't even get me started on the artificial aftertaste that lingers in your mouth long after you've finished one of these bars. Now onto texture – or should I say lack thereof? Yasso claims that their bars are creamy and indulgent. Well, I'm sorry to burst their bubble, but these bars have a strangely icy consistency that leaves much to be desired. It's like eating frozen watered-down yogurt instead of a velvety ice cream treat. And let's not forget about the dreaded freezer burn that seems to plague every single one of these bars. But wait, it gets worse! have an ingredient list as long as my arm – filled with preservatives, additives, and artificial sweeteners galore. If you're looking for a wholesome treat made from natural ingredients, you won't find it here. These so-called "Greek yogurt" bars are nothing more than a clever marketing ploy designed to appeal to health-conscious individuals who are desperately seeking an alternative to traditional ice cream. If you're truly looking for a macro-friendly frozen treat, I implore you to look elsewhere. There are plenty of other options on the market that offer better taste, texture, and ingredients. Don't settle for Yasso's lackluster attempt at creating a guilt-free indulgence. Your taste buds and your macros deserve better. Yasso Frozen Greek Yogurt Bars may have fooled some into thinking they're a healthy alternative to traditional ice cream bars, but don't fall for the hype. Their lackluster taste, icy texture, and questionable ingredient list leave much to be desired. If you want a truly satisfying and macro-friendly treat, I suggest exploring other options that prioritize flavor and quality ingredients over cunning marketing tactics. Don't let Yasso's deceptive claims lead you astray – your taste buds deserve more respect than that!

Keto Pint

, oh Keto Pint, how you claim to be the savior of all ice cream lovers on a low-carb or ketogenic diet. While I appreciate the effort to create a product that caters to this specific dietary need, I must say, Keto Pint falls short in many ways. Let's start with the texture. boasts a creamy and smooth consistency, but in reality, it often falls victim to icy chunks that disrupt the overall experience. There's nothing worse than taking a spoonful of supposedly indulgent ice cream only to be met with an unpleasant crunch. It ruins the moment and leaves me longing for a true creamy delight. Now, let's talk about flavors. offers a range of options aiming to satisfy different taste buds. However, their flavor profiles often lack depth and complexity. The sweeteners used can leave an artificial aftertaste that is hard to ignore. It's as if they're trying too hard to mimic traditional ice cream flavors but missing the mark completely. One aspect where Keto Pint does succeed is its commitment to keeping net carbs low. For those strictly adhering to a ketogenic lifestyle, this can be a saving grace. With only 3-4 grams of net carbs per serving, it allows you to indulge without fear of knocking yourself out of ketosis. However, taste and texture should never be compromised for the sake of slashing carbohydrates. There are other brands out there that manage to strike a better balance between flavor and macro-friendly ingredients. Let's address the price point of Keto Pint. For what it offers in terms of taste and quality, it comes with quite the hefty price tag. I understand that niche products tend to come at premium prices due to production costs and limited market demand; however, when I'm shelling out top dollar for an ice cream pint, my expectations are high – perhaps higher than what Keto Pint can deliver. While Keto Pint may appear to be a promising option for those on a low-carb or ketogenic diet, it falls short in several key areas. Its texture can be disappointing, flavors lack depth, and the price point is hard to justify. If you're truly looking for a satisfying macro-friendly ice cream experience, I suggest exploring other brands that strike a better balance between taste, texture, and affordability.

Conclusion

As we come to the end of this epic journey through the realm of "macro friendly" ice cream brands, it is time to draw our conclusions. We have delved into the world of Halo Top, Arctic Zero, Enlightened Light Ice Cream, So Delicious Dairy Free Light, Skinny Cow, Snow Monkey, Yasso Frozen Greek Yogurt Bars, and Keto Pint. While each brand claims to be a healthier alternative to traditional ice cream, let us examine which ones truly live up to their promises. Halo Top undoubtedly reigns supreme in terms of popularity and variety. With its wide range of flavors and low-calorie count per pint, it has won over many health-conscious individuals. However, its texture can be somewhat lacking compared to its full-fat counterparts. Despite this minor setback, Halo Top's ability to satisfy cravings without derailing your macros is commendable. Arctic Zero presents itself as a guilt-free indulgence with its incredibly low-calorie count per pint. However, taste-wise it falls short and can leave you wondering if you're eating frozen water with a hint of flavoring rather than true ice cream. Its icy texture fails in comparison to the creamy richness we desire when enjoying a frozen treat. Enlightened Light Ice Cream brings a good balance between taste and nutrition. With flavors like Movie Night and Cold Brew Coffee that rival traditional indulgences in both flavor and texture while keeping calories under control, Enlightened proves that you don't have to sacrifice enjoyment for your macros. For those who are lactose intolerant or follow a dairy-free lifestyle but still crave a creamy treat without breaking their macros limit – look no further than So Delicious Dairy Free Light. Made from coconut milk or almond milk blends that are surprisingly creamy despite being lower in calories compared to regular ice cream alternatives. Skinny Cow offers portion-controlled treats with lower calorie counts but fails to deliver on taste and texture when compared to other contenders on our list. The sacrifice in flavor leaves a lot to be desired, and it's difficult to justify settling for mediocrity when alternatives exist that do not compromise on indulgence. Snow Monkey, a newcomer in the market, offers a unique twist by using superfoods like bananas and sunflower butter as a base.

While it may not taste exactly like traditional ice cream, this guilt-free alternative packs a nutritional punch with its high protein content and natural ingredients. Yasso Frozen Greek Yogurt Bars combine the tangy goodness of Greek yogurt with indulgent flavors to create a guilt-free snack on a stick. With their creamy texture and generous portion sizes, these bars are an excellent option for those craving something refreshing yet satisfying. Keto Pint caters to those following a ketogenic or low-carb lifestyle. With flavors like Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup and Mint Chip that stay true to their taste while keeping carbs at bay, Keto Pint allows you to indulge without worrying about your macros. However, the limited availability of this brand can make it hard to find for some consumers. When it comes to choosing "macro friendly" ice cream brands, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Each brand has its strengths and weaknesses. Whether you prioritize variety, taste, texture, or adherence to specific dietary restrictions will ultimately determine which brand is right for you. Remember that indulging in moderation is key; enjoying these treats as part of a balanced diet can bring happiness without sabotaging your health goals. So go forth and savor the guilty pleasures within your macro limits – because life is too short not to treat yourself responsibly!

Louis Ha

Bring The Shreds was founded by Louis Ha.

Louis is an online fitness coach and entrepreneur based in the Bay Area.