Quick Answer
Yes, Dippin’ Dots does offer some dairy-free frozen dessert options for those with dairy allergies or sensitivities. Their dairy-free flavors are made with non-dairy bases like coconut milk, almond milk, or sorbet. Some popular dairy-free Dippin’ Dots flavors include Banana Split, Cookies ‘n Cream, Cotton Candy, Orange Cream, Rainbow Ice, and Strawberry Split. The availability of dairy-free flavors can vary by location. Those with food allergies are advised to check with their specific Dippin’ Dots store for the most up-to-date allergen information.
What is Dippin’ Dots?
Dippin’ Dots is a popular brand of flash-frozen beaded ice cream. The small beads of ice cream are created through a cryogenic freezing process called “liquid nitrogen freezing.” Liquid nitrogen is used to flash-freeze ice cream mix into tiny beads the size of the tip of a ballpoint pen. The beads have a lower freezing point than regular ice cream, allowing them to stay frozen and resist melting.
Dippin’ Dots opened their first location in Paducah, Kentucky in 1988. Today, there are over 200 Dippin’ Dots franchise locations across the United States. The unique frozen treat can also be found at amusement parks, zoos, stadiums, and other entertainment venues. Dippin’ Dots calls their product “the ice cream of the future” due to the innovative freezing process.
Traditional Dippin’ Dots Ingredients
Traditional Dippin’ Dots are dairy-based and contain ingredients like milk, cream, whey, and yogurt. Some of their classic ice cream flavors include:
- Vanilla
- Chocolate
- Cookies ‘n Cream
- Banana Split
- Rainbow Ice
For those with dairy allergies or diet preferences, enjoying traditional Dippin’ Dots can be difficult due to the use of dairy ingredients like milk and cream. Thankfully, Dippin’ Dots has expanded their menu to include dairy-free options made with plant-based ingredients.
Does Dippin’ Dots Have Dairy-Free Options?
Yes, Dippin’ Dots does offer some dairy-free options for those who cannot consume milk or milk products. While availability can vary by location, most Dippin’ Dots shops carry a few dairy-free flavors made with non-dairy bases.
Dairy-Free Dippin’ Dots Bases
Instead of milk and cream, the dairy-free Dippin’ Dots are made with bases like:
- Coconut milk
- Almond milk
- Soy milk
- Sorbet
These plant-based bases allow Dippin’ Dots to recreate some of their signature flavors in a dairy-free version.
Popular Dairy-Free Dippin’ Dots Flavors
Some of the most popular dairy-free Dippin’ Dots flavors include:
- Banana Split – banana and strawberry sorbet beads
- Cotton Candy – blue raspberry and strawberry sorbet beads
- Orange Cream – orange and vanilla frozen dessert beads made with non-dairy base
- Strawberry Split – strawberry and banana sorbet beads
- Cookies ‘n Cream – uses non-dairy base
- Rainbow Ice – fruit-flavored sorbet beads
The dairy-free Dippin’ Dots are just as flavorful and fun thanks to the plant-based bases and real fruit flavors used. They offer a comparable creamy and sweet treat.
Availability of Dairy-Free Dippin’ Dots
The availability of dairy-free Dippin’ Dots can vary by location. Some locations may offer several non-dairy flavors, while others may only have one or two options. There is no comprehensive list of which locations carry dairy-free Dippin’ Dots.
In general, larger Dippin’ Dots locations at bigger entertainment venues and theme parks tend to have a wider selection of flavors, including more dairy-free choices. Smaller kiosk-style locations may be more limited.
The best way to check for dairy-free Dippin’ Dots options is to:
- Contact the specific Dippin’ Dots location in advance to ask about their current dairy-free flavor offerings.
- Check the Dippin’ Dots website or social media pages for limited time dairy-free flavors.
- Look for dairy-free flavor signage when visiting a Dippin’ Dots store.
Dippin’ Dots notes that flavor availability can change frequently. Being proactive is the best way for those with dairy allergies to determine if their location of choice accommodates their dietary needs.
Trying Dairy-Free Dippin’ Dots
If you follow a dairy-free diet, here are some tips for enjoying Dippin’ Dots:
- Contact the store in advance to ask which dairy-free flavors they currently offer.
- Tell the cashier you need a dairy-free option and ask them to change gloves or utensils and use a clean bowl.
- Carefully review the ingredient list for your chosen flavor to ensure it does not contain milk, cream, whey or other dairy derivatives.
- Ask about the possibility of cross-contamination with dairy-based flavors.
With some preparation and care, those with dairy allergies can often find a delicious dairy-free Dippin’ Dots option to enjoy. Kids and adults alike will love the fun colors and flavors.
Nutritional Profile of Dairy-Free Dippin’ Dots
Dairy-free Dippin’ Dots nutrition will vary slightly depending on the base ingredients used. However, most dairy-free Dippin’ Dots provide these general nutritional benefits:
- Low in calories and fat compared to traditional ice cream
- Contain no cholesterol
- Offer important nutrients like vitamin C, manganese, copper, and potassium depending on added fruits and flavors
- Provide fiber when made with bases like coconut milk
- Naturally lactose-free and easy to digest
- No dairy allergens
One serving (about 1/4 cup or 46g) of dairy-free Dippin’ Dots will provide around:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 60-80 |
| Total Fat | 0-2g |
| Saturated Fat | 0-1g |
| Sodium | 10-25mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 15-18g |
| Sugar | 12-15g |
| Protein | 0-1g |
| Calcium | 0-10% DV |
| Vitamin C | 15-50% DV |
Amounts vary based on exact ingredients. But dairy-free Dippin’ Dots make a lighter, fruit-filled sweet treat everyone can enjoy. Those with dairy allergies don’t have to miss out.
The Best Dairy-Free Dippin’ Dots Flavors
Based on reviews, the most popular and recommended dairy-free Dippin’ Dots flavors include:
1. Banana Split
Banana Split dairy-free Dippin’ Dots contains banana and strawberry sorbet beads. It perfectly mimics the classic banana split flavor with no dairy.
2. Cotton Candy
For a sweet treat, Cotton Candy Dippin’ Dots combines blue raspberry and strawberry sorbet beads to recreate the iconic county fair favorite.
3. Orange Cream
Orange Cream Dippin’ Dots are vanilla and orange frozen dessert beads made with a non-dairy base. They offer a creamy citrus flavor.
4. Rainbow Ice
Rainbow Ice features an explosion of fruit sorbet beads in different colors and flavors for a fun mix.
5. Strawberry Split
Like a strawberry banana smoothie in frozen form, Strawberry Split mixes strawberry and banana sorbet beads.
6. Cookies ‘n Cream
Cookies ‘n Cream Dippin’ Dots are a fan favorite for cookie dough lovers. The flavor uses a non-dairy base dotted with cookie pieces.
These six dairy-free flavors offer the most variety and best satisfaction for those with milk allergies. Try them all to find your new favorite!
Dairy-Free Dippin’ Dots for Special Diets
In addition to being dairy-free, Dippin’ Dots can fit into several other diet plans and restrictions:
- Vegan – Dippin’ Dots made with sorbet, coconut, almond or soy milk are dairy-free and vegan.
- Paleo – Flavors made with coconut milk or sorbet bases can be paleo-friendly.
- Keto – Select lower carb sorbets are a great keto option.
- Nut-Free – Dippin’ Dots avoids peanut or tree nut ingredients, though coconut is used.
- Egg-Free – Dippin’ Dots are made without eggs.
- Soy-Free – Dippin’ Dots made with coconut or almond milk are soy-free.
Carefully reviewing ingredients is still advised with any allergy or diet. But dairy-free Dippin’ Dots can be enjoyed on many different eating plans.
Do Dairy-Free Dippin’ Dots Taste Good?
While individual taste preferences will vary, many Dippin’ Dots fans report the dairy-free flavors are just as delicious as the classic options. Here’s why the dairy-free Dippin’ Dots receive rave reviews:
- Made with high-quality, real fruit sorbet and natural flavors.
- Sweetened just right without being overly artificial.
- Pleasantly creamy and smooth consistency from the coconut or almond milk base.
- Fun, bright colors and festive appearance.
- Nostalgic flavors like Orange Cream and Cotton Candy.
- Refreshing on a hot day.
Reviewers say the sorbet stands up well to the traditional ice cream flavors. Kids and adults alike approve of the dairy-free Dippin’ Dots for an indulgent treat with no dairy.
Where to Buy Dairy-Free Dippin’ Dots
You can find dairy-free Dippin’ Dot options at most Dippin’ Dots franchise locations, including:
- Amusement parks like Six Flags, SeaWorld, and Cedar Point
- Zoos such as Brookfield Zoo near Chicago
- Stadiums and arenas like State Farm Arena in Atlanta
- Mall kiosk locations around the country
- Movie theaters and family entertainment centers
- Airports, hotels, and boardwalks in tourist areas
- Universities like LSU that have on-campus locations
Check the Dippin’ Dots website to find a shop near you. Then call your location ahead to ask about their current dairy-free flavor options before visiting. With over 450 locations across the United States, Dippin’ Dots can satisfy your frozen dairy-free treat craving.
Dairy-Free Dippin’ Dots Recipe
Make homemade dairy-free Dippin’ Dots at home with this easy recipe:
Ingredients
- 2 cups almond milk or coconut cream
- 2 tbsp coconut cream
- 1/4 cup honey or agave
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup blended strawberries or mango chunks
Instructions
- Whisk together the non-dairy milk, coconut cream, sweetener, vanilla and salt until smooth.
- Stir in the fruit puree.
- Pour the mixture into a shallow pan or pie tin.
- Freeze for 1-2 hours until soft frozen.
- Use an ice cream scoop to scoop small beads of the frozen mixture.
- Spread the beads out on a parchment lined baking sheet.
- Place back in the freezer for another hour.
- Store the finished dairy-free Dippin’ Dots in an airtight container for up to a month.
Now you can enjoy dairy-free Dippin’ Dots from home! Experiment with different fruit flavors and non-dairy bases.
Conclusion
Those with milk allergies or lactose intolerance often have to miss out on beloved ice cream treats. Thankfully, Dippin’ Dots offers high-quality dairy-free flavors made from coconut milk, almond milk, sorbet, and natural fruit purees. Popular flavors like Orange Cream, Banana Split, and Rainbow Ice give kids and adults alike the authentic Dippin’ Dots experience free of dairy. With some advanced planning and care when ordering, you can safely enjoy the nostalgic fun of Dippin’ Dots without the dairy. Check your local theme park, mall, or entertainment venue to find dairy-free Dippin’ Dots near you.
