- Value: 17/20
- Functionality: 20/20
- Quality: 18/20
- Aesthetics: 20/20
- Taste*: 19/20
TOTAL: 94/100
The pints hit shelves on the heels of KIND FROZEN Treat Bars and Smoothie Bowls, which were both launched last year. The frozen dairy dessert is 100 percent plant-based, non-GMO, gluten-free, vegan and dairy-free. We’re always a bit wary of dairy-free ice cream; often, the flavor is solid, but the texture isn’t as silky smooth as the O.G. Sugar-free ice creams sometimes present the opposite problem. But we’ve gotta say, our concerns were quelled at first bite.
The ice creams are just as creamy and decadent as the real thing, despite the first ingredient on the label being pear juice concentrate. (This sweetens the pints with natural sugar and eliminates the need for artificial sweeteners or sugar alcohols.) Tapioca syrup and a bit of real sugar also ensure each flavor is on par. They’re made with wholesome add-ins too, like nuts, dried fruits and dark chocolate (just like KIND bars). In case you need even more convincing, each serving boasts 4 to 6 grams of protein.
While the numbers aren’t totally lean (a bowl contains 240 to 290 calories, 10 to 16 grams of fat and 18 to 22 grams of sugar), KIND FROZEN pints contain less added sugar and saturated fat than standard ice cream. They’re a pretty uncanny substitute for being totally free of milk, cream or eggs, so healthy-ish is good enough for us (especially since they’re made with natural ingredients).
All seven flavors rolled out at retailers nationwide on May 18, but there’s more information on each flavor available on KIND’s website, if you'd like to learn more before you shop. Each pint will cost you $6 a pop (or even less from certain retailers, like Walmart). Before you hit the frozen aisle, read on for our top three picks.