Sorbet vs. Ice Cream vs. Sherbet (2024)

Here at Baskin-Robbins®, we like to celebrate the sweet signs of summer with a refreshing scoop of our favorites. With classic flavors like Rainbow Sherbet and Rocky Road you may be wondering, “what’s the difference between sorbet, sherbet and ice cream?” We’ve got your back with the inside scoop on the differences between these classic frozen treats.

To start with the basics, two common components between these frozen desserts are water and sugar. These simple building blocks are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. You can also view this TikTok for morefor insight into the differences between these unique sweet treats!

Sorbet:

One of the first frozen treats ever developed were ices (orsorbets), which essentially are a mixture of smooth ice, sugar, flavoring and other refreshing ingredients like fruit purees. A sorbet does not contain any dairy products and is more acidic, which results in tart flavors. Another difference between sorbet and ice cream is it is a sweet alternative for those with non-dairy* dietary needs or lifestyle preferences. Celebrate this spring with a palette cleansing scoop of our Daiquiri Ice and be on the lookout for a new sorbet flavor coming to Baskin-Robbins this May.

Sorbet vs. Ice Cream vs. Sherbet (1)

Ice Cream:

At the other end of the spectrum isice cream, which includes dairy ingredients, sweeteners, flavors and has at least 10% milk fat. Ice cream is also less dense and has a creamy texture and appearance. Visit our Flavor Newspageto stay up to date on all our new Flavors of the Month and fan-favorites likeTax Crunch® and Matcha Latte.

Sorbet vs. Ice Cream vs. Sherbet (2)

Sherbet:

Sherbet(pronounced SHER-bet) falls in between sorbet and ice cream and includes dairy ingredients (in small amounts, about 1-2%), but it is distinctly different from ice cream in flavor and texture. Sherbet typically uses citric acid, which can make for more of a tart taste. A guest favorite that you may be familiar with is ourRainbow Sherbet, which has delicious fruit flavors of raspberry, pineapple and orange blended into a perfectly refreshing bite. You can also try our Wild ‘n Reckless Sherbet, which features green apple, blue raspberryand fruit punch flavors.

Sorbet vs. Ice Cream vs. Sherbet (3)

As you can see, these sweet treats are all a little different, but the one thing they have in common is their availability at your local Baskin-Robbins. You can enjoy our frozen desserts right at home with “no contact” delivery viaDoorDash, Uber Eatsor Postmates, or you can place an order atorder.baskinrobbins.comor through the Baskin-Robbins mobile app forpickup via drive-thru, carry-out or curbside where available.

Do you love our sorbet, ice cream and sherbet flavors? Let us know your favorite on Instagram, TikTok,Twitter and Facebook.

To stay up to date on all things Baskin-Robbins, sign up for our email news alerts atnews.baskinrobbins.com/alerts.

*Non-dairy means that the item is made without dairy-containing ingredients. Although the following items do not contain ingredients with dairy, there is always a chance for cross-contact with dairy from other products in the restaurant. Given the likelihood of cross-contact in our restaurants, this is not suitable for people with a milk allergy.

Sorbet vs. Ice Cream vs. Sherbet (2024)

FAQs

Sorbet vs. Ice Cream vs. Sherbet? ›

Unlike ice cream, sherbet

sherbet
Sherbet (/ˈʃɜːrbət/), often referred to as sherbert (/ˈʃɜːrbərt/), is a frozen dessert made from water, sugar, a dairy product such as cream or milk, and a flavoring – typically fruit juice or purée, wine, liqueur, and occasionally non-fruit flavors such as vanilla, chocolate, or peppermint.
https://en.wikipedia.org › wiki › Sherbet_(frozen_dessert)
uses fruit juice or fruit purée as its main ingredient and typically only has a small amount of dairy. Sorbet also uses fruit juice or purée as its main ingredient, but it doesn't contain any dairy products or eggs.

What is the difference between sherbet and sorbet and ice cream? ›

Sorbet is a frozen dessert made up of just fruit purée (or fruit juice, like lemon juice) and sweetener (commonly sugar, simple syrup, or liqueur). While ice cream, gelato, and sherbet are dairy products, sorbet is dairy-free and therefore vegan.

Which is healthier, sorbet or sherbet? ›

"If you follow a vegan diet or have a food allergy, sorbet will be a better choice," she adds. Plus, in terms of nutrition, sorbet will also be the healthiest option becasue it doesn't contain the milk, cream, or butterfat, which increases saturated fat content.

What ingredient totally differentiates ice cream from sorbet and sherbet? ›

Sherbet is prepared in an analogous way to sorbet but includes subtle touches of dairy, usually milk, cream, or buttercream. The ratio of dairy in sherbet is much less than in ice cream or gelato, while sorbet is dairy-free.

Does sorbet have milk or cream in it? ›

Sorbet has just two main ingredients: fruit and sugar. There may also be some water, flavorings, or acid added to it, but it's essentially blended fruit that's churned and then frozen. No dairy is added to sorbet, which is how it is different from ice cream.

What's healthier, sorbet or ice cream? ›

Not only is sorbet a healthier alternative to ice cream, but it is also a dessert that can be enjoyed guilt-free. With no eggs or cream present in the recipe, sorbet contains fewer calories and less fat compared to traditional ice cream.

Why is sherbet no ice cream? ›

Sherbet is technically not ice cream, even though they both can contain fruit and dairy products. The big difference is that sherbet's main ingredient is fruit juice or purée, while ice cream's main ingredients are typically milk and cream.

Is sorbet better than gelato? ›

Frequently Asked Questions. Which is a healthier option: sorbet or gelato? In comparing sorbet and gelato, the latter has more calories and fat because it contains milk. Sorbet is just fruit juice and sugar (no dairy) and has fewer calories, so many consider it the healthier option.

What ice cream has no sugar? ›

Table. Best sugar-free ice cream brands
BrandCalories per half cup or one serving or one scoop
6. So Delicious No Sugar Added Coconut Milk Frozen Dessert120 to 156
7. Enlightened Dairy-Free Frozen Dessert80 to 100
8. O'my Dairy-Free Gelato98
9. Snow Monkey Superfood Ice Treat98 to 102
5 more rows

Can diabetics eat sherbet? ›

Many people look at sherbet and see a good alternative to ice cream. The reality? Sherbet typically has almost double the carbohydrates of ice cream, states Cotey. If you're looking for a frozen treat from time to time, search out a product lower in sugar, carbs and saturated fats.

Is gelato the same as ice cream? ›

Gelato translates to "ice cream" in Italian, but this dessert's texture is denser, smoother, and richer than American ice cream. Like ice cream, gelato uses milk, cream, and sugar, but it differs in proportions. Gelato uses less cream and more milk than ice cream and typically contains no egg yolks or eggs at all.

Is Baskin Robbins ice cream or frozen dessert? ›

Baskin-Robbins is an American multinational chain of ice cream and cake specialty shops owned by Inspire Brands.

Is gelato healthier than ice cream? ›

The main difference between ice cream and gelato is their fat content. With only 4-9% fat to the usual 10-25% of ice cream, gelato usually is lighter and healthier. Per portion, however, the answer is clear, gelato is typically healthier than ice cream.

Is Italian ice just sorbet? ›

Italian ice is less dense than sorbet, which explains its lower calorie count — there's simply more ice in it. Water ice is another form of Italian ice, native to the Philadelphia area. It's slightly chunkier than standard Italian ice, but it's more or less the same thing — unless you ask someone from Philly.

What's the difference between sorbet and sorbetto? ›

Sorbetto is also called sorbet. Sorbet is frozen blend of fruit, water, and sugar, (sometimes wine or liquor) and it's one of the oldest and most traditional ways of making dessert.

Why is sorbet colder than ice cream? ›

Sorbet is typically served at a colder temperature than ice cream, as it has a lower fat content and can melt more quickly.

What is the difference between gelato and sorbet? ›

The main difference between sorbet and gelato lies within the ingredients. Sorbet is completely dairy-free. It's made from fruit, juices, and water. Sorbet is a great dessert option for people who are lactose intolerant and want a refreshing treat but can't have gelato or ice cream.

Why do Americans call sorbet sherbet? ›

Both are derived from the Turkish and Persian words şerbet and sharbat respectively. In turn, they are ultimately derived from the Arabic word for 'drink', sharba. The difference appears to be an American distinction between an ice that has a small amount of dairy (sherbet) and one that has none (sorbet).

Does sorbet have alcohol? ›

Like granitas and other ices, sorbet can be made without an ice cream maker. Alcohol, honey or corn syrup can be added to lower the freezing point and make softer sorbets. Sorbet is usually made with fresh fruit and simple syrup, but other types of preparations exist.

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