Sorbet vs. Ice Cream: What's the Real Scoop?

Sorbet vs. Ice Cream: What's the Real Scoop?

When it comes to frozen desserts, few things delight like a cool, flavorful treat on a hot day. Or, let's be honest, any day. But with so many options—ice cream, sorbet, gelato, frozen yogurt, sherbet, and even Italian ice—how do you know which is right for your cravings, your dietary needs, or your next party? Today, we're breaking down the main differences between ice cream and sorbet, two of the most popular frozen treats on the menu.

What Is Ice Cream?

Traditional ice cream is a creamy, decadent dessert made from a blend of dairy products like cream and milk, sweeteners, and often egg yolks. It's known for its luscious creamy texture, which comes from butterfat (or milkfat) and the churning process incorporating air during freezing. The result is a smooth, dense scoop that melts slowly and luxuriously on your tongue.

  • Higher fat content (typically 10% or more). All Clementine's ice cream has a butterfat content ranging from 16-18%.

  • Often contains egg yolks for richness

  • Served cold, but stored at a warmer temperature than sorbet

  • Comes in both classic and adventurous flavours—think pistachio, vanilla, or brownie chunk

  • Not suitable for those who are lactose intolerant

What Is Sorbet?

Sorbet is a dairy-free, non-dairy frozen dessert made primarily from fruit puree, fruit juice, sweeteners, and water. It has no milkfat, egg yolks, or cream, making it a popular choice for vegans and anyone avoiding dairy products or gluten.

  • Made with just fruit, water, and sweetener

  • Has fewer calories and lower fat than ice cream or even frozen yogurt

  • Light, refreshing, and perfect as a palate cleanser between courses

  • An excellent option for the lactose-intolerant

  • Comes in bold fruit flavors like raspberry, mango, or lemon

And What About Sherbet (or Sherbert)?

Sherbet—sometimes spelled sherbert—is a middle ground between sorbet and ice cream. Like sorbet, it starts with fruit juice or puree but includes a small amount of dairy, such as milk or cream, giving it a slightly creamy texture and a little more body than sorbet.

  • Contains less cream and lower fat than ice cream

  • Not dairy-free, but still lower fat

  • Often includes ingredients like egg whites or gelatin

  • Still fruity, but a bit richer than sorbet

Honorable Mentions: Gelato, Granita, and Italian Ice

  • Gelato is an Italian style of ice cream with less air, a higher density, and often less fat. It's churned slower, served warmer, and bursts with intense flavor.

  • Granita is a coarser, crystalline frozen dessert made from flavored water. Think of it like a grown-up snow cone.

  • Italian ice, also known as water ice, is smoother than granita but still dairy-free and packed with fruit flavor.

Which Frozen Treat Should You Choose?

Ice cream is your go-to if you're after something creamy, decadent, and indulgent. Need something refreshing, light, and dairy-free? Sorbet is the perfect choice. Craving a fruity dessert with a touch of richness? Try sherbet. No matter your preference, there's a frozen dessert for every craving—and at Clementine's, we make sure every option is delicious.

Craving a scoop? Visit Clementine's Ice Cream, where every spoonful is crafted with love, creativity, and the finest ingredients—whether you're Team Ice Cream or Team Sorbet.

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