When you’re trying to beat the scorching heat and oppressive humidity of summer, few things are more effective than enjoying a frozen treat. Of course, many people might argue that any time of the year is the perfect time for a cold, refreshing dessert. Plenty of options are available, but ice cream and sorbet are a couple of the most popular. Whether they’re in a cup or a cone, they can bring a smile to almost anyone’s face.
These two desserts may seem very similar when you’re admiring them from afar. Both are cold and delicious, and both come in many flavors. They’re actually quite different, though. If you’re curious about the differences between sorbet vs. ice cream, read on to learn more.
What They’re Made of
One of the biggest differences between sorbet and ice cream is what they’re made of. Ice cream contains dairy products, usually cream and milk. Sometimes, it also contains eggs. That’s what gives it the smooth texture, creamy consistency, and rich flavor we all know and love. Sorbet, on the other hand, doesn’t contain dairy products. Instead, it’s made of water, fruit, and sugar. That makes it a wonderful alternative for people who are lactose intolerant or living a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle.
How They’re Made
How ice cream and sorbet are made also set them apart. Ice cream is churned to allow air into the mix. That helps make it light and soft. Sorbet is also churned. If it wasn’t, it would have hard ice crystals in it, which would definitely make it less appealing. It has less air mixed in than ice cream, though. As such, it’s denser and more compact.
Their Flavors
Flavor is definitely an area where sorbet and ice cream differ. Ice cream comes in countless flavors from basic vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry to more elaborate options, such as cookie dough, rocky road, salted caramel, and birthday cake. That barely scratches the surface. No matter which flavor you choose, ice cream is richer, thicker, and heavier than sorbet.
Sorbet comes in a wide range of flavors as well, but since it’s fruit based, those flavors are very different. It’s available in lemon, raspberry, strawberry, mango, orange, and pineapple. Those are only a few of the possibilities. Sorbet has bold, bright fruit flavors with no cream or milk to tone them down. It’s lighter than ice cream.
Nutritional Value
Now, let’s look at the nutritional value of these two treats. There’s no denying that ice cream is laden with fat, calories, and sugar. That said, it also contains calcium, vitamin D, and protein. It can also provide other vitamins and minerals depending on the flavor you choose.
Since sorbet doesn’t contain dairy, it doesn’t provide calcium and vitamin D. It can provide a variety of vitamins, but those vary depending on the types of fruit it contains. Sorbet generally doesn’t have fat or cholesterol though it does contain a great deal of sugar. Neither sorbet nor ice cream can really be considered a health food. Then again, they’re not really meant to be, are they?
Which Is Better: Sorbet or Ice Cream?
With all that being the case, is sorbet or ice cream better? The answer to that question really depends on your tastes and preferences. Some people prefer sorbet because it’s lighter and a low-fat alternative. It also appeals to people who prefer to steer clear of dairy and other animal products. On the other hand, many people find ice cream to be more satisfying. In truth, both are fantastically refreshing desserts whether you’re trying to beat the heat or you just want to indulge in a sweet treat.
