I have always been an open-minded ice cream enthusiast, appreciating the diverse array of flavors and varieties available. From premium to value-oriented, full-fat to light versions, each has its own merit. And while I do indulge in traditional ice cream, there are times when I opt for lighter options to balance out my ice cream consumption.
In recent years, healthier ice cream alternatives have flooded the market, allowing us to enjoy an entire pint with a fraction of the fat, sugar, and calories found in traditional ice cream. However, one aspect often lacking in these light versions is the smooth and creamy texture that we experience with full-fat ice cream. Many times, they can come across as overly icy and lack the indulgent creaminess we crave.
But fear not, ice cream lovers! Enter Nick’s Swedish-Style Light Ice Cream, a game-changer in the world of light ice creams. This innovative company uses sugar alcohols and various plant-based sweeteners and fats to create their ice cream. They boldly claim that their plant-based fat results in the unmistakable melt-in-your-mouth creaminess of full-fat ice cream, all with a significantly lower calorie count. Intriguing, right? I couldn’t wait to put their claim to the test.
A Flavorful Adventure
Peanöt Butter Cup
I began my journey with one of the more challenging flavors to nail in the light ice cream realm: Peanöt Butter Cup. This delightful creation features a mild and delightfully creamy peanut butter-flavored base with adorable miniature peanut butter cups. While the overall experience was fantastic, I couldn’t help but wish for a few more of those delicious peanut butter cups mixed in. And to my surprise, a chocolate swirl and chewy brownie dough were hidden gems that brought the whole flavor profile together in perfect harmony.
Rating: 8 out of 10
Nutrition Facts: (1/2 cup) 90 calories, 4.5 grams of fat, 2 grams of saturated fat, 0 grams of trans fat, 10 mg of cholesterol, 80 milligrams of sodium, 19 grams of carbohydrates, 4 grams of fiber, 3 grams of sugar, 6 grams of sugar alcohols, and 4 grams of protein.
Strawbär Swirl
Next up was the classic flavor of Strawbär Swirl. The mellow and creamy vanilla base served its purpose well, allowing the bright and fresh strawberry ribbons to shine. It reminded me of the days when I used to prepare homemade ice cream with my parents as a child. This flavor is on par with some of the best strawberry ice creams I have ever tasted.
Rating: 8 out of 10
Nutrition Facts: (1/2 cup) 70 calories, 2.5 grams of fat, 1.5 grams of saturated fat, 0 grams of trans fat, 5 milligrams of cholesterol, 75 milligrams of sodium, 18 grams of carbohydrates, 4 grams of fiber, 4 grams of sugar, 6 grams of sugar alcohols, and 4 grams of protein.
Swedish Cookie Dough
My excitement peaked when I arrived at the Swedish Cookie Dough flavor. The vanilla base, swirled with chocolate and studded with pieces of sugar cookie dough, delivered a smooth and buttery taste that exceeded my expectations. I detected a hint of cinnamon throughout, giving it a borderline snickerdoodle vibe. The cookie dough pieces and mild chocolate swirl elevated this flavor to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Rating: 9 out of 10
Nutrition Facts: (1/2 cup) 70 calories, 3.5 grams of fat, 1 gram of saturated fat, 0 grams of trans fat, 10 milligrams of cholesterol, 70 milligrams of sodium, 19 grams of carbohydrates, 5 grams of fiber, 3 grams of sugar, 5 grams of sugar alcohols, and 3 grams of protein.
Cherry Choka-Fläka
Indulging in the captivating flavor of Cherry Choka-Fläka, I discovered a vanilla ice cream delightfully infused with chocolate flakes and cherry bits. The base’s cherry-forward taste, free from artificial flavors, impressed me. Dark chocolate flakes added richness and a satisfying snap to each spoonful, while the chewy cherry chunks provided a welcome tartness and delightful texture. Combining both elements in a single bite, I was transported to the realm of a heavenly cherry cordial.
Rating: 9 out of 10
Nutrition Facts: (1/2 cup) 70 calories, 3.5 grams of fat, 1 gram of saturated fat, 0 grams of trans fat, 10 milligrams of cholesterol, 70 milligrams of sodium, 19 grams of carbohydrates, 5 grams of fiber, 3 grams of sugar, 5 grams of sugar alcohols, and 3 grams of protein.
Swedish Lemon Bar
Prepare your taste buds for a tangy delight with Swedish Lemon Bar. This airier ice cream still offers a creamy texture that perfectly complements the cheesecake-flavored base. As the name suggests, this flavor takes inspiration from lemon bars, with a subtle buttery taste reminiscent of the shortbread crust. However, the real star of the show is the bright, tart, and refreshing lemon ribbon, accompanied by chewy lemon rind pieces that add a delightful zest. This unique creation truly stands out from the crowd.
Rating: 10 out of 10
Nutrition Facts: (1/2 cup) 60 calories, 1.5 grams of fat, 0.5 grams of saturated fat, 0 grams of trans fat, 5 milligrams of cholesterol, 65 milligrams of sodium, 17 grams of carbohydrates, 5 grams of fiber, 4 grams of sugar, 4 grams of sugar alcohols, and 4 grams of protein.
Triple Choklad
As a chocolate lover, I saved Triple Choklad for last. With its chocolate base, brownie bits, and fudge swirl, I expected the utmost decadence. However, the flavor presented itself in a more subdued manner. The dark chocolate base offered a slightly bitter edge, which surprisingly complemented the overall taste. Although the fudge swirl was overshadowed by the base, the chewy brownie bits provided a delightful textural contrast. While this flavor didn’t live up to my chocolate-loving expectations, it still remains a decent choice.
Rating: 6 out of 10
Nutrition Facts: (1/2 cup) 80 calories, 3.5 grams of fat, 1.5 grams of saturated fat, 0 grams of trans fat, 10 milligrams of cholesterol, 80 milligrams of sodium, 18 grams of carbohydrates, 5 grams of fiber, 3 grams of sugar, 5 grams of sugar alcohols, and 4 grams of protein.
The Creamy Conclusion
Nick’s Swedish-Style Light Ice Cream truly lives up to its promise of creaminess. While it may not reach the velvety heights of premium full-fat ice cream, it certainly stands out among other light ice cream options. Remarkably, if blindfolded, one would be hard-pressed to identify these flavors as light alternatives. Nick’s is not just “good for light ice cream”—it is simply good, period. It can rival many standard ice cream varieties in taste and quality.
Curiosity led me to research Swedish ice cream, and it appears that Nick’s dominates the search results. Although I couldn’t find distinctly Swedish methods of ice cream preparation, it seems that the “Swedish” label refers to the brand’s creator. Fascinating, isn’t it?
According to their website, Nick’s boasts 14 patents, two in-house food scientists, and over 100 flavor tests. This commitment to excellence shines through in their exceptional product. As I ponder future light ice cream purchases, I can confidently say that Nick’s will be my go-to brand.
DISCLOSURE: I received free pints from Nick’s. (Thanks Nick’s!) Rest assured, my review remains unbiased and untainted by this act of generosity.
For more delightful ice cream options, discover the world of flavors at Ice Cream.
