Does Dairy Queen Have Non-Dairy Ice Cream? A Deep Dive
Yes, Dairy Queen offers non-dairy options, but availability and specifics vary by location. Dairy Queen has partnered with So Delicious to offer a non-dairy Dilly Bar at participating locations.
The Rise of Non-Dairy Demand and Dairy Queen’s Response
The demand for non-dairy alternatives has exploded in recent years, driven by a combination of factors: increased awareness of lactose intolerance, a rise in veganism, and a growing interest in health and wellness. Major fast-food chains, including Dairy Queen, have recognized this trend and are responding by introducing plant-based options to their menus. Dairy Queen’s venture into the non-dairy market reflects their commitment to catering to a broader range of dietary needs and preferences.
Dairy Queen’s Non-Dairy Partnership: So Delicious
Dairy Queen’s primary entry into the non-dairy ice cream market involves a strategic partnership with So Delicious. So Delicious, a well-known brand specializing in plant-based frozen desserts, provides the technology and product to create non-dairy treats that align with Dairy Queen’s brand image. This partnership enables Dairy Queen to offer recognizable favorites in non-dairy form, appealing to customers seeking familiar flavors without dairy.
The Non-Dairy Dilly Bar: A Flagship Offering
The non-dairy Dilly Bar is arguably Dairy Queen’s most prominent non-dairy offering. This plant-based version of the classic Dilly Bar uses a coconut milk-based frozen dessert covered in a delicious chocolatey coating. It provides a convenient and familiar option for individuals seeking a dairy-free treat.
Availability: Location is Key
It’s crucial to understand that the availability of Dairy Queen’s non-dairy options is not consistent across all locations. Some stores may fully embrace the offering, while others may have limited availability or not carry the non-dairy Dilly Bar at all. Checking with your local Dairy Queen is essential before making a special trip.
Ingredients and Nutritional Information
The Dairy Queen non-dairy Dilly Bar made with So Delicious uses the following ingredients:
- Base: Coconut milk (coconut cream, water), sugar, glucose syrup, pea protein.
- Chocolatey Coating: Sugar, coconut oil, cocoa processed with alkali, soybean oil, soy lecithin, salt, vanillin.
It is essential to be aware of potential allergens. While dairy-free, the non-dairy Dilly Bar contains soy and coconut, which are common allergens. Carefully review the ingredient list if you have any known allergies or sensitivities.
| Nutritional Value | Amount per Bar |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Total Fat | 14g |
| Saturated Fat | 12g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 35mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 23g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Total Sugars | 18g |
| Protein | 1g |
Looking Ahead: Potential for Expansion
While the non-dairy Dilly Bar is a significant step, many hope Dairy Queen will expand its non-dairy offerings in the future. The potential exists to introduce non-dairy versions of other popular items like Blizzards, cones, and sundaes, further catering to the growing demand for plant-based options. Consumer feedback and market trends will likely play a key role in shaping Dairy Queen’s future non-dairy strategy.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Non-Dairy
While non-dairy ice cream provides an alternative for those avoiding dairy, it’s essential to consider other factors. Some non-dairy options may be higher in sugar or fat than traditional dairy ice cream. Carefully comparing nutritional information and ingredient lists is crucial when making informed choices that align with your dietary needs and preferences. Also, many people who cannot digest the lactose in dairy may still be able to digest ice cream that is low in lactose.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Dairy Queen’s non-dairy ice cream vegan?
Yes, the Dairy Queen non-dairy Dilly Bar is considered vegan because it does not contain any animal-derived ingredients. It’s made from a coconut milk base and uses plant-based alternatives for other components.
Does Dairy Queen use different equipment to prepare non-dairy items to avoid cross-contamination?
Dairy Queen does not explicitly guarantee complete separation of equipment between dairy and non-dairy products. While they strive to minimize cross-contamination, individuals with severe dairy allergies should exercise caution and inquire directly with the specific location about their preparation practices.
What other non-dairy options does Dairy Queen offer besides the Dilly Bar?
Currently, the non-dairy Dilly Bar is the primary non-dairy offering at Dairy Queen. While some locations may offer fruit smoothies or other items that can be made without dairy, these are not specifically marketed as non-dairy options. Check with your local Dairy Queen for details.
Why isn’t non-dairy ice cream available at every Dairy Queen location?
The decision to carry non-dairy options rests with individual franchise owners. Factors such as local demand, storage capacity, and cost considerations influence whether a specific Dairy Queen location offers non-dairy items.
Can I customize a Blizzard with a non-dairy base at Dairy Queen?
Unfortunately, Dairy Queen does not currently offer a non-dairy base for Blizzards. The non-dairy offering is limited to the pre-made Dilly Bar.
What ingredients are used in Dairy Queen’s non-dairy ice cream alternative?
The non-dairy Dilly Bar is made using a coconut milk base along with other ingredients such as sugar, glucose syrup, pea protein, and a chocolatey coating made with sugar, coconut oil, cocoa, and soy lecithin.
Is the non-dairy Dilly Bar gluten-free?
While the core ingredients of the non-dairy Dilly Bar are naturally gluten-free, it’s essential to check with the specific location regarding potential cross-contamination, as preparation processes may vary. Dairy Queen cannot explicitly certify that its non-dairy Dilly Bars are gluten-free.
How does the taste of the non-dairy Dilly Bar compare to the regular Dilly Bar?
Many people find the taste of the non-dairy Dilly Bar to be surprisingly similar to the original. The coconut milk base provides a creamy texture, and the chocolatey coating delivers a familiar flavor. However, subtle differences may be noticeable.
Does Dairy Queen plan to expand its non-dairy menu in the future?
Dairy Queen has not made official announcements about expanding their non-dairy menu. However, the growing demand for plant-based options suggests that further expansion is a possibility. Consumer feedback and market trends will likely influence future decisions.
Are there any sugar-free or low-sugar non-dairy options available at Dairy Queen?
Dairy Queen’s current non-dairy offering is not sugar-free or low-sugar. The non-dairy Dilly Bar contains a significant amount of sugar.
Can I order a non-dairy Dilly Bar online for delivery?
The availability of online ordering and delivery for non-dairy Dilly Bars depends on the individual location. Check with your local Dairy Queen or through third-party delivery apps to see if they offer this option.
How can I find out if my local Dairy Queen carries the non-dairy Dilly Bar?
The best way to confirm availability is to contact your local Dairy Queen directly by phone or visit their website (if they have one). You can also check with third-party delivery services to see if the item is listed on the menu.