Dairy-free living shouldn’t mean missing out on the simple pleasures, like biting into a refreshing Klondike bar. While classic Klondike bars are off the menu for those avoiding dairy, the good news is that you can still enjoy a creamy, chocolatey treat with delicious dairy-free Klondike bar alternatives.
What Makes a Klondike Bar Dairy-Free?
A traditional Klondike bar consists of a vanilla ice cream center coated in a thin layer of chocolate. To make a Klondike bar dairy-free, we need to swap out those two main components:
- Dairy-free ice cream: Thankfully, the market is brimming with plant-based ice cream options. Look for varieties made with almond milk, coconut milk, cashew milk, or oat milk. Each base offers a slightly different flavor profile and texture, allowing you to customize your dairy-free Klondike experience.
- Vegan chocolate: Regular chocolate often contains milk solids. Opt for vegan chocolate chips, bars, or melts specifically labeled as dairy-free. These are readily available and provide that satisfying snap we love in a Klondike bar.
DIY vs. Store-Bought: Which Route Will You Choose?
When it comes to dairy-free Klondike bars, you have two paths: the adventure of making your own or the convenience of store-bought options.
Making Your Own Dairy-Free Klondike Bars
Why go homemade? Crafting your own dairy-free Klondike bars puts you in the driver’s seat. You control the ingredients, experiment with flavors, and ensure every component aligns with your dietary preferences.
Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 1 pint of your favorite dairy-free vanilla ice cream
- 1 cup dairy-free chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
Instructions:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
- Scoop the dairy-free ice cream into individual portions onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Freeze the ice cream scoops for at least 2 hours, or until solid.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dairy-free chocolate chips and coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Dip each frozen ice cream scoop into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Place the coated ice cream bars back onto the parchment paper and freeze for an additional hour before enjoying.
Tips:
- For a thicker chocolate shell, double dip the bars.
- Get creative with toppings! Sprinkle on chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or vegan sprinkles before the chocolate hardens.
- Experiment with different dairy-free ice cream flavors like chocolate, strawberry, or mint chip.
Exploring Store-Bought Dairy-Free Klondike Bars
Short on time or craving convenience? Fear not! Many brands now offer pre-made dairy-free frozen treats that rival the classic Klondike bar.
Here are a few popular brands to look for:
- So Delicious: Known for their coconut milk-based ice cream, So Delicious offers a range of dipped bars, including a classic vanilla bean coated in chocolate.
- Daiya: This brand specializes in dairy-free alternatives and offers a delicious line of dairy-free frozen desserts, including chocolate-coated bars.
- GoodPop: While not a traditional Klondike shape, GoodPop offers a variety of dairy-free ice cream bars on a stick dipped in decadent chocolate coatings.
Tip: When shopping for store-bought options, always double-check the ingredient list to ensure the product is indeed dairy-free and aligns with your dietary needs.
Tips for Choosing the Best Dairy-Free Klondike Bar
Whether you’re whipping up a batch at home or browsing the frozen aisle, here are a few tips for selecting the best dairy-free Klondike bar experience:
- Read the label: Pay close attention to the ingredient list. Look for recognizable ingredients and avoid artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives whenever possible.
- Consider the base: Dairy-free ice creams come in a variety of bases. Each base offers a unique flavor and texture. Experiment to discover your favorites!
- Don’t be afraid to try new brands: The market for dairy-free frozen treats is constantly expanding. Be adventurous and explore new brands and flavor combinations.
“Finding a delicious dairy-free Klondike bar is all about exploring the options and discovering what suits your taste preferences,” says Sarah Jones, a registered dietitian specializing in food allergies and intolerances. “Don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with it!”
Dairy-Free Frozen Treat Aisle
Enjoy Your Dairy-Free Treat!
Indulging in a frozen treat, even one as classic as a Klondike bar, is entirely possible on a dairy-free lifestyle. By embracing plant-based ingredients and exploring the growing market of dairy-free alternatives, you can enjoy every creamy, chocolatey bite guilt-free!