As dietary preferences and needs grow, Sugartree Gelato, an artisanal gelato boutique in Singapore, has embraced inclusivity in its dessert offerings. Known for crafting gelato with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, Sugartree Gelato is committed to making delicious gelato accessible to all. From dairy-free and vegan choices to low-sugar and nut-free options, we believe everyone should be able to enjoy gelato's rich, creamy experience without limitations. With options that cater to a wide range of dietary needs, Sugartree Gelato makes it possible for everyone to indulge in dessert with peace of mind and pleasure.

For those who want to create their own inclusive gelato at home, here are some tips that will excite the taste buds and ensure everyone can indulge.

Dairy-Free Options: Almond & Coconut Milk Gelato

For those who are lactose intolerant or prefer a dairy-free lifestyle, dairy-free gelato options offer an excellent alternative without sacrificing the creamy texture that makes gelato unique. Sugartree Gelato’s dairy-free options are crafted using almond milk, coconut milk, and other plant-based bases, each with a distinctive taste and texture.

Flavour Suggestions

Coconut milk pairs beautifully with tropical flavours like mango, pineapple and lime, creating a refreshing tropical burst. For something richer, chocolate coconut provides a decadent treat with a hint of the tropics. In contrast, almond milk-based options like vanilla or chocolate almond offer a subtle nutty undertone that complements classic gelato flavours.

Health Benefits

Coconut milk is high in healthy fats known as medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which aid digestion and provide a quick energy source. Almond milk, on the other hand, is rich in vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps skin health. Thus, these alternatives are dairy-free and beneficial for overall wellness.

Handling Tips

To ensure the best texture, dairy-free gelato should be stored at slightly warmer temperatures than traditional gelato to prevent it from hardening too much. This slight adjustment ensures that each scoop remains creamy and smooth.

Vegan Gelato Varieties

Vegan diets are becoming more popular, and vegan gelato offers a treat free from animal-derived ingredients. Vegan gelato allows those following plant-based diets to enjoy a creamy dessert using plant-based milk and excluding additives like eggs or honey.

Flavour Suggestions

Sorbets made with seasonal fruits such as raspberry, passionfruit and lychee are naturally vegan and flavourful. For those craving something creamier, cashew or oat milk can create indulgent flavours like dark chocolate cashew or matcha oat, offering smooth textures that rival traditional dairy gelato.

Health Benefits

Vegan gelato often incorporates nutrient-rich ingredients like cashew milk, which is high in minerals such as magnesium and iron, beneficial for energy and bone health. Oat milk is also packed with fibre, contributing to improved digestion and heart health.

Handling Tips

Vegan gelato bases are more temperature-sensitive than dairy bases. Using ingredients that help stabilise the texture, such as guar gum or arrowroot powder, can ensure vegan gelato remains silky and doesn’t crystallise, even when stored for extended periods.

Low-sugar or Sugar-Free Options

As more people watch their sugar intake, low-sugar and sugar-free gelato options provide a satisfying treat without the added sugars. Consider using natural sweeteners like stevia, monk fruit or erythritol to retain sweetness without the high glycemic impact of regular sugar.

Flavour Suggestions

Classic flavours like vanilla and chocolate are popular for low-sugar versions since they pair well with natural sweeteners. Fruity flavours such as strawberry or blueberry, made with fresh fruit purées, are also excellent, as the natural sweetness of the fruits shines through with minimal added sweeteners.

Health Benefits

These options are more friendly for those managing blood sugar levels or following a keto or low-carb lifestyle by reducing sugar. Natural sweeteners like monk fruit have antioxidant properties and can help reduce calorie intake, making low-sugar gelato a more balanced treat.

Handling Tips

Sugar-free gelato tends to freeze harder than regular varieties, so slightly increasing the serving temperature ensures a softer scoop. To maintain a creamy texture, add a pinch of fibre-rich ingredients like chicory root or inulin.

Nut-Free Flavours and Handling Practices

For individuals with nut allergies, it’s essential to have nut-free gelato options that are prepared in a safe, allergen-aware environment. Sugartree Gelato offers a range of nut-free flavours while adhering to strict handling practices to prevent cross-contamination.

Flavour Suggestions

Nut-free flavours include chocolate, vanilla, and refreshing fruit options like strawberry, lemon or passionfruit. For a more indulgent twist, caramel swirl or mint chocolate chip are fantastic choices that add variety, provided they are certified nut-free.

Health Benefits

Nut-free gelato options give peace of mind to those with nut allergies, allowing them to enjoy a dessert without concerns over potential allergen exposure.

Handling Tips

In addition to maintaining separate equipment, nut-free gelato should be prepared and stored in designated nut-free areas. Using colour-coded utensils and storage containers can further reduce cross-contact risk, ensuring a safe experience for all customers.

Gluten-Free Gelato Ingredients

For those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, gluten-free gelato options are essential. Sugartree Gelato’s gluten-free selections are made without wheat-based ingredients, ensuring everyone can enjoy a gluten-free dessert.

Flavour Suggestions

Many classic gelato flavours are naturally gluten-free, including chocolate, vanilla and fruit-based varieties like mango, peach and berry. For added indulgence, gluten-free cookie crumbles or brownie bites can be incorporated into flavours like cookies and cream or chocolate brownies for a satisfying, safe treat.

Health Benefits

Gluten-free gelato ensures that those with gluten intolerance can indulge without digestive discomfort. 

Handling Tips

Preventing cross-contact is crucial when offering gluten-free options. Using separate scoops and maintaining dedicated gluten-free containers can minimise the risk of cross-contamination, making these options reliably safe for gluten-sensitive individuals.

Conclusion