Sorbet vs sherbet: what's the difference?
Sorbet is fruit, sugar and water with no dairy, while sherbet adds a little milk or cream, so sherbet tastes creamier and sorbet tastes brighter and icier.
Sorbet
Very lightIndulgent
SubtleBig punch
MellowZingy
Pure, icy fruit, sharp and refreshing.
Sherbet
Very lightIndulgent
SubtleBig punch
MellowZingy
Fruity and tangy with a soft, creamy edge.
The real difference
Sorbet is just fruit or juice, sugar and water churned until frozen, so it tastes like the fruit, only colder. Sherbet adds a small amount of dairy, which smooths it out and softens the tang. It sits between sorbet and ice cream.
Side by side
SorbetSherbet
Made fromFruit, sugar, waterFruit, sugar, a little milk or cream
TextureIcy, smooth, cleanSofter, a little creamy
TastesBright, intense fruitFruity, milder, tangy
On a menuBetween courses, light dessertsRainbow scoops, punch bowls, kids menus
Which to order
- Order sorbet if you want something light and fruity after a heavy meal.
- Order sherbet if you want fruit with a creamy, nostalgic softness.
Quick questions
- Is sorbet dairy-free?
- Usually, since classic sorbet is fruit, sugar and water. Recipes vary and menus don't list everything, so ask if you avoid dairy.
- Is sherbert the same as sherbet?
- Yes. Sherbert is just a very common spelling of sherbet, with an extra r people tend to hear. Same dessert.