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1/28/2025
Sorbet, sherbet, and sorbetto—three frozen treats that sound similar enough to get them confused. You might have even thought they were the same! But here’s the scoop: there are key differences that set them apart.
When it comes to cooling off with a refreshing frozen treat, it can be tough to decide what to unwrap and enjoy. Each offers a unique taste experience, but how do you know which one is right for you? Let’s compare sorbet, sherbet, and sorbetto to uncover your perfect match.
Sorbet vs Sherbet vs Sorbetto: What's the Difference?
Sorbet, sherbet, and sorbetto each offer their own unique twist on refreshing, fruity flavors. But what sets these delightful desserts apart? Let’s find out.
Sorbet
Sorbet is the lightest of the trio, known for its dairy-free composition. It’s made primarily from water, sugar, and fruit, resulting in a refreshing and fruity treat that’s perfect for those who are lactose intolerant or simply looking for a lighter option.
Sherbet
Sherbet sits somewhere between sorbet and ice cream. It contains a small amount of dairy (typically, 1-2%), which gives it a creamier texture than sorbet but keeps it lighter than traditional ice cream. Sherbet is rich and slightly tangy, making it a delightful option for those who want a bit of creaminess without the full richness of ice cream.
Sorbetto
Sorbetto is the Italian cousin of sorbet, and while it shares many similarities, it’s known for its smoother, more velvety texture, which is much less icy than a sorbet. Made with a similar base of water, sugar, and fruit, sorbetto often has some air churned into it, giving it a luxurious texture. It’s a more stylish choice for those who appreciate the finer things in life.
A Guide to Flavor Choices for Sorbet, Sherbet, and Sorbetto
Sorbet Flavors
Sorbet is all about the fruit. Common flavors include lemon, strawberry, and peach, but you can also find more exotic options like mango, raspberry, and even chocolate.
Sherbet Flavors
Sherbet often features classic fruit flavors like orange, lime, and raspberry. The addition of dairy gives these flavors a creamy twist, making them a bit richer and more indulgent. You could also try flavors like pineapple or rainbow sherbet, which combine multiple fruits.

Sorbetto Flavors
Sorbetto takes flavor to the next level with its smooth texture and its authentic Italian taste. Talenti Sorbetto offers a range of fruity flavors, and we make sure to source only the finest ingredients to make them. For instance, our Roman Raspberry is packed with handpicked raspberries from California and Chile, and our Alphonso Mango is made with world-famous mangoes from Maharashtra, India.
In addition to traditional fruit flavors, we also offer options like Cold Brew Coffee Sorbetto, created by perfectly blending fair-trade Brazilian and Colombian cold brew coffee with everything but the milk, and Dark Chocolate Sorbetto, made with real, sustainably sourced cocoa and a dairy-free chocolate sauce.
Read more about our ingredients and sources here.

When to Indulge: The Best Times for Sorbet, Sherbet, and Sorbetto
These delightful treats are versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round, but there are some occasions and times of the year that can make them even more special.
Sorbet is perfect for those who want a fruity snack without the heaviness of dairy. It’s also a great option for vegans and those with lactose intolerance. Enjoy it as a palate cleanser between courses or as a refreshing treat on a warm day.
Sherbet is perfect as a midday treat or a light dessert. The slight tanginess of sherbet goes well with fresh fruit or a splash of sparkling water for a fizzy float.
Sorbetto pairs beautifully with a glass of prosecco or a fresh fruit salad. Talenti Sorbetto brings an authentic taste of Italy to your spoon. With its rich, vibrant flavors and smooth texture, it’s the kind of treat that feels a little extra indulgent —perfect for those moments when you’re craving something both refreshing and totally delicious.
For a fun, easy snack, try making ice pops with any of your favorite flavors! We love the Alphonso Mango Sorbetto for its sweet, tropical flavor. It’s the perfect way to cool off and satisfy your cravings. Check out the full recipe here.
Why Talenti Sorbetto is a Flavor Like No Other
Talenti Sorbetto isn’t just another frozen treat—it’s an authentic Italian experience in every bite. We don’t take shortcuts when it comes to taste. That’s why we use traditional slow-cooking techniques to bring out the maximum flavor in every ingredient.
Our story begins with our founder, Josh Hochschuler, who discovered the art of traditional gelato in Buenos Aires, where local gelaterias put their own spin on Italy’s classic dessert. Inspired by this blend of tradition and creativity, we’ve made it our mission to share the secrets of authentic gelato with every jar we craft.
We pour passion into every batch, using only the finest ingredients—never artificial flavors, colors, or additives.
Fun fact: Each pint of Roman Raspberry Sorbetto contains at least 97 raspberries!
The result? A seriously refreshing sorbetto to enjoy any time, any place — whether you’re passing it around with friends or keeping it all to yourself.
Also read: How Talenti Gelato is Made to Capture the Taste of Italy in Every Scoop
Top Talenti Sorbetto Flavors
Talenti Sorbetto comes in a range of irresistible flavors. They’re all dairy-free and gluten-free, making them a perfect treat for nearly everyone to enjoy. Plus, our top flavors are also available as pre-portioned mini bars—each only 45-80 calories, so you can savor them guilt-free. Not sure where to start? Here are our top flavors:
New Ways to Enjoy Your Frozen Treats
Want to get creative? Try pairing sorbet, sherbet, or sorbetto with fresh fruits, herbs, or even a splash of wine. For instance, a scoop of lemon sorbet with fresh mint leaves makes for a refreshing palate cleanser. Or try a scoop of Roman Raspberry Sorbetto with a dash of champagne for an effortlessly elegant dessert.
FAQs
Sorbet is typically lower in calories and fat since it doesn’t contain dairy. However, both can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.
Yes, both sorbet and sherbet can be made at home with simple ingredients. Sorbet is as straightforward as blending fruit, water, and sugar, while sherbet takes it up a notch with the addition of a small amount of dairy—typically about 1-2% of the recipe. This touch of milk or cream gives sherbet its signature creaminess while keeping it lighter than ice cream.
But if you’re craving the perfectly crafted taste of sorbetto without the effort, treat yourself to one of our Talenti jars, made the traditional way with only the finest ingredients. It’s the easiest way to enjoy authentic, refreshing flavor anytime!
The Bottom Line
Whether you’re a fan of the light and fruity sorbet, the creamy and tangy sherbet, or the smooth and luxurious sorbetto, there’s a perfect frozen treat for every palate. Talenti Sorbetto offers a uniquely delicious and refreshing taste experience, crafted with high-quality ingredients and authentic Italian recipes. So, next time you're craving a fruity treat, grab a pint of Talenti Sorbetto and treat yourself to a little jar of bliss.