When it’s this hot and humid out, a sweet treat that cools you off is definitely in order so it makes perfect sense that National Ice Cream Day takes place on July 18th. Now we know that due to the amount of heavy cream and sugar in ice cream that it’s not the healthiest treat around. However, there are ways to make it a little less guilt-free but stay as delicious and satisfying as ever.
Have we caught your attention? Keep reading to find out how to make delicious homemade ice cream the healthy way!
See also: How to Make a Delicious and Healthy Lemon Chickpea Salad
Real Strawberry Ice Cream
Yields: 6 servings
Ingredients:
- ¾ cup (180 ml) soy milk, or milk alternative
- ¾ cup (180 ml) coconut milk, or heavy cream
- ⅓ cup (80 ml) date syrup, or honey to taste
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla bean paste extract
- 1½ pound (680 g) whole frozen strawberries
Method:
- Place all ingredients into a high-powered blender in the order listed and secure the lid.
- Start the blender on its lowest speed, then quickly increase to its highest speed.
- Blend for 30-45 seconds, using a tamper to press ingredients toward the blades. After about 30 seconds, the sound of the motor should change and four mounds will form.
- Transfer to an airtight container and when ready to enjoy, allow to soften at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.
Chocolate Avocado Freeze
Yields: 3 servings
Ingredients:
- 1 (120 g) banana, peeled
- ¼ (35 g) avocado, pitted, peeled
- 2½ Tablespoon (40 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1½ Tablespoon (30 g) date syrup
- 1¾ cup (225 g) ice cubes
Method:
- Place all ingredients into the blender in the order listed and secure the lid.
- Start the blender on its lowest speed, then quickly increase to its highest speed. Blend for 30 seconds, using the tamper to press ingredients toward the blades.
- In about 30-60 seconds, the sound of the motor will change and four mounds should form. Stop the machine. Do not over mix or melting will occur. Serve immediately.
Mango Basil Freeze
Yields: 4 servings
Ingredients:
- 1½ cup (360 ml) almond yogurt, or yogurt of choice
- 9 (7 g) fresh basil leaves
- 3 (30 g) dates, pitted, or 1.5 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1½ pound (680 g) frozen mango chunks
Method:
- Place all ingredients into the blender in the order listed and secure the lid.
- Start the blender on its lowest speed, then quickly increase to its highest speed. Blend for 50 seconds, using the tamper to press ingredients toward the blades.
- In about 30-60 seconds, the sound of the motor will change and four mounds should form. Stop the machine. Do not over mix or melting will occur. Serve immediately.
Featured Image: Brooke Lark, Recipes: Vitamix Canada