I see those ripe bananas on your counter and raise you a scoop of homemade Banana Ice Cream. Make that two scoops—there is no way you will want to stop at just one serving of this creamy, dreamy summer bliss!
How To Make Ice Cream With Bananas?
You can make delicious and healthy banana ice cream, often called “nice cream,” using just a few simple ingredients. This frozen treat is dairy-free, vegan, and naturally sweetened by the bananas. Here’s a basic recipe:
Ingredients
- 2-3 ripe bananas (peeled, sliced, and frozen)
- 1-2 tablespoons of plant-based milk (such as almond, soy, or coconut milk, if needed)
- Optional flavorings and toppings (e.g., vanilla extract, cocoa powder, nuts, chocolate chips, berries, honey, or maple syrup)
Instructions
Slice And Freeze The Bananas
- Start peeling the ripe bananas and slicing them into 1/2-inch to 1-inch thick rounds.
- Place the banana slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Freeze the banana slices for at least 2-3 hours or until completely frozen. You can also freeze them overnight.
Blend The Frozen Bananas
- Once the banana slices are frozen solid, transfer them to a blender or food processor.
- You may need to add 1-2 tablespoons of plant-based milk to help with blending, but start with just a little and add more if needed. The goal is to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency without adding too much liquid.
- You can add optional flavorings like a splash of vanilla extract, a spoonful of cocoa powder for chocolate flavor, or other ingredients to suit your taste.
Blend Until Smooth
- Blend the frozen banana slices until they become smooth and creamy ice cream-like. You should stop and scrape down the sides of the blender or food processor a few times to ensure even blending.
Serve Immediately
- Once your banana ice cream reaches the desired texture, serve it immediately. It will have a soft-serve consistency.
- Enjoy it with your favorite toppings like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, fresh berries, honey, or maple syrup.
Store Any Leftovers
- If you have any leftovers, you can transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the freezer. However, note that the texture may become quite firm when frozen for an extended period, so you might need to let it thaw slightly before serving.
Banana ice cream is a versatile treat, and you can get creative with your flavor combinations and toppings to suit your preferences. Enjoy your homemade banana ice cream!
Is Ice Cream Made From Bananas Healthy?
Banana ice cream, often referred to as “nice cream,” is generally considered a healthier alternative to traditional ice cream for several reasons:
Nutrient-Rich: Bananas are a good source of essential nutrients, including potassium, dietary fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. When you make ice cream from bananas, you retain these nutrients, lacking in traditional ice cream.
Natural Sweetness: Bananas are naturally sweet, so you don’t need to add refined sugars to achieve a sweet taste in banana ice cream. This makes it a lower-calorie and lower-sugar option than many commercial ice creams.
Dairy-Free And Vegan: Banana ice cream is typically made without dairy products, making it suitable for people who are lactose intolerant or following a vegan diet.
No Artificial Additives: Homemade banana ice cream is free from artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives often found in store-bought ice creams.
However, it’s essential to consider portion sizes and additional ingredients when evaluating the healthiness of banana ice cream. While bananas are nutritious, they are still relatively calorie-dense due to their natural sugar content. If you overindulge, you may consume more calories than you realize.
Additionally, toppings and mix-ins can affect the overall nutritional profile of your banana ice cream. Adding nuts, chocolate chips, or syrups can increase the calorie and sugar content.
In summary, banana ice cream can be a healthier dessert option when compared to traditional ice cream, mainly when you use it as a base for creative and nutritious toppings. However, like any treat, enjoying it in moderation is essential as part of a balanced diet.
Thanks for reading.