Looking for a quick, easy, nutritious summer dessert that’s easy on the wallet and your waistline? Look no further than this plant-based, vegan, banana ice cream that you can make at home! This simple recipe requires just a few ingredients and can be whipped up in minutes.
Why Banana “Nice Cream”?
Banana ice cream, or “nice cream” as some call it, is the perfect alternative to traditional dairy-based ice cream. Not only does it provide all the creamy goodness of regular ice cream, but it’s also packed with nutrients from the bananas.
Bananas are a great source of vitamins and minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and vitamin C. They also contain fiber and antioxidants that promote healthy digestion and help fight against free radicals in the body.
To make this delicious treat, all you need is frozen ripe bananas, plant-based milk (such as almond or coconut), and any additional toppings or flavors you desire. Simply blend the frozen bananas with a splash of plant-based milk until smooth and creamy. You can also add in other fruits, nuts, or chocolate chips for added flavor and texture.
Not only is banana nice cream a healthier option compared to traditional ice cream, but it’s also vegan-friendly and dairy-free. This means that those with lactose intolerance or following a plant-based diet can still enjoy a satisfying frozen treat. Plus, the natural sweetness of bananas means you won’t need to add any extra sugar.
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Ingredients:
- 4 ripe bananas
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Milk to get to desired consistency
- Optional mix-ins: chocolate chips, nuts, or honey
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Instructions:
- Prepare the Bananas: Peel the bananas and cut them into thin slices.
- Freeze the Bananas: Place the banana slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure the slices are spread out in a single layer to prevent them from sticking together. Freeze for at least 2 hours, or until the bananas are completely frozen.
- Blend the Bananas: Place the frozen banana slices into a food processor or blender. Blend on high until the bananas become smooth and creamy. This may take a few minutes, and you may need to scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally. Add plant-based milk or water to get the consistency you desire.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Once the bananas are smooth, add the vanilla extract and blend again until well combined.
- Mix-in (Optional): If you want to add any mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or a drizzle of honey, now is the time! Simply stir them into the banana mixture by hand.
- Serve Immediately or Freeze: You can serve the banana ice cream immediately for a soft-serve texture, or transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for an additional 1-2 hours for a firmer texture.
- Enjoy!: Scoop your homemade banana ice cream into bowls or cones and enjoy this healthy, delicious treat.
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Tips:
- For an extra creamy texture, add a splash of milk or a spoonful of nut butter when blending the bananas.
- Experiment with different flavors by adding cocoa powder for chocolate banana ice cream or blending in some frozen berries for a fruity twist.
Summer treats don’t have to be costly or unhealthy! Keep frozen bananas in your freezer all summer long, and you’ll always have something on hand for when your sweet tooth kicks in.
