Ingredients:
4 ripe bananas
1 avocado
1/4 cup full-fat coconut milk
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dark chocolate chips (to taste)
Green food coloring (optional)
Preparation
Freezing the Bananas: Peel and slice the bananas. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze the banana slices for at least 2 hours or until they are completely frozen. This step ensures the bananas blend smoothly and give the ice cream a creamy texture.
Preparing the Avocado: Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop out the flesh. Make sure the avocado is ripe, as this will blend more easily and contribute to the creamy texture of the ice cream.
Blending the Ingredients: In a high-speed blender or food processor, combine the frozen banana slices, avocado, coconut milk, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This may take a few minutes, and you might need to stop occasionally to scrape down the sides of the blender to ensure everything is well mixed.
Adding Color: If you want your ice cream to have the traditional mint green color, add a few drops of green food coloring. Blend again until the color is evenly distributed. This step is optional but gives the ice cream a visually appealing look.
Incorporating Chocolate Chips: Stir in the dark chocolate chips. You can chop the chocolate chips into smaller pieces if you prefer a more even distribution throughout the ice cream. Fold the chocolate chips into the mixture gently to avoid melting them.
Freezing the Mixture: Transfer the blended mixture to a freezer-safe container. Smooth the top with a spatula, cover, and freeze for 2-3 hours or until the ice cream is firm enough to scoop.
Serving the Ice Cream: Once the ice cream is fully frozen, use an ice cream scoop to serve. If the ice cream is too hard, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften before scooping.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (1/2 cup):
Calories: 150
Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 15g
Protein: 2g
This vegan mint choc chip ice cream is not only delicious but also provides a good amount of dietary fiber and healthy fats from the avocado and coconut milk. The natural sweetness from the bananas reduces the need for added sugars, making it a healthier alternative to traditional ice cream.
Tips for Perfect Vegan Ice Cream
Banana Ripeness: Ensure the bananas are ripe before freezing them. Ripe bananas are sweeter and blend more smoothly, giving the ice cream a naturally sweet flavor and creamy texture.
Avocado Selection: Choose a perfectly ripe avocado. It should yield slightly to gentle pressure but not be mushy. A ripe avocado ensures a creamy consistency without any lumps.
Coconut Milk: Use full-fat coconut milk for the best texture. Light coconut milk or other non-dairy milk can be used, but they may result in a less creamy ice cream.
Peppermint Extract: Adjust the amount of peppermint extract to your taste. If you prefer a stronger mint flavor, you can add a few more drops.
Stirring the Chocolate Chips: To prevent the chocolate chips from sinking to the bottom, fold them in gently and evenly distribute them throughout the mixture.
Storage: Store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. For the best texture, consume within a week. Allow it to soften at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to make scooping easier.
Additional Information
Mint choc chip vegan ice cream is a great dessert option for those following a plant-based diet or anyone looking for a healthier alternative to traditional ice cream. The combination of bananas and avocado not only adds natural sweetness and creaminess but also packs the dessert with nutrients. Bananas are rich in potassium and vitamins, while avocados provide healthy fats and fiber.
This recipe is also versatile. You can experiment with different types of non-dairy milk, such as almond milk or cashew milk, to see which you prefer. You can also add other mix-ins like crushed nuts or swirl in some vegan chocolate sauce for added indulgence.
Conclusion
Making mint choc chip vegan ice cream at home is a fun and rewarding experience. Not only do you get to enjoy a delicious, creamy treat, but you also have the satisfaction of knowing it’s made with wholesome, natural ingredients. This recipe is perfect for those hot summer days or whenever you’re craving something sweet and refreshing. Enjoy your homemade ice cream and feel good about every bite!
