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Craving a scoop of something cold and creamy? Here are a few recipe ideas for trimming calories and upping your dessert's healthy protein and fiber. These won't require an ice cream maker, just common supplies in your kitchen. Best of all, these recipes are satisfying and packed with flavor!
Faux Ice Cream Base
Here's a quick and easy base for your frozen desserts. Just swap out the creamy ingredient for one of the options below:
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1 cup cream alternative
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Agave or sugar substitute, to taste
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A small pinch of salt
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1 teaspoon vanilla
Blend well by hand or with a blender or food processor. Stir in your choice of flavor-packed extras like:
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Fresh berries
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Slivered dark chocolate
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Toasted coconut
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Espresso syrup
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Insides of a vanilla bean
Freeze for several hours in a shallow pan, stirring every 1/2 hour. If the mixture becomes too stiff, thaw for 10 minutes before scooping.
Makes 2-4 1/2 cup servings.
Cream Alternatives
The heavy whipping cream used in ice cream is the source of a lot of its fat and calories. Here are some lighter and healthier substitutions:
Basic Custard
Mix low-fat milk with egg yolks and a few teaspoons of sweetener. Stir slowly on low heat until it's the consistency of loose pancake batter. Cool before use.
Avocado
Avocado is very creamy and loaded with heart-healthy fats. Choose ripe ones, which have a milder taste. Add plenty of mix-ins to cut the calories per serving.
Bananas
Bananas are a classic ice cream alternative loaded with natural sweetness and a creamy texture. Freeze solid before use. Blending is easier if you cut them into chunks before freezing.
Yogurt
Everything from Greek yogurt to low-fat varieties can be used. However, thicker or Greek-style yogurts tend to make creamier, less icy desserts. Read the label first. Yogurt is often already sweetened, so you may want to reduce sugar elsewhere in the recipe.
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The post Four Healthy Alternatives to Ice Cream appeared first on Element Deer Valley Blog.
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