Homemade Banana Ice Cream is an easy, healthy treat perfect for summer. Are you craving a creamy, cold dessert that’s still light and nutritious? Look no further than this delicious and oh-so-easy 3-Ingredient Banana Ice Cream recipe!
The texture of the ice cream is like soft serve. You can freeze it to firm it up to a more scoopable consistency, if you like, or serve right away. Made with just frozen bananas, milk, and a splash of vanilla extract, this creamy treat is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. (PS. If you love simple, 3-Ingredient recipes using bananas, you must also try my Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bites and Healthy Banana Pancakes.)
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Why You’ll Love this Healthy Homemade Banana Ice Cream Recipe
Gosh you’re going to love this amazing 3-Ingredient Banana Ice Cream! Here are just a few reasons why you’re going to swoon:
- Healthy and light: Unlike traditional ice cream, which is delicious but also higher with sugar and fat, this recipe is made with just three simple and wholesome ingredients. It offers protein and is sweetened only with bananas.
- Easy and quick to make: With just a blender and a few basic ingredients, you can whip up a batch of this delicious ice cream in no time at all. It’s a great way to cool down on a hot summer day or indulge in a sweet treat after dinner. No ice cream maker required.
- Creamy and delicious: Even though it’s made without any cream or eggs, this ice cream is incredibly rich and creamy. The frozen bananas give it a smooth and silky texture, while the vanilla extract adds a warm and inviting flavor.
- Customizable and versatile: While this recipe is delicious on its own, you can always mix things up by adding other ingredients to the blender. Try blending in some peanut butter, cocoa powder, or fresh berries for a fun and flavorful twist.
- Kid-friendly and family-approved: this is one everyone in the family will enjoy. Great for toddlers, too. It’s fun, so easy to make that the kids can make it themselves (with supervision), and tastes just like the real thing!
Gather Your Ingredients for Homemade Banana Ice Cream
Before you start making your 3-Ingredient Banana Ice Cream, make sure you have all of the necessary ingredients on hand:
- Milk or milk substitute: This will be the base for your ice cream and will help to blend the other ingredients together smoothly. You can use any type of milk you like. We drink cow’s milk, but you can make it dairy-free and vegan by using almond milk, soy milk, or coconut milk.
- Frozen banana slices: You’ll need three large bananas, chopped and frozen, to give your ice cream its creamy texture and sweet flavor.
- Pure vanilla extract: A small amount of vanilla extract adds a warm, fragrant flavor to your ice cream without overpowering the banana flavor.
Grab these Tools
- Blender or Food Processor: Prepare to embark on a whirlwind of smoothness with the help of a trusty blender or food processor. These essential kitchen companions will effortlessly blend the frozen bananas into creamy perfection, creating the base for your delectable banana ice cream. Just toss in the ingredients, hit the power button, and let the magic unfold.
- Baking Sheet and Parchment Paper: Get your freezing game on point by grabbing a baking sheet and lining it with parchment paper. This dynamic duo will ensure that your banana chunks freeze individually, preventing them from sticking together. It’s the secret to achieving a smooth and scoopable texture in your homemade ice cream.
- Freezer-Safe Container: When it comes to storing and serving your banana ice cream, having the right containers is key. Grab some freezer-safe containers or silicone molds to keep your frozen delight in perfect portions. These containers will help maintain the integrity of your ice cream, ensuring it stays fresh and free from any unwanted freezer flavors.
How to make Healthy Homemade Banana Ice Cream: Step-by-Step Directions
Here are the easy steps you need to follow to make 3-Ingredient Banana Ice Cream at home:
- Chop and freeze bananas: Peel three large bananas, chop them into small pieces, and place them in a container or plastic bag in the freezer until they are completely frozen. This will take several hours or overnight.
- Blend ingredients: Combine milk or milk substitute, frozen banana chunks, and pure vanilla extract in a blender or food processor. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, adding more milk as needed to help everything blend together.
- Serve immediately or freeze for later: You can serve the ice cream immediately, while it’s still soft and creamy, or transfer it to a shallow dish and freeze for about 30 minutes to firm it up. In a deep container, it will take longer.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container: If you have any leftover ice cream, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the freezer for later. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it soften at room temperature for 15 minutes or so before breaking up ice crystals with a fork, stirring well, and then scooping.
How to Serve Your Healthy Homemade Banana Ice Cream
Now that you’ve made your 3-Ingredient Banana Ice Cream, it’s time to enjoy it in all its delicious glory! I topped it off with a dollop of whipped cream. Here are a few fun and creative ways to serve it up:
- Topped with fresh fruit: For a simple but beautiful presentation, top your ice cream with some fresh fruit, such as sliced bananas, strawberries, or blueberries. It’s a great way to add some extra vitamins and antioxidants to your dessert.
- Drizzled with chocolate sauce: If you’re feeling indulgent, why not drizzle some warm chocolate sauce over your ice cream? It’s a classic combination that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
- Sprinkled with nuts or granola: To add some crunch and texture to your ice cream, sprinkle some chopped nuts or granola on top. It’s a great way to make your dessert more filling and satisfying.
- Served in a waffle cone or bowl: For a classic ice cream parlor experience, serve your banana ice cream in a waffle cone or bowl. It’s a fun and tasty way to enjoy your dessert.
Storage Tips
The shelf life of banana ice cream, like any homemade ice cream, depends on several factors, including the ingredients used and the storage conditions. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Freshly made banana ice cream: If you’ve just made banana ice cream, it’s best to consume it within a few hours for optimal flavor and texture. Freshly made ice cream tends to have the best taste and consistency.
- Stored in the freezer: If you have leftover banana ice cream or you’re planning to store it for later use, transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the freezer. When stored properly, banana ice cream can typically last for about 1 to 2 months.
- Quality degradation: Over time, ice crystals may start to form in the ice cream, resulting in a less creamy texture. Additionally, the flavor of the banana ice cream may begin to deteriorate after a few weeks in the freezer. While it may still be safe to consume beyond the recommended time frame, the quality may not be as desirable.
It’s worth noting that homemade ice cream tends to have a shorter shelf life compared to commercially produced ice cream, which often contains stabilizers and preservatives to prolong its freshness. Therefore, it’s best to consume banana ice cream within a reasonable time frame for the best taste and quality.
Homemade Banana Ice Cream Variations and Substitutions
- Chocolate Lovers Unite: Craving a chocolatey twist? Elevate your banana ice cream to new heights by adding a cocoa powder or melted dark chocolate chips to the blender. Blend it with the frozen bananas for a rich and indulgent chocolate banana ice cream that will satisfy even the most insatiable chocolate cravings. Top it off with chocolate shavings, a drizzle of hot fudge, or a sprinkle of cocoa nibs for an extra dose of cocoa bliss.
- Nutty Delights: Want to add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to your banana ice cream? Throw in a handful of your favorite nuts during the blending process. Whether it’s chopped almonds, toasted pecans, or crushed hazelnuts, the addition of nuts will bring a satisfying texture and nutty goodness to your frozen creation. Every spoonful will be a delightful surprise for your taste buds.
- Fruity Fusion: Take your banana ice cream on a tropical adventure by incorporating other frozen fruits into the mix. Add a handful of frozen mango chunks or pineapple tidbits to the blender along with the bananas for a refreshing and fruity twist. The combination of banana with tropical fruits will transport you to a sunny beach getaway, even if you’re enjoying it in the comfort of your own home.
- Spice it Up: Craving a little warmth and complexity in your banana ice cream? Sprinkle in a pinch of your favorite spices, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom. These aromatic additions will infuse your frozen treat with cozy flavors and make each bite a comforting delight. Serve it with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top for an extra touch of sweetness and spice.
FAQs
Is banana ice cream healthier than regular ice cream?
Banana ice cream, also known as “nice cream,” is generally considered a healthier alternative to regular ice cream. Here’s why:
Nutritional content: Bananas are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. They contain potassium, vitamin C, vitamin B6, and magnesium. When frozen and blended, bananas create a creamy texture similar to ice cream, providing a naturally sweet flavor without the need for additional sugars or artificial additives.
Lower in calories and fat: Traditional ice cream is typically high in calories and saturated fat. Banana ice cream is generally lower in calories and contains minimal to no fat, depending on the milk.
Optionally Dairy-free and vegan-friendly: Many banana ice cream recipes are dairy-free and suitable for those who follow a vegan or dairy-free diet.
Why does frozen banana taste like ice cream?
Frozen bananas can taste like ice cream for a few reasons:
Natural sugars: Bananas contain natural sugars, particularly fructose, which contributes to their inherent sweetness. When frozen, the natural sugars become concentrated, intensifying the sweetness.
Texture: Freezing bananas alters their texture and makes them firmer. When blended or pureed, the frozen bananas turn creamy and smooth, similar to the texture of ice cream. The high water content in bananas also contributes to the desirable texture when frozen.
Starch content: Bananas contain starch, which gets converted into sugars as they ripen. Overripe bananas, with more developed starches, tend to have a sweeter taste. When frozen and blended, the starches break down further, resulting in a smoother consistency and enhanced sweetness.
Mouthfeel: The combination of the natural sugars, texture, and cold temperature creates a creamy, pleasant mouthfeel that is reminiscent of ice cream.
What is the best way to freeze bananas?
To freeze bananas properly, follow these steps:
Choose ripe bananas: Select bananas that are fully ripe but not overly soft or mushy. The peels should be yellow with some brown spots, indicating optimal ripeness.
Peel the bananas: Remove the peels from the bananas. If you find it difficult to peel them, you can cut off the ends and make a lengthwise slit along the peel to facilitate easier removal.
Slice or leave whole: Decide whether you want to freeze the bananas in slices or leave them whole. Sliced bananas are easier to use in recipes or for blending, but whole bananas can be useful if you plan to eat them as a frozen snack.
Prepare a tray or baking sheet: Line a tray or baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This will prevent the bananas from sticking to the surface and make them easier to remove later.
Arrange the bananas: Place the peeled bananas on the tray or baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other. This will prevent them from freezing together in clumps.
Freeze: Put the tray with the bananas in the freezer and allow them to freeze completely. It usually takes about 2-3 hours for sliced bananas and 4-6 hours for whole bananas to freeze solid.
Transfer to a storage container: Once the bananas are frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag. Label the container with the date for reference.
Store in the freezer: Return the container to the freezer and store the bananas for up to 3-4 months.
More Delicious Ice Cream Recipes
Healthy 3-Ingredient Homemade Banana Ice Cream
Ingredients
For Banana Ice Cream
- 1 to 1 ¼ cups milk or milk substutute
- 3 large chopped bananas frozen
- ¼ tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Combine 1 cup milk, bananas, and vanilla extract in a blender or food processor. Blend until very smooth and creamy, about 60 seconds on a blender’s full speed. If the blades are catching, add more milk, just a splash at a time, to get the ingredients moving. Serve immediately, or transfer to a shallow dish and freeze for 30 minutes to firm it up and make it more scoopable (in a deep container it will take longer).
- Transfer to an airtight container to freeze any leftovers, then let stand at room temperature for 15 minutes or so to soften before breaking up ice crystals with a fork, stirring well, and then scooping.
Notes
Make-Ahead Reminder
Don’t forget you have to Pre-Freeze Banana Slices to ensure you have ripe bananas on hand for whenever your ice cream cravings strike.
Storage
Banana ice cream can typically be stored in the freezer for 1 to 2 months while maintaining decent quality. However, it’s best to consume it within a few hours of making for optimal flavor and texture.
Nutrition
Calories: 117kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 3gFat: 2gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.1gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.4gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 6mgSodium: 36mgPotassium: 422mgFiber: 2gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 133IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 94mgIron: 0.2mg
Last Updated on May 24, 2023 by Jennifer Pallian BSc, RD
My whole family loves this banana ice cream so much that the kids have learned to make it themselves.
It’s easy and costs less. Mmmh😘
Can I use an icecream maker instead of freezing the bananas?