Blueberry ice cream, the healthy version
Summer is still in full swing and this scorching weather and holiday mood inspired me to make another healthy ice cream recipe. It’s perfect for cooling you down on those hot summer days while boosting your levels of antioxidants. This healthy version of blueberry ice cream is easy to make, gluten-free, and kid-friendly.
Since blueberries are still in season, make the most of them and turn them into a creamy, sweet, and tangy ice cream. The bright flavors of lemon zest and juicy blueberries will delight your taste buds.
Why is this blueberry ice cream healthy?
I call this blueberry ice cream healthy because it is made with Greek yogurt instead of cream and coconut sugar instead of white sugar. It also uses three tablespoons of maple syrup for the entire batch. It contains no preservatives or other additives.
This ice cream is full of blueberry flavor, creamy, and can be made in minutes.
It is a guilt-free treat made with just a few ingredients and perfect for anyone looking for a healthier version of ice cream. It contains no eggs, no refined sugar, and no cream.
You can make this ice cream with fresh or frozen blueberries.
Note: The ice cream hasn’t the same consistency as store-bought ice cream because it contains no additives or preservatives and is low in fat.
What makes Blueberries so beneficial?
Regarding healthy eating, I am picky in choosing my ingredients as I like to know how that food item will impact my health.
Blueberries are more than just a juicy and delicious treat but also could help our health.
These little berries pack an impressive nutritional punch.
Even though their tiny size isn’t remarkable, their health benefits are:
Help maintain optimal cholesterol levels
Their powerful antioxidant content may help reduce blood pressure and arterial stiffness.
They have the highest antioxidant levels of all common fruits and veggies. Antioxidants reduce cell damage in the body.
Lowers the risk for macular degeneration, usually occurring at an older age.
May decrease the risk of heart disease in women. Women in menopause are at greater risk of heart conditions. Studies found the addition of blueberries to their diet may lower that risk.
Blueberries are especially good for women as they are highly nutritious, hormone-balancing foods. They are rich in vitamin C, which regulates your progesterone levels. As women age, they become nutrient and vitamin deficient; blueberries can provide some of those.
Blueberries make a great addition to a healthy menopause diet as they can alleviate hot flashes and other meno symptoms due to their high antioxidant content.
Why do I prefer coconut sugar in my desserts?
I prefer coconut sugar for making my desserts because it is less processed than white sugar and contains more nutrients.
But sugar is sugar, whether white, brown, cane, or coconut sugar. So we should consume it in moderation.
I love its mild caramel flavor, which makes desserts taste different than those with other sweeteners. But in a good way.
It seems coconut sugar is better for balancing blood sugar levels than cane sugar because it has a lower glycemic index.
The glycemic index (GI) of coconut sugar is 35, while that of cane sugar varies from 58 to 82 on a scale of 100.
However, the GI varies depending on the food combination. To avoid blood sugar spikes, nourish your body with whole foods such as whole grains, healthy fats, plant-based protein, vegetables, etc.
Do you need an ice cream maker to prepare the blueberry ice cream?
I used an ice cream maker for this blueberry ice cream, but it works without one. The downside is that you must follow some extra steps to get a creamy texture.
I think having an ice cream maker in your kitchen is helpful because it makes all the difference in the texture. I bought a cheap ice cream maker that serves its purpose every summer.
If you use an ice cream maker, it usually takes 20 to 30 minutes to get the ice cream to the perfect consistency for scooping.
How to proceed if you prepare blueberry ice cream without an ice cream maker?
Although an ice cream maker helps with the texture, you can also prepare your ice cream without it.
However, I highly recommend getting one as it is worth it.
It will take longer for your ice cream to be ready, about 3 to 4 hours.
To prevent ice cream needles from forming in the ice cream, you will need to stir the mixture every 15 minutes for the first hour.
Here are the steps you need to follow:
Pour the ice cream mixture into a medium freezer-safe container.
Place the ice cream in the freezer.
To ensure no ice cream needles form, stir the ice cream every 15 minutes for the first hour.
What are the ingredients for this healthy version of blueberry ice cream?
This blueberry ice cream cuddles your soul and taste buds with the power of just a few simple ingredients:
400 g fresh or frozen blueberries
300 g Greek yogurt 10% fat
30 g coconut sugar
Three tablespoons maple syrup or to taste
Two teaspoons of the lemon zest – coconut sugar mixture
One tablespoon of lemon juice.
Notes:
Taste for sweetness before putting the ice cream mixture in the ice cream maker.
Don’t forget to place the ice cream maker bowl in the freezer 24 hours before making the ice cream.
How to prepare the blueberry ice cream?
MAKES 8 TO 10 SERVINGS.
Step 1: Prepare the lemon zest-coconut sugar mixture 24 hours in advance.
Grate the zest from 3 organic lemons and add it to a small jar.
Add 1 tsp of coconut sugar and stir.
Place the lid on and store it in the fridge.
Note: Coconut sugar will help release the lemon zest flavors and complement the blueberry ice cream mixture. Lemon-blueberry combination is outstanding and refreshing.
Step 2: Cook the blueberry mixture for 5 to 8 minutes.
Place the sugar and blueberries in a medium saucepan on low heat.
Roughly mash them with the back of the fork to release the juice, but at the same time, we want to have some blueberry chunks left in the ice cream.
Add the lemon juice and bring the pot to a simmer over medium heat.
Turn the heat down to low.
Cook the blueberries for about 5 to 8 minutes until they are soft and release the juice.
Add the lemon zest and stir.
Let the blueberry mixture cool.
Step 3: Add the Greek yogurt to the blueberry mixture
Add the Greek yogurt and maple syrup to the blueberry mixture.
Stir gently to make sure everything is evenly combined
Check the sweetness and adjust it to your taste before adding the ice cream mixture to the maker.
Step 4: Churn the ice cream mixture
Put the blueberry mixture into the ice cream maker and churn for 20 to 30 minutes.
Please check the consistency after 20 minutes.
Scoop the blueberry ice cream and enjoy.
Put the leftovers in a freezer-safe container and freeze.
Tips:
Because this homemade blueberry ice cream contains little fat, it takes longer to soften than traditional ice cream recipes.
Note: Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes to soften before scooping.
How can I store the blueberry ice cream?
It stores well in a freezer-safe container in the freezer. Also, there are reusable ice cream containers.
You can keep it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
I look forward to hearing from you.
If you recreate this blueberry ice cream healthy version, please leave a comment below or tag your photos @healthywomanstyle on Instagram so I can enjoy your creation.
Until next time enjoy your healthy scoops of ice cream and stick to your health goals!
However, remember that moderation is essential – even regarding healthy foods.
XoXo
Gabby
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