Homemade "Healthy" Ice Cream Recipe

You might think it's a bit odd to be whipping up ice cream in the depths of winter. But honestly, is there ever a bad time for a scoop (or two) of this frozen delight? For the past 10 months, my family has been churning out our own "healthy" ice cream, and it's become a year-round staple.

Now, when I say "healthy," I mean it's made with real, whole, unprocessed ingredients—no mysterious additives or artificial flavors here! And the best part? It's surprisingly easy to make.

Here's what you'll need:

• Ice Cream Maker: We use the Cuisinart, but my son has the Ninja CREAMi, and both work great for this recipe.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup whole milk

• ¾ cup granulated sugar (or the equivalent in honey, which is what we use)

• 1 pinch salt

• 2 cups heavy cream

• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract

• 1 cup chocolate chips (optional - we love these low-sugar ones)

Instructions:

1. Combine and Dissolve: In a medium bowl, use a hand mixer on low speed or a whisk to combine the milk, sugar (or honey), and salt. 1 Make sure the sugar is completely dissolved.

2. Add Cream and Vanilla: Stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract until everything is well combined.

3. Churn It Up: Turn on your ice cream maker and pour the mixture into the frozen freezer bowl. Let it mix until it reaches a thick, ice cream consistency, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes.

4. Add-ins: During the last 5 minutes of churning, add your favorite mix-ins. We love chocolate chips (especially the low-sugar variety!), but you can get creative with fruit, nuts, or anything else you like.

5. Freeze for Firmer Texture (Optional): Once churning is complete, the ice cream will have a soft, creamy texture. If you prefer a firmer consistency, transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for about 2 hours.

Tips and Variations:

• While granulated sugar works well, we often use honey for a more natural sweetness.

• Don't be afraid to experiment with different flavors! Swap out the vanilla extract for other extracts like almond, peppermint, or coffee.

• The possibilities are endless when it comes to mix-ins. Try chopped fruit, nuts, cookie dough, sprinkles, or even a swirl of your favorite jam.

This "healthy" recipe allows you to indulge in a frozen treat without any guilt. So, whether it's the middle of winter or the peak of summer, grab your ice cream maker and get churning! You won't be disappointed. Happy scooping!