Dietitian Approved Sweet Treat - Banana Chocolate Ice Cream

If ice cream is your guilty pleasure but you are trying to stay on track with your nutrition, this Banana Chocolate Ice Cream is perfect for you! The standard serving size for traditional vanilla ice cream is one half a cup, which contains about 200 calories. Fancy flavors and toppings increase the calories in a standard serving size. While no food is off limits, a healthy diet is about balance. So, is it okay so indulge in your favorite scoop once in a while? YES! However, if you are going for traditional ice cream follow these tips:

• Stick to the recommended serving size of ½ cup
• If ordering out, order the smallest size available (often kid’s size)
• Avoid the extra whipped cream, sauces and sugary toppings
• Opt for fruit, like strawberries or blueberries, as an alternative topping

If you like something sweet more often, try substituting traditional ice cream for a healthier alternative, like this Banana Chocolate Ice Cream. With just four ingredients, this recipe is easy to make at home. The natural sugar from the bananas will satisfy your midnight cravings while keeping your health goals on track.

Ingredients:

• 5 overripe bananas
• 2 Tbsp almond milk
• 2 Tbsp almond butter
• 3 Tbsp dark cocoa powder

Instructions:

1. Peel and slice your overripe bananas. Put them into a freezer safe container, like a reusable bag, and freeze for at least 2 hours.
2. Transfer frozen bananas to a food processor or blender. Pulse on low to break up bananas.
3. Add almond butter, cocoa powder and almond milk to bananas. Blend on low until all ingredients are combined and texture is thick and creamy.

Recipe Notes:

Store leftovers in a freezer safe container for up to one week. If consuming later, allow to defrost slightly and repulse in food processor or blender to convert from an icy to a creamy texture.

Although I am a chocolate lover, you can explore with different flavors based on your taste preference. Simply use the frozen bananas and almond milk as a base and add any other ingredients that meet your flavor profile. Here are some ingredient ideas:

• Fresh fruit, such as strawberries, blueberries or blackberries
• Vanilla extract
• Shredded coconut
• Peanut butter or other nut butters
• Nuts, such as pistachios, almonds, or walnuts

For more tips and dietitian approved recipes, schedule a meeting with a Charge Registered Dietitian today to create a personalized plan that works for you.