ICE CREAM is one of the most popular desserts around the world. The cold, creamy texture and variety of delicious flavours make it irresistible. However, ice cream is also high in calories, fat and sugar. A single scoop can easily contain 200 calories or more, along with 10-15 grams of fat. The high sugar content can also lead to spikes in blood sugar levels.
For those looking to satisfy their sweet tooth in a healthier way, there are plenty of alternatives to ice cream that offer a similar cold, creamy experience without the excess calories. These alternatives tend to be lower in fat, sugar and calories while still providing flavour and texture. They can help you enjoy a guilt-free dessert that won't negatively impact your health goals.
Frozen Yoghurt
Frozen yoghurt is a great low-calorie and low-fat alternative to ice cream. It contains roughly half the calories and fat of regular ice cream due to using less cream and more yoghurt. Opt for varieties with live active cultures for added probiotic benefits. You can flavour frozen yoghurt with fresh or tinned fruit, nuts, chocolate chips and other toppings.
Sorbet
Sorbet is made from fruit juice, water and sugar. It contains no dairy or fat, making it a healthy and guilt-free treat. Homemade sorbets allow you to control the amount of sugar added. Experiment with different fruit flavours like mango, lemon, mixed berries or pineapple. Serve sorbet between layers of cake for a refreshing dessert.
Smoothies
Blend up a cold and creamy smoothie using frozen banana, berries, yoghurt, milk and ice for an ice cream alternative. Frozen fruit and vegetables give smoothies a thicker, colder texture that resembles ice cream. Experiment with different fruit and vegetable combinations like mango, spinach and pineapple or strawberry, kale and banana. Add nut butter, cocoa powder or matcha powder for extra flavour and nutrition.
Ice Lollies
Make your own healthy ice lollies using fruit juice, coconut water, yoghurt or puréed fruit. Simply pour the mixture into ice lolly moulds and freeze. Experiment with different flavours and combinations like mango and lime juice, mixed berry purée or banana and yoghurt.
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Fruit Salad
A bowl of chilled fruit salad can satisfy your sweet tooth without overdoing it on calories. Dice up melon, pineapple, grapes, kiwi fruit, berries and banana and toss with a squeeze of lime or lemon juice. Garnish with mint leaves.
Chia Pudding
Chia pudding is a delicious ice cream alternative that's high in protein, fibre and calcium. Simply mix chia seeds with coconut milk or almond milk and let sit in the fridge overnight. Flavour with vanilla extract, cinnamon and honey. Top with fresh fruit.
Frozen Banana
Freezing ripe bananas turns them into a creamy, dreamy treat that resembles ice cream. Simply peel ripe bananas, wrap in cling film and freeze. Then blend in a food processor with a splash of milk until smooth and creamy. Add toppings like nuts, coconut and chocolate chips.
Rice Milk Ice Cream
Rice milk ice cream is a dairy-free frozen dessert that provides a creamy and satisfying experience. Made from rice milk, it offers a light and delicate flavour profile that complements a variety of toppings and mix-ins. This alternative is a great choice for individuals with lactose intolerance, allergies, or those following a vegan lifestyle.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
Make ice cream sandwiches using wholesome "bread" and healthier "ice cream" fillings. Crackers, cookies or cake slices work well as the bread. For the filling, try frozen yogurt, sorbet, mashed avocado mixed with cocoa and honey or a chilled smoothie made from frozen fruit. Mash the filling in between the sandwich slices and press together.
Coconut Yoghurt Popsicles
Make popsicles using coconut yoghurt for a healthier version of ice cream. Simply mix coconut yoghurt with honey or maple syrup and fruit purée. Pour into popsicle moulds and freeze. Flavour options include mango, pineapple, mixed berries and banana.
Avocado Ice Cream
Avocado makes for an unexpected yet delicious ice cream alternative. Simply blend an avocado with honey, vanilla extract and a splash of milk until smooth and creamy. Freeze in an airtight container and scoop when ready to serve. Top with cocoa powder, nuts or seeds.
Frozen Fruit Juice Pops
Create frozen fruit juice pops by utilising pure 100 percent fruit juice, resulting in a naturally delightful indulgence. Easily fill popsicle moulds with the fruit juice, insert a stick, and freeze until solid. An array of flavour possibilities awaits, ranging from orange, apple, and grape to a medley of mixed berry juice.
There are plenty of healthy alternatives to ice cream that will satisfy your sweet tooth. With a little creativity, you can enjoy dessert guilt-free.