Name: Blackberry Ice Cream
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Ingredients: 3 pieces ripe bananas; 200 grams blackberries; to taste Coconut flakes or chopped hazelnuts/pistachio/almond (Optional toppings.)

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When the summer sun blazes down, there’s nothing quite as refreshing as a scoop of homemade ice cream. That’s where this Blackberry Ice Cream comes in! I remember the first time I made it; I had just picked a basket full of ripe blackberries from the garden, and I wanted to create something special. With just a couple of ingredients, I whipped up a delicious treat that not only satisfied my sweet tooth but also highlighted the vibrant flavors of those juicy blackberries. If you’ve got ripe bananas and blackberries lying around, you’re in for a treat that’s quick and simple!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
5 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
120 kcal

Protein:
2 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
0.5 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Food Processor, Mixing Bowl

Why This Blackberry Ice Cream Is a Winner

It’s Incredibly Simple

One of my favorite things about this Blackberry Ice Cream is how easy it is to prepare with just two ingredients. You don’t need an ice cream maker or fancy equipment—just a blender and a baking tray. It’s perfect for those spontaneous summer cravings!

Perfectly Creamy Texture

The combination of bananas and blackberries creates a wonderfully creamy texture without any dairy. The bananas provide a natural sweetness and smoothness, while the blackberries add a burst of tartness that balances the flavors perfectly. You’ll be amazed at how indulgent it tastes!

Healthier Homemade Option

If you’re like me and enjoy treats but are mindful of what you’re consuming, this recipe is fantastic. It’s naturally sweetened with fruit and contains no added sugars or preservatives. You can indulge guilt-free!

Customize to Your Heart’s Content

This Blackberry Ice Cream is a blank canvas. Experiment with different toppings like coconut flakes, chopped nuts, or even a drizzle of honey. You can also add a splash of lemon juice for an extra zing or mix in other fruits for a unique flavor.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a hot day or a casual get-together with friends, this ice cream is sure to impress. Kids love it, and it’s a great way to cool down after a day of play. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up ripe fruit!

Great for Meal Prep

Making this Blackberry Ice Cream in advance is a breeze! You can freeze it for later and have a delicious dessert ready whenever you need it. Just let it thaw for a few minutes before serving for the best texture.

Main Ingredients for Blackberry Ice Cream

The magic of this recipe lies in just two simple ingredients: ripe bananas and luscious blackberries. Together, they create a creamy and delightful treat that’s not only delicious but also nutritious. The sweetness of the bananas complements the tartness of the blackberries beautifully, making it a truly harmonious combination.

3 ripe bananas: Bananas are the backbone of this recipe. They provide natural sweetness and a creamy texture when blended, transforming into a smooth ice cream base.
200g blackberries: These juicy berries add a delightful tartness and vibrant color, elevating the flavor profile of your ice cream.
Coconut flakes or chopped hazelnuts/pistachio/almond: Optional toppings that add texture and a nutty flavor, enhancing the overall experience of your homemade ice cream.

The Method for Blackberry Ice Cream

Creating your Blackberry Ice Cream is a fun and satisfying process. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying a refreshing dessert that feels indulgent. Let’s dive into the method!

Start by slicing the ripe bananas into smaller pieces. This will make them easier to freeze and blend. Arrange the banana slices on a baking tray lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Next, place the baking tray in the freezer. You’ll want to freeze the banana slices for 2 hours or overnight if you can wait. Freezing them solid is crucial for achieving that creamy ice cream texture.
Once the banana slices are frozen, take them out of the freezer. Place the banana pieces into a food processor. Pulse them for about 1 minute, using a spatula to scrape down the sides if necessary.
Continue to pulse the mixture for another minute. You’re looking for a smooth and creamy consistency. The bananas will blend beautifully, and you’ll be able to see their color change to a lovely pale yellow.
Now, it’s time to add in the blackberries. Toss them into the food processor with the banana puree. Pulse until everything is well combined, ensuring the blackberries are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Once it’s all blended, take a moment to taste the mixture. You can adjust the sweetness, if desired, by adding a little honey or maple syrup. However, the natural sweetness of the bananas is usually enough!
Transfer the mixture into a serving bowl or a container for freezing. If you prefer your ice cream a bit firmer, you can freeze it for an additional 15 minutes.
Before serving, be sure to decorate with your choice of toppings, such as coconut flakes or chopped nuts. This adds a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy ice cream.
When serving, if the ice cream has become too soft, just freeze it for a little longer, then use a fork to mix it gently. This will ensure a smooth and enjoyable texture!
Enjoy your homemade Blackberry Ice Cream immediately or store it in the freezer for later. It’s a treat that’s perfect for any occasion!

Things Worth Knowing

Banana Ripeness: Choose bananas that are spotty and fully ripe for the best flavor and texture.
Freezing Time: Make sure to freeze the banana slices long enough to achieve that creamy consistency.
Blending Technique: Be patient while blending; scraping down the sides helps ensure everything is well combined.
Serving Tip: If your ice cream is too hard, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping.

Pro Tips and Tweaks

Here are some additional tips that can help you create the perfect Blackberry Ice Cream:

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer. This will help prevent freezer burn!
Freezing: For best results, consume the ice cream within a week for optimal flavor and texture.
Pairing: Serve your ice cream with fresh fruit or a drizzle of honey for an extra special treat.
Variations: Experiment with other fruits like strawberries, mangoes, or even peaches for a unique twist.
Serving Size: This recipe makes about 4 servings; perfect for sharing with friends or family.

Side Dish Ideas for Blackberry Ice Cream

This Blackberry Ice Cream can be served in many delightful ways. Here are some ideas:

Granola Crumble: Pair your ice cream with a sprinkle of crunchy granola for a delicious texture contrast.
Fruit Salad: Serve alongside a fresh fruit salad to enhance the fruity flavors.
Waffles or Pancakes: Use the ice cream as a topping for warm waffles or pancakes, making it a special brunch treat.
Summer Barbecues: This ice cream is a perfect dessert for summer gatherings. Serve it after grilled meals for a cool down.
Picnics: Pack it in a cooler for a refreshing dessert option during a picnic or outdoor event.
Casual Gatherings: Keep it simple by serving it in bowls as a sweet treat for casual get-togethers.

FAQ

Absolutely! If you have frozen bananas on hand, they work perfectly in this Blackberry Ice Cream. Just make sure they are ripe when you freeze them for the best flavor. You can skip the initial freezing step because the bananas are already frozen, making the process even quicker!

Good news! This Blackberry Ice Cream is already vegan since it only contains bananas and blackberries. Just be cautious with any optional toppings you choose to add. Stick to plant-based options like coconut flakes or nuts!

You can experiment with a variety of fruits! Strawberries, mangoes, and peaches are great choices. Just mix and match according to what’s in season or what you have on hand, and you’ll create new delicious flavors every time.

Yes, you can! While the natural sweetness from the bananas usually suffices, feel free to add a bit of honey or maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter ice cream. Just blend it in with the other ingredients until combined.

It’s best to enjoy your Blackberry Ice Cream within a week for optimal taste and texture. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn and maintain its creaminess.

Conclusion

This Blackberry Ice Cream is a delightful way to enjoy summer’s bounty. With just two ingredients, it’s not only easy to make but also refreshingly delicious. I encourage you to give it a try and treat yourself to this creamy, fruity delight. You won’t regret it, and your taste buds will thank you for the simple pleasure of homemade ice cream!