Banana Nut Bliss Ice Cream

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Banana Nut Bliss Ice Cream combines the creamy goodness of ripe bananas with crunchy nuts, offering a rich, indulgent treat perfect for summer days or any time you’re craving something sweet. The natural sweetness of the bananas paired with the texture of your favorite nuts makes this homemade ice cream an unforgettable dessert. Plus, it’s simple to make and can be customized to suit your taste.

Ingredients

• 4 ripe bananas, peeled and sliced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup whole milk

• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (or any preferred nut)

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1/4 tsp cinnamon

• Pinch of salt

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a blender or food processor, blend the sliced bananas until smooth. Set the banana puree aside.

2. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is warm (do not boil).

3. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Add the banana puree to the cream mixture and stir to combine thoroughly.

5. Transfer the mixture to an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

6. During the last few minutes of churning, add the chopped walnuts to the ice cream.

7. Once the ice cream reaches the desired consistency, transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours or until firm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields about 4-6 servings.

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Freezing time: 2 hours

• Churning time: 20-30 minutes

Variations

• Nuts: You can swap walnuts for other nuts like almonds, pecans, or cashews to add a different flavor and texture to the ice cream.

• Dairy-free option: Substitute the heavy cream and whole milk with coconut milk and coconut cream for a dairy-free version of this dessert.

• Sweetener: If you prefer a less sugary treat, replace brown sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.

• Add-ins: You can fold in chocolate chips, dried fruits, or a swirl of caramel for extra richness.

Storage/Reheating

Store the Banana Nut Bliss Ice Cream in an airtight container in the freezer. It will keep for up to 2 weeks. To enjoy it again, allow it to sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping for easier serving.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe without an ice cream maker?

Yes, if you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can pour the mixture into a shallow dish and place it in the freezer. Stir the mixture every 30 minutes to break up any ice crystals until it reaches the desired consistency.

2. Can I use frozen bananas instead of fresh ones?

Yes, frozen bananas will work well in this recipe. They will give the ice cream a thicker, creamier texture.

3. How can I make this recipe lower in sugar?

To reduce the sugar content, use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener, or simply reduce the amount of brown sugar to suit your preference.

4. Can I substitute the nuts with something else?

Certainly! You can substitute nuts with granola, seeds, or even pieces of dark chocolate for a different crunch.

5. How long does this ice cream last in the freezer?

This homemade ice cream should be consumed within 2 weeks for the best quality, although it will still be safe to eat beyond that time.

6. Can I add a little alcohol to this ice cream to keep it soft?

A tablespoon of a neutral spirit like vodka can help prevent ice crystals and keep the texture smooth, but it’s optional.

7. Is this ice cream recipe vegan-friendly?

This specific recipe is not vegan due to the use of dairy products. However, you can make it vegan by using plant-based milk and cream alternatives.

8. Can I make this recipe without using cinnamon?

Yes, cinnamon adds a warm flavor, but you can omit it if you prefer a more straightforward banana-nut flavor.

9. What kind of nuts work best for this recipe?

Walnuts, pecans, or almonds are great choices. Choose the nut you like best, but be sure to chop them to avoid large pieces that are difficult to mix into the ice cream.

10. How can I ensure my ice cream stays creamy?

Churning the mixture thoroughly and storing the ice cream in an airtight container will help retain its creamy consistency. Additionally, avoid over-freezing, as it can lead to a hard, icy texture.

Conclusion

Banana Nut Bliss Ice Cream is a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the crunch of nuts. Whether you enjoy it on a hot summer day or as a sweet finish to a meal, this treat is sure to satisfy your cravings. With endless variations, you can make it just the way you like every time.