Are you craving creamy, dreamy ice cream but following the Autoimmune Protocol diet? Don't despair! This AIP ice cream recipe proves that healthy and delicious can absolutely coexist. Forget about those sugary, processed store-bought versions; this homemade recipe is incredibly simple, requires minimal ingredients, and is packed with wholesome goodness. Get ready to indulge in a guilt-free dessert that's both satisfying and supportive of your health journey. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick dessert or a healthy treat anytime!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups full-fat coconut milk (from a can, refrigerated overnight)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (adjust to your sweetness preference)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Coconut Cream
This step is crucial for a smooth and creamy texture. Make sure you've refrigerated your can of coconut milk overnight. This allows the cream to separate from the watery liquid. Carefully scoop out the thick, solidified coconut cream from the top of the can, leaving the watery liquid behind.
Step 2: Blend the Ingredients
Add the scooped coconut cream, shredded coconut, honey/maple syrup, vanilla extract, and sea salt to a high-speed blender. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. If your blender struggles, you might need to stop and scrape down the sides a few times.
Step 3: Freeze and Enjoy
Pour the mixture into an airtight container and freeze for at least 4-6 hours, or preferably overnight. The longer it freezes, the firmer the ice cream will become. Before serving, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to soften slightly for easier scooping.
Tips for the Best AIP Ice Cream:
- Coconut Milk Matters: Using full-fat coconut milk from a can is key for achieving that rich, creamy texture. Avoid using light coconut milk or coconut cream from a carton, as they won't yield the same results.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup according to your taste preferences. Start with less and add more gradually until you reach your desired sweetness.
- Add-ins: Feel free to get creative with add-ins! Consider pureed fruits like banana or mango (ensure they comply with your AIP phase), a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a few chopped nuts (check for AIP compliance).
- Freezing Time: The freezing time will depend on your freezer. If you live in a colder climate, it might freeze faster. It's always better to err on the side of caution and freeze it for a longer time to ensure a solid consistency.
Variations:
- Chocolate AIP Ice Cream: Add 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cacao powder to the blender along with the other ingredients for a delicious chocolatey twist.
- Berry AIP Ice Cream: Blend in 1/2 cup of AIP-compliant berries (like blueberries or raspberries) for a refreshing fruity flavor. Always check your AIP phase guidelines before adding any fruits.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the exact ingredients and quantities used. Nutritional information is best calculated using a nutrition calculator with the specific brands of ingredients used in your recipe.
This AIP ice cream recipe is a fantastic example of how delicious and healthy can be combined. Enjoy this delightful treat knowing you're nourishing your body with wholesome, compliant ingredients. It's a perfect guilt-free dessert that's sure to become a staple in your AIP diet. Enjoy!