Are you dreaming of a sunny day, a cool breeze, and the taste of something sweet and refreshing? Then look no further! This homemade Cherry Dole Whip recipe will transport you straight to a tropical paradise, without ever leaving your kitchen. It's incredibly easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and is a healthy alternative to store-bought frozen treats. Get ready to experience the perfect blend of tart cherries and creamy, dreamy Dole Whip goodness! This is one of those easy recipes that will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups frozen cherries (fresh cherries can be used, but will require extra freezing time)
- 1 cup frozen pineapple chunks
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat for extra creaminess)
- 1/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 2 tablespoons cherry juice (optional, for extra cherry flavor)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (adjust to your sweetness preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
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Combine Ingredients: Add all ingredients to a high-speed blender. If using fresh cherries, ensure they've been thoroughly frozen beforehand for optimal blending.
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Blend Until Smooth: Blend on high speed until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. This may take a few minutes, depending on your blender's power. Scrape down the sides as needed. If the mixture is too thick, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
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Adjust Sweetness: Taste the Dole Whip and adjust the sweetness by adding more honey or maple syrup, if needed. Remember, the sweetness of your cherries will affect the overall sweetness of the final product.
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Serve Immediately or Freeze: For the best texture, serve your Cherry Dole Whip immediately. It's delicious as is! If you prefer a firmer consistency, transfer the mixture to a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 30 minutes before serving. Freezing for longer will make it even firmer, similar to store-bought ice cream.
Tips for the Best Cherry Dole Whip:
- Frozen Cherries are Key: Using frozen cherries is crucial for achieving the perfect creamy texture. If using fresh cherries, make sure they are pitted and frozen for at least 4 hours before blending.
- Greek Yogurt is Your Secret Weapon: Full-fat Greek yogurt adds richness and creaminess to the Dole Whip without compromising the healthy aspects of this delicious dish.
- Adjust the Sweetness: The sweetness of cherries can vary, so adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup according to your taste.
- Don't Over-Blend: Over-blending can cause the Dole Whip to become icy. Blend until smooth, but stop as soon as you achieve the desired consistency.
Variations:
- Spicy Cherry Dole Whip: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a fun kick.
- Cherry Almond Dole Whip: Incorporate 1/4 cup of slivered almonds for added crunch and flavor.
- Vegan Cherry Dole Whip: Substitute the Greek yogurt with vegan yogurt and use a non-dairy milk alternative.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 5-8g
- Protein: 4-6g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Sugar: 15-20g
This recipe offers a healthy and delicious alternative for those seeking quick dinner ideas or simply a refreshing treat. Enjoy this easy and homemade cooking experience! It's a wonderful addition to any healthy meal plan and a fantastic way to showcase the best recipes for summer. This delectable dish is perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings while enjoying a burst of fresh cherry flavor.