Healthy, Easy, Inexpensive Soft Serve

This week is epic in that I can comfortably eat ice cream without wearing a sweater. Yes, you heard me! Spring is actually a thing that is happening here in Chicago, for now. Can I get a “Hell Yeah!” ? And what better way to celebrate than to consume a tasty frozen sweet while we soak up some sunshine. We are past due.

I had a super proud moment a few weeks ago when I created a coconut based ice cream sweetened with only dates that tasted legitimately like the real custard-based stuff. That was followed by a sad moment when I realized the cost of the ingredients and time commitment prevented this from being something I make regularly. And if I am too lazy/busy for a particular recipe, my guess it most of you are not going to make it either.

So, that’s when this easy soft serve happened. I discovered that papaya, like banana, has a dreamily creamy textured when frozen and pureed.

So this is essentially a variation of epic banana “nice cream” that everyone is making these days, sans the strong banana flavor.

And don’t let what seems like a strange combination of ingredients scare you. Fruit is incredibly versatile. And it only takes 5 minutes!!! Seriously, you have nothing to lose besides your misconceptions about nutritious whole foods 😉

Easy, Healthy, Inexpensive Soft Serve

2 c diced frozen papaya

2 c frozen 1 inch banana pieces

3 tbsp almond butter

½ tsp cinnamon

Caramel sauce: 10 soaked dates blended with 3 tbsp cashew butter

Optional: vanilla extract, ¼ c full fat coconut milk

Suggested toppings: Coconut flakes, berries, banana slices, nut butter, toasted pecans, caramel sauce (see above)

Let the fruit thaw slightly. Add all ingredients to a high-speed blender and blend using a tamper to constantly mix. Blend for 15-20 seconds or until a smooth “soft serve ice cream” forms. Serve immediately or transfer to bowls and freeze for later. Best consumed within a week.