This Wild Blueberry Lavender Coconut Ice Cream is a creamy, vegan treat that combines the floral notes of lavender with the tangy sweetness of wild blueberries. Made with full-fat coconut milk and sweetened naturally with coconut palm syrup, it’s an indulgent yet healthy option perfect for a summer day. The process is simple, though it does require patience, especially in waiting for the ice cream to freeze and set properly. With hints of lavender and blueberry swirls, it’s a delightful dessert you’ll love!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
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2 (15 oz) cans full-fat coconut milk (or coconut cream)
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1/2 cup Almond Breeze AlmondMilk CoconutMilk Blend
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1/3 cup coconut palm syrup (or honey if not vegan)
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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2 teaspoons dried culinary lavender
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1 1/2 cups wild blueberries (or wild berry mix)
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2 tablespoons coconut sugar
Directions
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In a medium saucepan, combine coconut milk, almondmilk coconutmilk blend, and coconut palm syrup (or honey). Whisk until smooth and the mixture comes to a slight simmer.
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Once simmering, remove from heat and transfer the mixture to a blender. Add the lavender and vanilla extract, then blend for 30 seconds.
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Allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours until it’s very cold.
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While the mixture chills, prepare the blueberry compote by adding blueberries and coconut sugar to a saucepan. Mash the blueberries and stir until the mixture thickens into a syrup, about 15-20 minutes. Once thickened, transfer to a bowl and refrigerate.
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When ready, add the chilled coconut milk mixture to your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until it resembles soft serve.
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Transfer half of the ice cream to a freezer-safe container. Add half of the blueberry mixture, then repeat with the remaining ice cream and blueberries. Swirl the mixture with a knife to create layers.
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Cover and freeze for 4-6 hours or until the ice cream hardens. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrients
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Serving size: 1 serving (1/2 cup)
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Calories: 241 kcal
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Carbohydrates: 21.6g
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Protein: 1.3g
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Fat: 17.9g
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Fiber: 1.2g
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Sugar: 16.8g
What Makes Wild Blueberry Lavender Coconut Ice Cream Unique?
The beauty of this ice cream lies in its ability to combine bold and delicate flavors. The wild blueberries bring an intense fruitiness to the dish, which is enhanced by the subtle and aromatic notes of lavender. Unlike most commercial ice cream, which often contains preservatives and artificial flavoring, this recipe uses whole, natural ingredients. Full-fat coconut milk creates a smooth, velvety base, and coconut palm syrup serves as a natural sweetener, ensuring that this dessert is as healthy as it is indulgent.
In addition to its vibrant and complex flavors, this Wild Blueberry Lavender Coconut Ice Cream is free from dairy, making it a perfect choice for vegans or those with lactose intolerance. The inclusion of lavender also gives this ice cream a sophisticated twist, providing an unexpected yet harmonious addition that elevates the overall flavor profile.
Health Benefits of Wild Blueberry Lavender Coconut Ice Cream
When it comes to desserts, health benefits might not always be the first thing that comes to mind. However, Wild Blueberry Lavender Coconut Ice Cream is packed with several health benefits that make it a healthier option compared to traditional ice cream.
Blueberries are known for their high antioxidant content, which is great for combating oxidative stress in the body. They are rich in vitamin C and fiber, promoting overall digestive health and boosting the immune system. In fact, wild blueberries contain even higher concentrations of antioxidants than regular cultivated blueberries, making them an excellent superfood addition to your diet.
Lavender, while often used for its calming and aromatic properties, also offers potential health benefits. Lavender is known for its ability to alleviate stress, improve sleep quality, and promote relaxation. Including lavender in your diet through this ice cream allows you to enjoy these benefits in a delicious way.
Coconut milk, the base of this ice cream, is not only dairy-free but also provides healthy fats, including medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). MCTs are known for supporting metabolism and providing long-lasting energy. Full-fat coconut milk also adds a rich creaminess, making it a suitable replacement for traditional dairy in desserts.
The Process of Making Wild Blueberry Lavender Coconut Ice Cream
While the idea of making ice cream at home might seem intimidating to some, the process for this Wild Blueberry Lavender Coconut Ice Cream is relatively straightforward. With the right ingredients and a bit of patience, you’ll have a luxurious and homemade treat ready to enjoy.
The first step involves making the coconut milk mixture. You’ll combine full-fat coconut milk with an almond-coconut milk blend, which helps to balance the richness of the coconut milk and adds a subtle nutty flavor. The coconut palm syrup (or honey, if not following a vegan diet) serves as a natural sweetener, offering a mild sweetness that complements the other ingredients. Lavender is then infused into this mixture, giving it a fragrant and calming flavor. Blending the ingredients together creates a smooth, silky base that is the foundation of this creamy ice cream.
The next step involves preparing the wild blueberry compote. The blueberries are cooked down with coconut sugar until they form a thick, syrup-like consistency. This blueberry mixture adds a burst of fruity flavor and a beautiful purple hue to the ice cream. The combination of the creamy coconut base and the vibrant blueberry compote creates a striking visual contrast and a delightful taste experience.
Once both components are ready, they are combined in the ice cream maker. The mixture is churned to create a smooth, soft-serve consistency. At this point, the fun begins, as you layer the blueberry compote into the ice cream and swirl it together for a marbled effect. The end result is not just a treat for the taste buds but also for the eyes, with the beautiful lavender and blueberry swirls throughout the creamy coconut base.
Why Make Your Own Ice Cream at Home?
Making ice cream at home offers a number of advantages over buying store-bought varieties. One of the biggest benefits is the control you have over the ingredients. Many commercially-produced ice creams contain added preservatives, artificial flavors, and unhealthy fats. By making your own ice cream, you can ensure that only the highest-quality, natural ingredients go into the mix.
In addition to the quality of ingredients, homemade ice cream allows you to customize flavors to your liking. Whether you prefer a sweeter or more tart ice cream, or want to experiment with different combinations of fruits and spices, homemade ice cream gives you the freedom to make it exactly how you want.
Another advantage of making your own ice cream is that it’s an enjoyable and rewarding process. Preparing the ice cream from scratch gives you a sense of accomplishment and the ability to share a homemade treat with family and friends. Plus, it’s an excellent way to impress your guests with a unique and flavorful dessert.
Why This Ice Cream Is Perfect for Summer
Summer is the season for cool, refreshing treats, and this Wild Blueberry Lavender Coconut Ice Cream is the perfect addition to any hot summer day. Its creamy texture and fruity flavor make it an irresistible dessert to enjoy while lounging by the pool, at a BBQ, or during a picnic. The subtle lavender notes lend it an air of sophistication, making it ideal for summer dinner parties or special occasions.
In addition to its refreshing flavor, this ice cream is also a healthier alternative to many other summer desserts. It’s a guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising your health-conscious lifestyle. The use of coconut milk and natural sweeteners ensures that the ice cream is indulgent yet nutritious.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Wild Blueberry Lavender Coconut Ice Cream is a standout dessert that offers a perfect balance of indulgence and nutrition. By combining the rich, creamy texture of coconut milk with the vibrant flavor of wild blueberries and the floral notes of lavender, this ice cream creates an unforgettable taste experience. Whether you’re following a vegan diet, looking for a healthier dessert option, or simply want to try something new, this homemade ice cream is sure to become a favorite. With its simplicity in preparation, health benefits, and refreshing taste, it’s the ideal treat for the summer months or any time you want to indulge in a guilt-free dessert.