Looking for a creamy, chocolatey, and dairy-free dessert that satisfies your sweet tooth and is guilt-free? This Banana Stracciatella Ice Cream Recipe is an excellent choice. It’s rich, healthy, and simple to make. With only a few ingredients, this vegan treat brings together the natural sweetness of bananas with crunchy, delicious chocolate shavings, reminiscent of Italian stracciatella gelato. It’s a delightful dessert that will leave you craving more.
Whether you’re vegan, lactose-intolerant, or just searching for a refreshing and healthier alternative to traditional ice cream, this recipe has got you covered.
Why Banana Stracciatella?
Bananas are a fantastic base for vegan ice creams because they offer creaminess without needing any dairy. When frozen and blended, bananas take on a smooth, luscious texture similar to traditional ice cream, but with a fraction of the calories and fat. Plus, bananas are packed with potassium, vitamin C, and fiber, making them a nutritious option.
Stracciatella, on the other hand, is a classic Italian gelato flavor. It consists of small, crispy shards of dark chocolate that melt slightly in the ice cream but retain their crunchy texture when you take a bite. Combined with bananas, it’s an irresistible match!
Ingredients for Banana Stracciatella Ice Cream Recipe | Elephantastic Vegan
For this simple vegan stracciatella ice cream, you only need a few basic ingredients:
- 4 ripe bananas, sliced and frozen
- 100g dark vegan chocolate, finely chopped or melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for enhanced flavor)
- Pinch of salt (optional, to balance the sweetness)
Optional Add-Ins:
- A tablespoon of peanut butter for extra richness
- A drizzle of coconut cream for a silkier texture
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Bananas
- Freeze the bananas: The first step to making banana ice cream is freezing your bananas. Slice four ripe bananas into thin coins and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet or plate lined with parchment paper. This prevents the bananas from sticking together. Freeze them for at least 2-3 hours, or until completely solid. For convenience, you can also freeze the bananas overnight.
- Melt the chocolate: While the bananas are freezing, chop the dark vegan chocolate into small pieces or melt it using a double boiler or microwave. If you’re using melted chocolate, allow it to cool slightly before adding to the ice cream, but don’t let it harden completely.
Blending the Bananas
- Blend the frozen bananas: Once your bananas are frozen solid, place them in a high-speed blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy. You might need to scrape down the sides of the blender a couple of times to ensure all the bananas are incorporated. If you find the mixture too thick, you can add a splash of plant-based milk, such as almond or oat milk, to help with the blending process.
- Add vanilla and salt: For added depth of flavor, mix in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt at this stage. These ingredients are optional but recommended to elevate the flavor profile.
Adding the Stracciatella
- Incorporate the chocolate: Once the banana mixture is smooth and creamy, it’s time to add the stracciatella component. If you’re using chopped chocolate, gently fold the pieces into the ice cream. If you’ve opted for melted chocolate, drizzle it slowly into the mixture while the blender is running at its lowest setting. The chocolate will solidify into small shards as it hits the cold ice cream, creating that classic stracciatella texture.
Freezing Again (Optional)
- Refreeze for a firmer texture: If you prefer a scoopable, firmer ice cream consistency, transfer the mixture to a freezer-safe container and freeze for another 1-2 hours. This step is optional, as you can enjoy your ice cream right away if you like a softer texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve and enjoy: Scoop the Banana Stracciatella Ice Cream into bowls or cones and enjoy immediately. For an extra indulgent treat, top with additional chocolate shavings, fresh fruit, or a drizzle of vegan caramel sauce.
Tips for the Perfect Banana Stracciatella Ice Cream
- Use ripe bananas: The riper your bananas, the sweeter your ice cream will be. Bananas with brown spots are perfect for this recipe.
- Vegan chocolate: Ensure your chocolate is dairy-free. Many dark chocolates are naturally vegan, but always check the label to be sure.
- Mix it up: Feel free to experiment by adding other flavors to your banana base. Coconut, coffee, or even a swirl of raspberry sauce can make delicious variations.
- Texture control: If you prefer larger chocolate chunks in your ice cream, fold in chopped chocolate instead of melting it. This will give you big, satisfying bites of chocolate throughout the ice cream.
Benefits of Banana Stracciatella Ice Cream
Apart from being a delicious vegan dessert, banana stracciatella ice cream has several health benefits:
- Natural sweetness: Bananas offer natural sweetness, eliminating the need for added sugar.
- High in fiber: Bananas are a good source of dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting gut health.
- Rich in antioxidants: Dark chocolate is packed with antioxidants that can benefit heart health and reduce inflammation.
- Dairy-free: This ice cream is completely dairy-free, making it a great option for those who are lactose intolerant or follow a vegan diet.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I store Banana Stracciatella Ice Cream?
This ice cream can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one week. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh for the creamiest texture.
Can I make this ice cream without a blender?
Yes! You can use a food processor or even mash the frozen bananas manually if you don’t have a blender, although it might not be as smooth.
Is this recipe sugar-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally sweetened by the bananas. If your chocolate contains added sugar, you can opt for sugar-free vegan chocolate for a fully sugar-free treat.
Can I add other toppings to the ice cream?
Absolutely! You can get creative with toppings like chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or even a dash of cinnamon.
How do I prevent the ice cream from getting too hard in the freezer?
To keep your ice cream scoopable after storing, allow it to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving. You can also add a tablespoon of alcohol (like vodka) to the mixture before freezing to help maintain a softer texture.
Can I make this recipe without chocolate?
Yes, you can enjoy the banana ice cream on its own or substitute the chocolate with another mix-in, like fruit chunks or nuts.
Conclusion
This Banana Stracciatella Ice Cream Recipe is a wonderful way to satisfy your ice cream cravings in a healthy and vegan-friendly way. With its creamy banana base and delightful chocolate shards, it’s a refreshing treat that is sure to please everyone. Plus, it’s easy to make and requires only a few ingredients. Perfect for any time of the year, this vegan dessert proves that plant-based indulgence can be just as delicious as traditional options.