Keto Blueberry Ice Cream: A Low-Carb Delight
Welcome to our detailed guide on making Keto Blueberry Ice Cream, a luscious and refreshing treat that adheres to a low-carb ketogenic lifestyle. This recipe delivers a creamy, indulgent dessert with the vibrant flavor of blueberries, all while keeping carb counts minimal. Perfect for those adhering to keto dietary guidelines, this ice cream will satisfy your sweet tooth without derailing your progress.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (150 g)
- 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml)
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (240 ml)
- 1/2 cup powdered erythritol (or other keto-friendly sweetener to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum (optional, for improved texture)
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, to enhance the blueberry flavor)
Instructions
- Prepare the Blueberries:
- If using fresh blueberries, rinse them thoroughly and pat dry with a paper towel. If using frozen blueberries, allow them to thaw slightly to make blending easier.
- In a blender or food processor, puree 1 cup of blueberries until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, pulse them a few times to leave some small pieces intact.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk. Whisk them together until well blended.
- Stir in 1/2 cup of powdered erythritol, adjusting the amount to your taste preferences. If you prefer a sweeter ice cream, you can add more erythritol, but be mindful of its impact on the overall carb count.
- Incorporate Blueberry Puree:
- Add the blueberry puree to the cream and almond milk mixture. Stir well to ensure that the blueberry flavor is evenly distributed throughout the base.
- Enhance Flavor and Texture:
- Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the mixture for a hint of additional flavor. If desired, add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to brighten the blueberry flavor.
- For a smoother texture, you can add 1/4 teaspoon of xanthan gum. This is an optional step but helps to improve the consistency of the ice cream by preventing ice crystals from forming.
- Chill the Mixture:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours, or until it is thoroughly chilled. This step is crucial for achieving a creamy texture once the mixture is churned.
- Churn the Ice Cream:
- Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific model. Churn the mixture for approximately 20-30 minutes, or until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
- Freeze the Ice Cream:
- Transfer the churned ice cream into an airtight container. Smooth the top with a spatula and cover with a lid. Place the container in the freezer for at least 2 hours to allow the ice cream to firm up.
- Serving Suggestions:
- Before serving, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to soften slightly for easier scooping. Scoop into bowls or cones and enjoy!
- Storing Leftovers:
- Store any leftover ice cream in the freezer for up to 3 months. Make sure the container is well-sealed to prevent freezer burn and maintain the best texture.
- Reheating Tips:
- If the ice cream becomes too hard after freezing, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften. For a quick fix, you can also microwave individual servings for 10-15 seconds.
- Adjusting Sweetness:
- Taste the mixture before churning and adjust the sweetness if needed. Remember that the sweetness can be slightly dulled once frozen, so ensure it’s slightly sweeter than your preference before freezing.
- Dietary Adjustments:
- Verify that all ingredients align with your keto diet and do not contain hidden sugars or carbs. Check labels for carbohydrate content and added sugars.
- Flavor Variations:
- Experiment with different flavors by adding extracts such as almond or mint. You can also mix in keto-friendly chocolate chips or nuts for added texture and flavor.
- Meal Prep and Batch Cooking:
- This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Prepare a large batch and store it in the freezer for a convenient, low-carb dessert option throughout the week.
- Special Occasions:
- Keto Blueberry Ice Cream is an excellent choice for special occasions or as a treat for gatherings. It offers a refreshing and healthy dessert option that will impress guests.
- Nutritional Benefits:
- Blueberries provide antioxidants and essential vitamins, while heavy cream and almond milk offer healthy fats and a low-carb profile. This ice cream is a nutritious choice that fits within a keto diet.
- Portion Control:
- Be mindful of portion sizes to stay within your daily carb limit. This recipe makes approximately 4 servings, so be sure to adjust your portion size according to your dietary needs.
- Enhancing Flavor:
- For added flavor, consider blending in a small amount of lemon zest or a splash of unsweetened coconut milk. These additions can enhance the overall taste and complement the blueberries.
- Substitute Ideas:
- If you prefer a dairy-free option, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream. Ensure that any substitutions fit within your keto guidelines and do not add excessive carbs.
- Nutritional Information and SmartPoints:
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Makes 4 Servings)
- Calories: 220
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 80mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Net Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 5g
SmartPoints Value:
- SmartPoints: 7 (per serving, based on Weight Watchers 2024 calculation)
Conclusion
Our Keto Blueberry Ice Cream recipe offers a creamy, flavorful dessert that adheres to low-carb ketogenic principles. With its combination of fresh blueberries, heavy cream, and a touch of sweetness, this ice cream provides a delightful treat that fits seamlessly into your keto lifestyle. Enjoy this refreshing dessert as a special treat or a regular part of your meal planning, knowing that you’re indulging in a nutritious, low-carb option that supports your dietary goals.