Low-Point Lemon Ice Cream: A Weight Watchers Friendly Recipe

Welcome to our guide on making a delightful low-point lemon ice cream, specially designed for those following a Weight Watchers (WW) plan. This recipe transforms basic ingredients into a refreshing dessert with significantly reduced SmartPoints. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how to create this low-point treat, complete with measurements, instructions, nutritional information, and WW SmartPoints values.

Ingredients

For the Low-Point Lemon Ice Cream:

  • 2 cups non-fat plain Greek yogurt (or fat-free vanilla Greek yogurt) – 500 ml
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice – freshly squeezed
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest – finely grated
  • 2 tablespoons honey or a sugar-free sweetener (like stevia or erythritol) – adjust to taste

Optional Add-ins:

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for added flavor)
  • Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients:
    • Gather all ingredients and ensure that your non-fat Greek yogurt is smooth and creamy. If using a sweetener, make sure it is thoroughly mixed into the yogurt.
  2. Combine Lemon Juice and Zest:
    • In a mixing bowl, combine the 2 tablespoons of lemon juice with 1 tablespoon of lemon zest. This will provide the fresh, tangy flavor to the ice cream.
  3. Sweeten the Yogurt:
    • Stir in 2 tablespoons of honey or your preferred sugar-free sweetener. Adjust the sweetness according to your taste preference. If using a liquid sweetener, ensure it is well incorporated into the yogurt.
  4. Mix the Ingredients:
    • Add the lemon juice, zest, and sweetener mixture to 2 cups of non-fat Greek yogurt. Stir until all ingredients are evenly combined. If using vanilla extract, add it to the mixture at this stage.
  5. Freeze the Mixture:
    • Transfer the mixture to an airtight container. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even freezing. Cover the container with a lid or plastic wrap.
  6. Chill the Mixture:
    • Place the container in the freezer and allow it to freeze for at least 3-4 hours, or until the mixture is firm. For best results, stir the mixture every 1-2 hours during the freezing process to prevent ice crystals from forming.
  7. Serve the Ice Cream:
    • Once the ice cream has frozen to a scoopable consistency, remove it from the freezer. Allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes if necessary to soften slightly.
  8. Scoop and Garnish:
    • Scoop the ice cream into bowls or cones. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy a refreshing, low-point dessert.
  9. Storage Tips:
    • Store any leftover ice cream in the airtight container in the freezer. For best texture, consume within 1-2 weeks. If the ice cream becomes too hard, let it soften at room temperature before serving.
  10. Reheating Instructions:
    • This ice cream is best enjoyed directly from the freezer. If it becomes too firm, allow it to soften slightly at room temperature before scooping.
  11. Nutritional Benefits:
    • This recipe uses non-fat Greek yogurt, which is high in protein and low in fat. The lemon adds vitamin C and enhances the flavor without extra calories. The use of a sugar-free sweetener helps keep the points low.
  12. Dietary Considerations:
    • This recipe is suitable for a low-fat, low-calorie diet and is free from added sugars and high-fat ingredients. Ensure the sweetener used aligns with your dietary needs.
  13. Flavor Variations:
    • Customize your ice cream with other fruit flavors such as strawberries or blueberries. Simply puree the fruit and mix it into the yogurt base before freezing.
  14. Meal Prep Tips:
    • Prepare this ice cream ahead of time and store it in the freezer. It makes a great make-ahead dessert for busy days or for entertaining guests.
  15. Special Occasions:
    • This low-point lemon ice cream is a perfect light dessert for summer parties, holiday gatherings, or casual get-togethers.
  16. Weight Watchers Considerations:
    • This recipe is designed to be low in SmartPoints, making it an excellent choice for those on the WW plan. Be mindful of portion sizes to stay within your daily points allowance.
  17. Adjusting Sweetness:
    • If you prefer a sweeter ice cream, you can increase the amount of sweetener. However, be sure to adjust the SmartPoints accordingly.
  18. Customizing the Recipe:
    • Experiment with different flavorings or add-ins to suit your taste preferences. You can also try using flavored Greek yogurt to add variety while maintaining low points.
  19. Serving Suggestions:
    • Serve this ice cream as a standalone treat or pair it with fresh fruit or a small serving of granola for added texture.
  20. Nutritional Information and SmartPoints:

Nutritional Information (Per ½ Cup Serving, Makes 6 Servings)

  • Calories: 80
  • Total Fat: 0g
    • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 40mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 12g
    • Dietary Fiber: 0g
    • Sugars: 10g
  • Net Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Protein: 8g

Weight Watchers SmartPoints Value:

  • SmartPoints: 2 (per ½ cup serving, based on Weight Watchers 2024 calculation)

Conclusion

This Low-Point Lemon Ice Cream provides a refreshing and light dessert option that aligns well with Weight Watchers guidelines. By utilizing non-fat Greek yogurt and a sugar-free sweetener, this recipe offers a delicious treat with minimal SmartPoints. Enjoy the tangy lemon flavor and creamy texture of this ice cream while maintaining your WW points balance. Whether for a casual snack or a special occasion, this recipe is a versatile and satisfying choice.