Going Bananas for Ice Cream Substitutes

Without a doubt, ice cream is one of the most treasured desserts. Whether piled high on a cone, stacked and in a cup and drizzled with decadent topping, or combined with cookies and candy, ice cream has traveled a long way from its elitist beginnings. In the earliest days of its history, ice cream was a treat only the rich could afford, but these days, the frozen dessert is one that many different economies delight in. Unfortunately, the comparatively low cost and widespread availability of ice cream make ice cream one of the leading factors contributing to the widespread obesity epidemic.

However, there are many delicious alternatives to ice cream. Whether the goal is to lower the fat content to give the arteries a break, or to lower the calorie content to give the waist line a break, or some combination of both goals, there is a tasty frozen treat alternative. The easiest and most versatile substitute is the banana.

Simply peel a banana, wrap in plastic wrap, drop into a zip lock bag, and stick it in the freezer. If you want to insert a stick ( a craft stick will work well)) to the banana, you can have a banana flavored and healthier popsicle. If you don't want to mess with the stick, simply remove the frozen treat and mash into a bowl. The mashed and frozen banana will have the same consistency as ice cream, particularly if you add some nuts and a small drizzle of dark chocolate to top the dish.

If you're in the mood for something a bit fancier than a simple frozen banana, try cutting the banana in halves and placing them on a stick. When removed from the freezer, coat the flat side of each banana with a fruit flavored frozen yogurt, such as strawberry. Then sprinkle the top with a handful of crushed graham cracker crumbs.

An additional healthy alternative to ice cream using bananas is to make a smoothie. Mix two frozen bananas, a cup of skim milk or fresh fruit juice, and a cup of ice cubes and blend together. Additional fruit can be added, and strawberries and blueberries go particularly well with the banana flavor. If frozen bananas are not your cup of tea, try substituting any type of frozen fruit for the same great tasting smoothie.

A final healthy alternative to ice cream using bananas actually employs using fresh bananas. Mix three fresh, mashed bananas, add 1 cup additional fresh fruit, 4 tablespoons sugar, 6 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 cup of orange juice, ½ cup cold water, and one package of unflavored gelatin mix. Place in the freezer until the gelatin has almost set, then remove and beat with mixer until creamy and fluffy, then returned to freezer to finish setting.

As with ice cream, these substitute banana flavored treats can be enjoyed any time of the year, though they are particularly delicious during the summertime.