8 Healthy Ice Cream Alternatives To Try This Summer

Ice cream is definitely something that I love about summer. I pull out every excuse to treat myself to ice cream, way more frequently than I should, and when summer comes, that becomes an excuse in itself! However this year, in an effort to maintain my health, I have been inspired to find healthier alternatives that won’t contribute to my waistline, although of course, I will allow myself the occasional gelato. Here are 8 great ice cream alternatives to try this summer that are extremely delicious and healthy at the same time!

1. Frozen Yoghurt

Of course, frozen yoghurt is basically ice cream isn’t it? My favourite flavour of gelato is actually Yoghurt, which is a flavour I can’t seem to find anywhere except in Italy. The yoghurt gelato is, of course, full of extra cream and sugar, and isn’t actually that healthy, whereas frozen yoghurt is low fat and made with milk. Although regular yoghurt is definitely healthier, fro yo contains probiotics and lower fat levels. Not to mention, you can add as many toppings as you want on top, and would (hopefully) add berries and fruits! I love to add chopped mangoes, berries, cacao nibs and chia on top of my frozen yoghurts. This is definitely a great ice cream alternative and you can feel less guilty when eating it!

2. Ice Pops

Ice pops are great as its basically frozen juice! I definitely recommend the home-made versions as the store bought ones tend to have a lot of added sugars in them. These are simple to make by blending your favourite fruits together. I love to mix carrots, pinapple and watermelon. Simply freeze these in an Ice pop maker with wooden sticks in the middle and they will make a great and refreshing treat.

3. Iced Berries Bowl

I often save berries in my freezer for those times when I make smoothies. Sometimes, however, I like to add blackberries, blueberries and strawberries in a bowl and top it with some vanilla yoghurt and cacao nibs. The cold berries are delicious and make a great low fat and nutritious desert.

4. Frozen Smoothie

I absolutely love frozen smoothie bowls. There are so many different kinds that you can make, which are healthy and delicious at the same time! The way to make these is to include crushed ice, a variety of fruits and some nuts, seeds and some yoghurt. Delicious! The perfect guilt-free dessert or breakfast!

5. Strawberry, Watermelon and Lime Granita

I absolutely love granitas. Its something I definitely love to indulge in during summer, especially the Frozen Coke Granitas they have at Mcdonalds! Sadly, the Coke ones aren’t very healthy! The strawberry watermelon and lime granita is just as refreshing and actually healthy at the same time! Simply blend crushed ice, watermelon and a dash of lime for a refreshing summer drink instead of ice cream.

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6. Chocolate Dipped Frozen Bananas

I love bananas, and love them, even more, when they are frozen! A neat trick a friend of mine taught me was to peel your bananas and dip them into chocolate sauce. Put a stick in each banana and freeze them. Whenever you feel like, you will be able to have a tasty and healthy treat!

7. Chia Pudding

Chia puddings are one of my favourite ways to start my morning. I also find them to be a very yummy healthy dessert option instead of ice cream during the summer. Simply mix two tablespoons of chia seeds with your favourite type of milk and add sweetener or no sweetener depending on your preferences. Let it sit in the fridge for at least two hours to let the seeds absorb the milk. Top with your favourite chopped vegetables and cacao nibs and you have a very healthy dessert option filled with fibre, healthy fats and protein!

8. Overnight Oats

This may not be everyone’s favourite replacement for ice cream, but it is definitely a healthy ice cream alternative! I love overnight oats for breakfast and also for dessert or a snack from time to time. The consistency is a lot more creamy than normal porridge and there are many ways you can have them, with peanut butter or berries! Simply soak rolled oats in milk overnight which will give you a delicious and refreshing treat to enjoy the next day! This is one of the best ice cream alternatives!

What are your thoughts on the ice cream alternatives listed above? Are there any others that you recommend to satisfy a sweet tooth and are healthy at the same time? Do let me know your suggestions in the comments below!