Do you have to churn the ice cream?

Churning the ice cream makes it creamier, but is not required. If you don't have an ice cream maker, you can hand churn the ice cream. Simply pour the blended ice cream into a loaf pan, set it in the freezer and mix the ice cream with a large spoon or spatula every 30-40 minutes until you reach the desired texture.

Is this mint chip ice cream vegan?

All ingredients except the collagen are vegan friendly. Simply omit the collagen for a vegan compliant mint chip ice cream. This will not affect the taste, just slightly change the texture.

Does this homemade ice cream freeze well?

Yes! This ice cream is super creamy and does not get icy in the freezer. While it can be scooped straight out of the freezer, I recommend letting it sit out a few minutes to soften.

Paleo Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream (Dairy Free)

Description

This paleo mint chocolate chip ice cream is thick and creamy. It freezes well and is only sweetened with dates - no sugar added!

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup pitted dates (160g)
1/2 large avocado
1 cup packed spinach (optional)
1/4 cup collagen peptides (omit for vegan)
1 can full fat coconut milk (13.5oz)
1 1/2 tsp peppermint flavoring
1 tsp vanilla extract
pinch of salt
1/4 cup dark chocolate, chopped

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Instructions

Soak the dates: place the pitted dates in a ceramic bowl or mug, heat a pot of water (hot, but not boiling) and then pour the water over the dates so that they are fully submerged. Let the dates sit for 5-10 minutes, then drain the water.
Blend ingredients: blend together all of the ingredients for the ice cream, except the chocolate chips. Start the blender at a low speed, then gradually increase it until the mixture is smooth and consistent.
Churn Ice Cream: pour the mixture into an ice cream maker. You'll want to churn the ice cream for 20-30 minutes, or until it's has the consistency of soft serve ice cream*
Once the ice cream has started to freeze and thicken, add in the dark chocolate (or whatever mix-ins you prefer). The reason for not adding the chocolate right away, or in the blender, is because if the mixture is warm then the chocolate will melt.
Once the ice cream has thickened, either enjoy right away or scoop it into a loaf pan and place it in the freezer to firm.
Storage: if you plan on eating the ice cream within a few hours, simply scoop the ice cream into a loaf pan and place in the freeze, no need to cover. For longer storage, put the ice cream in a sealed container or cover it in the loaf pan with foil.

Notes

*While churning the ice cream is not required, it helps give the ice cream a thick, smooth texture. If you don't own an ice cream maker, you can simply pour the ice cream into a loaf pan and place it in the freezer. Every 30-40 minutes, vigorously mix the ice cream by hand, then place it back into the freezer.