Mint Chocolate Chip Banana “Ice Cream”

This homemade mint chocolate chip banana “ice cream” is a refreshing, plant-based treat packed with anti-cancer nutrients and endless versatility. Bananas provide fiber and antioxidants that may help reduce colorectal cancer risk, while fresh mint offers anti-inflammatory compounds like rosmarinic acid. The cocoa and chocolate chips bring flavonoids known for their cell-protective effects. Blend as is for a creamy, guilt-free dessert, or adapt the frozen banana base with spices, herbs, or fruit for your own flavor twist - try chocolate raspberry, peach and tart cherry or the classic chocolate and peanut butter.

Mint Chocolate Chip Banana “Ice Cream”

Recipe By: Melanya Kushla, MS, RD, CHES at Taste & Thrive
Yield: 4 servings
Serving Size: 1/2 cup

Ingredients

• 2 medium ripe bananas, frozen (peel and slice before freezing)

• ¼ cup unsweetened non-dairy milk

• 1 cup of fresh mint leaves

• 1 Tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder

• 2 Tablespoons semi-sweet chocolate chips (recommend Lily’s brand)

Utensils

• Blender or food processor

• Measuring cups

• Measuring spoons

Directions

1. Add frozen bananas to a blender or food processor with the nondairy milk and puree until smooth.

2. If bananas are “too” frozen, add a splash more milk as needed.

3. Add remaining ingredients and puree again until everything is blended up smooth.

4. Serve immediately for soft-serve style ice cream; return to the freezer for 45-60 minutes for firm ice cream.

Notes

• Ripe bananas will be add more sweetness and green bananas will be more tangy in flavor

• You can store leftovers in the freezer, but it does get quite hard if you let it sit for more than an hour; you will need to let it thaw slightly before scooping out if that is the case.

• The color will continue to darken slightly over time, as the bananas oxidize - this is natural and not harmful to consume.

Nutrition Info (Per Serving)

136 calories – 3g fat – 25g carbohydrates – 4g protein – 2g fiber – 40 mg sodium

Nutrient Highlights

• Bananas: A good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C, bananas may support digestive health and provide antioxidant protection, potentially lowering the risk of colorectal and other cancers.

• Cocoa or Dark Chocolate: Rich in flavonoids, particularly epicatechin, cocoa has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce oxidative stress and inhibit cancer cell growth.

• Mint: Packed full of antioxidants that help reduce oxidative stress in the body, including lutein, beta-carotene, and zeaxanthin. These are known not only to reduce the risk of cancer but can also prevent age-related macular degeneration and support liver health.