No Churn Banana Ice Cream

No Churn Banana Ice Cream is a simple and delicious homemade ice cream made with ripe bananas, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream—no ice cream maker needed! This creamy, naturally sweet treat is perfect for satisfying your ice cream cravings and is easily customizable with your favorite mix-ins.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • No ice cream maker required
  • Uses simple ingredients and is easy to make
  • Naturally sweetened with ripe bananas
  • Creamy, smooth texture without the need for churning
  • Perfect for customizing with mix-ins and toppings

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • 3 ripe bananas, mashed
  • 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
  • Pinch of salt (optional)

Optional Mix-Ins and Toppings:

  • Chocolate chips or chunks
  • Chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans)
  • Peanut butter or chocolate syrup
  • Caramel sauce
  • Sliced bananas
  • Crushed cookies or graham crackers

Directions

  1. Prepare the Bananas:
    • In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
    • Stir in the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt (if using). Mix until well combined.
  2. Whip the Cream:
    • In a separate bowl, beat the cold heavy whipping cream with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
  3. Combine Mixtures:
    • Gently fold the whipped cream into the banana mixture using a spatula.
    • Continue folding until no streaks remain and the mixture is smooth and airy.
  4. Add Mix-Ins (Optional):
    • If adding chocolate chips, nuts, or other mix-ins, gently fold them into the ice cream mixture.
  5. Freeze the Ice Cream:
    • Pour the mixture into a loaf pan or a freezer-safe container.
    • Smooth the top with a spatula and cover with plastic wrap or a lid.
  6. Freeze Until Firm:
    • Freeze for at least 4-6 hours, or overnight, until the ice cream is firm.
  7. Serve:
    • Scoop into bowls and enjoy with your favorite toppings.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 8
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Freeze Time: 4-6 hours
  • Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes

Variations

  • Chocolate Banana Ice Cream: Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the banana mixture for a chocolatey twist.
  • Peanut Butter Banana Ice Cream: Swirl in 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter before freezing.
  • Strawberry Banana Ice Cream: Fold in 1 cup of chopped fresh strawberries for a fruity addition.
  • Banana Nut Ice Cream: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
  • Cinnamon Banana Ice Cream: Mix in 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor.

Storage/Reheating

  • Freezer: Store ice cream in a freezer-safe container with a tight-fitting lid for up to 2 weeks.
  • Softening: Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping for easier serving.

FAQs

1. Can I make this ice cream dairy-free?

Yes, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free condensed milk alternative.

2. How do I make this recipe healthier?

For a healthier version, blend frozen bananas alone in a food processor for a naturally sweet and creamy ice cream.

3. Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, thaw frozen bananas slightly and blend them until smooth before mixing with the other ingredients.

4. What if I don’t have sweetened condensed milk?

You can make your own by simmering milk and sugar until thickened, or substitute with a sweetened dairy-free condensed milk.

5. How do I avoid ice crystals in no churn ice cream?

Ensure the whipped cream is beaten to stiff peaks and gently fold the ingredients together to maintain the airiness.

6. Can I use a blender instead of a mixer?

Yes, blend the bananas and sweetened condensed milk until smooth, then fold in the whipped cream manually to avoid overmixing.

7. Can I add chocolate chips or fruit to the ice cream?

Absolutely! Gently fold in your desired mix-ins before freezing for added texture and flavor.

8. How long does the ice cream need to freeze?

Freeze for at least 4-6 hours, but overnight is best for a firmer texture.

9. Can I make this recipe without heavy cream?

For a lighter version, you can use whipped coconut cream or a whipped topping substitute.

10. What toppings go well with banana ice cream?

Try caramel sauce, chocolate drizzle, fresh berries, granola, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Conclusion

No Churn Banana Ice Cream is a wonderfully easy and creamy dessert that’s perfect for banana lovers. With no ice cream maker needed, this recipe delivers rich, smooth ice cream with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and endless opportunities for mix-ins and toppings. Whether enjoyed plain or loaded with extras, this ice cream is sure to become a family favorite for a cool and refreshing treat!

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No Churn Banana Ice Cream

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  • Author: clara
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 hours
  • Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 68 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert, Ice Cream
  • Method: No-Churn, Freezing
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This No Churn Banana Ice Cream is creamy, naturally sweet, and requires only a few simple ingredients—no ice cream maker needed! The ripe bananas provide natural sweetness and a smooth texture, while a bit of cream and vanilla make it rich and delicious. Enjoy this easy homemade ice cream as a refreshing dessert or a healthy treat!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 ripe bananas, peeled and sliced
  • 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 cups (480 ml) heavy whipping cream, cold
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)

Optional Mix-Ins:

  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips or chocolate chunks
  • 1/2 cup crushed cookies (e.g., vanilla wafers or graham crackers)
  • 1/4 cup chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts, pecans)
  • 1/4 cup caramel or chocolate sauce, for swirling

Instructions

🍌 Prepare the Banana Mixture:

  1. Blend the Bananas:

    • In a blender or food processor, puree the sliced bananas until smooth.
  2. Mix with Condensed Milk:

    • Add the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt (if using) to the banana puree.
    • Blend until well combined and smooth.

🍦 Whip the Cream:

  1. Beat the Cream:

    • In a large mixing bowl, whip the cold heavy cream with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form (3-4 minutes).
  2. Fold in the Banana Mixture:

    • Gently fold the banana mixture into the whipped cream until fully incorporated.

🍫 Add Mix-Ins (Optional):

  1. Stir in Mix-Ins:
    • If using, fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or cookie pieces.
    • You can also gently swirl in caramel or chocolate sauce.

❄️ Freeze the Ice Cream:

  1. Transfer to Container:

    • Pour the mixture into a 9×5 inch (23×13 cm) loaf pan or a freezer-safe container.
    • Smooth the top with a spatula.
  2. Freeze:

    • Cover with plastic wrap or an airtight lid.
    • Freeze for at least 4-6 hours, or until firm.

🍽️ Serve:

  1. Scoop and Enjoy:

    • Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5 minutes to soften slightly before scooping.
  2. Topping Ideas:

    • Top with fresh banana slices, chocolate syrup, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of nuts for added crunch.



Notes

  • For Creamier Ice Cream: Ensure the cream is very cold before whipping to achieve a light and fluffy texture.
  • Make It Healthier: Replace sweetened condensed milk with 1 cup Greek yogurt and 1/4 cup honey for a lighter version.
  • Storage Tip: Cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface to avoid ice crystals and keep it fresh for up to 1 week.

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