A banana swirl, also known as nice cream, gives you all the satisfaction of ice cream but removes the guilt. Win! Make this banana swirl frozen treat and feel good about serving it to your family. It’s loaded natural ingredients, and you can also customize it with flavors you enjoy.

I placed a printable recipe card at the bottom of this post for your convenience.

Nice Cream

This is such an easy recipe you’ll want to make it often. It’s one of our favorite treats during the warmer summer months. However, I’ve been known to enjoy it year round.

Ingredients

You don’t need many ingredients to make this delicious frozen banana swirl. Since the basic ingredients are all plant based, this is a vegan treat as long as you don’t add any animal based products.

Here is what you’ll need:

• 3 frozen ripe bananas (peeled and sliced)
• 2 tablespoons almond milk (or your favorite nut milk)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

If you want different flavors, try adding some mix-ins or toppings. Here are some good ones:

• Strawberries
• Blueberries
• Chocolate syrup
• Caramel sauce
• Chopped pecans (or any of your favorite nuts)
• Chocolate chips 
• Peanut butter chips
• Sprinkles
• Crushed candy bars
• Whipped cream (regular or vegan)

If you have other topping ideas, feel free to give them a try. Please keep in mind that the nutritional value is based on the ingredients. So if you’re trying to limit sugar, you want to avoid adding candy or anything else with a high sugar content.

How to Make Banana Swirl

The longest part of making this treat is the first step of freezing the bananas. One thing you can do is keep a stash of ripe bananas in your freezer for times when you want to make this. If you haven’t already frozen the bananas, slice them and place them on a baking sheet in a single layer. In order to prevent them from sticking, line the pan with parchment paper.

Freeze them for at least 2 hours, longer if possible. They need to be completely frozen in order to have the consistency of ice cream. After the bananas are frozen, put them in your food processor. Scatter them around evenly to help reach the smooth texture you’ll want.

If you don’t have a food processor, you can use a blender instead. Just make sure you have a long spoon to scrap the ingredients from the bottom of the blender bowl. Next, pour the almond milk and vanilla into the food processor. Blend for about 30 seconds and then scrape down the inside. Keep blending and scraping the sides of the food processor until you have the smooth and creamy consistency you want.

The mixture will be very soft and maybe even a little soupy. That’s why the final step in the process is important. The next step is to transfer to a freezer safe container. If you want additional items mixed in, fold them in now. Or you can wait and top each person’s with what they want. Finally, place the mixture in your freezer for at least an hour. It will become firmer as it freezes.

Additional Tips

If it’s difficult to scoop, place the container on the countertop and let it soften just a little bit. But not too much, or you’ll have to stick it back in the freezer. As you can see, it takes time to make this delicious treat. But I believe that the final outcome makes the process worth it.

Frozen Gluten-Free Sweet Treats

I love the fact that this is another gluten free dessert that I can enjoy. I’ve taken the standard banana swirl recipe and tweaked it a bit to suit my family’s taste buds. Please feel free to tweak it to make it your own. This is such an easy recipe that you can make it as often as you want and without too much effort.

Any time I have people over for a homemade frozen treat, I like to give them options. In addition to this banana swirl, I might offer either this yummy strawberry ice cream or this refreshing and fun mint chocolate chip ice cream.

Common Questions About Frozen Bananas and Banana Swirl

If you’ve never used frozen bananas before, you may have some questions. Here are some of the most common things you may want to know.

How long Will Banana Swirl Last in the Freezer?

If you keep it in an airtight container, it should last up to 6 months, but you need to take some precautions. As I use it, I like to cover the top of the frozen concoction with plastic wrap before putting the lid back on the container. That prevents ice crystals from forming on the top of it, and it helps keep it from developing freezer burn.

Is It Safe for People who are Lactose Intolerant?

Banana swirl doesn’t have any dairy in it. So yes, it absolutely is safe for those who can’t tolerate lactose.

Is Banana Swirl Vegan?

The way I make banana swirl, it is vegan. All of the ingredients are plant based, unless you choose to add dairy.

Will Frozen Bananas Turn Brown?

Yes, frozen bananas can turn brown over time, just like fresh bananas. This is because bananas contain an enzyme that reacts with oxygen in the air and causes the flesh of the banana to turn brown. Freezing typically slows down this process, but it does not completely stop it. Over time, the bananas may still turn brown in the freezer.

To help prevent frozen bananas from turning brown, dip them in lemon juice or lime juice before freezing. This can help to slow down the enzymatic browning process. Also, storing the bananas in an airtight container or freezer bag can also help to reduce their exposure to oxygen and slow down the browning process.

Is it Healthy to Eat Frozen Bananas?

Yes, even frozen, bananas are loaded with lots of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. According to the Harvard School of Public Health, bananas are a great source of B6, magnesium, and potassium. Overall, as long as you don’t have any specific health concerns that would make eating frozen bananas inadvisable, they can be a healthy and enjoyable snack option.

More Refreshing Treats

Here are some more delicious treats:

Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream – If you enjoy a cold version of some of your favorite fall flavors, this is one you’ll love!

Creamy Orange Smoothie – Reminiscent of the old-school Creamsicle, the flavor of this smoothie can’t be beat!

Frozen Coffee Smoothie – When you’re in a hurry to get out the door in the morning, whip up one of these satisfying and delicious coffee smoothies and take it with you.

Easy but Tasty Dessert

I love the fact that this sweet treat is so easy to make, but it satisfie my dessert cravings in such a good way. The only problem is knowing when to stop, a difficult thing to do since it is absolutely delicious!

Please feel free to share!