There’s no doubt about it, ice cream is one of the most popular and beloved desserts around. Whether you’re trying to stay on a keto diet or just want to enjoy a yummy treat, there are now many options for low-carb and sugar free versions of traditional ice creams, so that everyone can join in on the fun! In this article, you’ll learn about keto ice cream – what it is, how it differs from traditional ice creams, and some tips for finding the right brand or flavor for you.
We’ll also discuss why some people choose to make their own homemade keto friendly frozen treats at home, as well as some delicious ideas for creating unique treats with your favorite kind of ketogenic diet-friendly frozen treat.
Is Ice Cream Keto-Friendly?
The ketogenic diet has become increasingly popular in recent years, and so too have low-carb ice cream options. While the traditional version of this treat contains high levels of sugar, many brands are now producing keto friendly versions with lower amounts of net carbs and a higher fat content. This makes them ideal for those following a strict ketogenic diet, as they can still enjoy a delicious dessert without compromising their goals.
However, it’s important to be mindful of the ingredients used in these low-carb ice creams – some may contain sugar alcohols or artificial sweeteners that could have a negative impact on blood sugar levels or cause gastrointestinal issues for some people.
What is Keto Ice Cream?
Keto friendly ice creams typically rely on low-carb sweeteners and dairy ingredients to provide a delicious, creamy texture. Popular keto ice cream brands often use erythritol or xylitol as a sugar alternative, as these sugar alcohols have a low glycemic index and are not metabolized by the body. Heavy cream, unsweetened coconut milk, or full fat Greek yogurt can also be used in place of regular dairy cream for a rich flavor. Additional ingredients like real vanilla extract, cocoa powder, peppermint extract, and shredded coconut can be added to create unique flavors.
Vanilla vs Chocolate: Which Flavor is Best for a Keto Diet?
When it comes to deciding between vanilla or chocolate for your keto ice cream, there are benefits and drawbacks to both flavors. Vanilla ice cream usually has fewer carbs per serving than chocolate, as cocoa powder can contain added sugars. However, the taste of vanilla can be a bit too subtle for some people and it may not satisfy cravings like chocolate does. Chocolate ice cream is often higher in carbs due to the addition of cocoa powder, but its flavor can provide an indulgent treat that’s hard to turn down.
What are the Pros and Cons of Eating Traditional Ice Creams Compared to Keto Ice Cream?
Eating traditional ice cream can be more enjoyable for some people as it often contains higher amounts of sugar, fat, and calories than keto friendly versions. This can make it more satisfying in terms of flavor and texture, however, it can be difficult for those on a ketogenic diet to stay within their net carb limits when eating traditional ice creams. Keto friendly ice cream is lower in carbs and may contain less sugar, but it also usually has fewer calories per serving – making it more ideal for weight loss.
How to Make Homemade Keto Ice Cream?
For those who don’t have access to store-bought keto ice cream or just want to experiment with making their own treats, there are plenty of recipes online that can be made in the comfort of your own home. Here are some tips for making delicious low-carb ice cream recipes:
• Start with a basic recipe like this one and experiment with different flavors by adding in cocoa powder, extracts, nut butter, or other ingredients to customize the flavor.
• Use an electric hand mixer or stand mixer to aerate the mixture while it’s freezing to prevent it from becoming too icy.
• Add in a scoop of your favorite low-carb protein powder for an added boost of nutrition.
• Experiment with different types of dairy or nut milks to create unique flavors.
• For a more indulgent treat, add in some sugar-free chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the mix!
How to Shop for the Best Keto Ice Cream?
With so many different varieties of keto-friendly ice cream available, choosing the right one can be a daunting task. Here are some tips for finding the perfect low-carb, sugar free or dairy free ice cream:
• Read the label carefully – look for brands with natural sweeteners like stevia or erythritol, as well as low-carb ingredients like almond milk or coconut cream.
• Try different flavors – experiment with different brands and flavors until you find one that tastes the best to you.
• Look for quality fat sources – use high-quality heavy cream, full fat coconut milk, or Greek yogurt to ensure a thick
Best Types of Milk for Keto Ice Creams
Coconut milk is a great choice for those who are looking for creamy ice cream with a lower carb content. The fat in canned coconut milk gives the keto ice cream an extra rich flavor and helps make it more satisfying. Coconut milk is also dairy free, so if you’re avoiding dairy or have sensitivities, this may be the best choice for you. However, canned coconut milk can be higher in carbs than other options like almond or cashew milk, so if you’re trying to keep your carb count low, it may not be the best option.
Keto Ice Cream Recipe
Ingredients
• 1 can full-fat coconut milk
• ½ cup almond butter
• 2 tablespoons monk fruit sweetener (sugar substitute)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the coconut milk over medium-high heat until it comes to a simmer.
2. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the almond butter until melted.
3. Add monk fruit sweetener and vanilla extract, then whisk until combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a shallow dish and freeze for at least 4 hours, stirring every hour to break up any ice crystals that form.
5. When ready to serve, scoop the ice cream into individual dishes.
Keto Ice Cream Topping Ideas
Once you’ve perfected your keto ice cream recipe, it’s time to look for some delicious toppings! Here are some ideas to get you started:
• Sugar-free chocolate chips
• Nuts (chopped almonds or walnuts)
• Coconut flakes
• Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, etc.)
• Low carb sauces (sugar-free caramel or chocolate sauce)
• Whipped cream (made with heavy cream and stevia)
• Sugar-free marshmallows
• Chopped dark chocolate pieces
• Flavored extracts (mint, vanilla, almond, etc.)
Keto Ice Cream Q & A
When it comes to eating desserts on a low carb diet, there are a few common questions that many people have. Here’s a look at the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about consuming low-carb ice cream and other types of keto friendly desserts:
• Is ice cream keto? Yes, as long as it’s low in carbs and contains natural sweeteners, keto friendly ice cream is an acceptable treat for those following a ketogenic diet.
• How many net carbs are in ice cream? This depends on the brand and flavor of the ice cream, but most contain between 2-5g of net carbs per serving.
• Does ice cream raise blood sugar levels? Generally, consuming a moderate amount of low-carb ice cream should not cause your blood sugar levels to spike. However, those with diabetes should be mindful of their intake and speak to their healthcare provider if they have any concerns.
• Do I need to count the calories in keto ice cream? Generally, it is not necessary to count calories when eating keto friendly desserts as long as you’re mindful of your portion sizes.
Overall, ice cream can be a tasty and enjoyable treat for those following a ketogenic diet. As with any food, however, it is important to be mindful of your intake and practice moderation. By following the tips above and choosing high-quality, low carb ingredients, you can enjoy a delicious keto friendly dessert without guilt or worry.
These tips will help anyone looking to make their own homemade keto ice cream or shop for store-bought options that fit into their diet plan. With these helpful resources, you can enjoy a delicious, low-carb treat whenever you need a sweet fix.
