Cherry Carob Chip Ice Cream

This flavor was inspired by Ben and Jerry's Cherry Garcia Ice Cream, only ours is dairy and processed sugar free. My Son loves the idea that we can shop on a whim for our ice cream ingredients. Into our grocery cart and then into the machine.... It's that easy! 

If a fruit or food looks particularly fresh and delicious in the market, he'll ask me, "Mommy, can we put that in our ice cream?", and most of the time the answer is yes! 

This ice cream has a strong coconut flavor since the base is made from the milk of coconut, so you must enjoy the flavor of coconut to be a fan of this one. 

Click here to PRINT RECIPE.

Ingredients:

• 1 can of coconut milk (not a reduced fat version, or out of a carton)
• 1 cup seeded and chopped cherries
• 1/2 cup seeded and puréed cherries
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon raw honey (we like Manuka)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup of vegan carob chips (we like Sunspire brand)

Add all ingredients to ice cream maker until firm.

If you desire even firmer ice cream, remove from canister, place in another container and freeze for 1-2 more hours before serving.

To make you feel even better about this treat read the Cherry Trivia below:

• Antioxidants: Cherries are full of antioxidants which are believed to slow down the aging process.
• Anti-inflammatory: The red pigment in cherries helps to reduce inflammation and pain.
• Sleep Better: Recent studies have revealed that cherries are one of the richest known sources of natural melatonin. Eating cherries can be a natural way to help you sleep and ease jet lag.
• Weight Loss: Probably the most important and benefiting attribute of the fruit is its newly discovered ability to help in the weight loss process.
• The cherry fruit is low in fat and high in water content. Regular feasting helps increase energy levels and modify metabolism for effective weight loss.