Homemade Ben & Jerry's Banana Split Ice Cream Recipe: Creamy, Dreamy, and Guilt-Free!

Category: Ice Cream

Introduction

Ben & Jerry's Banana Split Ice Cream is a beloved flavor that captures the essence of a classic sundae in every bite. The original features a creamy banana ice cream loaded with fudge chunks, toasted walnuts, and a cherry swirl. This homemade version not only mirrors the original's taste but also offers a healthier twist, using less sugar and natural ingredients. Making it at home allows for customization, such as reducing sugar content or using alternative sweeteners, making it a guilt-free treat.

Why Make It at Home?

Crafting your own Banana Split Ice Cream at home is rewarding. You can control the ingredients, making it healthier and tailored to your taste. It's also cost-effective and fun, allowing creativity with mix-ins and flavors.

Personal Anecdote

I remember the first time I tried Ben & Jerry's Banana Split Ice Cream; it was love at first bite. Determined to recreate it at home, I experimented with ripe bananas and a custard base. After several trials, I perfected a version that's both healthier and delicious, which I'm excited to share.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:30 minutes
• **Cook Time:10 minutes
• **Total Time:40 minutes
• **Yield:1 ½ quarts (1.5 liters)

Ingredients

Ice Cream Base:

• 3 large ripe bananas (about 1 ½ cups mashed)
• 1 ½ cups (360 ml) heavy cream
• 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
• ½ cup (120 g) granulated sugar (or ⅓ cup honey/maple syrup)
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

Fudge Chunks:

• 1 cup (200 g) dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
• ¼ cup (60 ml) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter

Mix-ins:

• 1 cup (120 g) toasted walnuts, chopped
• ¼ cup cherry jam or homemade cherry swirl

Instructions

• Make the Custard Base:

• In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, and sugar. Heat until sugar dissolves.

  • In a bowl, whisk egg yolks. Gradually add warm cream mixture, whisking to temper eggs.
  • Return to saucepan, cook over medium heat, stirring until thickened.

• Chill the Base:

• Stir in vanilla and mashed bananas. Chill mixture in the fridge for 2 hours.

• Churn Ice Cream:

• Pour into an ice cream maker and churn according to instructions.

• Prepare Fudge Chunks:

• Melt chocolate in a double boiler. Stir in sweetened condensed milk and butter until smooth. Pour onto parchment, let set, then chop into chunks.

• Assemble Ice Cream:

• Fold in fudge chunks, walnuts, and cherry swirl into churned ice cream. Transfer to container, freeze until firm.

Variations

• Vegan Version: Use coconut milk and flax eggs.
• Low-Sugar: Opt for natural sweeteners and dark chocolate.
• Nut-Free: Substitute walnuts with pecans or omit for allergies.

Pro Tips

• Aging: Chill mixture longer for a deeper flavor.
• Temper Eggs: Prevents scrambled eggs when tempering.
• Toast Nuts: Enhances flavor and texture.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use fresh cherries? Yes, cook down fresh cherries with sugar for a homemade swirl.
• What if too hard? Let thaw a few minutes before serving.
• How long does it last? Up to 2 weeks in the freezer.

Serving Suggestions

• Cones: Top with whipped cream and a cherry.
• Sundaes: Add caramel, nuts, or hot fudge.
• ** Milkshakes:** Blend with milk for a creamy treat.

Conclusion

This recipe offers a healthier, customizable version of a favorite ice cream. Enjoy the creamy texture and delicious mix-ins, knowing it's made with wholesome ingredients. Share your creations and savor the joy of homemade ice cream!