I used to think mint chocolate chip ice cream was off the table once I started eating clean. Every store-bought version had corn syrup, food dye, or mystery "natural flavor."

One summer, feeling a bit nostalgic (and honestly, left out while my kids had their cones), I decided to experiment. Could I make a version with real mint leaves, no dairy, and just enough sweetness to make it a treat?

What came out of my blender was magic. Cool, creamy, refreshing — like the classic I loved, only better. And now, it's a summer freezer staple. 💚

Fresh Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream (Dairy-Free)

Ingredients:

• 1 can full-fat coconut milk (13.5 oz)

• 1 cup fresh mint leaves, packed

• ¼ cup raw cashews (soaked in hot water for 15 min if not using high-speed blender)

• ¼ cup maple syrup or honey

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Pinch of sea salt

• ¼ cup mini dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate (dairy-free if needed)

Instructions:

1. Infuse the coconut milk: In a small saucepan, heat the coconut milk over low heat. Add fresh mint leaves and let it steep for 10–15 minutes. Do not boil. Strain out the mint and let the milk cool.

2. Blend the base: In a blender, combine the cooled mint-infused coconut milk, soaked cashews, maple syrup, vanilla, and salt. Blend until completely smooth and creamy.

3. Chill the mixture: Refrigerate the base for 1–2 hours (or speed it up with 30 minutes in the freezer).

4. Churn it: Pour into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer instructions (usually about 20–25 minutes). In the last 5 minutes, stir in the chocolate chips.

5. Freeze to firm up: Transfer to a container and freeze for 2–3 hours for a scoopable texture.

Sarah’s Tips:

• No ice cream maker? Freeze the blended base in ice cube trays. Once frozen, blend the cubes in a food processor until creamy. Stir in chocolate chips and refreeze.

• Want it greener? Add a few spinach leaves before blending — you won’t taste them, promise!

• Make it extra: Top with cacao nibs, coconut flakes, or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate before serving.

Nutrition (per serving, based on 6 servings):

• Calories: ~220

• Protein: 3g

• Carbs: 14g

• Sugar: 9g

• Fat: 18g

• Fiber: 2g