Beat the Heat

When it's hot nothing beats a refreshing, naturally sweet treat. But instead of reaching for store-bought ice cream loaded with refined sugar and artificial ingredients, why not make your own?

Enter Raspberry Nice Cream and Mango Sorbet—two deliciously creamy, fruit-based desserts that are not only refreshing but also packed with real, wholesome ingredients. These frozen treats are completely refined sugar-free, making them a great option for a summer indulgence without the guilt. Plus, they’re ridiculously easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and a blender.

If you love ice cream but are looking for a healthier alternative, these recipes will be your new go-to. Whether you're lounging by the pool, entertaining guests, or simply craving a cooling treat, these fruity creations will keep you satisfied all summer long.

WHY MAKE YOUR OWN NICE CREAMS & SORBETS?

Homemade frozen treats are a game changer for so many reasons:

• They’re naturally sweetened – No refined sugar, just fruit and a touch of maple syrup or vanilla to enhance the natural flavours.

• Super easy to make – No ice cream maker needed! All you need is a high-speed blender or food processor.

• Packed with real ingredients – Fresh fruit, plant-based yoghurt, and natural sweeteners mean you’re nourishing your body while enjoying a delicious dessert.

• Dairy-free and vegan-friendly – These recipes are made with non-dairy yoghurt or milk, making them perfect for anyone with dietary restrictions.

• Endlessly customisable – Swap out fruits, add mix-ins like coconut flakes or chopped nuts, or drizzle with melted dark chocolate for a little extra indulgence.

Now, let’s dive into these two easy, refreshing recipes.

RASPBERRY NICE CREAM.

A fruity, creamy, and slightly tangy frozen delight, this Raspberry Nice Cream is perfect for those hot summer days when you want something sweet, but light. It has a soft-serve texture that you can enjoy immediately or freeze for a firmer consistency.

Serves: 4 people

Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: Nil

Ingredients

2 bananas, sliced and frozen

1 ½ cups (180g) raspberries, frozen

2-3 tbsp. milk of choice (coconut, almond, oat, or dairy)

2 tsp. vanilla extract

INSTRUCTIONS.

1. Place the frozen bananas and raspberries into a food processor or high-speed blender.

2. Add the vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of milk. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.

3. If necessary, add an extra tablespoon of milk to reach a thick, smoothie-like consistency.

4. Enjoy immediately as a soft-serve or transfer to a dish, cover, and freeze for two hours for a firmer texture.

CUSTOMISATION IDEAS.

• Add a handful of dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs for a chocolate-raspberry twist.

• Stir in shredded coconut for extra texture.

• Swap raspberries for strawberries or mixed berries for a different flavour profile.

MANGO SORBET.

Sweet, tropical, and incredibly smooth, this Mango Sorbet is sunshine in a bowl. The natural sweetness of mango combined with creamy coconut yoghurt and a touch of maple syrup makes for the ultimate summer refresher.

Serves: 2 people

Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: Nil

Ingredients

2 cups (165g) mango, frozen

¼ cup (60g) coconut yoghurt

2 tbsp. maple syrup

INSTRUCTIONS.

1. Place the frozen mango, coconut yoghurt, and maple syrup into a blender or food processor.

2. Blend until completely smooth. If needed, scrape down the sides and blend again.

3. Serve immediately for a soft, creamy texture, or freeze for 1-2 hours for a firmer consistency.

CUSTOMISATION IDEAS.

• Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a zingy twist.

• Blend in passionfruit for an extra tropical vibe.

• Stir in shredded coconut or chopped pistachios for added texture.

THE PERFECT SUMMER TREATS.

These Raspberry Nice Cream and Mango Sorbet recipes are the ultimate way to stay cool and satisfied during the warmer months. Whether you’re making them for a weekend BBQ, a poolside snack, or a simple after-dinner treat, they’re guaranteed to be a hit.

Both recipes are kid-friendly, making them a fantastic way to get little ones excited about eating fruit. Plus, they’re a great alternative to sugar-laden store-bought ice creams, giving you all the flavour without the unnecessary additives.

If you’re looking for a fun way to elevate your summer desserts, try layering the two together for a Raspberry-Mango Swirl! The contrast between the sweet mango and slightly tangy raspberry makes for an irresistible combination.

TIPS TO MAKE YOUR SORBETS & NICE CREAMS TURN OUT GREAT.

Use ripe, frozen fruit – The sweeter the fruit, the better the flavour.

Blend in batches – If your blender struggles, try blending in smaller portions.

Serve immediately for soft-serve texture – If you prefer a firmer consistency, freeze for an hour or two before serving.

Experiment with toppings – Fresh fruit, toasted coconut, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of nut butter make great additions.

There’s something special about making your own frozen treats at home. Not only do they taste better than anything store-bought, but they also give you full control over the ingredients. With no refined sugar, artificial flavours, or preservatives, these Raspberry Nice Cream and Mango Sorbet recipes allow you to indulge while still nourishing your body.

So, next time the summer heat has you reaching for an ice-cold treat, give these simple and refreshing recipes a try. They’re proof that healthy eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavour—it just means finding better alternatives!

Find more summer-inspired recipes on the blog, and let me know which one you try first. Enjoy!