A List of the Best Fruits to Freeze for Quick Preparations with the Ninja CREAMi
Making homemade ice cream with the Ninja CREAMi gives you the freedom to choose your ingredients and create unique flavors at home. And what better way to achieve a naturally sweet and delicious base than by using fruit? By freezing the right fruits, you can quickly prepare delicious and refreshing ice cream, sorbet, or even milkshakes, without any additives or added sugars. Here's a list of the best fruits to freeze for quick preparations, along with some tips to maximize their flavor.
1. Bananas
Bananas are a must-have for homemade ice cream. Their creamy texture and naturally sweet taste make them an ideal base for ice creams without dairy or refined sugar. They pair well with a multitude of ingredients (chocolate, peanut butter, cinnamon, etc.), making them a very versatile fruit.
Tip : Slice the bananas into rounds before freezing them. This makes them easier to blend and ensures a smooth texture in the Ninja CREAMi. Try a banana-cocoa ice cream for a delicious chocolatey taste without added sugar.
2. Mangoes
Mango is a sweet, exotic fruit that adds a tropical touch to all your frozen treats. It provides a rich, smooth flavor, ideal for sorbets or creamy ice creams. Plus, mango is often sweet enough on its own to naturally sweeten your dessert.
Tip : Dice the mango and freeze it in portions. To maximize the flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of coconut milk during preparation. Mango-coconut is a classic frozen dessert for a reason!
3. Strawberries
Strawberries are perfect for sorbets and add a beautiful natural color to your ice cream. Their slightly tart taste pairs well with other fruits like bananas or peaches, and they provide a pleasant aroma without the need for artificial flavorings.
Tip : Freeze whole strawberries after hulling them. For an extra-refreshing sorbet, blend them with a touch of mint or basil – you'll love this more original version!
4. Raspberries
Raspberries add a tangy touch and vibrant color to your homemade ice cream. They're perfect for sorbet recipes, especially if you're looking for a slightly less sweet alternative. Their intense flavor can be used on its own or in combination with other fruits.
Tip : Freeze the raspberries as is. When preparing, combine them with a banana to soften their acidity while achieving a smooth texture.
5. Peaches and Apricots
Peaches and apricots are ideal for summer ice cream. Their soft, slightly sweet flesh blends perfectly into light and refreshing preparations. These fruits offer a delicate and subtle flavor, perfect for lovers of fruity desserts.
Tip : Slice them before freezing. Pair them with a little plain yogurt for a creamier result or a touch of vanilla for an even more indulgent effect.
6. Cherries
Cherries are delicious in sorbet or ice cream and add a rich color to your dessert. Their sweet and slightly tart flavor is perfect on its own or blended with sweeter flavors like vanilla or chocolate.
Tip : Pit the cherries before freezing them. Mix them with plain yogurt or coconut milk for a creamy version of cherry ice cream that evokes a decadent dessert without being too sweet.
7. Pineapple
Pineapple is a sweet tropical fruit that adds a bright and refreshing flavor to sorbets. It pairs beautifully with coconut milk or even lime for an even more exotic touch.
Tip : Cut the pineapple into small cubes and freeze it in portions. For a more intense flavor, blend the pineapple with a touch of lime juice. You'll get a refreshing sorbet, perfect for hot summer days.
8. Blueberries and Blueberries
Blueberries, with their natural sweetness and vibrant color, are ideal for healthy and delicious ice cream. They also have the advantage of being rich in antioxidants, making them a perfect choice for desserts that are both indulgent and good for your health.
Tip : Freeze them as is, then blend them with yogurt for a creamy and colorful dessert. If you prefer milder flavors, blueberries are also perfect combined with banana for an even smoother result.
