Description
This Ninja Creami Banana Ice Cream recipe transforms ripe bananas into a creamy, rich dessert with a caramelized twist. Enhanced with brown sugar, cinnamon, and a touch of vanilla, it uses whole milk and heavy cream to achieve a velvety texture. The mixture freezes before being processed in the Ninja Creami for a smooth and decadent homemade ice cream experience, perfect for banana lovers seeking a quick yet indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Caramelized Banana Mixture
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 large or 2 small ripe bananas, sliced
- 2–3 tablespoons brown sugar (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, divided
Ice Cream Base
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
Optional Mix-ins
- 3 tablespoons chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Caramelize the Bananas: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the sliced bananas and sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of brown sugar and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Cook the bananas for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they soften and caramelize, turning golden brown. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
- Blend the Base: Transfer the caramelized bananas along with their syrup into a large measuring cup or bowl. Add the remaining 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon, vanilla extract, and whole milk. Use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until completely smooth. Then stir in the heavy cream with a whisk. Taste the mixture and add an additional tablespoon of brown sugar if you prefer a sweeter ice cream base.
- Freeze the Mixture: Pour the blended banana ice cream mixture into a Ninja Creami pint container, making sure not to exceed the max fill line. Secure the lid firmly and place the container on a level surface in your freezer. Freeze for at least 24 hours to ensure the mixture is solid and ready for processing.
- Process in the Ninja Creami: Once frozen, remove the pint from the freezer and place it into the outer bowl of the Ninja Creami machine. Lock it securely in place. Select the “Ice Cream” function on the machine. If the ice cream is crumbly or grainy after the initial spin, use the “Re-spin” function once or twice to achieve a creamy, smooth texture.
- Add Mix-ins (Optional): If you want to add texture and flavor, create a small well in the center of the processed ice cream and add your 3 tablespoons of chopped nuts or any other mix-ins you prefer. Use the Ninja Creami’s “Mix-in” function to evenly incorporate these additions into the ice cream with a gentle fold.
Notes
- Be sure to use ripe bananas for natural sweetness and best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of brown sugar according to personal taste and how sweet your bananas are.
- The cinnamon can be omitted or substituted with other spices like nutmeg or cardamom.
- Ensure the ice cream mixture is frozen solid for 24 hours before processing to get the best texture.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk and heavy cream with coconut milk or other plant-based creams, but note texture differences.
- If you don’t have a Ninja Creami, you can try freezing the mixture and blending it manually, but the texture might vary.
