This naturally blue-coloured ice cream is a fun and nutritious twist on the classic Cookie Monster ice cream, using butterfly pea flower powder for a beautiful blue hue instead of artificial food colouring.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk (or condensed coconut milk)
- 1 tbsp butterfly pea flower powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup crushed chocolate chip cookies (or Oreos)
- ¼ cup mini chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
- Candy eyes (optional, for the “Cookie Monster” effect)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Butterfly Pea Mixture:
- In a small bowl, mix the butterfly pea powder with 2 tbsp of warm water to dissolve. This will ensure an even color throughout the ice cream.
- Whip the Cream:
- In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Gently fold in the condensed milk, vanilla extract, dissolved butterfly pea mixture, and sweetener if using.
- Add the Cookie Crunch:
- Fold in the crushed cookies and mini chocolate chips.
- Freeze:
- Transfer the mixture to a freezer-safe container, smooth the top, and sprinkle extra cookie crumbles on top.
- Add candy eyes on top to mimic Cookie Monster.
- Cover and freeze for at least 4-6 hours or overnight.
- Serve & Enjoy:
- Scoop and serve in bowls or cones for a fun, vibrant treat!
Health Benefits of Butterfly Pea Flower
- Rich in Antioxidants: Helps combat free radicals, keeping the body healthy.
- Supports Brain Health: Contains anthocyanins that boost cognitive function.
- Naturally Caffeine-Free: Safe for kids and won’t cause energy crashes.
- May Improve Eye Health: Contains proanthocyanidin, which supports eye wellness.
- Color-Changing Fun: Reacts to acids like lemon juice, changing to purple or pink!
How to Make It Kid-Friendly
Fun Activity: Let kids decorate their own ice cream bowls with extra cookies, candy eyes, or sprinkles. Color Magic: Add a squeeze of lemon juice to a separate scoop and watch it turn purple! Healthier Twist: Swap out traditional cookies for healthier versions, like oat-based or homemade options. Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream and condensed coconut milk for a plant-based version. Interactive Snack Time: Serve with mini cones or make ice cream sandwiches using whole grain cookies.
Best Occasions to Serve It
Birthday Parties: A hit at kids’ parties with its fun Cookie Monster look. Summer Treats: Refreshing and cool for hot days. Themed Events: Perfect for a “Sesame Street” or fantasy-themed gathering. Sleepovers: A delightful midnight snack. Halloween: Spooky yet fun with blue monster vibes! Tea Parties: Add a magical twist to an afternoon tea with kids.
Fun Ideas for Presentation
- Cookie Monster Bowl: Serve in a blue bowl with extra cookies sticking out like a mouth.
- Ice Cream Sandwich: Sandwich between two cookies for a fun handheld treat.
- Monster Sundae: Top with whipped cream, blueberries, and edible glitter for an extra magical look.
- DIY Ice Cream Bar: Let kids mix in different toppings like marshmallows, nuts, or sprinkles.