Truth: every homemade ice cream recipe I’ve ever seen gets me so excited.

Don’t be shocked. Ice cream is a simple food. It has 5 ingredients max, when made well. And is one of the best parts about summer. I’m into it.

Until I read the recipe. And pout.

“Combine all ingredients in your ice cream maker.”

Listen. Nothing against all of you that love buying new kitchen appliance and gadget after new gadget.

I just don’t have the room or patience for those kitchen items that don’t do at least 3 duties.

A healthy life, made SIMPLE, people.

And an ice cream maker doesn’t count.

But still, I stare.

Finding myself immediately doing what I always do with recipes- scornfully and rebelliously convinced that  I don’t need half of those unnecessary things (or ingredients) they call for.

‘What is the simplest way to do this?’  my head chatters. I mean really. With all of those amazing tasting ingredients, could it really go that bad?

Answer: nope.

And now, I’m screwed. Because it worked this time.

So if you’re looking for me, I’ll just be with my head poked in the freezer every hour.

Because as of today, I can make healthy ice cream at home. And now you can too.

Sorry I’m not sorry.

Ice cream that also happens to be gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan (not that those things mean “healthy”, but you know. It just usually means less of a stomach ache for most people). Without any refined sugar. Or stinkin’ ice cream maker. Or any gunk.

Mint Chocolate Chip [Coconut Milk] Ice Cream

Makes approximately 6-8 servings

Ingredients:

1 can coconut milk (16.5 oz)

1 handful dark chocolate chips (or more)

3 tablespoons maple syrup (or 4 if you like it sweet)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon mint extract

Directions:

Combine coconut milk, chocolate chips, mint extract and maple syrup in a medium bowl. Stir well to combine. Pour into a freezer-safe glass container and cover with plastic wrap or foil. Let sit for at least 3 hours before serving. Scoop and smile. That’s it.

Other great flavors to try: plain vanilla, chocolate, caramel + nuts, raisins,  or peanut butter-vanilla or chocolate! If you try these or the original recipe, holler up- tell me how it goes for you too!