Homemade Makhana Ice Cream Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide

Isn't it interesting how for the entire winter, we put emphasis on gaining a “summer-body” but when summer actually comes, it brings an abundance of indulgent desserts, ice creams, etc.! However, these sugary treats often lead to a spike in sugar and junk food consumption. 

Therefore, worry no more! In this blog, we will learn how to make a healthy makhana ice cream recipe that you can enjoy guilt-free!

A Healthy Twist to Your Dessert Cravings

Out of all the desserts in the world, we can all agree that the most widely loved one is ice cream! Ice cream is a symbol of love, comfort and childhood. However, as we grow up, it is important to be mindful of even indulging in ice cream because they contain a lot of sugar. 

Therefore, one of the best icecreams to have while being mindful of your body is a makhana icecream! It gives you a naturally light, nutty flavour that makes the dessert feel wholesome and tasty without losing its creamy charm.

What is Makhana Ice Cream and Why is it Popular?

Makhanas are the popped, edible seed of the prickly water lily (Euryale ferox) and are often considered a healthier option for potato chips and other snacks. 

Makhana ice cream is nothing but a homemade dessert made using roasted makhana. The roasted makhana is blended with milk, cream, sweetener, and flavouring to create a smooth and creamy ice cream base.

What Makes Makhana a Super Ingredient?

Makhana is light, crunchy, and has amazing nutritional value! It is often used in Indian snacks, sweets, kheer, and now even desserts like ice cream.

Why Choose Makhana Ice Cream Over Regular Ice Cream?

Unlike regular ice cream, makhana ice cream at home can be made with fewer processed ingredients and very little sugar! It is easier to use natural sweeteners and even add fruits or nuts of your choice as toppings, and make it truly healthy and filling. 

Moreover, it is an amazing way to make ice cream healthy as well as fun for kids!

Makhana Ice Cream Ingredients You Need

Again, all that you’ll need to make a makhana ice cream is probably already lying in your pantry! These items include:

• 1 cup makhana

• 2 cups milk

• ½ cup fresh cream

• ¼ cup sugar, honey, or jaggery powder

• ½ teaspoon cardamom powder

• 1 teaspoon vanilla essence

• Chopped nuts for garnish

• Saffron strands, optional

Remember, before starting to make the ice cream, keep your ingredients arranged in food storage containers so that the process feels easier and more organised.

Step-by-Step Guide to Make Makhana Ice Cream at Home

Step 1 - Roast the Makhana

The very first step is to dry roast your makhana. Use a stainless steel pan for this because they distribute the heat evenly and are perfect for frying. Dry roast the makhana on a low flame for 5 to 7 minutes, until they turn crisp and slightly golden.

Step 2 - Grind into Powder

Once cooled, grind the roasted makhana into a fine powder using basic kitchen tools like a mixer grinder.

Step 3 - Blend All Ingredients

In a blender, add milk, cream, makhana powder, sugar, cardamom powder, and vanilla essence. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Step 4 - Freeze the Mixture

Pour the mixture into an airtight container and put it into the freezer for 4 to 6 hours or overnight. 

Step 5 - Re-blend for Creamy Texture

In the meantime, take the semi-frozen mixture out, blend it once again, and freeze it overnight. To make the ice cream even smoother.

Final Step - Serve and Enjoy

Now that your ice cream is ready, scoop the ice cream into your favourite dessert bowl and enjoy! You can also top it off with chopped nuts, saffron, or roasted makhana crumbs or even choco chips!

Conclusion

With the most basic ingredients, this makhana ice cream recipe is something that even your kids will love! All you need to be mindful of is taking the correct measurements of the ingredients. Oh, for that? Shop measuring spoons today!

Go try it today!

FAQs

Can I make makhana ice cream without sugar?

Yes, you can make makhana ice cream without sugar by using honey, dates, jaggery powder, or any natural sweetener of your choice.

Is makhana ice cream healthy for kids?

Yes, makhana ice cream for kids can be a healthier dessert option when made at home with controlled sugar and fresh ingredients.

Can I make makhana ice cream without milk?

Yes, you can use almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk instead of regular milk for a dairy-free version.

How long does makhana ice cream last in the freezer?

Homemade makhana ice cream can last for 7 to 10 days in the freezer when stored in an airtight container.