Nākd Cashew Cookie Dough Ice Cream

Nākd Cashew Cookie Dough Ice Cream

Introduction:
Nākd Cashew Cookie Dough Ice Cream is a delectable and dairy-free frozen dessert that combines the creamy goodness of cashews with the sweet satisfaction of cookie dough. This ice cream is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a healthier alternative to traditional dairy ice cream, making it suitable for vegans and those with lactose intolerances. Below, I’ll provide you with a detailed overview of its history, components, and steps to prepare it.

History:
The exact origin of Nākd Cashew Cookie Dough Ice Cream is difficult to pinpoint, but it’s part of a broader trend of dairy-free and vegan ice creams that gained popularity in recent years. As people became more health-conscious and environmentally aware, there was a growing demand for ice cream alternatives that didn’t rely on animal products. The use of cashews in this ice cream likely stems from their natural creaminess and nutty flavor, which can mimic the richness of dairy. The addition of cookie dough chunks adds a delightful contrast in texture and sweetness.

Components:
To prepare Nākd Cashew Cookie Dough Ice Cream, you’ll need the following components:

For the Cashew Ice Cream Base:

• 2 cups raw cashews, soaked overnight and drained
• 1 cup coconut milk (full-fat)
• 1/2 cup maple syrup or agave nectar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

For the Cookie Dough Chunks:

• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1/4 cup coconut sugar or brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup dairy-free chocolate chips

Steps to Prepare Nākd Cashew Cookie Dough Ice Cream:

Step 1: Prepare Cashew Ice Cream Base

1. Place the soaked and drained cashews, coconut milk, maple syrup (or agave nectar), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a blender.
2. Blend until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency, scraping down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Transfer the mixture to a freezer-safe container or an ice cream maker if you have one.

Step 2: Freeze the Ice Cream Base

1. Cover the container and place it in the freezer.
2. Every 30 minutes, remove the container and stir the ice cream mixture with a fork or whisk to break up ice crystals.
3. Repeat this process for 2-3 hours or until the ice cream is semi-firm.

Step 3: Prepare Cookie Dough Chunks

1. In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, melted coconut oil, coconut sugar (or brown sugar), vanilla extract, and dairy-free chocolate chips.
2. Mix until it forms a cookie dough-like consistency.
3. Roll the dough into small chunks or balls and set aside.

Step 4: Incorporate Cookie Dough Chunks

1. Once the ice cream base reaches the desired consistency (it should be semi-firm but not rock hard), gently fold in the cookie dough chunks.
2. Ensure even distribution of the chunks.
3. Return the ice cream to the freezer and let it freeze for another 2-3 hours or until it’s fully firm.

Step 5: Serve

1. When ready to serve, allow the ice cream to sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly for easy scooping.
2. Scoop into bowls or cones and enjoy your homemade Nākd Cashew Cookie Dough Ice Cream!

Total Time Needed:
The preparation time for this ice cream, including soaking cashews and freezing, is approximately 6-8 hours. This includes time for soaking cashews, freezing the ice cream base, and letting it set after adding the cookie dough chunks.

Nākd Cashew Cookie Dough Ice Cream is a delightful frozen dessert that combines the creaminess of cashews with the indulgence of cookie dough. It’s a treat that both vegans and non-vegans can enjoy, and its history reflects the growing demand for healthier and dairy-free ice cream options in recent years.

Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Nākd Cashew Cookie Dough Ice Cream:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values for 1 Serving):

• Calories: 300-350 kcal
• Total Fat: 20-25g
  • Saturated Fat: 10-12g
• Carbohydrates: 25-30g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2-3g
  • Sugars: 15-20g
• Protein: 5-7g

Health Information:

1. Dairy-Free: This ice cream is entirely dairy-free, making it suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or those following a vegan diet. It uses cashews and coconut milk for creaminess instead of cow’s milk.

2. Rich in Healthy Fats: Cashews and coconut milk provide a good dose of healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated and saturated fats. These fats can help support overall health and provide a sense of satiety.

3. Moderate in Calories: This ice cream is relatively moderate in calories, making it a reasonable treat when consumed in moderation. It’s important to watch portion sizes to maintain a balanced diet.

4. Added Sugars: The sweeteners in this ice cream come from maple syrup or agave nectar and the cookie dough chunks. While they provide sweetness, it’s essential to be mindful of added sugars in your diet. You can adjust the amount of sweetener to suit your taste and dietary preferences.

5. Fiber: This ice cream contains some dietary fiber, mainly from almond flour in the cookie dough. Fiber is beneficial for digestive health and can help regulate blood sugar levels.

6. Protein: While not a significant source of protein, this ice cream does provide a small amount from the cashews and almond flour in the cookie dough.

7. Customizable: You can adjust the ingredients to meet specific dietary preferences or health goals. For example, you can choose lower-calorie sweeteners or reduce the quantity of chocolate chips for a lower-sugar option.

8. Nut Allergies: This recipe contains cashews and almond flour, which may not be suitable for individuals with nut allergies. Substitutions can be made with nut-free alternatives, but it may alter the taste and texture of the ice cream.

Remember that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used. It’s also essential to enjoy this ice cream in moderation as part of a balanced diet to maintain overall health.