I’m all about staying cool in summer by rocking my chic floppy, big-brimmed hat, Wayfarers, and lots of sunscreen. I’ve been waiting to dust off my striped rash guard and bikini bottom for months. But, I have to admit that one of my favorite ways to stay cool all summer long is with icy treats. It doesn’t feel like summer without popsicles, shakes, floats, and ice cream sandwiches. And, as much as I heart each and every one of those childhood treats, I don’t want to throw all caution to the wind by licking, sipping, and slurping sugary stuff for three months.
This year, I’m going to hack some of my favorite ice cream recipes with Arctic Zero. In case you’re new to the Arctic Zero craze, let me give you the deeds. It has a low glycemic index, and it’s free of lactose, gluten, and GMOs. Basically, it works for any and everyone. I’m always on the lookout for healthy, delicious alternatives to my family’s fave meals, but I’ve never found a great option for desserts. If you’re in the same boat, just chill (See what I did there? Chill. Get it?). I’ve created four low-guilt, high-delish Arctic Zero dessert hacks just in time for the summa!
Arctic Zero Coconut Pineapple Peach Mango Popsicles
Make these citrusy popsicles by layering Toasted Coconut Arctic Zero, fresh or canned pineapple juice, and Welch’s Refreshingly Simple Peach Mango juice into your favorite mold. I used about 2 Tbsps of each juice, but you can vary the amounts to emphasize different flavors. Remember to freeze each layer before adding the next.
Arctic Zero Strawberry Watermelon Floats
Use a jar-style mug to give these fruity floats a casual, backyard BBQ vibe. Pour Sparkling ICE’s Strawberry Watermelon flavored water over several scoops of Simply Strawberry Arctic Zero. You’ll get the same bubbly fizz you’d expect from soda, but zero calories. Adorn each mug with pieces of cut watermelon and strawberry. Add a wide straw, and serve immediately.
Arctic Zero Toasted Coconut Pineapple Shakes
Is it just me, or is a thick shake totally worth the inevitable brain freeze? Trust me, slurping this piña colada-esque treat up a wide straw will throw you into a nirvana state on the hottest of summer days. To get your own taste of heaven in a glass, add 8 oz of coconut milk to four scoops of softened Toasted Coconut Arctic Breeze. Blend throughly, and top with whipped cream, toasted coconut shavings, and a pineapple wedge. Add more coconut milk to reach the desired shake thickness. (Hint: Spread coconut flakes in a thin layer on a small cookie sheet and lightly toast them in the oven or a toaster oven until they reach a golden brown.)
Arctic Zero Strawberries and Cream Ice Cream Sandwiches
Graham crackers aren’t just for s’mores. Line a small glass dish with parchment or wax paper. Fill it with 1/2″ of softened Simply Strawberry Arctic Breeze, and smooth it into the corners of the dish with an offset spatula or butter knife. Place the dish in the freezer to allow the Arctic Breeze to solidify. Add a 1/2″ layer of Cool Whip on top of the Arctic Breeze, smooth it, and return the dish to the freezer again. After 30 minutes, remove the parchment liner from the dish, place it on a countertop, and use a warm butter knife to cut graham cracker-sized squares. Place the strawberries and cream squares into a freezer-safe dish in a single layer, or separate each layer with wax paper. Cut your grahams in half, and place strawberries and cream squares between two crackers. Quickly wrap in plastic wrap and return to freezer, or serve immediately.
These desserts all pack a powerful fruit punch, which is perfect for feeling all those summertime vibes. Even the kids will ask you to make them again and again. Happy dessert hacking, friends!
More Healthier Eating Tips:
- 7 Cow’s Milk Alternatives, From Yogurt to Ice Cream, That Taste Delicious
- Healthy Foods That Are Incredibly Unhealthy
- Skinny Cinco de Mayo Recipes
Photos: Shauna Younge
