Everybody loves an afternoon snack of creamy, delicious ice cream. But let’s be honest – it’s not the healthiest treat out there. So what if there was an alternative that you could make or buy with all of the delectable, icy goodness of ice cream, but without the added sugar and unhealthy fats?
Yogurt has long been an excellent choice for any health-conscious ice cream lover who is looking for a less-sugary alternative. Yogurt already has a reputation as a helpful addition to one’s diet, because of its natural “good” bacteria, lactic acid, and beneficial probiotics. But did you know that you can also freeze yogurt and enjoy it like ice cream?
The good news is that you can freeze yogurt just like you would freeze ice cream, but there are a few things to keep in mind as you prepare your frozen treat. The first is to make sure that you pick a thick yogurt. This typically means going for a full-fat with a lower sugar content. You can also use low-fat yogurt if preferred, but often low-fat styles don’t hold up so well in the freezing process.
It is also important to be aware that freezing yogurt can make the texture slightly different. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, as many people have described frozen yogurt as being firmer, offering a nice contrast to the creaminess of its non-frozen counterpart. You may also find that the flavor is slightly more intense once it is frozen, so make sure to pick a yogurt variety that you love.
If you’re interested in making your own frozen yogurt at home, you’ll want to begin by buying the right type of yogurt. Generally speaking, Greek yogurt is a fantastic choice, as the more concentrated consistency makes it perfect for freezing. Also, Greek yogurt is full of good bacteria, protein, and probiotics that can make your frozen treat even healthier.
The next step is to pour the yogurt into an ice cube tray. This helps create smaller, “bite-sized” pieces – perfect for snacking on the go. Once the yogurt is frozen solid, you can then simply store it in a resealable bag or airtight container and toss it into the freezer. Now, your frozen yogurt is ready to go whenever you want it.
One more tip – if you don’t want to bother freezing the yogurt yourself, you can also pick it up pre-packaged. Many grocery stores and health food stores now stock a few varieties of frozen yogurt. Typically, these are made with a high-fat, low-sugar style of yogurt. Even ice cream companies have jumped on the yogurt bandwagon, offering yogurt-based versions of their popular flavors.
The best part is that you can enjoy all the deliciousness of frozen desserts without worrying about going overboard on sugar and fats.
Is Frozen Yogurt As Good As Ice Cream?
Absolutely! Frozen yogurt can be just as delicious and rich as ice cream, depending on the brand or flavor you choose. Some frozen yogurts are made with full-fat dairy and incorporate sweeteners, stabilizers, and other ingredients to create an indulgent, creamy texture. Plus, it’s generally lower in fat and calories than your typical scoop of ice cream.
Can I Eat Frozen Yogurt As My Main Meal?
Though frozen yogurt can be a delightful snack or dessert, it’s not necessarily recommended as a primary meal because it’s low in essential nutrients needed for a healthy balanced diet, such as protein, fats, calories and fibers. Instead, consider adding fresh fruit or nuts for more nutritional benefits.
Are There Specific Utensils I Should Use With Frozen Yogurt?
Not necessarily! A spoon is the most common utensil used when eating frozen yogurt, but you can also use an ice cream scoop to create a more satisfying experience. Popsicle sticks, waffle cones, and molds are also great for creating unique shapes and sizes. But don’t try this with queso fresco.
Is Frozen Yogurt A Better Choice For My Health Than Ice Cream?
Yes, in many cases! Frozen yogurt is generally lower in fat and calories than ice cream and features probiotics which can promote gut health and digestion. However, if it’s decadence you are after, traditional ice cream may be the better option. Just remember to keep your portions in check.
Is There Any Easier Way To Eat Frozen Yogurt?
Indeed! Frozen yogurt popsicles are a great way to enjoy a cold treat without making a mess. All you need is a popsicle mold and your favorite frozen yogurt flavor. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, you can even customize your popsicles with layers of fruit, granola, and other mix-ins.
