Healthy Ways to Satisfy Your Ice Cream Cravings

Wobbly strawberry jellies are set with omega-3-rich chia seeds, sweetened with only a spoonful of maple syrup. Creamy whipped coconut “cream” makes this feel decadent, but keeps it dairy-free.

Avocados masked as decadent chocolate mousse? Count us in! Full of monounsaturated fats, fibre, vitamin E and A, no special occasion is needed to indulge in this ice cream alternative.

Rich and creamy coffee-based summer drinks are often loaded with fat, sugar and a slew of unpronounceable ingredients. Good news! They’re totally hackable at home in your blender, saving you empty calories and a chunk of change.

Dairy-free, gluten-free, grain-free – and flavourful. These cashew ice cream-esque bites offer an alternative to ice cream cake, without sacrificing taste or texture.

Rice pudding is sun-kissed with tropical coconut and cashews, for an alternative to ice cream that you’ll feel good about getting a double scoop of.

The master recipe for banana “nice” cream, have fun with the add-ins in the form of seasonal fruit, chocolate chips, almond butter and granola. Packed with potassium, fibre and deceptively healthy creaminess.

Chia seeds are back at it again, cavorting around as a dairy-free ice cream and pudding alternative. Rich coconut milk makes this feel like dessert, while contributing healthy fats. Top with summer berries and a sprig of mint for a next-level treat.

A Scandinavian classic, rice pudding is imbued with mellow cardamom and topped with summertime plums, for a healthy whole grain dessert that will still satisfy your your creamy-sweet tooth.

It doesn’t get any easier than this adult-worthy icy treat. Store-bought lemon sorbet, tea and a shot of tequila (optional), are all you need for an ice-cold, dairy-free dessert perfect for muggy days.

If you’re looking for an alternative to dairy and sugar-based ice creams, a can of coconut milk perked up with espresso beans is just the ticket. The healthy fats in coconut butter rounds things out.

The perfect breakfast on the go or afternoon snack, swap strawberries for peaches or blueberries, and add a splash of vanilla extract to kick it up a notch. Grab two straws and kick back on the dock with your partner, for a healthier take on ice cream season.

Get the recipe for Strawberry Oatmeal Smoothie

Allison Day is a cookbook author, nutritionist (RHN) and the creator of the award-winning food blog Yummy Beet.