Although it may not feel that way in the north, 'tis the season for jumping into frozen kid-at-heart treats (especially with this week being Spring Break in the south! ;)). It's always fun to create and indulge in our own homemade afternoon snack or dessert where we can experiment with the usual, and take a playful risk trying something new. And boy do our young kids enjoy this hands-on activity!...
Years ago, my niece would add m&m's and even malt balls for extra indulgence and pizzazz! Last week for St. Patrick's Day, we made this easy, kid-friendly milkshake that everyone can enjoy from the comforts of home (especially if our weather outdoors is not there yet). Shakes are a loved later afternoon pick-me-up when in sunny tropical climates and since we can always play-it-up or play-it-down in healthy/ healthier ways based on what's in season, I'm looking forward to more frozen make-it-at-home gluten-free flavours this year...
For this recipe, I kept things very simple, yet rich and creamy adding 2 large scoops of Breyers Natural Vanilla ice cream, 1/3 cup Lactantia Whipping/ Heavy Cream (lactose-free ice cream and milk varieties work just as well for those with lactose allergies), 1 teaspoon McCormick's Organic Vanilla Extract (or a 1/4 teaspoon pure peppermint extract), and 3 drops of green food coloring to the blender, for each serving. I then blended the ingredients for just a few seconds to create a fairly thick consistency.
Chocolate lovers always enjoy adding some of their favourite chocolate anywhere they can... so I grated a row of Ritter Sport's Whole Hazelnuts (a rotating favourite) chocolate bar for a nutty-chocolate finish. To serve, simply pour the semi-frozen mixture into tall enough glasses or kid-safe cups, add your choice of whipped cream-- we used Gay Lea's Real Coconut Whipped Cream, and then sprinkle the fine chocolate on top. #Yum!
