The subtle floral essence of lavender pairs perfectly with the rich creaminess of coconut milk and tangy yogurt in this low-sugar ice cream. This elegant frozen dessert is sweetened with monk fruit, making it a refreshing treat for those watching their sugar intake without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. Perfect for hot summer afternoons or as a light finish to a dinner party, this lavender ice cream is both sophisticated and soothing. It’s easy to make with the Ninja™ CREAMi® and can be customized with dairy-free alternatives. Whether you’re new to lavender or already a fan, this low-glycemic delight will have you coming back for more.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 cup unsweetened canned coconut milk (shaken well)
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1 cup plain Greek yogurt (or dairy-free alternative)
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1/4 cup monk fruit sweetener (or preferred low-glycemic sweetener)
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1 teaspoon dried culinary lavender
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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Pinch of salt
Directions:
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In a small saucepan over medium heat, add coconut milk and dried lavender. Stir occasionally and heat until it begins to steam, about 3-5 minutes.
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Remove from heat and let the lavender steep for 10–15 minutes to infuse the milk.
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Strain the lavender out of the coconut milk using a fine mesh sieve, then let it cool completely.
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In a large bowl, whisk together the infused coconut milk, Greek yogurt, sweetener, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined.
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Pour the mixture into the Ninja™ CREAMi® Pint container. Place the storage lid on and freeze for 24 hours.
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After freezing, remove the lid and process in the Ninja™ CREAMi® using the “Lite Ice Cream” function.
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If the texture is too crumbly after the first spin, use the “Re-spin” function until smooth and creamy.
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Serve immediately or refreeze for up to 2 weeks.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 minutes | Total Time: 24 hours (includes freezing)
Kcal: 110 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
A Sophisticated Take on a Classic Summer Treat
Low-Sugar Lavender Ice Cream isn’t just a trend—it’s an experience. With the growing demand for healthy, low-sugar desserts that don’t sacrifice flavor or texture, this recipe stands out as a showstopper. It brings together the floral notes of dried lavender with the creamy richness of coconut milk and tangy Greek yogurt to create a dessert that is light, refreshing, and utterly indulgent.
Unlike traditional ice cream recipes that rely heavily on refined sugars and high-fat cream, this version uses monk fruit as a natural sweetener. That makes it suitable for those on low-carb, diabetic, or keto diets while still satisfying a craving for something sweet and decadent. And thanks to the Ninja™ CREAMi®’s smart technology, you get a super smooth, churned texture—no ice crystals, no fuss.
Why Lavender? A Unique Flavor with Soothing Benefits
Lavender is more than just a pretty scent in candles and bath products—it’s a powerful culinary herb known for its calming properties. Incorporating it into desserts adds an aromatic depth that elevates even the simplest recipes. Lavender’s subtle floral flavor pairs beautifully with dairy or dairy-free bases, making it a perfect addition to ice cream.
In addition to its sensory appeal, lavender is also associated with stress relief, improved sleep, and anxiety reduction. Adding it to your dessert might not be a cure-all, but it does contribute to a relaxing, feel-good experience—especially when combined with the luxurious mouthfeel of this creamy ice cream.
Naturally Sweet and Guilt-Free
One of the standout features of this recipe is its low sugar content. Many store-bought and homemade ice creams are loaded with cane sugar, corn syrup, or artificial sweeteners. This recipe uses monk fruit, a natural zero-calorie sweetener that doesn’t spike blood sugar levels. That makes this dessert ideal for:
- People with diabetes
- Low-carb and keto dieters
- Health-conscious eaters
- Anyone reducing processed sugar intake
The coconut milk provides healthy fats and creaminess, while Greek yogurt adds protein and a slight tang, balancing the sweet and floral tones.
Creamy Perfection with Ninja™ CREAMi®
The Ninja™ CREAMi® has become a staple in modern kitchens for good reason. It transforms frozen mixtures into silky-smooth ice creams, gelatos, and smoothies in minutes. In this recipe, it allows you to bypass the need for complicated churning or special timing.
After freezing the base overnight, a simple spin in the CREAMi results in a perfectly aerated, scoopable dessert that tastes like it came from a gourmet parlor. And because the texture is so smooth, the lavender flavor disperses evenly throughout each bite—no clumps, no gritty sweetness.
Dairy-Free Friendly and Customizable
This recipe is naturally flexible. Use full-fat Greek yogurt for a rich, protein-packed version or swap in a plant-based yogurt for a dairy-free option. Likewise, coconut milk can be replaced with any unsweetened plant milk with a high-fat content such as cashew or oat milk.
Other optional add-ins or toppings can enhance the experience:
- A drizzle of sugar-free honey or agave
- A sprinkle of crushed pistachios for texture
- A few blueberries or edible flowers for garnish
- A drop of purple food coloring for extra visual appeal
This adaptability means you can tailor the recipe for different dietary preferences or occasions—while always keeping the essence of lavender in the spotlight.
Perfect for Entertaining or Everyday Indulgence
While this recipe shines as a refined dessert option for guests, it’s also easy enough to prepare for personal indulgence. Imagine ending your day with a calming bowl of lavender ice cream, its soothing aroma easing you into a restful evening.
It’s also a conversation starter. Not everyone has tasted floral desserts, and serving lavender ice cream can open up discussions about herbal flavors, sugar-free diets, and healthy living. It’s a unique addition to any menu, whether you’re hosting a summer brunch, a backyard dinner party, or just treating yourself.
Tips to Elevate the Experience
Here are a few ideas to take this ice cream to the next level:
- Serve in chilled bowls or glass cups to enhance the refreshing sensation.
- Pair with shortbread or almond cookies for a textural contrast.
- Infuse with other herbs like rosemary or mint for a more complex flavor profile.
- Add a touch of lemon zest for brightness and balance.
The beauty of lavender is that it pairs well with both sweet and herbal notes, making it a fantastic foundation for creativity in the kitchen.
A Better-for-You Ice Cream Option
Low-Sugar Lavender Ice Cream offers a rare balance in the dessert world—it’s indulgent, beautiful, and mindful. With fewer carbs, no refined sugar, and healthy fats and proteins, it supports your wellness goals while delivering on flavor and texture.
It’s also a great alternative for those looking to introduce variety into their dessert repertoire without compromising health. Whether you’re living low-carb, counting calories, or simply trying to eat cleaner, this ice cream deserves a spot in your freezer.
Conclusion
There are plenty of low-sugar dessert recipes out there, but few deliver the elegance and sensory richness of this one. From the calming aroma of lavender to the creamy, smooth finish thanks to the Ninja™ CREAMi®, this recipe ticks every box:
- Simple ingredients
- Easy-to-follow steps
- Minimal prep time
- Guilt-free pleasure
- Sophisticated presentation
It’s not just a dessert—it’s a moment of calm in a bowl. By offering indulgence without compromise, Low-Sugar Lavender Ice Cream reminds us that healthy eating doesn’t mean giving up on pleasure. Instead, it invites us to explore new flavors, care for our bodies, and treat ourselves to something truly special.