Ice cream has long been known as a guilty pleasure for its rich taste, a good treat for sunny days or even after a long day of work. However, with people becoming increasingly health-conscious, everyone is searching for healthier alternatives yet with no compromise over the taste. And finding healthier options for ice cream cones is definitely one part of such endeavors. Now, here’s a guide to making guilt-free ice cream cones that will make you just enjoy your ice cream cones without bothering about extra calories or unhealthy ingredients.
Evolution of Ice Cream Cones
Traditional sugar cones and waffle cones have been everyone’s favorite ice cream cones due to their sweet taste and crunchy texture. Although enjoyable, they are full of sugar as well as empty calories, making them unsuitable for those who are diet conscious. Fortunately, ice cream cones have come a long way since their invention, and healthy options abound.
Healthy ice cream cone options
Whole Grain Cones
Whole-grain ice cream cones are available for those in search of a healthier alternative. These cones are made from whole wheat flour and therefore contain more fiber and nutrients as opposed to the typical cones. More fiber within an ice cream cone can even help assist digestion and keep you full for an extended period.
Gluten-Free Cones
There are also various gluten-free ice cream cones that may be very helpful for people with gluten sensitivity or those who have opted for a gluten-free diet. These alternative flours would, for the most part, be rice flour, almond flour, or coconut flour, offering the same crunchy but without gluten texture.
Low-Sugar Cones
You’re giving up sugar? Don’t worry—it doesn’t mean any ice cream cone troubles. Low-sugar and sugar-free cones are sugar-free and were designed using sugar substitutes or the stevia or monk fruit type of natural sweetener. They have the same yummy crunch, but with many fewer calories from sugar.
Vegan Cones
For those who are vegan, your ice cream cones should be vegan as well. Unlike regular cones, they contain no animal products; more often than not, they would use coconut oil and agave syrup from plants. Healthy and eco-friendly, the cones will make people have more of them.
Eco-Friendly Cones
Going back to nature, many eco-friendly ice cream cones are also hitting the market. That are made with sustainable practices and ingredients, just sure to make you say, Oh, happy day.
Some brands go ahead and offer their cones as made of only organic, non-GMO ingredients good for you and the earth.
Healthy Ice Cream Cones in the Supermarket
Supermarkets have indeed responded to the demands for healthier food, which also covers ice cream cones. The next time you go to your local supermarket, head over to the baking aisle or the health food section. Here, you’ll find labels describing the options as whole grain, gluten-free, sugar-free, or vegan. Other ecob-friendly brands that use their environment-friendly components and processes are fast becoming the norm in most supermarkets.
Another handy way to explore healthier ice cream cone options is through online grocery shopping. Most supermarkets have online offerings, and it has made it easier than ever to locate healthy products from the comfort of your own home.
Making Your Own Healthy Ice Cream Cones
If you are into DIY projects and would like to know what is going into your healthy ice cream cones, then try making it at home. Here’s a very simple recipe for beginners:
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole wheat flour (or gluten-free flour of choice)
- 1/4 cup coconut sugar or any other natural sweetener
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup almond milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil
Preparation
- Preheat your waffle cone maker according to the guidelines of the manufacturer’s equipment.
- Combine the flour, baking powder, coconut sugar, and salt in a big bowl and whisk to combine.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs, almond milk, vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil.
- Mix both wet and dry ingredients. It should be smooth.
- Pour some small amount of batter onto the preheated waffle cone maker and cook it until browned.
- Quickly shape the cooked waffle into a cone and let it cool.
Conclusion
This means you can enjoy an ice cream cone of sweet goodness without guilt. Since thousands and thousands of healthy forms exist, you can enjoy your favorite frozen dessert while remaining true to your health goals. From whole grain to gluten-free, low-sugar, vegan options abound, with healthy ice cream cones available for everyone. So the next time you go to the supermarket to do some shopping, take a look at the healthier options and enjoy your ice cream without a trace of guilt. Whether you buy them or make them, healthy ice cream cones will make indulgence a little sweeter and a lot healthier.
