When you’re in the mood for something cool, delicious, and lightly indulgent, there’s nothing more appealing than a frozen treat. So, if you or your family are looking for a refreshing snack to make at home, try one of these top nice cream or ice lolly recipes – easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion!
Nice cream and ice lollies are fantastic options offering a more gourmet and personalised alternative to store-bought ice creams. Ideal for a simple treat or a sweet snack, these are perfect to share or enjoy alone for a moment of indulgent escape. We’ve collected some of our top recipes for nice cream and ice lollies, providing plenty of different options to try – there’s sure to be something to suit every taste!
Ice cream vs nice cream: what’s the difference?
Ice cream and nice cream may sound similar, but they have very unique traits. Traditional ice cream is made from a milk or cream base, and often includes eggs and sugar for richness and sweetness. Nice cream, however, is more of an umbrella term for fruit-based alternatives, usually crafted from blended frozen fruits. Often, nice creams don’t contain any added sugar, relying on the natural sweetness of the fruit instead to add a fresh burst of flavour. Nice cream bases can vary widely, from frozen bananas and mango to peach and berries. Some versions are dairy-free, while others incorporate thick and creamy yogurts for a richer and more indulgent texture.
Get creative with skyr
Skyr, a traditional Icelandic dairy product similar to yogurt, is mild and creamy with a thick texture. It’s great for adding richness without being too heavy, making it an excellent addition to balance or enhance your nice cream or ice lolly creations. Skyr is very versatile, pairing well with various fruits, nuts and other ingredients. Available in a range of flavours, it can be used to enhance both flavour and texture, helping elevate your snacking game.
Top three nice cream recipes to try
Here are three of our favourite nice cream recipes that are both decadent and easy to make. Each is packed with vibrant flavours and visual appeal, providing the perfect choice for an energising treat.
Banana nice cream: an original that’s hard to beat
Frozen banana was the original base for nice cream, and it’s easy to see why, due to its natural sweetness and smooth, creamy consistency that mimics traditional ice cream. Banana nice cream can easily be customised with different mix-ins like peanut butter, cacao nibs or fresh berries, offering endless variations. Ready to try making this yourself? Follow our simple banana nice cream recipe.
Mango nice cream: an escape to the tropics
Mango nice cream is a vibrant and tropical variant appealing to many. When you’re looking for refreshment after a long day or a quick and easy snack you can feel good about, the sweet aromas and bright, uplifting flavour of mango nice cream make it a standout option. Enhance it with toppings like white chocolate shavings, shaved coconut or crushed pistachios for an added twist. Try our mango nice cream recipe available here.
Berry burst nice cream: a chilled forest delight
Berry burst nice cream combines the tartness of rich forest berries with the milky richness of skyr. This lush snack is not only mouthwatering but also visually appealing, especially when garnished with edible flowers. The combination of berries adds a depth of flavour and a beautiful colour, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate. To impress family, friends (and yourself), try our berry burst nice cream recipe.
Top three ice lolly recipes to try
Ice lollies are a fun and easy snack – even when you’re on the go. Here are three of our best ice lolly recipes that are sure to become household favourites.
Coconut ice lollies: a sweet island dream
Coconut ice lollies offer a delightful blend of sweet coconut and deep chocolate flavours, transporting you to a tropical paradise with each bite. This classic flavour combination creates a nostalgic and rich flavour profile, which is only elevated in this refreshing frozen form. To recreate this exotic experience at home, check out our coconut ice lolly recipe.
Matcha ice lollies: sweetness meets sophistication
Matcha ice lollies offer a more refined and mature option, more popular with adults or those who enjoy a more organic and complex flavour profile. The beautiful green hue is a treat to the eye, while the subtle, earthy taste of matcha offset by the creaminess of skyr make these ice lollies a gourmet delight. Try our recipe for matcha ice lollies to make these sophisticated treats at home.
Frozen yogurt ice lollies: a much-loved classic
Frozen yogurt ice lollies are a great option if you’re looking for a rustic and creamy option, wonderful at any time of day! With a smooth texture contrasted with crunchy granola and bursts of fruity sweetness, these frosty favourites are sure to go down well with any crowd. The tangy creaminess of the yogurt combines seamlessly with the sweetness of the fruit, for a balanced but revitalising experience, while the customisation options are endless. Check out our frozen yogurt ice lolly recipe here to try them for yourself.
Tips to put your own spin on skyr iced lollies or nice cream
Creating nice cream and ice lollies like these at home is not only fun, it also allows you to experiment with different flavours and ingredients. Use high-quality, fresh ingredients to ensure the best results. When serving, consider adding garnishes like fresh fruits, nuts or edible flowers for even greater visual appeal. Why not make an activity out of it? Collect a range of different fruits, skyr, mix-ins and garnishes and go wild! Get creative with family and friends and invent your own combinations for endless fun and delicious results.
