Is it too cool for nice cream? Not in my book! This blackberry nice cream celebrates blackberry season (bring on autumn!). Who could say no to these plump, sweet purple bites? You know from the colour alone that they are good for you. (Random fact: did you know, there are over 375 species of blackberry?!)

Why eat them?

Blackberries are one of the most antioxidant rich foods you could eat. They are super loaded in polyphenols, important in protecting against chronic disease. Some reports suggest that blackberries, through their polyphenol content, may prevent or slow down the growth of cancer. Impressively, blackberries are one of the richest sources of polyphenols, including anthocyanins (which account for the dark purple colour).

Blackberries are also a rich source of vitamin C, which promotes a healthy immune system, healthy skin and hair. They are also high in manganese, important in healthy bone development; wound healing, cognitive function and blood sugar regulation. They also have a high level of vitamin K; important in wound healing and to promote good heart health. They are also one of the lowest carb fruits, while being high in fibre.

Their high polyphenol and manganese content may be why blackberries are reported to help improve and maintain brain function. Blackberries also have anti-bacterial activity. Quit impressive huh?

In the UK, I also love how you can just go blackberry picking in the hedgerows; the hardest bit is not to get prickled! So without further ado, here;s the recipe!

Makes: 1 large bowl

Preparation time: 5 mins

Ingredients:

• 60g blackberries, frozen*
• 2 large frozen bananas, frozen
• 50g blueberries, frozen*
• 30g strawberries, frozen*
• 1 tbsp. protein powder
• Optional: 1 tsp. Omega-3 superpowder
• Splash of plant milk

Toppings:

• Fresh fruit: I used nectarine, grapes, raspberries, greengages, pomegranate seeds, cherries and kiwi
• Granola
• Ground flaxseed and hemp seeds
• Coconut flakes
• Dried goldenberries
• Dried goji berries

*If these are not frozen, this will still work but the recipe makes a creamier nice cream if all are frozen

Method:

• Add all nice cream ingredients into a high-speed blender and process. The mixture first looks lumpy and unpromising and then changes as the chunks are pulverised to smaller pieces that eventually gel together to form a creamy soft whip nice cream.
• Spoon into a bowl and decorate with toppings of choice. Enjoy!

Don’t forget you can find my favourite recipes in my FREE eBook here.