Caramel Nice Cream is a naturally sweet and creamy frozen dessert made from ripe bananas and swirled with silky date caramel. No churner needed, just a blender and a sweet tooth.

This vegan nice cream is one of those recipes that feels like a little secret.

It’s made with real, whole ingredients and comes together in minutes. I like to keep things simple, and this one checks all the boxes; creamy, indulgent, and free from dairy or refined sugar. If you’ve tried my mango sorbet, you’ll know how satisfying fruit-based desserts can be.

a glass bowl of caramel nice cream with a spoon in it — Creamy caramel nice cream with a sprinkle of salt tickles my fancy!

Ingredients

The complete list of ingredients with measurements, can be found in the full recipe card below.

At the heart of this caramel nice cream are ripe bananas, they’re key. I wait until they’re just starting to freckle, with that deep golden sweetness right beneath the peel. Once chopped and frozen, they blend into a texture that’s almost too good to believe.

I use a splash of plant-based milk, usually almond, to help things along in the blender. For the caramel swirl, I reach for my homemade date caramel sauce, which is rich, sticky, and naturally sweet. You can make it as light or as bold as you like, but I say go for a generous swirl.

A hint of vanilla gives the base a lovely depth, and if you’re like me, a sprinkle of flaky salt on top adds a beautiful contrast that brings everything together.

a ripe banana, milk and caramel in bowls on a grey benchtop

Janelle's Tips

A powerful blender is your best friend here, frozen bananas can be a workout for the average machine.
I always keep a stash of banana chunks in the freezer. It makes this recipe almost too easy to whip up on a whim.
Make the date caramel sauce a day or two ahead, trust me, it’s worth having on hand.
Don’t skip the salt on top. It’s a little touch, but it brings out the sweetness in the most wonderful way.
Use this caramel nice cream on top of something a bit cozy, try adding a scoop over this nectarine crisp. It’s heaven.

light brown caramel sauce on whiteish nice cream in a bowl

Did you make this? I'd love to know! Leave me a comment below with a ★★★★★ star rating or tag @plantbasedfolk on social media.

Recipe