a simple {real food} recipe :: cherry almond creamsicles {dairy and nut free options}

Ok so I know I already posted a popsicle recipe – but I just had to share this one with you!

Our poor Michigan cherry trees have been through a lot this season – the premature warm weather with following frosts really killed off most of the season’s bounty. It has been really strange only seeing a few pints of cherries at the farmer’s markets, and a small corner of cherry bags in the fruit bin at the local grocer. Most of the u-picks I have looked up have said they will not be having them this year 🙁

We took advantage of what we could get, and some left over whipped cream I had used for something else, and whipped up these deliciously rich cherry almond creamsicles!

Here’s what you’ll need:

CHERRY LAYER:

2 cups pitted cherries

1 tsp almond extract (if nut free go for the vanilla – still yummy!)

2 stevia packets (or raw honey, maple syrup, or sunacat)

**Puree these ingredients together.

WHIPPED CREAM LAYER:

½ cup whole cream (never ultra pasteurized, even organic brands) If you are dairy free use coconut butter or coconut yogurt.

1 tsp pure maple syrup (local if possible!)

¼ tsp almond extract (if nut free go for the vanilla)

**Using a hand mixer beat all ingredients until whipped and fluffy, a minute or two.

1. Pour cherry layer on the bottom of the popsicle mold 1/3 way up and freeze for 30 minutes. (This is the popsicle mold I have).
2. Put the whipped cream in for the middle layer, and fill the rest of the way with the cherry puree.
3. Freeze a few hours before eating.

Kitchen Tips:

1. Use whatever fruit is in season where you live if cherries are not available! Whipped cream goes with just about anything in my book!
2. If you don’t have cream handy, try plain whole yogurt or coconut butter.

                                 

YOUR TURN!

How has the fruit season been where you live?  Let me know how the babes like the popsicles if you try them!

I will be taking a week off to enjoy reading all the special photography posts going up next week for Photography Week! I’m so excited! I’ll be working on some of my fall posts – keep in touch and let me know if there are any meals/recipes that you are looking for or looking to change up to be less processed!

This post was shared at Real Food Freaks “Freaky Friday”