Vanilla Malted Marshmallow Ice Cream

Creamy vanilla ice cream with marshmallow fluff.

Vanilla Malted Marshmallow Ice Cream //

I will admit it NOW…I have been in the biggest bad mood that I think I have ever been in. We were robbed of our summer by two weeks. Our school district moved back school to start earlier than last year and the year prior.  I want to scream every morning that the alarm clock has buzzed for the past three weeks.

So for now I will stop whining and crying and I will relive summer for the few moments we have left with this Vanilla Malted Marshmallow Ice Cream.

Yosemite in the summer.

Summer for our family was eventful and beautiful all at once. We visited Yosemite and Mammoth and enjoyed it in all its beauty. We lost my beloved dog Lulu and my Grandfather. It brought my little family close together as these losses were painful. We focused on fun, beach days, and s’mores at sunset.

Crystal Cove State Park Summer Sunset

It was a joy having my kids’ home. Life seems to be bit easier (in some ways) the older they get as we get to enjoy more of the great outdoors without worrying about racing home for nap time. So yes you can say I am a bit depressed about it. I know it will get easier, but for now I will add a scoop of this Vanilla Malted Marshmallow Ice Cream in a large glass and top with root beer or maybe adult root beer (wink).

Make this Labor Day Weekend and we guarantee it will make summer last a little bit LONGER….

 

An end of summer treat! Vanilla Malted Marshmallow Ice Cream
Print Recipe
5 from 4 votes

Vanilla Malted Marshmallow Ice Cream

This simple Vanilla Ice Cream makes you want to hold onto summer. Serve on it's own or as a root beer float.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time2 hours 35 minutes
Total Time2 hours 45 minutes
Course: Dessert
Servings: 10
Author: Simply Happenstance

Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1 cup milk 2 percent or whole
  • 3 tablespoons malt milk powder
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1 jar of marshmallow cream
  • 1 cup sugar I used Zulka Pure Cane Sugar

Instructions

  • In a small bowl whisk together the milk, malt powder, sugar, and vanilla until sugar is dissolved.
  • Add in the heavy whipping cream and mix together until all is incorporated.
  • Pour this mixture into a chilled ice cream maker bowl with the paddle attached and top on.
  • Turn on the machine and let the ice cream churn for approx. 20 minutes until thickened and fluffy.
  • Turn off the machine and spoon in the marshmallow cream into the ice cream bowl.
  • Turn the machine back on and let it churn for an additional 3 minutes.
  • Turn off the machine and place the ice cream into a freezer safe container and chill for 2 hours.

Notes

I used my Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker. I keep my ice cream bowl in the freezer ALWAYS that way it's ready to use when I want to make ice cream.

Berry Vanilla Quinoa Bowl

Berry Quinoa Bowl with Roasted Coconut and Slivered Almonds-35Berry Vanilla Quinoa Bowl //

Hello, friends! It sure has been a long time since Nicole and I have posted a recipe here on our sweet blog! We’ve missed you all… and are excited to be back in our creative space! 

So, my family and I recently took a summer road trip to Colorado. Driving from Southern California was going to be quite a long time in the car for our four kids — so we decided to spend one night outside of Zion National Park in Utah. (What a grand adventure that turned out to be! In fact, it was so amazing, that I think I will do a separate post on our travels sometime in the near future.) While staying in the darling town of Springdale, my husband found the most wonderful coffee shop with tasty organic treats for breakfast. He picked up a quinoa breakfast bowl, which I’ve been craving ever since!

This Berry Vanilla Quinoa Bowl was inspired by the one we shared this summer! It’s simple to make, healthy, and insanely delicious! 

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Just like making your favorite batch of soup… this quinoa breakfast bowl allows you the freedom to add a pinch of this, a little of that, and whatever fresh fruit, nuts, or seeds you have on hand. The key to making it extra decadent, is infusing the quinoa with hints of vanilla and topping it with a drizzle of pure maple syrup.

Berry Quinoa Bowl with Roasted Coconut and Slivered Almonds-15

For this particular variation, I topped my prepared quinoa with fresh blueberries, sweet blackberries, roasted coconut, and slivered almonds. I then poured a drizzle of pure maple syrup with a splash of vanilla almond milk, to sweeten things up naturally… and to keep it moist. The end result was absolutely scrumptious! My four kids even approved!;)

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TIP // Quinoa will stay fresh in your fridge for up to a week. I recommend placing the cooked quinoa in individual mason jars with lids. This will create a quick, on-the-go, healthy breakfast option for you and the kids! Simply mix in your favorite toppings and enjoy! 

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Print Recipe

Berry Vanilla Quinoa Bowl

This Berry Vanilla Quinoa Breakfast Bowl is infused with hints of vanilla and topped with fresh seasonal berries, roasted coconut, slivered almonds, a splash of almond milk, and a drizzle of pure maple syrup. Not only is it irresistibly delicious, but is a clean and healthy way to start the day! It's also kid approved!
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Course: Breakfast
Servings: 4
Author: Simply Happenstance

Ingredients

  • QUINOA:
  • 1 cup uncooked quinoa
  • 2 cups unsweetened vanilla almond milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or sliced vanilla bean
  • pinch of sea salt
  • TOPPINGS:
  • fresh berries I used blueberries & blackberries
  • roasted coconut I used these
  • slivered almonds
  • splash of unsweetened vanilla almond milk
  • pure maple syrup

Instructions

  • Rinse and drain the quinoa.
  • Place the quinoa in a medium-sized saucepan. Add the almond milk, vanilla extract (or vanilla bean split), and a pinch of salt. Bring to a high simmer, cover, and reduce heat to a low simmer for 15 minutes.
  • After 15 minutes, remove the pan from the heat and let the quinoa sit for 5 more minutes or until the almond milk is absorbed and the quinoa is cooked. (If you used the vanilla bean -- remove now and discard.) Depending on how you like the consistency and flavor -- stir in a splash of almond milk (to increase moisture), and some maple syrup to sweeten (if desired).
  • Scoop the quinoa into four bowls. Top with rinsed berries, roasted coconut, and slivered almonds. Serve with a splash of vanilla almond milk poured on top and a drizzle of pure maple syrup.

Notes

- This dish can be served chilled or warm. To serve chilled, simply place the cooked quinoa in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before topping with fruit, nuts, etc.
- The cooked quinoa can be stored in the refrigerator for 4-5 days. Serve at room temperature or heat it as you're ready to serve. If it's dry, simply add some more almond milk until you reach a consistency you're happy with.
- Get creative and add any seasonal fruit you like. Other optional toppings are: chia seeds, almond butter (or other nut butters), raw honey, cocoa nibs or chocolate chips, and crunchy granola.

 

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I hope you enjoy the recipe, friends! Let us know in the comments how you like to prepare your breakfast bowls!

For more of our favorite healthy breakfast bowl ideas, see these recipes from our archives: 

vanilla chia seed pudding {recipe via simplyhappenstance.com}

energizing smoothie bowl

Gluten-Free Breakfast Power Bowl || Simply Happenstance

Apple Pie Breakfast Bowl - a thick vanilla chia seed pudding topped with fall favorites!

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Apple Pie Breakfast Bowl

Apple Pie Breakfast Bowl Apple Pie Breakfast Bowl //

Hello, friends… we hope you’re all enjoying the fall season! Nicole and I have been staying busy with our little ones. We love having spare time to share our favorite recipes here on Simply! We also are super fortunate to be contributors over at the fabulous, Simple As That Blog! We recently shared an irresistible recipe for an APPLE PIE BREAKFAST BOWL. This dish is a new favorite… and we hope it becomes one of yours, too! 

Apple Pie Breakfast Bowl - a thick vanilla chia seed pudding topped with fall favorites!

The base of this bowl is a rich, creamy vanilla chia seed pudding. Greek yogurt, almond milk, pure maple syrup, a touch of vanilla, and loads of healthy chia seeds create the thick, slightly-sweet mixture. Sliced crisp apples, crunchy granola, dried cranberries, a dash of cinnamon, and a sprinkling of brown sugar top the pudding, making it the tastiest fall breakfast that your whole family will love! Take a peek over at Simple As That to get the recipe details! Enjoy, friends! {xo}

Apple Pie Breakfast Bowl (a recipe by Simply Happenstance for Simple As That Blog)!

Find our berry version of this breakfast dish ==> HERE! 

 

Frozen Hot Chocolate

 Frozen Hot Chocolate

Frozen Hot Chocolate //

We are just days away from the official start of fall… although if you’ve cruised by a Starbucks lately, you may think we are already there with their festive cups and pumpkin spice lattes! I crave autumn, especially after spending our year-long ‘vacation from life‘ in the mountains. I, like so many others, find such comfort in throwing on a cozy sweater, a pair of warm boots, cuddling by the fire with my babes, and sipping on a warm seasonal drink! However, with all of that being said, I live in sunny Southern California, which makes it difficult to get into the fall spirit when it’s still 100 degrees outside! (I’m not complaining, friends… as I know that would be crazy! We are truly blessed with lovely year-round weather!) I honestly have to remind myself each year that I will most likely be wearing tank tops, cutoff shorts, and flip flops through Halloween. #RealityCheck! 

Frozen Hot Chocolate - this delicious recipe on simplyhappenstance.com!

Frozen Hot Chocolate

So, to get into the spirit of my favorite season (while still being practical), I decided it was time to finally make the Frozen Hot Chocolate recipe that’s been bookmarked on my computer for so long! 

Frozen Hot Chocolate

As I was savoring every sip of the creamy concoction, I was trying to find the right words to describe the heavenly drink. You might think that it’s as simple as emptying a sleeve of hot cocoa mix in hot water, stirring it up, and then blending with ice. It’s more than that…. so much more, friends! In fact… I wouldn’t say I would typically make this recipe on a whim. It takes a tiny bit more prep work (still easy, I promise!)… but it’s really worth it! The rich chocolatey flavor depends on the brand you choose. Knowing I was sharing this tasty drink with my four children, I chose to use Lindt Milk Chocolate versus a deeper dark chocolate. If I were you… I would put a little thought into what your favorite chocolate bar is, and use that as the base of your recipe! You’ll love how it turns out! 

Frozen Hot Chocolate - the perfect fall treat when the weather is still HOT outside! (simplyhappenstance.com)

So getting back to the simple deliciousness of this drink… it’s rich, chocolatey, sweet (but not too sweet), cold, thick, and frothy! It doesn’t just taste like chocolate milk, or a chocolate shake… it’s FROZEN HOT CHOCOLATE! Perfect for when you are ready for some fall faves… but it’s still hot outside! Enjoy!  

Frozen Hot Chocolate (simplyhappenstance.com) #frozenhotchocolate

Print Recipe

Frozen Hot Chocolate

This Frozen Hot Chocolate is a deliciously festive seasonal drink to enjoy when it's still hot outside! Creamy, rich, chocolatey, cold, and frothy this will quickly become a traditional family favorite! Enjoy!
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time5 minutes
Total Time15 minutes
Course: Beverage
Servings: 2 -4
Author: Simply Happenstance (Adapted from Paula Deen - Food Network)

Ingredients

  • 4-5 ounces best-quality chocolate I used one 4.4 oz. Lindt Milk Chocolate bar
  • 2 teaspoons store bought hot chocolate mix
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 3 cups ice
  • Spray Whipped Cream optional, for garnish
  • Chocolate shavings optional, for garnish

Instructions

  • Chop/break the chocolate bar into small pieces and melt in a small heavy saucepan or in the top of a double boiler over simmering water. Stir occasionally until melted.
  • Add the hot chocolate mix and sugar, stirring constantly until combined (consistency will be smooth).
  • Remove from heat and slowly add 1/2 cup of the milk, stirring until well mixed. Cool to room temperature (about 15-30 minutes).
  • In a blender, place the remaining 1 cup of milk, creamy chocolate mixture, and the ice. Blend on high speed until smooth and the consistency of a frozen daiquiri. Immediately pour into one giant goblet (to share), or in 4 small cups. Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, if desired. Enjoy!

Notes

Tips // Don't use baking chocolate! Make sure you buy your favorite chocolate bar for this recipe!
Original Recipe // https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/paula-deen/frozen-hot-chocolate-recipe.html

Check out some of our other Fall Favorite recipes here! Happy Fall! 

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Triple Berry Smoothie Pops

Triple Berry Smoothie Pops -15Triple Berry Smoothie Pops // For School Lunches

Well, it’s hard to believe… but summer vacation is officially over for my crew. Boy that went by fast! Two months out of school surely wasn’t enough! We fit in a couple road trips to far off places, a week of VBS, and some time visiting with close friends. Besides that…. we soaked up the down time together.

I’m still in denial about the school schedule and extra curricular activities. I don’t personally love being tied down to a schedule, so it’s something I struggle with every year. We’ve embarked on quite a few big changes in our family… one being the start of middle school for my oldest (wish us luck)! I hope to update the blog with photos of our summer adventures and news about this new chapter in our lives. Until then… let’s talk school lunches! 

I have to admit that I fell into a rut last year when packing their daily lunches. My oldest is pretty picky and won’t eat typical lunch items. I found myself making three to four different lunches every day. My goal was always to provide them with a healthy variety of foods, but towards the end of the school year… I was completely over it all! 

This year, I’ve started thinking about different things I could include to mix things up. I watched a few videos on school lunches, including this one from 100 Days of Real Food. I really appreciated her ideas about making at least one thing in their lunches ahead of time (like soup, homemade uncrustables, muffins, or even frozen smoothie pops)!

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That brings me to this post! I purchased these super cool silicone mighty pop reusable holders from Sunsella. They’re durable, dishwasher safe, and easy to use! Simply fill with your favorite smoothie recipe, freeze, and pop into your kids’ school lunches! 

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I don’t tend to use smoothie recipes… I prefer throwing in the fresh/frozen fruit that I have on hand. I always add a few things to make them even healthier, too … such as almond milk, coconut water, greek yogurt, nut butters, and/or chia seeds. I included some helpful tips, links to buying the molds, and also a Triple Berry Smoothie Pop recipe for you to try out! Happy lunch packing, friends!

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TIPS & LINKS //

  • Mix up your favorite healthy smoothie recipe and use a funnel to fill your silicone molds. I used this funnel from Oxo. (There is also an optional strainer you can attach to the funnel for those of you that have picky kids that don’t like chunks of fruit in their frozen pops). I used these Sunsella Mighty Pops for the mold.  
  • Leave approximately one-inch of room at the top of the mold to allow for expansion once the smoothie mixture freezes. 
  • Freeze overnight or for a minimum of 4-6 hours. 
  • Depending on your insulated lunch box, the pops may stay frozen, or turn into a cold drinkable smoothie! 
  • This is a simple recipe that the kids can help with! From my experience, if they help, they tend to be more open to trying new things! 
Print Recipe
5 from 1 vote

Triple Berry Smoothie Pops

A simple way to add healthy smoothies to your kids' school lunches!
Prep Time10 minutes
Total Time10 minutes
Course: School Lunches
Servings: 6
Author: Simply Happenstance

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of coconut water
  • 2 cups of fresh or frozen berries I used strawberries, blueberries and raspberries
  • 1 ripe banana
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds
  • 1-2 tablespoons honey

Instructions

  • Add all of the ingredients into your blender.
  • Blend on high for approximately 1 minute until smooth.
  • Add in more coconut water if the mixture appears too thick.
  • Using a funnel, pour smoothie mixture into silicone molds. (I used large plastic tumblers to hold the molds in place while I poured in the liquid.)
  • Leave one-inch of room at the top of the mold to allow for expansion when the smoothie freezes.
  • Place lids on molds and freeze (standing upright -- I placed my tumblers in the freezer) for 4-6 hours.
  • These can be made ahead of time and used as desired in school lunches, for quick breakfasts, or for snacks!
  • Enjoy!

 

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Triple Berry Smoothie Pops || For School Lunches!

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Rustic Summer Fruit Pie

Rustic Summer Fruit PieRUSTIC SUMMER FRUIT PIE //

Hi guys! It’s been a while! Nicole and I have both been soaking up the summer with our families! We promise to give an update soon on our summer travels and adventures… but for now, we are sharing this favorite summertime dessert over at Simple As That Blog! We hope that you’ll pop on over to Rebecca’s lovely site to sneak a peek! This Rustic Summer Fruit Pie, served with fresh vanilla ice cream is the most perfect warm weather dessert! We hope you’ll make it, and let us know what you think of the recipe! xoxo

Rustic Summer Fruit Pie

Rustic Summer Fruit Pie