Get Cooking Cool Treats to Beat Summer Heat by Michelle Ann Anderson

The dog days of summer are definitely upon us. Days are longer and unquestionably hotter. In all likelihood, a bit of restlessness has started creeping in, too. Keep the kids (and yourself!) cool and entertained with these easy to make frozen delights. Quickie Homemade Very Berry Ice Cream Homemade ice cream can’t be beat for a refreshing summertime treat. This version is delicious and interactive…the kids will love helping make it. Ingredients: For each serving: • 1/4 cup various fresh berries (sliced strawberries, blueberries, blackberries and raspberries are great choices) • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar • 1 cup half & half • 2 heaping tablespoons powdered sugar • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla • 1/2 cup rock salt • ice cubes Directions: Step 1: Prepare Berries Place berries and granulated sugar in a snack or sandwich size zip-top bag; toss to combine. Seal bag, crush berries and refrigerate until ready to use. Step 2: Make Ice Cream Place half & half, powdered sugar and vanilla in a quart size zip top bag; seal.  Fill a gallon size zip-top bag 1/3 full of ice, sprinkle with the rock salt. Place zip-top bag containing the milk mixture into the gallon size bag; fill halfway with ice and seal.  Enclose bag in a large kitchen towel; knead or shake bag vigorously until ice cream has formed, about 7-10 minutes. Step 3: Add Berries Remove ice cream filled bag from larger bag; carefully rinse in cold water to remove the salt. Pour sweetened berries into ice cream; seal bag and knead to mix berries into the ice cream. Enjoy as is for soft serve consistency, or place in freezer for 30 minutes to make it firmer. Cook’s Note:  Kids love the novelty of eating their ice cream right out of the bag…plus, there will be fewer dishes to wash! Makes 1 serving. Frozen Strawberry Lemonade Sipping icy cold lemonade on the front porch brings to mind memories of childhood lemonade stands.  Create new memories with the kids by making Frozen Strawberry Lemonade. Who knows? Maybe they’ll be inspired to start their own stand. Ingredients: • Zest and juice from 3 large lemons • 6-8 large, ripe strawberries, stems removed • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract • 3-4 mint leaves • 3/4 cup powdered sugar • 2 cups cold water • 2-3 cups crushed ice Directions: Step 1: Blend Lemonade Place the lemon zest and juice, strawberries, vanilla, mint, powdered sugar, water and ice in a blender. Process until well blended. Pour into 4 glasses and enjoy! Makes 4 servings. Monkey Pops Frozen chocolate covered bananas embellished with a variety of goodies…mmmmm. Ingredients: • 4 large ripe bananas • 1 (12 ounce) package semi-sweet chocolate chips • Items for dipping: • White chocolate chips • Crushed cookies • Candy Sprinkles • Gummy candy • Chopped nuts • Crushed pretzels • Toasted coconut • Crushed candy Directions: Step 1: Prepare Bananas Peel bananas; cut into 2-to 3-inch pieces. Insert a wooden popsicle stick into the cut end of each banana; place onto a waxed paper lined baking sheet. Freeze for 30 minutes. Step 2: Melt Chocolate Place chocolate chips in a microwave safe bowl. Heat on high in 30-second increments, stirring between, until chocolate is melted and smooth. Step 3: Dip Monkey Pops Dip frozen bananas into chocolate, turning to coat well. Roll in desired topping. Place back onto the lined baking sheet; freeze until chocolate is set and ready to serve. Enjoy! Besides her two favorite jobs of wife and mom, Michelle Ann Anderson is also a freelance writer, enjoys public speaking, writing cookbooks and sharing her love of food with those around her.