Banana-Nicecream-and-Vegan-Magic-Shell-Chocolat-Syrup-4

Outfit Details:
Original Romper (sold out): Forever 21  |  Romper (Similar): Shoptiques

Cooking Appliances & Utensils:
Mini Food Processor: Cuisinart  |  Small Blender: Magic Bullet  |  Mini Spatula: Sur La Table  |  Glass Container: Sur La Table  |  Cutting Board: Boos Block

Hi bun buns!
I am SOOOOOOOOO excited to share this video recipe with you guys! As you’ve noticed I’ve been really into desserts recently, and this one is pretty much an all time favorite.
Side note: If you’ve ever wanted to see me with a bad hair day… you’re welcome, it’s now documented in this video. YIKES! Sorry for the lion’s mane!

Remember Smucker’s Magic Shell Topping?! The chocolate syrup that quickly hardens into a crispy shell when poured onto ice cream? I used to LIVE for nights when my mom would let my sister and I put Magic Shell on our little ice cream sundaes. My sister and I would carefully drip the syrup in little designs over our ice cream and watch it harden only to crack it with our spoons seconds later. I’m feeling really nostalgic with this recipe!

Now, you can have your own homemade magic shell! It’s vegan, gluten-free and is made from only 3 ingredients! Andddd it gives you a totally acceptable reason to play with your food AND eat ice cream all day because this ice cream is actually good for you! This is NICE cream! This is one of my secret weapons to fighting a late night sweet tooth. Freeze a banana overnight, blend it up in a food processor, and BOOM. NICE CREAM. You can’t go wrong, you can’t eat too much, and you can’t feel guilty, it’s just fruit!

Banana-Nicecream-and-Vegan-Magic-Shell-Chocolat-Syrup-1

Banana-Nicecream-and-Vegan-Magic-Shell-Chocolat-Syrup-2 Banana-Nicecream-and-Vegan-Magic-Shell-Chocolat-Syrup-3
Banana Nice Cream:
2 ripe bananas

Vegan Magic Shell Topping:
2 Tbsp coconut oil, melted
2 Tbsp cocoa powder
1 Tbsp maple syrup

For full instructions, check out my YouTube video!

1. Peel and chop bananas into small half inch slices.
2. Place banana slices in a freezer safe container overnight.
3. Transfer frozen banana slices to a food processor and blend.
4. Continue blending the banana until smooth. Stop the food processor and smash the banana towards the blade as needed until well combined. Set aside.
5. Combine room temperature melted coconut oil, cocoa powder, and maple syrup in a small blender and blend until well mixed. You can also hand whisk the ingredients.
6. Scoop Banana Nice Cream into a bowl and pour magic shell syrup on top as desired. Let it harden (about 15 seconds) and enjoy!

On a personal note:
I’ve been having a bad week. To be honest, I’ve felt really depressed and watching this video back made me so critical of myself. I feel like starting a YouTube channel was a huge step for me because of my body image insecurities, but seeing myself on camera has been rough. I didn’t know it would be so emotional. After my friend Kevin and I filmed this yesterday, I watched the footage back and cried. CRIED. Recently I’ve picked myself apart and been stuck in a downward spiral. A rabbit hole of sadness if you will. I’ve been trying so hard to crawl back out of it, but if you’ve ever been there, you may relate when I say how challenging it is to do so. I just thought it was important to share what I’m going through right now since you guys have been on this roller coaster of a journey with me. I’m trying really hard to get through this little hurdle and stay busy and positive. It’s hard, but it’s possible!

Don’t forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel!
Health & Happiness
xo-Catherine

39 Comments on Banana Nice Cream & Vegan Magic Shell

  1. Ana @ Ana's Rocket Ship
    April 10, 2015 at 3:10 am (9 years ago)

    Wow- I loved this version of magic shell!!! I can’t wait to have a go with it! And the video was amazing! And so much fun!!!

    Reply
    • Catherine
      April 10, 2015 at 3:19 am (9 years ago)

      Thanks so much, Ana! xo

      Reply
  2. Kelly
    April 10, 2015 at 3:23 am (9 years ago)

    Catherine! Watching your video prior to reading the post I thought, “Wow! She’s so happy and upbeat and loving life!” I had no idea you were having detrimental thoughts about yourself until the very end of the blog post. I read the part about your hair and was like, “Um, I need to comment because her hair looks fab as always and she’s crazy!” But now, I really feel the need to tell you that you’re beautiful inside and out which is what matters most. Life has it’s ups and downs and it’s easier to be up with the ups and down with the downs. A true test of a person is to remain positive when everything is stacked against them. The reason I follow your journey isn’t because you lost a ton of weight and are perfect. You are a role model because you are REAL! Our imperfections make us beautiful. Never forget that you are AMAZING and have done amazing things in your life. I started a blog recently after being influenced by bloggers like yourself so just know that you inspire so many internet people and you may not realize the full impact of your presence. I can definitely relate on the rabbit hole-ness, it’s dark in there. I have more bad days than good sometimes! Keep your bunny chin up and remember how wonderful you are and how amazing this life is. Love you, love your posts!

    Reply
  3. Nati
    April 10, 2015 at 5:36 am (9 years ago)

    Catherine-

    I’ve read your blog for a couple of years now, and it never fails to inspire me. After reading this post, I felt compelled to tell you how much I appreciate your honesty and vulnerability. You are a refreshing and uplifting presence in the world of health blogs, and I want you know that you are so much stronger than you realize. Admitting your insecurities takes a strength that not many have. I admire and respect you as a woman on her journey to overcoming one of life’s most difficult obstacles. You’ve helped me, and undoubtedly countless others, more than this comment could ever express.

    I hope all the love from your readers shines a light down the rabbit hole and helps you find your way out. <3

    Reply
  4. veganrunnernerd
    April 10, 2015 at 9:15 am (9 years ago)

    I agree 100% with what Kelly says above! It’s sad how we all get caught up in body image – I’ve been guilty of that as well, but I think what really matters is how we feel on the inside. If we feel good on the inside, no matter our weight and size, that feeling will shine on the outside as well! I’ve been following your blog for quite some time because I love your recipes and I love following along with what you’re doing and because of you (and some other AWESOME bloggers out there), I was inspired to start my own blog. Keep up the amazing work and always remember that you are a beautiful bunny, both inside and out!

    Reply
  5. Tiffany
    April 10, 2015 at 9:51 am (9 years ago)

    I’ve been quietly following your blog (and now pinterest and IG) for a couple years now – you’ve been an inspiration to me and such a bright little bunny! Kelly above mentioned your amazing hair, and, well, YES, loving the hombre and thick wavy curls! Mostly, I just adore your bubbly personality, fantastic marketing skills, this fresh website, your recipes, um your kitchen is unbelievable, loving your wardrobe/accessories, and you clearly have a network near and far supporting you — that’s what I see in these videos — solid gold sunshine. I’m writing you a little upbeat note, because I know the feeling you’re going through with cameras. I’ve been camera shy due to my weight for the past couple years and I too have been on a roller coaster of weight and emotion (haven’t we all?!). That said, I just wanted to say, from the peanut gallery, that you are an absolutely beautiful person – clearly inside and out, and that you are inspiring and uplifting all of us out here on the interwebs. Keep on being your sunny, fabulous, self! Thank you for the encouragement, tips and tricks, and inspiration! Keep on hoppin’ little bunny, keep on hoppin.’

    Reply
  6. KM3
    April 10, 2015 at 2:02 pm (9 years ago)

    I’m so sorry that you’re feeling down.. Just always remember that each day is day to start fresh, clean, and new.
    you have the ability to fight back against those cruel thoughts/voices that tell you you’re not good enough. You. Are. Strong. And You are able.!!!

    Reply
  7. K
    April 10, 2015 at 5:49 pm (9 years ago)

    This looks so yummy! Definitely trying it ASAP! I’ve totally been there/still am there sometimes when I see pictures of myself that I don’t think are flattering, etc. I hate that feeling! We are always our own harshest critics. I’m glad you posted it anyway to share your awesome recipe with us. Love your blog and videos! ❤️

    Reply
  8. Alejandra
    April 10, 2015 at 6:27 pm (9 years ago)

    I love you the recipe, can’t wait to start it! You are so beautiful inside & out. Thank you for being such a big inspiration in my life. Sending love your way. xoxo

    Reply
  9. missmirandat
    April 10, 2015 at 9:15 pm (9 years ago)

    I can completely relate to how you feel Catherine, and its so inspiring that you are always so candid and honest with your readers. Just know that you are such a beautiful person and what you do with your blog is amazing! I loved this recipe, and I definitely made myself some after watching! Keep shining 🙂

    Reply
  10. allecs
    April 11, 2015 at 8:51 am (9 years ago)

    You’ve always been the most relatable blogger I follow. Know that you are supported by friends, family, and even strangers who are wishing you well as they read about your journey. I respect your talent, your creativity, honesty, and positivity. All of these qualities inspire me, and I’m sure they inspire many others out there.

    Reply
  11. Ivie
    April 11, 2015 at 6:18 pm (9 years ago)

    I actually learns how to make the nice cream on Disney Junior lol but it’s awesome. U should try it with a nut either peanuts or walnuts it’s awesome

    Reply
  12. Julz M.
    April 12, 2015 at 7:33 am (9 years ago)

    You are by far the most amazing person in your field, I look forward to the days I have time to emerse myself in your lovely, curated, span of social media. Your “support” group is thousands strong, let us and your strong sense of self be your motivator. We need YOU, because you’ll never really know the deep impact you have on us, some won’t get to tell you our stories, but each of your readers has one. Climb out of that rabbit hole Doll, we’ll be here, still admiring you. xoxo from Sunny Florida.

    Reply
  13. hannah.silver
    April 12, 2015 at 9:08 am (9 years ago)

    I sometimes feel the same way, MANY do, and it’s not our fault. I am making a major conscious decision to look inward and remember that we are PEOPLE first and bodies only secondarily, to carry out the work we want to do as people! It is HARD to do and there will be ups and downs, but as long as we make that conscious decision, we are winning! I’ll make another plug here for healthyisthenewskinny, which you can find on Instagram and Facebook. They are preaching a message of acceptance, but MOSTLY to say F YOU to the unfair messages that are constantly spewed at us through the media, which shape how we view ourselves. I love seeing their daily messages and think that it’s a great complement to the difficult personal journey it requires to do something differently than we have before! The more we scream that new message to people, the better. I just imagine myself at 8 or 10 years old and think about how important positive messages would have been then, instead of ads and magazine articles that told me I should be one way or another, regardless of if I were aware of it. You are lucky that you are in the position to make that message of honesty and self-love known to many! Thank you for your courage. 🙂

    Reply
  14. Areeba
    April 12, 2015 at 1:40 pm (9 years ago)

    First, I’m definitely one of your viewers who lovessss bananas! Second, you are absolutely beautiful! I know what it feels like to fall into that hole of despair, make destructive decisions, and try to pick yourself up again. Just know, that you are well supported here, and all of us who support you love you very very much. Tomorrow starts a new week, and I’m sending you tons of positivity, prayers, and love! xoxo

    Reply
  15. Claire
    April 13, 2015 at 10:46 am (9 years ago)

    Although I’ve been following your blog for a while, this is the first video I’ve watched of yours. I really loved being able to see your personality in a way that just can’t be done simply using writing. I thought it was great!

    If you are showing me how to make yummy and healthy ice cream, I don’t really care what your hair looks like, but I think it’s amazing that you have posted this video even though it made you feel self-conscious.

    I don’t find there are many healthy living blogs written by people I can relate to, but yours is great, and I think it’s great you are so honest about where you are and how you’re getting on.

    X

    Reply
  16. janae
    April 13, 2015 at 1:20 pm (9 years ago)

    HI!!!
    I hope you are feeling better….I know exactly what you mean about the roller coaster…mine has completely stopped and im just slowly rolling backwards..lol But YOU are amazing, and such an inspiration to me more than you know…so please please know that your great…i know how you probably hear it from people over and over like I do and its hard to trust that…but coming from your similar…situation…I can so relate in certain areas….but this is the absolute truth…your flipping amazing…and your hair…OMG>>>whatever…lol!!! Lots of love and Hugs…

    P.S That Black (my FAV COLOR) shirt was totally sweet!! and comfy! .

    P.S.S (this is so high school..haha) its hard when there is nobody to talk to..or at least somebody who will give you real support. But your blog is like my favorite and you often cheer me up and make me smile..and laugh…and its in those moments when your not perfect ….that actually make you perfect…if that makes sense…lol…or im just a lil cra cra….hahaha take care and thank you for being my total Inspiration!!
    -Janae XoXo

    Reply
  17. Emily Sotelo M.
    April 13, 2015 at 1:22 pm (9 years ago)

    You are gorgeous inside and out. Love your videos, and I have loved your blog for years. I still am so happy that I got to meet you recently. Don’t get down on yourself girl! You are making the world a better place in so many ways. Keep up the great work beautiful. xoxo Emily M.

    Reply
  18. Janae
    April 13, 2015 at 2:23 pm (9 years ago)

    Hi!

    My roller coaster has stopped and I’m now going backwards and downhill..without a seatbelt…lol! I know all about that roller coaster ugh…but just so you know and I’m sure you have heard it a million times..but you are simply amazng, a true perfection that I wish I could have half the charisma that you show….and your hair really…whatever…lol!!

    Your my inspiration and I don’t have many AT ALL, so thank you for being here at the right time….please know your videos are awesome, and as you may not think they are perfect they truly are perfect and you are the only one I watch..because you make me smile..I’m glad your no one of those bland trying to be all perfect peeps…not cool yuck!

    P.s please keep doing your videos..lol!

    Ps.s (like high school) thank you for sharing as well…I know it’s truly hard for me to talk about feelings and stuff…so you really are doings great! Look at all of us we are all here for you …also I bought that (black for me only..lol) shirt we were talking about and I love it it is so comfy!! Thanks!

    -janaeXoXo

    Reply
  19. Janae
    April 13, 2015 at 2:25 pm (9 years ago)

    SORRY..lol thought my post didn’t make it…guess there’s two…guess I didn’t remember much from my initial one…wow…I’m getting old and only in my early thirties….hahaha love yah xoxo

    Reply
  20. Alexandria Rust
    April 14, 2015 at 1:18 pm (9 years ago)

    Hi Catherine! This is basically an “I hear ya, girl” post, but I am in my last year of college studying to be an actor. This semester I am taking an On Camera course where we get to do scenes/monologues/commercials and be filmed professionally- as if we are on our own Mad Men shows or Geico commercials. It is an awesome class, but I am facing the same problem as you. Every time I get the links to my footage and I watch myself, I burst into tears and spiral down into a mini depression as well (sometimes it lasts like 1 day and sometimes a month). I am not overweight, but I am definitely “curvy” and on the high end of the BMI chart. All the other girls in my class are like sizes 0-2 (seriously), which really doesn’t help. I am in shape (I teach spin classes and am training for a half marathon), but I still have some serious body image issues that kinda run my life. I have been struggling with balancing food and emotions/stress for about three years now (basically struggling with binging/starving cycle that I am very aware of). This past summer, I knew I needed to do something about it, so I took the entire summer to dedicate myself to healthy healing physically, emotionally, and spiritually. That is when I found your blog! Your blog originally inspired me because of your original weight loss, but I keep following because of you are honest with your success and struggles and strong enough to share them with whoever needs them. Both your struggles and success bring me, personally, a lot of hope that every struggle and low WILL bring a new success. The successes might come in a minute, or might come in two weeks. But it will happen! And I hope you find comfort and pride in that you inspire so many people (especially women) just with your own honesty and vulnerability. You inspire me!

    Thanks Catherine.

    Reply
  21. thezsdad
    April 15, 2015 at 9:05 am (9 years ago)

    My kids will be SO excited about this, since I refuse to buy the commercial shell stuff. Thank you!

    Reply
  22. shannonmarie (rawdorable)
    April 15, 2015 at 10:07 am (9 years ago)

    The simplest recipes are the best. Love it <3 By the way, you look lovely, as always 🙂

    Reply
  23. Justine
    April 16, 2015 at 10:21 pm (9 years ago)

    I think many of us can relate to negative self talk. It takes such practice to get our minds straight! I’ve been struggling lately as well, and really appreciate your honesty in being outspoken. Have you heard of WANT?
    http://womenagainstnegativetalk.com/about-women-against-negative-talk/
    I know for me, it takes active practice to shut down the nonsense.

    Reply
  24. Selmin
    April 17, 2015 at 12:52 pm (9 years ago)

    Hey Catherine, as a silent follower for many years, I saw your youtube video a few days ago and thought how lovely you are.

    Now I read your post and need the urge to tell you how much you inspired me since I first read your blog. I am from Cologne and got in touch to things like barre concept and chia seeds by reading your blog, long before they were known much in my city. These are things I don’t want to miss in my life anymore, thanks to you!

    I have been struggling with weight issues since I was a teenager and I still feel very sensitive about this topic. I know how it feels to make your mood dependant on how you think your body looks and you think you have failed.

    You inspire so many people. You are beautiful and perfect just as you are!!! Thank you for being so honest.

    Lots of love from Germany, Selmin

    Reply
  25. Madeline
    April 18, 2015 at 6:16 pm (9 years ago)

    Girl, have I been there. It’s SO hard to go from being at an unhealthy “skinny” weight with disordered patterns to feel like you went the other way. It sucks to not feel confident in your own skin. I dealt with those feelings for about 2 years, and I can honestly say there IS a light at the end of the tunnel. I have worked SO hard to find confidence and love in my body. I have worked SO hard to improve my mental health, and really focus on personal growth. It wasn’t until I decided I truly didn’t care what others thought of my body that I truly saw change. It wasn’t until I discovered who I was on the inside that I started to change on the outside.

    My biggest advice…treat yourself like you’re the most important thing in your life, because you are. 🙂 Work as hard on yourself as you do your job! Dive into personal development books, sweat simply because it feels good, and eat properly because your body deserves it. Commit to a program that works for you! I found HUGE success when I committed to a fitness program, because that became a routine and a commitment!

    You’re a light, girl. And you’re BEAUTIFUL at any size and any weight. You have a voice, and such creativity! Use your platform to share that <3

    Reply
  26. Lorna
    April 21, 2015 at 10:57 am (9 years ago)

    Just came across your blog post/you tube video, Catherine & I love it. Loved your quirky presentation & your gorgeous hair. My only fear was that you might blend up some of your hair in the recipe 🙂 I hope you’ve crawled up out of the rabbit hole & continue to do what you’ve been doing. You’ve taken a step; you’re doing something! Thumbs up & Congratulations! Keep on going!

    Reply
  27. Lauren
    April 21, 2015 at 1:06 pm (9 years ago)

    This is my kind of recipe! It’s quick, easy and….ummm..chocolate! How can you ever go wrong with chocolate and bananas??

    Reply
  28. Gina
    April 22, 2015 at 9:58 pm (9 years ago)

    Hi Catherine 🙂
    I have to admit that I don’t do a lot of posting/commenting or social media anything really (and tonight was the first time I’ve had the good fortune to check out your blog- via a link from Healthy Happy Life!) but I absolutely HAD TO leave a message for you. My very first thought upon seeing your site was “Wow, what a beautiful girl.” Then I watched the Nice Cream video and I was so impressed with your poise and genuine persona. I was literally taken-aback when I read your personal note. I have had a history of body image/eating disorder stuff myself and I totally get the doubt, fear and sense of not quite being ‘enough’ that comes with the self-concept stuff. If I can offer you any one bit of (unsolicited, lol) wisdom it would be to please know that it’s all a colossal waste of time and energy. I’ve come to realize this over many years and perhaps it can help spare you future anguish. Don’t beat yourself up with all the judgement. Try to see the beauty that others see- but that you aren’t allowing yourself to recognize. The world won’t rotate on a different axis, no matter your weight- I promise! NO ONE will care/judge you as much as your own critical mind does. Your beautiful spirit literally shines above any of the imposed criticism going on in your head… imagine the freedom possible without it! Life is a process and I hope that part of your journey brings you to a place of realization that includes an ownership of self that lends little appeal to the critical thoughts- leaving them to fade into the background 🙂 I can’t wait to explore your blog- I think your amazing!
    Sincere regards,
    Gina

    Reply
  29. Cathy
    April 23, 2015 at 5:27 am (9 years ago)

    This looks yummie!
    And I love those easy sweet recipes. <3

    Greetings from Germany
    Cathy

    Reply
  30. Jillian
    April 27, 2015 at 6:01 am (9 years ago)

    I will be making this soon! This is such a unique idea!

    Reply
  31. nicole dziedzic
    April 28, 2015 at 6:10 pm (9 years ago)

    My kids would love this and i think it is a much better option too. Great treat to cool down with on those warm summer days.

    Reply
  32. Brooke @ BrilliantByBrooke
    May 1, 2015 at 7:06 am (9 years ago)

    Hi gorgeous! Love the little carrot in the bottom corner of the video — who edited it for you??? 🙂

    Reply
  33. Amber
    May 1, 2015 at 11:15 am (9 years ago)

    I thought the days of magic shell and dipped cones were forever gone since going vegan. Can’t wait to try this! 🙂

    Reply
  34. Lauren
    May 1, 2015 at 1:16 pm (9 years ago)

    You are so brave to share these personal feelings in addition to your amazing recipes and cute/fun videos! Don’t beat yourself up. What everyone loves about your blog is how REAL and HONEST you are with your journey. You are a big inspiration for me and watching this sent me straight to the grocery store to stock up on clean, organic & sugar-free ingredients. Keep up the good work and try to stay positive. Everyone is critical of themselves on camera but hopefully you can learn to see what we all see!

    Reply
  35. Sheila
    May 5, 2015 at 6:36 pm (9 years ago)

    I just finished making this (and eating it!), and it was so delicious! It felt like I was eating a huge ice cream sundae. I mixed a little almond butter in with the bananas, along with vanilla. I used Hershey’s special dark cocoa instead, and it was so rich! Definitely will make this again… I have a ton of frozen bananas to go through.

    And I have to agree with everyone above, all I kept thinking was, wow she’s beautiful… I want her hair… I love her eyes… Her complexion is perfect… How are her teeth so white… Etc! But yes, we are our worst critics. Thank you for blogging, it helps to keep me going on my weight loss journey!

    Reply
  36. Lisa
    July 3, 2015 at 8:18 am (9 years ago)

    I really like this recipe for the magic shell! I must try it!

    I completely understand how you feel. I am in a similar situation and have a similar background with weight/eating issues as well. Except, I’m looking at you wishing I was where you are! I think you look amazing, truly. It’s hard to be happy with and accept ourselves and we often are most critical about us… but would never be that way towards ourselves if we were another person. <3

    You do seem more secure with yourself in this video. I'm sorry you cried. That's heartbreaking to me. Maybe because I can relate so much and when I look at you, I don't see any reason to be upset at all.

    <3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3

    Reply

Leave a Reply