Baking with Olivia and Caroline

It was one of those very hot summer afternoons when I just couldn’t cool off, and all I wanted was something cold and slushy. I wasn’t in the mood to run to the store, so I started looking around the kitchen to see what I could make with what I already had.

I had fresh blueberries in the refrigerator, more mint than I know what to do with growing in the garden, and a bowl of lemons sitting on the counter. It seemed like a good place to start. 

Then I dug through the pantry looking for something to add a little sweetness and creaminess. Thankfully, I found a can of coconut milk and some sweetened condensed milk.

I threw everything into the blender with a generous amount of ice, crossed my fingers, and hoped for the best. I also had some leftover whipped cream from another dessert I had made, so I decided to top the slush off and make it extra special! 

A minute later, my partner and I each had a frosty glass in hand, and it turned out even better than I expected. It’s sweet without cloying and tart from the fresh lemons. The mint gives it a fresh, summery flavor, and the blueberries give it the prettiest color.   

It’s one of those recipes that came together completely by accident, but I know I’ll be making it again all summer long. If your garden is overflowing with mint like mine is, this is a great way to use some of it up. Just don’t drink it too fast, or you’ll be rewarded with instant brain freeze!

Ingredients

• Zest of one lemon
• Two lemons, juiced
• ⅓ cup sweetened condensed milk
• ½ cup fresh blueberries 
• ⅓ cup coconut milk
• 2 cups ice
• 3-5 fresh mint leaves
• Whipped cream

Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until thoroughly combined. It helps if your coconut milk is cold. Makes enough for two eight-ounce glasses. If the mixture is too thick, thin it with more coconut milk. Top with whipped cream.

As always, Enjoy! •

Olivia and Caroline are enthusiastic foodies and bakers who are constantly in the kitchen, as well as explorers who create their own adventures in our area – and did we mention they are mother and daughter? Follow Olivia on Instagram to see her many creations at @oliviawvalentine.