Indulging in a rich, creamy dessert doesn’t have to mean compromising your vegan lifestyle. Coconut cream ice cream is a delightful treat that perfectly balances luscious texture with the natural sweetness of coconut.
This vegan recipe harnesses the power of full-fat coconut milk to create an indulgent, dairy-free ice cream that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re avoiding dairy or simply looking for a refreshing, plant-based dessert, this recipe is your go-to for a homemade frozen delight that rivals traditional ice cream.
Plus, it’s incredibly simple to make with just a few wholesome ingredients.
In this blog post, you’ll find everything you need to whip up your own batch of coconut cream ice cream, along with helpful tips, variations, and serving suggestions. Let’s dive into the world of creamy, dreamy vegan ice cream that you can enjoy guilt-free any time of the year!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This coconut cream ice cream recipe is a fantastic vegan alternative to traditional ice cream, boasting a texture that’s both silky and satisfying. Here’s why it stands out:
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples like coconut cream, natural sweeteners, and vanilla extract.
- Dairy-Free & Vegan: Perfect for vegans, lactose-intolerant individuals, or anyone seeking a healthier dessert option.
- Customizable Flavors: Easily add your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips, berries, or nuts.
- Rich and Creamy Texture: Thanks to coconut cream’s natural fats, this ice cream has a luxurious mouthfeel without any artificial thickeners.
- Quick & Easy: No need for fancy equipment beyond a standard ice cream maker or even a freezer method.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (13.5 oz each) full-fat coconut milk – chilled overnight
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut cream – chilled overnight
- 3/4 cup organic maple syrup or agave syrup for sweetness
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt to enhance the flavors
- Optional mix-ins: 1/2 cup vegan chocolate chips, toasted coconut flakes, or chopped nuts
Equipment
- Medium mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Ice cream maker (recommended for best texture)
- Freezer-safe container with lid
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
- Chill your coconut milk and cream. Place the cans of coconut milk and coconut cream in the refrigerator overnight to allow the fats to separate and solidify.
- Prepare the coconut base. Open the chilled cans without shaking. Scoop out the thick coconut cream that has risen to the top into a mixing bowl. Reserve the remaining liquid for smoothies or other recipes.
- Whip the coconut cream. Using an electric mixer or whisk, beat the coconut cream until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add sweeteners and flavorings. Gradually add the maple syrup, vanilla extract, and sea salt to the whipped cream. Continue mixing until everything is fully incorporated and smooth.
- Combine with coconut milk. Slowly fold in the remaining coconut milk liquid to the whipped cream mixture, stirring gently to maintain the airy texture.
- Churn the ice cream. Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 20-30 minutes, until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
- Add mix-ins (optional). In the last 5 minutes of churning, add your favorite mix-ins like vegan chocolate chips, toasted coconut flakes, or nuts.
- Freeze the ice cream. Transfer the soft ice cream into a freezer-safe container, smooth the top with a spatula, and cover with a lid. Freeze for at least 4 hours for a firmer texture.
- Serve and enjoy! Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping for easier serving.
Tips & Variations
“For the creamiest texture, always use full-fat coconut milk and cream chilled overnight. This step is crucial to achieve that rich mouthfeel without dairy.”
- Make it chocolate: Add 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder to the mixture before churning for a luscious vegan chocolate ice cream.
- Fruit swirl: Gently fold in a berry compote or mango puree after churning for a vibrant, fruity twist.
- No ice cream maker? Pour the mixture into a shallow container, freeze, and stir vigorously every 30 minutes until creamy.
- Boost protein: Add 2 tablespoons of your favorite plant-based protein powder to the mix for a more filling dessert.
- Sweetener swap: Use coconut sugar or date syrup for different flavor profiles and lower glycemic index.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1/2 cup) |
---|---|
Calories | 220 |
Fat | 18g |
Saturated Fat | 16g |
Carbohydrates | 14g |
Sugars | 12g |
Protein | 2g |
Fiber | 1g |
Serving Suggestions
This coconut cream ice cream is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with many desserts. Here are some ideas to elevate your vegan treat:
- Top with fresh tropical fruits like pineapple, mango, or kiwi for a refreshing bite.
- Drizzle with vegan chocolate or caramel sauce for added decadence.
- Serve alongside warm vegan brownies or a slice of Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for a perfect dessert duo.
- Use as a creamy topping over vegan pies or cobblers.
- Enjoy it in a waffle cone or as a sandwich between two vegan cookies.
Conclusion
Making your own vegan coconut cream ice cream at home is not only satisfying but also incredibly rewarding. This recipe delivers a luscious, creamy dessert that’s free from dairy and packed with wholesome, natural ingredients.
Whether you’re treating yourself on a warm day or impressing guests with a dairy-free delight, this ice cream is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Plus, its simplicity and customizable nature mean you can adapt it to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
For more delicious vegan recipes, check out our Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas or explore wholesome baking with our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves.
Ready to explore more plant-based inspirations? Try combining this coconut cream ice cream with the flavors from our Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals for a truly balanced and vibrant vegan lifestyle!
📖 Recipe Card: Coconut Cream Ice Cream (Vegan)
Description: A rich and creamy vegan ice cream made with coconut cream and natural sweeteners. Perfectly smooth and dairy-free, ideal for a refreshing dessert.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT240M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cans (13.5 oz each) full-fat coconut cream
- 3/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Optional: 1/2 cup shredded coconut for texture
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water until smooth.
- Heat coconut cream in a saucepan over medium heat until warm.
- Add cornstarch mixture to the saucepan, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in maple syrup, vanilla extract, sea salt, and lemon juice.
- Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Pour chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer instructions.
- If desired, add shredded coconut during the last 5 minutes of churning.
- Transfer ice cream to a container and freeze for 1-2 hours before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 280 | Protein: 3g | Fat: 24g | Carbs: 18g
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