When the summer heat hits or you simply crave something creamy and refreshing, this vegan almond ice cream recipe is your perfect go-to treat. Crafted from wholesome plant-based ingredients, it offers a luscious, nutty flavor that’s both satisfying and nourishing.
Unlike traditional ice cream loaded with dairy and additives, this version is light yet indulgent, making it ideal for those who follow a vegan lifestyle or anyone looking to enjoy a healthier dessert option.
Almonds provide a naturally rich creaminess, while the subtle sweetness and hints of vanilla make every spoonful a delight. Plus, this almond ice cream is easy to customize with your favorite mix-ins or toppings.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just exploring dairy-free desserts, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this delightful treat in no time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This almond ice cream recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it uses simple, natural ingredients you can easily find at any grocery store or stock in your pantry.
There’s no need for complicated stabilizers or artificial flavors.
Second, it’s incredibly creamy and smooth thanks to the use of almond milk and soaked almonds, which mimic the richness of traditional ice cream. It’s also completely vegan and dairy-free, making it suitable for people with lactose intolerance or those avoiding animal products.
Finally, this recipe is versatile! You can enjoy it as is or add your own twist with chocolate chips, berries, or toasted nuts.
It’s perfect for a healthy dessert, a refreshing snack, or even a fancy party treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw almonds (soaked overnight)
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
- 1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk (for creaminess)
- 1/2 cup maple syrup (or agave syrup)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
- Pinch of sea salt
- Optional add-ins: 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips, toasted almonds, or fresh berries
Equipment
- High-speed blender or food processor
- Ice cream maker (optional but recommended)
- Mixing bowl
- Fine mesh strainer or nut milk bag
- Freezer-safe container
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
- Soak the almonds: Place the raw almonds in a bowl and cover with water. Let them soak overnight or for at least 8 hours. This softens the nuts and makes blending easier.
- Drain and rinse: After soaking, drain the almonds and rinse them thoroughly under cool water.
- Blend the base: In a high-speed blender, combine the soaked almonds, almond milk, coconut milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and a pinch of sea salt. Blend on high until the mixture is completely smooth. This can take 1-2 minutes depending on your blender.
- Strain the mixture: Pour the blended mixture through a fine mesh strainer or nut milk bag into a bowl to remove any remaining almond pulp. Use a spatula or squeeze the bag to extract as much liquid as possible. This step ensures a silky smooth ice cream texture.
- Chill the mixture: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the almond milk base for at least 2 hours, or until thoroughly chilled.
- Churn the ice cream: Pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 20-30 minutes. If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container and stir vigorously every 30 minutes for 2-3 hours to break up ice crystals.
- Add mix-ins: During the last 5 minutes of churning, add any optional mix-ins like chocolate chips or toasted almonds.
- Freeze until firm: Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container. Cover and freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight to firm up.
- Serve and enjoy: Remove from the freezer 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly, then scoop into bowls or cones.
Tips & Variations
Tip: Soaking almonds is key to achieving that creamy texture. If you’re short on time, soak them in hot water for 1-2 hours instead of overnight.
Variation: For a chocolate almond ice cream, add 1/4 cup cocoa powder to the blender along with the other ingredients. You can also swirl in vegan chocolate fudge sauce after churning.
Tip: Use full-fat coconut milk, not light, for the best creamy consistency.
Feel free to swap the maple syrup for coconut sugar or date syrup if you prefer a different sweetness profile. You can also experiment with adding a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for a warm spice note.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1/2 cup) |
---|---|
Calories | 180 |
Fat | 12g |
Saturated Fat | 7g |
Carbohydrates | 18g |
Fiber | 2g |
Sugar | 14g |
Protein | 3g |
Calcium | 150mg |
Serving Suggestions
This almond ice cream pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit like raspberries, strawberries, or sliced peaches. For an extra special touch, drizzle with vegan chocolate sauce or sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes.
Try serving it alongside a warm dessert like a Bread And Gravy Recipe or a slice of tart from your favorite bakery. It’s also fantastic topped with crunchy granola for a delightful texture contrast.
If you love experimenting with plant-based recipes, check out our Blackberry Juicing Recipes or try a wholesome breakfast idea with the Breakfast Wellington Recipe.
Conclusion
Making your own vegan almond ice cream at home is easier than you might think, and the results are simply delicious. This recipe offers a creamy, naturally sweet treat that’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy ice cream without dairy or refined ingredients.
With just a handful of simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dessert that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re cooling off on a hot day or serving up a guilt-free dessert for friends and family, this almond ice cream is sure to impress. Plus, its versatility means you can customize it to your liking every time.
So, gather your ingredients, get blending, and treat yourself to a scoop of homemade vegan goodness today!
📖 Recipe Card: Almond Ice Cream Recipe Vegan
Description: A creamy and delicious vegan almond ice cream made with almond milk and natural sweeteners. Perfect for a refreshing dairy-free treat.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT25M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
- 1 cup raw almonds (soaked overnight)
- 1/2 cup coconut cream
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Drain soaked almonds and blend with almond milk until smooth.
- Strain almond mixture through a nut milk bag to remove pulp.
- In a saucepan, whisk cornstarch with water until dissolved.
- Add almond milk, coconut cream, maple syrup, vanilla, and salt to saucepan.
- Heat mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Remove from heat and cool to room temperature.
- Chill mixture in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours.
- Pour mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer instructions.
- Freeze churned ice cream for 2 hours before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 250 kcal | Protein: 5 g | Fat: 18 g | Carbs: 20 g
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