Buzzfeed Vegan Ice Cream Recipes You’ll Love to Try

Updated On: October 7, 2025

If you’re craving a creamy, dreamy dessert that’s completely plant-based, BuzzFeed’s vegan ice cream recipes are a delightful treasure trove to explore. These recipes masterfully blend wholesome ingredients with creative flavors, proving that vegan ice cream can be just as indulgent and satisfying as traditional dairy versions.

Whether you’re vegan, lactose-intolerant, or simply looking to enjoy a healthier treat, these recipes will quickly become your go-to for cool, refreshing sweetness. From classic vanilla to inventive chocolate-chip cookie dough and beyond, BuzzFeed’s vegan ice cream recipes offer a perfect balance of rich texture and vibrant flavor that will please any palate.

In this post, we’ll dive into some of the best vegan ice creams you can whip up at home with simple ingredients and minimal fuss. You’ll also get handy tips to customize your ice cream, nutritional insights, and serving ideas that make these recipes even more enjoyable.

Let’s get scooping!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

BuzzFeed’s vegan ice cream recipes are beloved because they’re:

  • Easy to make: Most recipes require just a handful of ingredients and can be prepared without an ice cream maker.
  • Deliciously creamy: Using bases like coconut milk or cashew cream, these ice creams have a smooth texture that rivals traditional ice cream.
  • Versatile: You can customize flavors and add mix-ins like nuts, fruit, or vegan chocolate chips.
  • Healthier: Free from dairy and often refined sugars, these recipes suit a variety of dietary needs.
  • Fun and creative: BuzzFeed’s inventive flavors keep each batch exciting, from classic vanilla bean to salted caramel swirl.

Ingredients

  • 2 cans (14 oz each) full-fat coconut milk – provides a creamy and rich base
  • 3/4 cup organic cane sugar – sweetens naturally without overpowering
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract – classic vanilla flavor enhancer
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt – balances sweetness and enhances flavor
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch – optional, for thickening
  • 1/2 cup raw cashews (soaked for 4 hours, then drained) – adds creaminess for cashew-based recipes
  • Mix-ins like vegan chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or fresh berries – optional for flavor variations

Equipment

  • Blender or food processor – to blend the ingredients smoothly
  • Ice cream maker (optional) – for the creamiest texture, but not required
  • Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients
  • Whisk – to mix ingredients thoroughly
  • Freezer-safe container – to store the ice cream while it freezes
  • Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy

Instructions

  1. Prepare your ingredients: If using cashews, soak them in water for at least 4 hours, then drain. Open and shake the coconut milk cans well.
  2. Mix base ingredients: In a blender, combine the coconut milk, sugar, vanilla extract, salt, and soaked cashews (if using). Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
  3. Thicken the mixture (optional): In a small saucepan, whisk cornstarch with a few tablespoons of the coconut milk mixture to create a slurry. Add this back to the saucepan with the rest of the mixture and heat gently over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened, about 5 minutes. Let cool.
  4. Chill the mixture: Transfer the ice cream base to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This step helps develop the flavor and improves texture.
  5. Churn the ice cream: Pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually 20-30 minutes. If you don’t have an ice cream maker, proceed to the next step.
  6. Freeze the ice cream: Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container. Stir in any desired mix-ins like vegan chocolate chips or fruit chunks. Freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm.
  7. Scoop and serve: Remove the ice cream from the freezer 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly. Scoop into bowls or cones and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

“For extra creaminess, use full-fat coconut milk and soak cashews overnight if your recipe includes them. Mixing in a tablespoon of vodka or rum can help prevent ice crystals, keeping the ice cream smoother.”

  • Chocolate Fudge: Add 1/2 cup cocoa powder and 1/2 cup vegan chocolate chips to the base mixture before churning.
  • Berry Swirl: Puree 1 cup of fresh or frozen berries and fold into the ice cream just before freezing.
  • Peanut Butter Swirl: Warm 1/2 cup peanut butter and swirl it into the ice cream before freezing.
  • Nutty Delight: Stir in chopped toasted almonds or walnuts for extra crunch.
  • Use Aquafaba: For a lighter texture, whip aquafaba (chickpea water) and fold it into the base before freezing.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per 1/2 cup serving
Calories 220
Fat 18g
Saturated Fat 15g
Carbohydrates 15g
Sugar 12g
Protein 2g
Fiber 1g

Serving Suggestions

Vegan ice cream is incredibly versatile and pairs well with many desserts and toppings. Here are some ways to serve yours:

  • Top with fresh berries and a drizzle of maple syrup or agave nectar for a fresh, fruity touch.
  • Enjoy with vegan brownies or cookies for a decadent dessert combo.
  • Sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes or chopped nuts for added texture.
  • Serve alongside warm fruit cobblers or pies, like a vegan Muscadine Grape Cobbler Recipe.
  • Make an indulgent vegan ice cream sandwich using your favorite vegan cookies, such as those from the Kolasnittar Recipe collection.

Conclusion

Making vegan ice cream at home has never been easier or more delicious than with these BuzzFeed-inspired recipes. Using simple, wholesome ingredients, you can create creamy, rich, and flavorful treats that cater to a variety of dietary preferences without sacrificing taste or texture.

Plus, the flexibility to customize each batch with your favorite flavors and mix-ins makes this a fun and rewarding kitchen project. Whether you’re cooling off on a hot summer day or craving a sweet snack, these vegan ice creams will satisfy your cravings and impress your friends and family.

Don’t forget to explore other fantastic recipes on our site, like the Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food or the refreshing Cafe Rio Mint Limeade Recipe to complement your dessert adventures.

Happy scooping, and enjoy every creamy, dreamy bite!

📖 Recipe Card: BuzzFeed Vegan Ice Cream Recipes

Description: A collection of creamy, delicious vegan ice cream recipes perfect for any occasion. These dairy-free treats use natural ingredients for rich flavor and texture.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT25M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 cups canned full-fat coconut milk
  • 1/2 cup almond milk
  • 3/4 cup organic cane sugar
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/2 cup raw cashews, soaked for 4 hours
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup cocoa powder (optional for chocolate flavor)
  • 1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum (optional, for texture)

Instructions

  1. Drain soaked cashews and blend with coconut milk and almond milk until smooth.
  2. Add sugar, vanilla extract, maple syrup, sea salt, and cocoa powder if using; blend again.
  3. Add xanthan gum and blend briefly to combine.
  4. Pour mixture into an ice cream maker and churn for 20-25 minutes.
  5. Transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
  6. Let ice cream sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before scooping.

Nutrition: Calories: 280 | Protein: 4g | Fat: 22g | Carbs: 18g

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Marta K

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