Coconut Milk Frosting Recipe Vegan and Deliciously Creamy

Updated On: October 8, 2025

If you’ve been searching for a luscious, creamy frosting that’s completely vegan and irresistibly delicious, look no further than this coconut milk frosting recipe. Perfectly smooth, naturally sweet, and dairy-free, it’s a wonderful alternative to traditional buttercream that complements a wide range of cakes, cupcakes, and desserts.

Made from the rich cream of full-fat coconut milk, this frosting offers a subtle tropical flavor that can be customized to suit your taste preferences.

Whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant, or simply looking to experiment with plant-based baking, this frosting is a game changer. It whips up easily with just a few simple ingredients, yet the result is a velvety, dreamy texture that holds up beautifully even in warm weather.

Plus, it’s free from refined sugars and artificial additives, making it a cleaner choice for your sweet treats. Let’s dive in and learn how to make this delightful coconut milk frosting that’s sure to steal the show!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan coconut milk frosting is not only incredibly tasty but also versatile and easy to make. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your baking repertoire:

  • Dairy-free and vegan: Uses coconut cream instead of butter or cream cheese, perfect for plant-based diets.
  • Rich and creamy texture: Whips into a fluffy, smooth frosting that’s easy to spread or pipe.
  • Natural sweetness: Sweetened with powdered sugar and a touch of vanilla, no artificial flavors needed.
  • Customizable flavor: Add cocoa powder, lemon zest, or spices to create unique variations.
  • Stable and versatile: Holds its shape well on cupcakes or layer cakes, even in warmer temperatures.

Whether you’re frosting a birthday cake or adding a finishing touch to cupcakes, this recipe brings a tropical twist that everyone will love.

Ingredients

  • 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk – refrigerated overnight
  • 1 ½ cups powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar), sifted
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional: 1-2 tablespoons coconut oil or vegan butter (for extra creaminess)
  • Optional: 2 tablespoons cocoa powder (for chocolate flavor)

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl (medium size)
  • Electric hand mixer or stand mixer with whisk attachment
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Can opener
  • Refrigerator (for chilling the coconut milk)

Instructions

  1. Chill the coconut milk: Place the can of full-fat coconut milk in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the cream to separate and solidify at the top.
  2. Prepare the coconut cream: Open the chilled can without shaking it. Scoop out the thickened coconut cream into your mixing bowl, leaving the liquid behind (you can save it for smoothies or other recipes).
  3. Whip the cream: Using your electric mixer, beat the coconut cream on medium-high speed for 2-3 minutes until fluffy and light.
  4. Add powdered sugar and vanilla: Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt while continuing to whip. Mix until fully incorporated and smooth.
  5. Optional additions: If you want a richer texture, beat in 1-2 tablespoons of coconut oil or vegan butter that has been softened. For chocolate frosting, sift in cocoa powder and whip until combined.
  6. Adjust consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add 1 tablespoon of the reserved coconut water to loosen it. If it’s too thin, add a little more powdered sugar.
  7. Chill before use: For best results, refrigerate the frosting for 20-30 minutes to firm up before spreading on your cake or cupcakes.

Tips & Variations

“Always use full-fat coconut milk and chill it overnight to get the creamiest frosting.”

  • Use a high-quality coconut milk: Brands vary in creaminess, so opt for one with minimal additives and a thick consistency.
  • Flavor twists: Add a tablespoon of maple syrup or agave nectar for extra sweetness, or a teaspoon of almond or coconut extract for a flavor boost.
  • Chocolate version: Stir in 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder for a vegan chocolate frosting.
  • Fruit-infused: Fold in mashed berries or a tablespoon of lemon zest for a fresh, fruity flavor.
  • Storage: Keep the frosting refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Re-whip before using if needed.
  • Use as a dip or spread: This coconut milk frosting doubles as a sweet dip for fruits or as a spread for vegan pancakes or waffles.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving (2 tbsp)
Calories 110
Fat 8 g
Saturated Fat 7 g
Carbohydrates 10 g
Sugar 9 g
Protein 0.5 g
Fiber 0 g

Serving Suggestions

This vegan coconut milk frosting pairs beautifully with a variety of baked goods. Spread it thickly on a moist vanilla or chocolate cake for a tropical twist.

It’s also fantastic piped onto cupcakes, donut holes, or layered between cookies for a decadent treat.

For a refreshing dessert, try topping fruit tarts or fresh berries with a dollop of this frosting. It’s equally delicious when paired with vegan carrot cake or spice cake, adding a creamy sweetness that balances the spices perfectly.

Looking for more recipe inspiration? Check out these favorites:

Conclusion

This vegan coconut milk frosting recipe is a simple yet impressive way to elevate your baked creations with a dairy-free, flavorful twist. It’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a creamy, fluffy frosting without compromising on taste or texture.

The natural richness of coconut cream combined with the sweetness of powdered sugar creates a frosting that’s both satisfying and versatile.

By following this recipe, you’ll have a frosting that’s not only easy to whip up but also holds well, making it ideal for everything from cupcakes to layered cakes. Plus, with the flexibility to customize flavors, you can keep things exciting and tailored to your preferences.

Give this frosting a try next time you bake, and discover how delicious vegan frosting can truly be!

📖 Recipe Card: Coconut Milk Frosting Recipe Vegan

Description: A creamy and naturally sweet vegan frosting made from coconut milk and powdered sugar. Perfect for cakes, cupcakes, and desserts.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT10M

Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup full-fat coconut milk (chilled overnight)
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegan butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup

Instructions

  1. Scoop out the solid coconut cream from the chilled coconut milk.
  2. In a mixing bowl, beat the vegan butter until smooth.
  3. Add the coconut cream and continue to beat until fluffy.
  4. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition.
  5. Add vanilla extract, salt, and maple syrup; beat until creamy.
  6. Adjust consistency with more powdered sugar if needed.
  7. Use immediately or refrigerate until ready to frost.

Nutrition: Calories: 150 | Protein: 0.5g | Fat: 10g | Carbs: 18g

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Marta K

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