Cashew Ice Cream Vegan Without Ice Maker Recipe Easy Guide

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Craving a creamy, luscious dessert that’s completely plant-based and doesn’t require an ice cream maker? Look no further!

This cashew ice cream vegan without ice maker recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves rich, dairy-free treats. Made with simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, this recipe transforms soaked cashews into a velvety base that’s both delicious and nourishing.

Whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant, or just looking to try something new, this homemade cashew ice cream is sure to delight your taste buds.

What makes this recipe truly special is how easy it is to whip up without any fancy equipment. You’ll blend, freeze, and churn by hand, resulting in a silky-smooth texture that rivals store-bought ice cream.

Plus, you can customize the flavors to suit your mood—vanilla, chocolate, berry, or even matcha! Ready to dive into creamy indulgence?

Let’s get started.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cashew ice cream ticks all the boxes for a perfect vegan dessert. It’s:

  • Ultra creamy: Thanks to cashews, the texture is rich and smooth without any dairy.
  • Easy to make: No ice cream maker? No problem! You’ll use simple freezing and stirring techniques.
  • Customizable: Add your favorite flavors or mix-ins to make it your own.
  • Healthy-ish: Packed with good fats and protein, it’s a better-for-you alternative to traditional ice cream.
  • Allergy-friendly: Free from dairy, soy, and refined sugars if you choose natural sweeteners.

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups raw cashews (soaked overnight or at least 4 hours)
  • 1 cup full-fat coconut milk (canned for creaminess)
  • ⅔ cup maple syrup or agave nectar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • Pinch of sea salt
  • Optional: 2 tablespoons lemon juice (for slight tang and brightness)
  • Optional flavor add-ins: cocoa powder, fresh berries, matcha powder, or cinnamon

Equipment

  • High-speed blender or food processor
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Freezer-safe container with lid
  • Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Fine mesh strainer (optional) for extra smoothness

Instructions

  1. Soak the cashews: Place the raw cashews in a bowl and cover them with water. Let them soak overnight or for at least 4 hours until they soften. This step is crucial for achieving a creamy texture.
  2. Drain and rinse: After soaking, drain the cashews and rinse them under cold water.
  3. Blend the base: Add the soaked cashews, coconut milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and sea salt to your blender or food processor. Blend on high until the mixture is ultra smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the sides as needed.
  4. Strain (optional): For an extra silky texture, pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl, pressing with a spatula to extract as much liquid as possible.
  5. Add optional flavorings: Now is the time to mix in any extras like cocoa powder for chocolate, matcha powder for a green tea twist, or fresh berries for a fruity flavor. Blend again briefly to combine.
  6. Freeze the mixture: Pour the blended mixture into a freezer-safe container. Cover with a lid or plastic wrap and place in the freezer.
  7. Stir every 30 minutes: For the first 2-3 hours, remove the container from the freezer every 30 minutes and stir vigorously with a spatula to break up ice crystals. This manual churning mimics an ice cream maker and ensures a creamy consistency.
  8. Final freeze: After the last stir, let the ice cream freeze for an additional 2 hours or until firm but scoopable.
  9. Serve: Scoop into bowls or cones and enjoy your homemade vegan cashew ice cream!

Tips & Variations

“For the creamiest results, make sure your cashews are fully soaked and your blender is powerful enough to pulverize them completely.”

  • Sweetener swaps: Use coconut sugar, date syrup, or brown rice syrup if you prefer a different sweetener.
  • Flavor twists: Add mix-ins like vegan chocolate chips, toasted coconut flakes, or chopped nuts after the final stir.
  • Fruity versions: Blend in ripe bananas or frozen berries for natural sweetness and beautiful color.
  • Nut-free option: Substitute soaked sunflower seeds if you have a nut allergy, though the flavor and texture will differ.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one week. Let it soften for 10 minutes before scooping.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving (½ cup)
Calories 230 kcal
Fat 18 g
Saturated Fat 8 g
Carbohydrates 16 g
Fiber 1.5 g
Sugars 12 g
Protein 5 g
Calcium 20 mg

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy your vegan cashew ice cream on its own, or add a little extra flair with these serving ideas:

  • Top with fresh berries and a drizzle of dark chocolate sauce for an elegant dessert.
  • Serve alongside warm vegan brownies or a slice of Kentucky Bourbon Carrot Cake Recipe for a decadent treat.
  • Use as a filling for vegan ice cream sandwiches paired with homemade cookies like Lemon Crackers Recipe.
  • Sprinkle with toasted nuts or shredded coconut for added texture.
  • Pair with a refreshing drink like the Huckleberry Margarita Recipe for a summer party.

Conclusion

Making vegan cashew ice cream without an ice cream maker is easier than you think, and the results are absolutely worth it. This recipe offers a creamy, delicious alternative to traditional ice creams, with the added benefit of being dairy-free and customizable to your personal taste.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to try something new, this homemade treat will satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your friends and family. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a wholesome dessert using simple, natural ingredients.

Give it a try and explore the endless flavor possibilities—your freezer will thank you!

If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t miss out on other delightful ideas like our Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food or the refreshing Call A Cab Drink Recipe. Happy cooking!

📖 Recipe Card: Cashew Ice Cream Vegan Without Ice Maker

Description: A creamy and delicious vegan cashew ice cream that requires no ice cream maker. Perfectly smooth and easy to make at home.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT8H15M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup raw cashews, soaked overnight
  • 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
  • 1/2 cup maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Optional: 1/4 cup coconut cream for extra creaminess

Instructions

  1. Drain and rinse soaked cashews.
  2. Combine cashews, coconut milk, maple syrup, lemon juice, vanilla, and salt in a blender.
  3. Blend until completely smooth.
  4. Pour mixture into a freezer-safe container.
  5. Freeze for 6-8 hours, stirring every 2 hours to prevent ice crystals.
  6. Let sit at room temperature 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 320 | Protein: 6g | Fat: 25g | Carbs: 20g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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