There’s something wonderfully tropical and indulgent about coconut ice cream, especially when it’s made vegan and from scratch using a Cuisinart ice cream maker. This creamy, dreamy dessert captures the essence of coconut with a luscious texture that’s perfect for those warm days or whenever you crave a refreshing treat.
Whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant, or simply looking to explore the world of dairy-free desserts, this coconut ice cream recipe combines simplicity and flavor beautifully.
Using a Cuisinart ice cream maker makes the process effortless and ensures a velvety smooth consistency every time. Plus, the ingredients are all natural and easy to find.
You’ll love how the subtle sweetness of coconut milk pairs perfectly with a hint of vanilla and maybe a touch of maple syrup for natural sugar. Ready to impress your guests or just treat yourself?
Let’s dive into this delicious vegan coconut ice cream recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan coconut ice cream recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it’s utterly dairy-free, relying on rich coconut milk to deliver creamy satisfaction without any animal products.
It’s also naturally sweetened with maple syrup, making it a healthier alternative to traditional ice creams laden with refined sugars.
The use of your Cuisinart ice cream maker means less hassle and more control over texture, resulting in a perfectly churned ice cream that’s smooth and scoopable straight from the freezer. It’s adaptable, too — you can easily add mix-ins like shredded coconut, chocolate chips, or berries to customize your treat.
Lastly, it’s a recipe that feels both indulgent and wholesome, suitable for vegans, vegetarians, and anyone who loves a delicious frozen dessert with a tropical twist.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (13.5 oz each) full-fat coconut milk (chilled overnight)
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup (or agave syrup)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- Optional mix-ins: 1/2 cup shredded unsweetened coconut, 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips, or 1/2 cup chopped fresh fruit
Equipment
- Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker (model with 1.5-quart capacity recommended)
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Freezer-safe container for storing ice cream
Instructions
- Chill your coconut milk cans overnight. This helps separate the creamy solid from the watery liquid, which is key for creamy ice cream texture.
- Scoop out the solid coconut cream from both cans into a mixing bowl. Reserve the liquid for smoothies or other recipes.
- Whisk in the maple syrup, vanilla extract, and sea salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Pour the mixture into the Cuisinart ice cream maker’s frozen bowl. Follow your machine’s instructions for churning, typically about 20-25 minutes until thickened.
- During the last 5 minutes of churning, add any optional mix-ins like shredded coconut or chocolate chips.
- Transfer the churned ice cream into a freezer-safe container. Smooth the top with a spatula, then cover and freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm.
- Before serving, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to soften slightly for easy scooping.
Tips & Variations
For the creamiest ice cream, be sure your coconut milk is full-fat and well chilled.
You can experiment with sweeteners by substituting maple syrup with coconut sugar syrup or agave nectar, depending on your taste preferences. For added texture, mix in toasted coconut flakes or crushed nuts just before freezing.
If you want a tropical twist, try adding finely diced pineapple or mango during the last few minutes of churning. For a chocolate lover’s version, swirl in dairy-free chocolate fudge sauce after churning but before freezing.
To enhance the coconut flavor, a teaspoon of coconut extract can be added along with vanilla extract. And if you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute one can of coconut milk with coconut water, but note this will reduce creaminess.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount Per Serving (1/2 cup) |
---|---|
Calories | 220 |
Total Fat | 18g |
Saturated Fat | 16g |
Carbohydrates | 16g |
Sugars | 14g |
Protein | 2g |
Fiber | 1g |
Sodium | 35mg |
Serving Suggestions
This vegan coconut ice cream pairs beautifully with a variety of desserts and snacks. Serve it alongside tropical fruit salads or fresh berries for a light, refreshing treat.
It also makes a delightful complement to warm desserts like Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe for a sweet contrast.
For a decadent twist, top your coconut ice cream with toasted nuts, a drizzle of vegan chocolate sauce, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon. It’s also fantastic served in a vegan waffle cone or alongside a slice of Pareve Cake Recipe.
Looking for a unique flavor pairing? Try it as a base for a sundae topped with homemade fruit compote or a spoonful of Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe for a surprising sweet and spicy contrast.
Conclusion
This vegan coconut ice cream made in your Cuisinart ice cream maker is a perfect blend of creamy texture and tropical flavor that’s sure to become a household favorite. It’s simple to prepare, requires just a few wholesome ingredients, and is versatile enough to satisfy a variety of palates.
Whether you’re serving it at a summer gathering or enjoying a quiet moment of indulgence, this recipe offers a refreshing and healthy alternative to traditional ice creams.
With options to customize and add your own flair, you can make this your signature frozen treat. Plus, it aligns beautifully with a plant-based lifestyle without compromising on richness or taste.
Next time you want a cool, dairy-free dessert, remember this delicious coconut ice cream recipe — your Cuisinart will do most of the magic!
📖 Recipe Card: Coconut Ice Cream Recipe Cuisinart Vegan
Description: A creamy and refreshing vegan coconut ice cream made easily with a Cuisinart ice cream maker. Perfect for a dairy-free dessert that everyone can enjoy.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT25M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cans (14 oz each) full-fat coconut milk
- 3/4 cup organic cane sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional for creaminess)
- 1/2 cup shredded unsweetened coconut (optional)
Instructions
- In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, salt, and cornstarch.
- Slowly add coconut milk and water, whisking until smooth.
- Heat mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened, about 7-10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and coconut oil.
- Cool mixture to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Pour chilled mixture into the Cuisinart ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
- Add shredded coconut during the last 5 minutes of churning if using.
- Transfer ice cream to a container and freeze for 2 hours before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 250 kcal | Protein: 2 g | Fat: 22 g | Carbs: 15 g
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