Creamy Vegan Coconut Milk Ice Cream

Indulge in the rich and delightful world of plant-based desserts with this luscious Vegan Coconut Milk Ice Cream recipe. Whether you’re following a vegan lifestyle or simply seeking a dairy-free treat, this recipe offers a velvety texture and a burst of tropical coconut flavor that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. With just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of patience, you’ll create a dessert that’s as delicious as it is kind to the planet.

How Long Does Vegan Coconut Milk Ice Cream Keep in the Fridge?

Vegan Coconut Milk Ice Cream can be stored in the fridge for a reasonable amount of time, but it’s essential to note that its texture may change over time. Generally, when properly stored in an airtight container, this ice cream can maintain its quality for up to one week. However, as time goes on, it may become slightly firmer or form ice crystals. To combat this, you can let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping. If you plan to make it well in advance, consider freezing it for longer-term storage, where it can stay at peak quality for about 1-2 months in the freezer. Just remember to store it in a freezer-safe container, and seal it tightly to prevent freezer burn. Whether freshly made or from the freezer, this vegan delight is sure to satisfy your sweet cravings.

Special Equipment for Making Vegan Coconut Milk Ice Cream

Creating Vegan Coconut Milk Ice Cream is delightfully straightforward, but there is one piece of special equipment that can greatly enhance the process: an ice cream maker. While it’s possible to make this creamy treat without one, an ice cream maker ensures a smoother and more consistent texture. It churns the mixture, preventing the formation of large ice crystals and resulting in a creamier, more indulgent final product. However, if you don’t have an ice cream maker, don’t worry! You can still achieve excellent results by manually stirring the mixture as it freezes, though the texture might be slightly different. So, while an ice cream maker is a handy tool, it’s not absolutely necessary to whip up this delectable vegan dessert.

Serving Size for Vegan Coconut Milk Ice Cream

The recommended serving size for Vegan Coconut Milk Ice Cream is typically about one-half cup or approximately 125 milliliters per serving. This portion size allows you to savor the creamy coconut goodness while keeping an eye on portion control. Of course, you can adjust the serving size to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Whether you enjoy a smaller scoop as a light treat or a more generous serving for a special occasion, this versatile dessert can be customized to accommodate your desired portion sizes, making it a flexible and guilt-free option for any occasion.

Vegan Coconut Milk Ice Cream

Recipe by Connor GoodaleCourse: DessertDifficulty: Easy

Servings

8

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

3

hours 

20

minutes

Calories

250

kcal

Ingredients

• 2 cans (28 oz) full-fat coconut milk

• 1/2 cup coconut cream

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

• Optional add-ins: dairy-free chocolate chips, toasted coconut flakes, chopped nuts

Directions

• Prep the Ice Cream Maker: If you have an ice cream maker, ensure that the freezing bowl has been properly chilled according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Mix and Heat: In a medium saucepan, combine the coconut milk, coconut cream, and sugar over medium heat. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well combined. Do not boil. Remove from heat.
• Flavor Infusion: Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to the coconut mixture. Stir to incorporate the flavors evenly. You can also add any optional add-ins at this stage.
• Cooling: Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer it to a lidded container and refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours, or until thoroughly chilled.
• Churning: If using an ice cream maker, pour the chilled mixture into the machine and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically for about 20-25 minutes. The ice cream should reach a soft-serve consistency.
• Final Freeze: Transfer the churned ice cream into a lidded container. If you desire a firmer consistency, you can further freeze the ice cream for 2-3 hours or until solid.
• Serving: Before serving, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly, making scooping easier. Garnish with additional toasted coconut flakes, chocolate chips, or nuts if desired.

Notes

• Quality Coconut Milk Matters: For the best results, choose high-quality full-fat coconut milk. Look for brands with minimal additives or preservatives. Opt for coconut milk with a thick consistency to ensure a creamy ice cream texture. Quality coconut milk will provide a richer flavor and smoother mouthfeel, making your vegan ice cream truly exceptional.
• Sweetening and Flavor Balance: Experiment with sweeteners to find your perfect balance. While granulated sugar is a common choice, you can also try alternatives like maple syrup, agave nectar, or coconut sugar. Adjust the amount of sweetener according to your taste preferences. Don’t forget to fine-tune the amount of vanilla extract and salt as well, as these elements enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Pre-Chill the Mixture: After combining the ingredients and before churning, ensure that the mixture is thoroughly chilled. A well-chilled base will churn more efficiently and result in a creamier consistency. Aim for a minimum of 2-3 hours in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld and the mixture to reach an ideal temperature for churning.
• Mindful Churning: If you’re using an ice cream maker, follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Over-churning can lead to an overly dense or icy texture. Once the ice cream reaches a soft-serve consistency, transfer it to a lidded container promptly and freeze to your desired firmness. If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can still achieve good results by periodically stirring the mixture as it freezes in a lidded container.
• Creative Add-Ins: Elevate your vegan coconut milk ice cream by adding creative mix-ins. Consider ingredients like dairy-free chocolate chips, toasted coconut flakes, chopped nuts, or swirls of fruit preserves. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also add delightful textures that elevate the overall eating experience. Just ensure that your chosen add-ins are vegan-friendly to maintain the plant-based integrity of the recipe.