Coconut Milk Ice Cream
If you’re craving a creamy, indulgent ice cream without the dairy, then this Coconut Milk Ice Cream is about to become your new best friend. Imagine a rich and velvety smooth scoop with the tropical essence of coconut, all without the need for heavy cream or milk. It’s dairy-free, naturally sweetened, and perfect for a summer treat or anytime you need a little indulgence. Trust me, this is one dessert that you’ll be excited to dig into!
Why You’ll Love Coconut Milk Ice Cream
This isn’t just about making ice cream; it’s about enjoying every single bite. Here’s why this coconut milk ice cream will quickly become your go-to frozen treat:
Versatile: You can add in your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips, fruit, or nuts to make this ice cream your own.
Budget-Friendly: With just a few pantry staples, you can create a rich, indulgent dessert that rivals any store-bought version.
Quick and Easy: No fancy ice cream machines required! Just mix the ingredients, freeze, and enjoy.
Customizable: You can make this recipe your own by adjusting the sweetness level or adding flavorings like vanilla, chocolate, or fruit.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re serving it to friends with dietary restrictions or anyone who loves coconut, this is a flavor that’s sure to be loved by all.
Ingredients in Coconut Milk Ice Cream
Here’s what you’ll need to make this dreamy coconut milk ice cream:
Coconut Milk: The base of this ice cream. It provides the smooth, rich texture and the signature tropical coconut flavor.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: To sweeten the ice cream, giving it that extra touch of creaminess.
Vanilla Extract: For a warm, aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with the coconut milk.
Salt: A pinch of salt helps balance the sweetness and enhances the other flavors in the ice cream.
Shredded Coconut (optional): Adds texture and extra coconut flavor if you love a little coconut bite in your ice cream.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to make this coconut milk ice cream:
Prepare Your Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the coconut milk, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and well combined.
Add Salt: Add a pinch of salt to the mixture, which will balance out the sweetness and bring out the coconut flavor.
Chill the Mixture: Place the bowl in the fridge for about 30 minutes to chill. This ensures the ice cream will freeze more evenly and gives it that creamy texture.
Freeze and Stir: Pour the chilled mixture into a freezer-safe container. Every 30 minutes, use a fork to scrape and stir the ice cream to break up any ice crystals. Continue this process for about 3-4 hours until the ice cream reaches your desired consistency.
Optional Add-ins: If you’re adding shredded coconut or any other mix-ins, fold them in after the ice cream has started to firm up, about 1 hour into freezing.
Serve and Enjoy: Once the ice cream is frozen to your liking, scoop it into bowls or cones. Serve immediately or store in the freezer for later enjoyment.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 180
(put them as notes)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 4-5 hours (includes freezing time)
How to Serve Coconut Milk Ice Cream
This ice cream pairs wonderfully with various toppings and sides. Here are a few ideas to elevate your coconut milk ice cream experience:
– Serve with a drizzle of melted chocolate or caramel for a decadent treat.
– Top with toasted coconut flakes for added texture and flavor.
– Pair with fresh fruit like mango, pineapple, or berries for a refreshing twist.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
– If you prefer a richer ice cream, use full-fat coconut milk instead of light coconut milk.
– For extra flavor, try adding a splash of rum or coconut extract to the mixture.
– If you don’t want to stir the ice cream manually, you can place it in an ice cream maker for a more traditional method.
FAQ’s
1. Can I make this ice cream without an ice cream maker?
Yes! You can freeze the mixture and stir it every 30 minutes to break up ice crystals for a smooth, creamy texture.
2. Can I use unsweetened coconut milk?
You can, but you may need to adjust the sweetness by adding a little extra sweetener like maple syrup or agave nectar.
3. How long will this ice cream keep in the freezer?
It should last up to 1-2 weeks in the freezer if stored properly in an airtight container.
4. Can I use almond milk or other non-dairy milk instead of coconut milk?
You can try almond milk or oat milk, but the texture and flavor will be different. Coconut milk gives the ice cream its creamy, rich texture.
5. Can I add fruit to this ice cream?
Yes! Puree fruits like mango, berries, or pineapple and swirl them into the ice cream for a fruity twist.
6. Can I make this ice cream sugar-free?
Yes! Use sugar substitutes like stevia or monk fruit in place of the sweetened condensed milk.
7. How do I know when the ice cream is done freezing?
The ice cream should be firm and scoopable, with a creamy texture when ready to serve.
8. Can I make this ice cream with other flavorings?
Yes! You can experiment with adding flavors like chocolate, coffee, or even a hint of mint for a unique twist.
9. Can I make this ice cream ahead of time?
Absolutely! Make the ice cream a day or two ahead and store it in the freezer until you’re ready to serve.
10. Can I use canned coconut cream instead of coconut milk?
Yes, coconut cream will make the ice cream extra rich and creamy, but be sure to adjust the sweetness to taste since coconut cream can be quite rich.
Conclusion
This Coconut Milk Ice Cream is the perfect way to enjoy a creamy, dairy-free dessert that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture. It’s easy to make, incredibly delicious, and completely customizable to suit your preferences. Whether you’re serving it as a refreshing treat on a hot day or as a special dessert for a gathering, this ice cream is sure to wow everyone who tries it. Get ready to indulge in this coconutty goodness—your taste buds will thank you!
PrintCoconut Milk Ice Cream
A creamy, dairy-free ice cream made with coconut milk that delivers a tropical flavor and smooth texture—perfect for cooling off on a warm day.
- Prep Time: 20minutes
- Cook Time: 10minutes
- Total Time: 6hours30minutes
- Yield: 1quart
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Churning/Freezing
- Cuisine: Tropical
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
– 2cans full-fat coconut milk(14oz each)
– 3/4cup sugar
– 1tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch salt
– 1cup shredded coconut (optional)
Instructions
1. In a saucepan, combine the coconut milk, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 2hours.
3. Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn for 20-25minutes until thickened.
4. If using, add the shredded coconut during the last 5minutes of churning.
5. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 4hours to firm up.
6. Remove from the freezer 10minutes before serving to soften slightly.
Notes
– For an extra tropical twist, mix in diced pineapple or mango during the last few minutes of churning.
– Using an ice cream maker yields the best texture, but a no-churn method can work if you stir the mixture every 30minutes while freezing.
– Enjoy this refreshing treat on its own or topped with toasted coconut flakes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2cup
- Calories: 200kcal
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
