Coconut Milk Ice Cream
If you're on the hunt for a creamy, dairy-free treat, this Coconut Milk Ice Cream is your answer. It's rich, refreshing, and so easy to make — perfect for any season and sure to delight everyone, from kids to adults.
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Ingredients for Coconut Milk Ice Cream
Coconut milk is our creamy base, providing rich texture and a subtle tropical flavor. Opt for full-fat for the best results. Sweetener brings the sweetness — maple syrup gives a warm, earthy touch, while agave is a bit more neutral. Vanilla extract adds depth and a hint of warmth, making the flavors sing. A pinch of salt enhances all the other flavors without being overtly salty.
Coconut Milk Ice Cream Tips & Tricks
- Chill your coconut milk cans in the fridge overnight for a thicker base.
- For extra creaminess, add a tablespoon of coconut oil before blending.
- Stir in shredded coconut or chocolate chips before the final freeze for added texture.
Serving Ideas for Coconut Milk Ice Cream
Pair this ice cream with a slice of warm pie for a delightful contrast. Or, try topping it with fresh mango or pineapple for a fruit-forward treat. Feeling fancy? A drizzle of melted dark chocolate and a sprinkle of toasted coconut can make it dessert-worthy for any dinner party.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use light coconut milk?
- It's not recommended as it won't give the same creamy texture.
- What if I don't have an ice cream maker?
- You can pour the mixture into a shallow dish, freeze it, and stir every 30 minutes until it firms up.
Coconut Milk Ice Cream Recipe Walkthrough
Start by grabbing your trusty blender. Pour in both cans of coconut milk, ensuring you scrape out any thick cream clinging inside. Add your chosen sweetener — about half a cup should do it, but feel free to adjust to taste. Next, drizzle in a teaspoon of vanilla extract and sprinkle in that small pinch of salt. Blend everything together until you have a silky smooth mixture, which should only take about 30 seconds.
Pour this creamy concoction into your ice cream maker. If you're new to using one, just follow the manufacturer's instructions, which usually involve churning for about 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for a texture similar to soft-serve ice cream.
Once churned, transfer the ice cream into a lidded container. Pop it into the freezer for at least two hours. This step firms it up to a scoopable consistency, but if you're impatient like me, stealing a spoonful early is totally understandable!
Why This Coconut Milk Ice Cream Works
- Simple Ingredients: Only four main ingredients you probably already have.
- Dairy-Free: Perfect for lactose-intolerant friends or those avoiding dairy.
- Customizable Sweetness: Use your preferred sweetener for just-right sweetness.
- Quick Prep: Minimal hands-on time before you can enjoy your treat.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (14 oz each) coconut milk
- 1/2 cup sweetener of choice (such as maple syrup or agave nectar)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Step-by-step Instructions
- 1. In a blender, combine the coconut milk, sweetener, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend until smooth.
- 2. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
- 3. Transfer the ice cream into a lidded container and freeze for at least 2 hours to firm up before serving.