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Vegan Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe


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3.8 from 46 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 15 minutes plus at least 2 hours chilling and 2-4 hours freezing
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

This Vegan Vanilla Ice Cream is a smooth, creamy, and classic dairy-free dessert that captures the rich flavor of vanilla using coconut milk as a creamy base. It is simple to make and perfect as a refreshing treat or paired with fruits, pies, and brownies.


Ingredients

Base Ingredients

  • 2 cans (13.5 oz / 400 ml each) full-fat coconut milk
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Thickening Mixture

  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons water


Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: Add the coconut milk, sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt to a medium saucepan.
  2. Heat Mixture: Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously until the sugar dissolves completely.
  3. Prepare Thickener: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
  4. Thicken Base: Slowly whisk the cornstarch slurry into the heated coconut milk mixture.
  5. Cook Mixture: Continue cooking and stirring constantly for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
  6. Cool Down: Remove from heat and let the mixture cool completely to room temperature.
  7. Refrigerate: Place the cooled mixture in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours.
  8. Churn Ice Cream: Pour the chilled base into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
  9. Freeze for Firmness: Transfer the churned ice cream into a freezer-safe container and freeze for 2 to 4 hours until firm.
  10. Serve: Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes before scooping to soften slightly for easier serving.

Notes

  • Use full-fat coconut milk to ensure the ice cream is creamy and rich, not light coconut milk.
  • For a deeper vanilla flavor, vanilla bean paste can be substituted in place of vanilla extract.
  • Customize by adding crushed cookies, fresh berries, chocolate chips, or toasted nuts during or after churning.
  • Chilling the mixture thoroughly before churning produces the smoothest texture.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Churning
  • Cuisine: American