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
- Combine Ingredients: Add the coconut milk, sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt to a medium saucepan.
- Heat Mixture: Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Prepare Thickener: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
- Thicken Base: Slowly whisk the cornstarch slurry into the heated coconut milk mixture.
- Cook Mixture: Continue cooking and stirring constantly for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Cool Down: Remove from heat and let the mixture cool completely to room temperature.
- Refrigerate: Place the cooled mixture in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours.
- 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.
- Freeze for Firmness: Transfer the churned ice cream into a freezer-safe container and freeze for 2 to 4 hours until firm.
- 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