Coconut Milk Ice Cream
Get ready to meet your new favorite dairy-free dessert Coconut Milk Ice Cream! This luscious, creamy, tropical delight is pure magic in a bowl. Made with rich coconut milk and naturally sweetened ingredients, it’s the perfect way to cool off on a hot day or satisfy your sweet tooth without the heavy stuff. Each spoonful is like a beach vacation for your taste buds smooth, silky, and just the right amount of sweet. And the best part? You don’t need an ice cream maker to make it happen. Trust me, this one’s a game-changer!
Why You’ll Love Coconut Milk Ice Cream
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Works beautifully as a base you can swirl in chocolate, nuts, fruits, or even a ribbon of caramel. Endless options!
Budget-Friendly: No fancy equipment, no rare ingredients. Just a few pantry staples and you’re on your way.
Quick and Easy: Blend, freeze, scoop that’s it. It’s truly as simple as it sounds.
Customizable: Sweeten it up, add mix-ins, or flavor it however your heart desires.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients in Coconut Milk Ice Cream
This dreamy ice cream starts with a creamy coconut base and builds flavor with just a few key ingredients. Here’s what makes it sing:
Full-Fat Coconut Milk
The rich, creamy foundation. It gives this ice cream its smooth texture and tropical taste.
Maple Syrup or Honey
Natural sweetness that blends beautifully with the coconut without overpowering it.
Vanilla Extract
Adds warmth and depth. Vanilla and coconut together? Chef’s kiss.
Salt
Just a pinch it balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
Optional Mix-Ins
Think chocolate chips, chopped nuts, toasted coconut, or swirls of fruit purée. Go wild!

Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment
No need for actual heat here, but you’ll want to chill your mixing bowl and loaf pan (or container) in the freezer. This helps the ice cream set faster and stay smoother.
Combine Ingredients
In a blender or large bowl, combine coconut milk, sweetener, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend or whisk until fully smooth and creamy.
Add Optional Mix-Ins
If using, stir in your chocolate chips, nuts, or other goodies now or wait and layer them in later for texture variation.
Pour into Container
Transfer your ice cream base into a chilled loaf pan or freezer-safe container. Smooth out the top with a spatula.
Freeze
Cover the container and freeze for about 4–6 hours, stirring every hour or so for the first 2–3 hours to break up ice crystals and keep it creamy.
Let Soften Before Scooping
When ready to serve, let the ice cream sit out for 5–10 minutes so it softens slightly. Then scoop, serve, and savor.
Serve and Enjoy
Dress it up with toppings or eat it straight from the bowl no judgment here!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 210
(put them as notes)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 4–6 hours (chilling/freezing time)
How to Serve Coconut Milk Ice Cream
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- Scoop into waffle cones or waffle bowls for a nostalgic treat
- Top with fresh berries, chocolate drizzle, or shredded coconut
- Layer into parfaits with granola and fruit
- Serve alongside warm brownies or fruit crisps
- Add a scoop to iced coffee for a tropical affogato twist
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- Use full-fat coconut milk for the best texture lite versions tend to get icy
- Chill your coconut milk beforehand for extra creaminess
- For even richer ice cream, blend in a bit of coconut cream
- Add 1–2 tablespoons of vodka or rum to keep the ice cream scoopable it won’t taste boozy, just softer
- Store covered tightly to prevent freezer burn
- If using honey, make sure it’s fully blended for a smooth texture
- Let it sit out a bit before scooping to avoid that rock-hard texture
- For chocolate lovers, mix in cocoa powder for a chocolate coconut version
- Add toasted coconut flakes on top for a tropical crunch
- Want more depth? Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to the base
FAQ’s
1. Can I use light coconut milk?
You can, but it won’t be as creamy it may end up more icy.
2. Do I need an ice cream maker?
Nope! This recipe is no-churn, so all you need is a freezer and a little patience.
3. Can I substitute the maple syrup?
Absolutely honey, agave, or even dates work well as sweeteners.
4. How long does it last in the freezer?
Best within 1–2 weeks for optimal texture, but can be stored up to a month.
5. Why is my ice cream hard after freezing?
Coconut milk can freeze solid. Let it sit out for a few minutes before scooping.
6. Can I make it vegan?
Yes! Just use maple syrup or agave instead of honey.
7. What container is best for freezing?
A loaf pan or airtight freezer-safe container works great. Cover it tightly.
8. Can I double the recipe?
For sure! Just use a larger container and make sure it fits in your freezer.
9. Can I add protein powder to it?
Yes, but mix it in well to avoid clumping vanilla or coconut flavors work best.
10. Is this recipe keto-friendly?
With a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit, yes it can be!
Conclusion
Coconut Milk Ice Cream is a creamy, dreamy escape that’s as refreshing as it is indulgent and you won’t even miss the dairy. Whether you’re vegan, lactose-intolerant, or just craving a lighter treat, this dessert hits the sweet spot. With just a few ingredients and endless flavor possibilities, it’s one recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat. So grab that spoon, dive in, and enjoy your homemade scoop of tropical bliss!
Print
Coconut Milk Ice Cream
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Total Time: 4 hrs (including chilling and freezing)
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook / Ice Cream Maker
- Cuisine: Global
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Coconut Milk Ice Cream is a creamy, dairy-free frozen dessert made with coconut milk, natural sweeteners, and optional flavorings. It’s perfect for those following vegan, lactose-free, or paleo diets, offering a rich tropical taste with a smooth texture.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (13.5 oz each) full-fat coconut milk
- 1/2 cup maple syrup or agave nectar
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional mix-ins: shredded coconut, chocolate chips, fruit, or nuts
Instructions
- In a blender or mixing bowl, combine coconut milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend or whisk until smooth and fully combined.
- Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until thoroughly cold.
- Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 20–25 minutes).
- If using mix-ins, add them during the last 5 minutes of churning.
- Transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 2–4 hours, or until firm.
- Let sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before scooping for best texture.
Notes
- For a creamier result, use only full-fat coconut milk—light versions may yield an icy texture.
- No ice cream maker? Pour the mixture into a shallow container, freeze, and stir every 30 minutes for 2–3 hours.
- Enhance with cocoa powder or espresso for different flavor profiles.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: coconut milk ice cream, dairy-free dessert, vegan ice cream, paleo dessert, no dairy frozen treat