Lactose Free Vanilla Ice Cream
Let’s talk about a little scoop of heaven but make it gentle on your tummy. This Lactose Free Vanilla Ice Cream is creamy, dreamy, and everything you want in a frozen treat… minus the dairy drama. It’s smooth, velvety, and packed with real vanilla flavor that sings with every bite. Whether you’re lactose intolerant or just looking to cut back on dairy, this one’s a total win. Trust me, you won’t even miss the milk. Get ready to grab a spoon and dive into a bowl of pure joy!
Why You’ll Love Lactose Free Vanilla 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: Pair it with pie, top it with fruit, or enjoy it straight from the bowl it’s the perfect blank canvas for dessert creativity.
Budget-Friendly: Store-bought lactose-free ice cream can be pricey, but this homemade version gives you double the flavor without the cost.
Quick and Easy: No fancy machines or complicated steps here. You can whip this up with just a blender and freezer.
Customizable: Add chocolate chips, swirls of almond butter, or crushed cookies the flavor possibilities are endless.
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 Lactose Free Vanilla Ice Cream
Who knew you could make something so creamy without dairy? These simple ingredients work together like magic.
Lactose-Free Milk
The base of our ice cream light, refreshing, and gentle on the tummy.
Coconut Cream or Full-Fat Coconut Milk
Adds that luxurious creaminess that makes this ice cream melt-in-your-mouth smooth.
Pure Vanilla Extract
This is where all the flavor lives. Choose a good-quality vanilla for the best results you’ll taste the difference.
Maple Syrup or Honey
Our natural sweetener of choice. It adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the vanilla.
Salt
Just a tiny pinch brings out all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment
No preheating required here — just make sure your blender or food processor is ready to go and your freezer containers are chilled.
Combine Ingredients
In a blender, combine lactose-free milk, coconut cream, vanilla extract, sweetener, and a pinch of salt. Blend until silky smooth and fully combined.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel
Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container. Something with a lid works best to avoid freezer burn.
Assemble the Dish
If you’d like to add mix-ins like chocolate chunks or crushed cookies, gently fold them into the blended mixture now.
Cook to Perfection
Pop the container into the freezer. Stir the mixture every 30 minutes for the first 2 hours to break up ice crystals and keep it creamy.
Finishing Touches
Once fully frozen (about 4–6 hours), let the ice cream sit at room temp for a few minutes before scooping. This softens it up for the perfect texture.
Serve and Enjoy
Scoop, top with your favorite goodies (or nothing at all!), and enjoy every blissful bite.
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 (freezing)
How to Serve Lactose Free Vanilla Ice Cream
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- Top with fresh berries and a drizzle of maple syrup
- Sandwich between two cookies for an irresistible ice cream sandwich
- Serve alongside a warm brownie or fruit crisp
- Add to smoothies for a creamy, frosty twist
- Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for a classic sundae
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- Use full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest texture
- Blend thoroughly to avoid icy spots
- Stirring during freezing helps mimic the churning process of an ice cream maker
- Store in an airtight container to keep it tasting fresh
- Let it thaw slightly before scooping it makes a huge difference in texture!
FAQ’s
1. Can I use almond or oat milk instead?
Yes, but they won’t give quite the same creamy result as coconut cream. Add a bit of nut butter for richness.
2. Is this recipe vegan?
It can be! Just use maple syrup instead of honey.
3. Do I need an ice cream maker?
Nope! This recipe is no-churn and freezer-friendly.
4. Can I make this sugar-free?
Yes, try a sugar-free sweetener like stevia or erythritol, but check the conversion ratios.
5. How long does this ice cream last in the freezer?
About 2 weeks for best flavor and texture, though it rarely lasts that long!
6. Why is my ice cream icy?
Make sure to blend it well and stir while freezing to prevent ice crystals.
7. Can I add mix-ins?
Absolutely! Try chocolate chips, cookie crumbles, or swirls of jam or nut butter.
8. What container is best for freezing?
A shallow, airtight container works best for quick freezing and easy scooping.
9. Can kids eat this ice cream?
Definitely! It’s a great treat for anyone avoiding dairy.
10. What can I do if it’s too hard to scoop?
Let it sit at room temp for 5–10 minutes before serving it’ll soften beautifully.
CONCLUSION
This Lactose Free Vanilla Ice Cream proves that you don’t need dairy to enjoy a truly luxurious dessert. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with pure vanilla flavor that’ll make your taste buds dance. Whether you’re dealing with dietary restrictions or just want a refreshing homemade treat, this recipe is your new go-to. So grab your blender, a spoon, and a cozy spot and get ready to fall in love with every single scoop.
Print
Lactose Free Vanilla Ice Cream
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours (including chilling and freezing)
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Freezing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
This Lactose Free Vanilla Ice Cream is creamy, smooth, and rich in flavor—made without dairy so it’s perfect for those with lactose intolerance or anyone looking for a lighter treat.
Ingredients
- 2 cups lactose-free whole milk or almond milk
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk (for creaminess)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup of the lactose-free milk with cornstarch until smooth. Set aside.
- In a saucepan, combine remaining lactose-free milk, coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Whisk in the cornstarch slurry and continue cooking until the mixture thickens slightly (about 5–7 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Let mixture cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours (or overnight).
- Churn in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions until soft-serve consistency is reached.
- Transfer to a container and freeze for 2–4 hours until firm.
Notes
- For a nut-free version, use oat milk instead of almond milk.
- If you don’t have an ice cream maker, freeze the mixture in a shallow pan and stir every 30 minutes until creamy (about 3–4 hours).
- Add mix-ins like dairy-free chocolate chips or berries during the last few minutes of churning.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: lactose free ice cream, dairy free vanilla ice cream, coconut milk ice cream, low lactose dessert, non dairy vanilla ice cream