Description
This recipe delivers incredibly rich and creamy coconut ice cream, perfect for tropical dessert lovers. We provide instructions for both traditional churning and a simple no-churn method using sweetened condensed milk.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cans (13.5 oz each) full-fat coconut milk, chilled overnight in the refrigerator
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk (or use full-fat coconut cream + maple syrup for vegan option)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon coconut extract (optional, for intense flavor)
- Pinch of salt
- Optional Mix-ins: 1/2 cup toasted coconut flakes or chopped macadamia nuts
Instructions
- Prepare the Coconut Cream: Open the chilled cans of coconut milk without shaking them. Scoop out the thick, solidified cream from the top into a large mixing bowl. Reserve the watery liquid underneath for smoothies or discard if not needed for the recipe.
- Combine Base Ingredients: To the coconut cream, add the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, coconut extract (if using), and a pinch of salt.
- Churn Method (Recommended): Whisk the mixture until smooth and well combined. Pour the mixture into your pre-frozen ice cream maker bowl and churn according to the manufacturer’s directions (usually 20–30 minutes) until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
- No-Churn Method: Whisk the mixture until smooth. If adding mix-ins, gently fold them in now. Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container (like a loaf pan, lined with parchment paper for easy removal). Cover tightly with plastic wrap, pressing the wrap directly onto the surface of the ice cream to prevent ice crystals.
- Freeze: For both methods, transfer the ice cream to the freezer and freeze for at least 4–6 hours, or until firm. If using the no-churn method, allow it to soften for 10–15 minutes on the counter before scooping.
- Serve: Scoop and garnish with extra toasted coconut flakes.
Notes
- For the best results, ensure your coconut milk cans are full-fat and have been refrigerated for at least 12 hours.
- To make this recipe fully vegan, replace the dairy sweetened condensed milk with a homemade version using full-fat coconut cream and maple syrup, adjusting sweetness to taste.
- Toasting the coconut flakes beforehand significantly enhances the flavor profile.
- Prep Time: PT10M
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Frozen Desserts
- Method: Churning or No-Churn
- Cuisine: American/Tropical
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg