Description
This delicious and creamy Vanilla Ice Cream recipe is made with simple plant-based ingredients, offering a rich, smooth texture and authentic vanilla flavor. Easy to prepare with or without an ice cream maker, it is perfect for anyone seeking a wholesome and customizable frozen treat any time of year.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 1 cup almond milk
- 1/3 cup maple syrup (natural)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste (natural)
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional Variations and Mix-ins
- 2 tablespoons melted cocoa or plant-based chocolate chips (for Chocolate Swirl)
- 1 cup fresh or frozen berries (for Berry Bliss)
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon or cardamom (for Spiced Vanilla)
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon or orange zest (for Citrus Zest)
- 1/4 cup toasted plant-based nuts like pistachios or pecans (for Nut Crunch)
Instructions
- Blend Your Ingredients: In a high-speed blender, combine full-fat coconut milk, almond milk, maple syrup (natural), vanilla bean paste (natural), a pinch of salt, and the natural gelling agent. Blend until the mixture is perfectly smooth and the vanilla is evenly incorporated throughout the creamy base.
- Chill the Base: Transfer the blended mixture into a bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until completely cold. Thorough chilling is essential for achieving a smooth, creamy ice cream texture.
- Churn the Ice Cream: Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically about 20-25 minutes, until the ice cream thickens and soft peaks form. If you do not have an ice cream maker, place the mixture in a freezer-safe container and vigorously stir every 30 minutes while freezing to mimic churning.
- Freeze Until Firm: Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows flavors to meld and texture to stabilize for perfect scooping.
Notes
- Use full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest texture.
- Chill all ingredients before blending to help form smaller ice crystals and smoother ice cream.
- Measure and add the natural gelling agent carefully to avoid any gummy texture.
- Fold in any nuts, fruits, or mix-ins after churning to retain their texture and flavor.
- Store ice cream in airtight containers to prevent freezer burn and preserve flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes (churning) + freezing time
- Category: Desserts
- Method: No-bake, Churning
- Cuisine: Plant-based
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Vanilla Ice Cream, Plant-based Ice Cream, Vegan Dessert, Homemade Ice Cream, Dairy-free Dessert
