Description
Craving a rich, creamy dessert that’s completely vegan and bursting with flavor? This Best Vegan Ice Cream is your dream come true! Made with just three simple ingredients—coconut milk, maple syrup, and tahini—this ice cream is smooth, nutty, and naturally sweetened.
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make this Best Vegan Ice Cream. Each ingredient adds to the rich, nutty, and creamy magic.
- Full-Fat Coconut Milk (1 [14-ounce] can): Creates a rich, creamy base for the ice cream.
- Pure Maple Syrup (1/3 cup): Naturally sweetens with a warm, caramel-like flavor.
- Tahini (1/4 cup): Adds a nutty, creamy depth to the flavor.
- Optional Toppings:
- Sesame Seeds: Add a crunchy, nutty garnish.
- Tart Cherries: Bring a tangy, fruity contrast.
- Chocolate: Adds a rich, indulgent touch (chips, shavings, or drizzle).
Substitutions and Variations
- Coconut Milk: Use coconut cream for an even richer texture or cashew milk for a milder flavor (blend well).
- Maple Syrup: Swap with agave nectar or honey (if not strictly vegan) for similar sweetness.
- Tahini: Replace with almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option.
- Toppings: Try crushed nuts, fresh berries, coconut flakes, or a caramel drizzle for variety.
- Flavor Twists: Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, or 2 tablespoons cocoa powder for different flavor profiles.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ice Cream Maker
- Freeze the base of your KitchenAid® Ice Cream Attachment (or similar ice cream maker) for at least 12 hours, preferably overnight.
Tip: Ensure the base is fully frozen to achieve a thick, creamy texture.
Step 2: Make the Ice Cream Base
- In a large bowl, whisk together 1 (14-ounce) can full-fat coconut milk, 1/3 cup pure maple syrup, and 1/4 cup tahini until smooth.
- If the coconut milk is chunky or separated, blend the mixture in a high-speed blender for a smoother consistency.
Tip: Chill the mixture in the fridge for 30 minutes before churning for faster results.
Step 3: Churn the Ice Cream
- Pour the mixture into the frozen ice cream maker base.
- Churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically 20 minutes, until the ice cream is thick and creamy (soft-serve consistency).
Tip: Check the texture at 15 minutes; stop churning when it looks like soft-serve ice cream.
Step 4: Serve or Freeze
- For soft-serve texture, scoop the ice cream immediately and serve with optional toppings like sesame seeds, tart cherries, or chocolate.
- For firmer ice cream, transfer to an airtight, freezer-safe container and freeze for 1–2 hours.
- Serve with your chosen toppings.
Tip: Press plastic wrap onto the surface before freezing to prevent ice crystals.