Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe (dairy free, vegan, easy)
Summer is the perfect time to indulge in a refreshing frozen treat, and what better way to cool off than with a scoop of homemade vegan strawberry ice cream?
Whether you’re vegan, lactose-intolerant, or simply looking for a healthier alternative to traditional ice cream, this recipe is the answer.
It’s creamy, sweet, and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor—without any dairy or eggs!
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Ingredients for Vegan Strawberry Ice Cream
To make this creamy strawberry ice cream, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Base Ingredients
- 2 cups of frozen strawberries (fresh or frozen work)
- 1 can (14 oz) of coconut milk (full-fat for extra creaminess)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (or any natural sweetener of your choice)
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon of lemon juice (optional, but it enhances the flavor)
Optional Ingredients for Extra Creaminess
- 1/4 cup of cashew butter or almond butter (for a creamy texture)
- A pinch of sea salt (balances the sweetness)
Equipment You’ll Need
- Blender or food processor: For blending the strawberries and coconut milk.
- Ice cream maker: This helps to achieve the perfect creamy texture. If you don’t have one, don’t worry—there’s an alternative method (which we’ll discuss later).
How to Make Vegan Strawberry Ice Cream: Step-by-Step
Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to start making your homemade vegan strawberry ice cream! Follow these easy steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
If you’re using fresh strawberries, wash and remove the stems. Then, slice them into halves or quarters to help blend them more easily. If you’re using frozen strawberries, you can skip this step.
Step 2: Blend the Ingredients
Add the strawberries, coconut milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and lemon juice (if using) into a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy. If you’re using an ice cream maker, make sure the mixture is nice and liquid-like before moving to the next step.
Step 3: Churn the Ice Cream
If you have an ice cream maker, follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Pour the mixture into the machine, and churn for about 20-30 minutes until it reaches the consistency of soft serve.
If you don’t have an ice cream maker, no problem! Pour the blended mixture into a freezer-safe container. Place it in the freezer for at least 4 hours or until it becomes firm. You can use a fork to scrape it every 30 minutes to help achieve a smoother texture.
Step 4: Enjoy!
Once your vegan strawberry ice cream has churned or frozen to your desired consistency, scoop it into bowls or cones and enjoy! Top it with some fresh berries, shredded coconut, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra flair.
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Vegan Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe
This vegan strawberry ice cream is a creamy, dairy-free dessert made with fresh or frozen strawberries, coconut milk, and natural sweeteners. It’s easy to prepare, either with an ice cream maker or by hand, and is perfect for those seeking a healthy yet indulgent treat. Enjoy it as a refreshing summer snack or dessert!
Ingredients
- 2 cups frozen strawberries (fresh or frozen)
- 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (or any natural sweetener)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp lemon juice (optional)
- 1/4 cup cashew butter or almond butter (optional, for extra creaminess)
- Pinch of sea salt (optional, to balance sweetness)
Instructions
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 6 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 214Total Fat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 62mgCarbohydrates: 20gFiber: 2gSugar: 12gProtein: 3g
Tips for the Best Vegan Strawberry Ice Cream
To take your strawberry ice cream to the next level, try out these tips:
1. Use Full-Fat Coconut Milk
For an ultra-creamy texture, always use full-fat coconut milk. It’s rich in fat, which gives the ice cream that smooth, indulgent mouthfeel. Light coconut milk won’t provide the same richness.
2. Sweeten to Taste
The amount of sweetener you use is up to you! Taste the mixture before freezing, and adjust it as needed. If you prefer a lower-sugar version, you can opt for stevia, monk fruit sweetener, or just reduce the maple syrup amount.
3. Add Mix-ins
Get creative with your ice cream by adding mix-ins! Chopped dark chocolate, crushed nuts, or even a swirl of peanut butter can make your vegan strawberry ice cream even more delicious.
4. Serve with Toppings
Serve your homemade ice cream with toppings like granola, fresh fruit, or a drizzle of vegan chocolate sauce for extra flavor and crunch.
Storage Tips
Store leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. This will keep it fresh and prevent it from getting too hard or icy. To enjoy it later, simply let it sit out for a few minutes to soften before scooping.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make vegan strawberry ice cream without an ice cream maker?
Yes! You can freeze the mixture in a container, stirring it every 30 minutes to break up the ice crystals and help it achieve a creamy texture.
Can I use another plant-based milk instead of coconut milk?
Yes, you can! Almond milk or cashew milk can be used as a substitute, but note that the texture may be less creamy than coconut milk. You can add more cashew butter or another thickener for richness.
How can I make this recipe lower in sugar?
You can reduce the maple syrup or use a sugar alternative like stevia or monk fruit. Adjust the sweetness according to your personal taste.
Can I make this recipe with fresh strawberries?
Yes, fresh strawberries work perfectly in this recipe! Just be sure to freeze them beforehand for the best consistency.
How long does vegan strawberry ice cream last in the freezer?
Stored properly in an airtight container, vegan strawberry ice cream will last about 1-2 weeks in the freezer. For the best texture, consume it within a week.
You may also like: 5 Healthy and Easy Vegan Desserts to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
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