This homemade ice cream recipe offers two variations: a simple coconut milk version for those who prefer a lighter, dairy-free ice cream recipe and a custard style for those who love a richer texture. I tried making homemade coconut ice cream multiple ways before landing on my favorite version that I’m sharing with you today. Originally I started with a dairy-free base using just coconut milk and coconut cream, but while good, it didn’t have the same richness and smooth mouthfeel of the custard-style ice cream recipe that ended up being our favorite. Both versions use basic ingredients like coconut milk, sugar, and vanilla extract, but the custard style adds egg yolks for a more traditional ice cream base recipe. I ended up including both variations in the recipe card below, with the dairy-free option in the notes section. Our ultimate coconut ice cream uses full-fat coconut milk and heavy cream to ensure a creamy texture, with just the right amount of white sugar to perfectly complement the coconut flavor. For more delicious ice cream recipes, check out my Pineapple Ice Cream, Coconut Macadamia Nut Ice Cream, Toasted Almond Ice Cream, and Cherry Pistachio Ice Cream!
Why We Love This Recipe
Homemade ice cream is by nature a make-ahead dessert, which can help relieve the pressure for when you’re hosting a party or a get-together. The just coconut milk recipe is not only great for coconut lovers but also for those seeking a vegan ice cream option. Both of the recipes contained in this post are quick and easy to put together, with the fridge and the freezer doing most of the heavy lifting.
What You’ll Need
Scroll down to the recipe card below this post for ingredient quantities and full instructions.
Full-Fat Coconut Milk – Provides a rich and creamy texture that serves as the foundation of the ice cream. High-fat coconut milk is the best to use for ice cream, but you can alternatively use normal coconut milk mixed with coconut cream for similar results. Whole Milk and Heavy Cream – Contributes to the creamy, rich texture of the custard base. Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the ice cream. Salt – Just a pinch is all you need to enhance the flavor of this ice cream. Vanilla Extract – The hint of vanilla complements the coconut taste. Egg Yolks – Creates a creamy custard base, giving the ice cream a rich and smooth texture.. Shredded Sweetened Coconut – Adds a burst of coconut flavor and some texture to the ice cream. Vanilla Bean Paste – Offers a deep, aromatic vanilla flavor with little specks of vanilla bean. You can use an equal amount of regular vanilla extract if you don’t have vanilla bean paste on hand. Coconut Flakes or Chips – Used for garnishing and adding texture.
How to Make Coconut Ice Cream
Tips for Success
Always go for full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest texture. Also, the brand of coconut milk that you use can also make a difference, so try a few different brands to find the one that works best for you. When preparing the custard base, the mixture should reach 170°F to properly thicken while avoiding boiling temperatures, as this can cause the eggs to curdle. Use a thermometer for accuracy. To scoop the ice cream easily, let it sit out at room temperature to soften a bit and dip your ice cream scoop in warm water before scooping. This will help cut through the ice cream more smoothly. If adding mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts, do so after the churning process. Keep in mind that too many mix-ins can affect the texture and freezing of the ice cream, so keep your ice cream simple for the best results.
Substitutions and Variations
To make the custard-style vegan-friendly, omit the egg yolks and use a vegan thickener like cornstarch or guar gum. After churning, consider adding some mix-ins, like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or fruit pieces for added texture and flavor. You could add sweetened coconut flakes after churning for a little bit of extra sweetness and texture without straying too far from the original recipe. Experiment with different flavors like cocoa powder for a chocolate coconut ice cream. You can also infuse the milk with spices like cinnamon or cardamom, and Vanilla bean can be used in place of vanilla extract for a more intense flavor. You can elevate this ice cream easily by serving it with an amazing topping, such as chocolate fudge sauce, sea salt and caramel sauce, honey, or a simple flavored syrup like raspberry, strawberry, chocolate, or maple syrup. Then go the extra mile by adding extra shredded coconut flakes on top of the sauce!
More Homemade Ice Cream Recipes
Peach Ice Cream Easy Grasshopper Ice Cream Pie Homemade Strawberry Ice Cream Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Apple Pie Ice Cream
The ice cream should reach a soft serve consistency after churning. Over-churning can make the ice cream go too hard, while under-churning can leave it too soft.
Pineapple Ice Cream
Rainbow Sherbet
Blackberry Swirl Ice Cream
Let me know what you thought with a comment and rating below. You can also take a picture and tag me on Instagram @houseofnasheats or share it on the Pinterest pin so I can see.
