Thai Coconut Milk Ice Cream (Printable version)

Creamy dairy-free coconut ice cream inspired by Thai street desserts with vanilla

# What You'll Need:

→ Coconut Base

01 - 2 cups full-fat coconut milk
02 - 1 cup coconut cream
03 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
04 - 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
05 - 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

→ Optional Mix-ins

06 - 1/2 cup toasted coconut flakes
07 - 1/3 cup roasted unsalted peanuts, chopped
08 - 1/2 cup diced ripe mango

# Directions:

01 - Combine coconut milk, coconut cream, sugar, and salt in a medium saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until sugar dissolves completely, approximately 3-5 minutes. Avoid boiling the mixture.
02 - Remove saucepan from heat and stir in vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
03 - Let mixture cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until thoroughly chilled for at least 2 hours.
04 - Process chilled mixture in ice cream maker according to manufacturer instructions, typically 20-25 minutes, until reaching soft-serve consistency.
05 - If using optional ingredients, gently fold toasted coconut flakes, chopped peanuts, or diced mango into ice cream during final minutes of churning.
06 - Transfer churned ice cream to lidded freezer-safe container. Freeze for minimum 2 hours until firm.
07 - Let container sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping. Serve plain or with additional toppings of choice.

# Expert advice:

01 -
  • The texture mimics premium dairy ice cream but happens to be completely vegan
  • You can customize it endlessly with tropical fruits and crunchy toppings
  • It transports you to Thai night markets with just one bite
02 -
  • Never let the coconut base come to a boil, which can cause the milk to separate
  • The base must be thoroughly chilled before churning or you will end up with icy crystals
  • Coconut ice cream freezes harder than dairy versions, so plan that 10 minute soften time
03 -
  • Shake your coconut cans before opening, sometimes the cream separates
  • Set your ice cream canister in the freezer overnight for best results

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