If you’ve ever dreamed of making homemade ice cream without fancy tools, this creamy coconut ice cream from scratch is the perfect place to start.
It’s silky, flavorful, and surprisingly simple. Using real coconut milk and a few pantry ingredients, you’ll create a dessert that feels tropical, refreshing, and deeply satisfying.
This beginner-friendly recipe guarantees a creamy texture that rivals any store-bought ice cream better, because you made it yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make your creamy coconut ice cream from scratch, gather:
2 cups (480 ml) full-fat coconut milk
½ cup (100 g) sugar
½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream or condensed milk (optional for richness)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Creamy Coconut Ice Cream from Scratch Recipe
Step 1: Warm the Coconut Base
In a saucepan, combine coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Warm over medium heat, stirring gently until the sugar dissolves completely. Avoid boiling, you just want a smooth, well-mixed base.
Step 2: Add Vanilla and Cool
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let the mixture cool to room temperature. This helps your coconut ice cream base freeze evenly later.
Step 3: Whip the Cream (Optional)
If you’re using heavy cream, whip it until soft peaks form, then fold it gently into the cooled coconut mixture. This makes the ice cream lighter and creamier.
Step 4: Freeze and Whisk
Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container. Freeze for 2 hours, then take it out and whisk vigorously with a fork or hand mixer. Repeat this every 30 minutes for about 2 hours. This keeps your creamy coconut ice cream smooth and airy, even without a machine.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once it’s firm and creamy, scoop it into bowls or cones. Top with toasted coconut or drizzle of honey. Your creamy coconut ice cream from scratch is ready to be enjoyed.
Tips for the Perfect Coconut Ice Cream
- Use full-fat coconut milk for the best texture.
- Chill your bowl before whipping for faster thickening.
- Stir regularly during freezing to prevent ice crystals.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep it creamy.
If you loved this recipe, try our Ice Cream from Milk (No Machine Needed) another simple homemade favorite.
Learn more about the science of freezing and ice-cream smoothness from the Science of Cooking: Ice Cream Guide.
