Name: Vegan Key Lime Ice Cream
Prep time: 490 min
Total time: 490 min
Ingredients: 2 large avocados; 3/4 cup key lime juice; 1/2 cup pure maple syrup; 1 cup full-fat canned coconut milk; 1/4 teaspoon sea salt; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons coconut oil

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There’s something incredibly refreshing about the summertime, especially when it comes to enjoying a delicious, cold treat. One of my absolute favorites is Vegan Key Lime Ice Cream. I remember the first time I made it—it was a sweltering day, and I craved something sweet, tangy, and icy. As I blended together the creamy goodness of avocados with the zesty burst of key lime juice, I knew I was onto something special. This ice cream isn’t just a dessert; it’s a nostalgia-packed experience of summer days spent by the pool, laughter, and joy. As it churned in my ice cream maker, the anticipation grew, and when I finally served it up, I couldn’t help but smile at the smiles it brought to my friends and family.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
8 hr 10 mins

Prep Time:
490 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
240 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
11 g

Tools Used:
Food Processor, Blender, Peeler

Why This Vegan Key Lime Ice Cream Is a Winner

It’s a Dairy-Free Dream

For anyone looking to enjoy a creamy dessert without dairy, this Vegan Key Lime Ice Cream is a game changer. It uses coconut milk as a base, providing that rich texture you’d expect from traditional ice cream. Plus, the maple syrup adds just the right amount of natural sweetness.

A Unique Flavor Profile

The combination of key lime juice and avocados might sound unusual, but trust me, it creates a refreshing flavor that’s both tangy and creamy. Each bite is like a little taste of sunshine.

Simple Ingredients

One of the best parts of this recipe is how simple it is. You likely have most of the ingredients in your pantry already, making it an easy go-to for any summer gathering or spontaneous dessert craving.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This ice cream isn’t just for hot summer days; it makes a fantastic dessert for dinner parties, picnics, or even just a quiet night in. Its bright and cheerful flavor can lift any mood.

Great for Kids

Kids love this treat! It’s a fun way to introduce them to healthier desserts without sacrificing taste. Plus, they can help with the blending and churning process, making it an enjoyable family activity.

Freezable for Later

Made too much? Not a problem! This Vegan Key Lime Ice Cream can be stored in the freezer for later enjoyment. Just remember to let it thaw for a few minutes before scooping for the best texture.

Ingredients for Vegan Key Lime Ice Cream

When it comes to creating the perfect Vegan Key Lime Ice Cream, the ingredients play a crucial role in achieving that creamy and refreshing texture. The key players here include ripe avocados, which lend a smooth and luxurious creaminess, and key lime juice, which gives that signature tartness that balances out the sweetness of the maple syrup. Together, they make for a delightful summer treat.

2 large avocados – These provide the creamy base for the ice cream and are packed with healthy fats.
3/4 cup key lime juice – This gives the ice cream its zesty flavor, making it refreshing and tangy.
½ cup + 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup – A natural sweetener that enhances the flavor without overpowering it.
1 cup full-fat canned coconut milk – This adds richness and creaminess to the ice cream.
¼ teaspoon sea salt – Enhances all the flavors, bringing balance to the sweetness and acidity.
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – Adds a warm, fragrant note to the ice cream.
2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted and cooled – Helps create a smooth texture in the ice cream.

Making Vegan Key Lime Ice Cream

Creating your own Vegan Key Lime Ice Cream is not only satisfying but also quite simple. Follow these steps to whip up this delightful treat that everyone will love!

Start by placing the bowl of your ice cream maker in your freezer and freeze overnight. This step is crucial for achieving that creamy consistency when churning.
Once your bowl is frozen, gather your ingredients. Add all of the ingredients—avocados, key lime juice, maple syrup, coconut milk, sea salt, vanilla extract, and coconut oil—to a blender or food processor.
Blend on high speed until completely smooth, ensuring there are no lumps. The color should be a lovely, vibrant green.
Transfer your ice cream base to the pre-frozen ice cream maker. Turn on the machine and churn until it thickens and becomes creamy. This usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes, but check your machine’s instructions as times may vary.
At this point, you can serve it immediately for a soft-serve texture, which is absolutely delicious.
If you prefer a firmer consistency, transfer the ice cream to a freezer-safe container. Spread it evenly and seal with a lid. Freeze until hardened, about 2 hours.
When ready to serve, take the ice cream out of the freezer and let it thaw for about 5 to 10 minutes. This makes scooping easier.
Use an ice cream scoop to serve portions into bowls or cones. You may wish to garnish with lime slices or fresh mint for an extra touch of elegance.
Enjoy your homemade Vegan Key Lime Ice Cream as a refreshing treat on a hot day or as a delightful dessert after a meal.

Things Worth Knowing

Ingredient Quality: Use ripe, high-quality avocados for the best flavor and creaminess.
Churning Time: Ensure you follow your ice cream maker’s instructions for the best results in texture.
Sweetness Level: Adjust the maple syrup according to your taste preference; you can add more or less!
Serving Temperature: Let the ice cream sit out for a few minutes before scooping to achieve the perfect consistency.

Substitutions and Tips

While this recipe is delightful as is, there are plenty of ways to customize it! Here are some tips to make the most of your Vegan Key Lime Ice Cream.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent freezer burn.
Freezing: Can you freeze this? Yes! Just remember to let it thaw slightly before serving.
Pairing: Serve alongside fresh fruit like berries for a colorful, refreshing dessert.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with adding fresh herbs like mint or basil to enhance flavors!
Serving Suggestions: Consider serving it in a coconut shell for a fun tropical presentation.
Garnishes: Top with fresh lime zest or whipped coconut cream for an extra special touch.

Perfect Matches for Vegan Key Lime Ice Cream

Fresh Fruit Salads: Pair with a vibrant fruit salad for a refreshing finish to any meal.
Picnics: This ice cream is perfect for summer picnics or gatherings, where cold treats are a must.
Grilled Desserts: Try serving it alongside grilled pineapple or peaches for a warm and cold contrast.
Afternoon Treat: Great for a light afternoon snack on a hot day, it satisfies without being heavy.
Celebrations: Use this as a fun dessert for birthdays or summer parties to impress your guests.
Light Dinners: Serve as a light dessert after a refreshing salad or vegetarian dinner.

FAQ

Absolutely! If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can still enjoy Vegan Key Lime Ice Cream. After blending the ingredients, pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container and freeze it. Every 30 minutes, stir vigorously with a fork to break up ice crystals until it reaches your desired consistency. This might take a few hours, but it’s a great way to make ice cream without any fancy equipment!

When stored properly in an airtight container, Vegan Key Lime Ice Cream can last in the freezer for about 2 to 3 weeks. However, for the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to consume it within the first week. After that time, it may start to form ice crystals or lose some of its creamy consistency.

If you can’t find key lime juice, regular lime juice works perfectly as a substitute. While the flavor will be slightly different, it will still provide that needed acidity and zest for the ice cream. Just ensure you adjust the sweetness if you find it too tart!

Yes, Vegan Key Lime Ice Cream is naturally gluten-free, making it a great dessert option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Be sure to check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free, especially if using packaged items like coconut milk or maple syrup.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Vegan Key Lime Ice Cream is a refreshing and delightful treat that captures the essence of summer in every bite. Its creamy texture combined with the tangy flavor of key limes makes it a standout dessert. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and bring a taste of joy to your home. You won’t regret it; it’s an easy way to enjoy a healthy, delicious dessert that everyone will love!