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Chocolate Coconut Milk Ice Cream Recipe

4.8 from 224 reviews

This homemade Chocolate Coconut Milk Ice Cream is a creamy, dairy-free frozen treat made with full-fat coconut milk and rich cocoa powder. Sweetened naturally with maple syrup or honey, and enhanced with coconut oil and dark chocolate chips for extra decadence, this easy-to-make ice cream combines deep chocolate flavor with subtle coconut undertones. Ideal for a vegan and gluten-free dessert, it’s perfect for anyone craving a luscious frozen treat without dairy.

Ingredients

Scale

Base

  • 2 cans coconut milk (full-fat, chilled overnight)
  • ⅓ cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)
  • ½ cup sweetener (maple syrup, honey, or powdered sweetener, adjusted to taste)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 tbsp coconut oil (for extra creaminess)

Add-ins

  • ¼ cup dark chocolate chips
  • Roasted chopped hazelnuts (for topping or mix-in, quantity as desired)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the base: In a mixing bowl, combine the chilled full-fat coconut milk with the unsweetened cocoa powder, sweetener of your choice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir vigorously until the mixture is smooth, glossy, and fully combined. Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness if needed.
  2. Add coconut oil: Mix in the coconut oil to introduce extra creaminess and richness to your ice cream base.
  3. Transfer to container: Pour the chocolate coconut mixture into a freezer-safe container suitable for ice cream freezing to ensure proper hardening.
  4. Freeze with stirring: Place the container in the freezer for 3 to 4 hours, stirring every hour thoroughly to break up ice crystals and create a creamy texture.
  5. Optional firmer freeze: If you prefer firmer ice cream, continue freezing beyond 4 hours until the desired consistency is reached.
  6. Soften before serving: Remove the ice cream from the freezer 15 to 20 minutes prior to serving to let it soften slightly for easier scooping.
  7. Add toppings: Just before serving, sprinkle roasted chopped hazelnuts and dark chocolate chips on top or fold them into the ice cream as desired.

Notes

  • Chilling the coconut milk overnight helps separate the cream for a richer texture.
  • Stirring during freezing is essential to prevent large ice crystals and ensure creaminess since no ice cream maker is used.
  • Use full-fat coconut milk for best results; light coconut milk will make the ice cream icy and less creamy.
  • Sweetener type can be adjusted based on dietary preferences or availability.
  • This recipe is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free.
  • Storing leftovers in an airtight container can keep ice cream fresh for up to 1 week in the freezer.

Keywords: Chocolate ice cream, Coconut milk ice cream, Vegan ice cream, Dairy-free dessert, No churn ice cream, Coconut chocolate dessert