Description
Dairy-free luxury combining antioxidant-rich blueberries with creamy coconut for the perfect summer frozen treat
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Churn Time: 25 minutes | Freeze Time: 4+ hours | Total Time: 4.5+ hours | Servings: 1 quart (8 servings)
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh blueberries, picked over and stems removed (about 10 oz)
- 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk (don’t use lite!)
- 1/2 cup honey (or pure maple syrup for different flavor profile)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut (for texture)
Instructions
- Sort through blueberries carefully, removing any stems, leaves, or overripe berries that could add off flavors.
- In a high-speed blender, combine blueberries, full-fat coconut milk, honey, and vanilla extract.
- Blend on high speed for 2-3 minutes until completely smooth and gorgeously purple—no visible blueberry pieces should remain.
- Taste and adjust sweetness if needed—remember it will taste less sweet once frozen.
- Stir in the shredded coconut by hand, distributing it evenly throughout the mixture.
- Pour into your ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches soft-serve consistency, usually 20-25 minutes.
- Transfer to an airtight container, press parchment paper directly onto the surface to prevent ice crystals, and freeze for at least 4 hours until firm.
- Let soften for 5-10 minutes at room temperature before scooping if it’s very hard—the coconut milk keeps it slightly softer than dairy ice cream.
Nutrition Information (Per 1/2 Cup Serving):
- Calories: 165
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Vitamin C: 15% DV (from blueberries)
- Manganese: 12% DV (from blueberries)
This ice cream provides antioxidants from blueberries and healthy medium-chain fatty acids from coconut
Notes:
- Seriously, use full-fat coconut milk—it’s what makes this creamy instead of icy
- If your blender struggles with thick coconut milk, add it gradually while blending
- Every ice cream maker is different, so watch for that soft-serve consistency rather than relying only on timing
- The natural pectin in blueberries helps create a lovely, smooth texture
Storage Tips:
- Store with parchment pressed directly on surface to prevent freezer burn
- Best texture within the first week, but keeps for up to 1 month frozen
- This stays slightly softer than dairy ice cream due to the coconut milk fat content
- Don’t refreeze melted ice cream—the texture will never be the same
Serving Suggestions:
- Tropical: Serve with toasted coconut flakes and fresh mint
- Elegant: Garnish with fresh blueberries and a drizzle of honey
- Summer fun: Serve in waffle cones with a sprinkle of granola
- Healthy dessert: Pair with fresh berries and a few dark chocolate chips
Mix It Up (Recipe Variations):
- Chocolate Chip Version: Fold in 1/3 cup mini dark chocolate chips during last minute of churning
- Mixed Berry Coconut: Use 1 cup blueberries and 1 cup strawberries for different flavor
- Protein-Packed: Add a scoop of vanilla protein powder (may need extra liquid)
- Lemon Twist: Add 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice for bright, tart contrast
What Makes This Recipe Special:
This recipe perfectly balances the antioxidant power of fresh blueberries with the tropical richness of coconut milk, creating a dairy-free ice cream that doesn’t compromise on texture or flavor. The natural sweetness from honey and the subtle vanilla create a sophisticated frozen dessert that appeals to health-conscious dessert lovers and indulgence seekers alike.
