What better way is there to cool off on a hot summer day than with a scoop of some delicious ice cream? However, if you’re following a vegan diet, your options may be a bit limited. Finding a vegan ice cream that actually tastes good can be challenging. But who says that you can’t make one yourself? It’s actually a lot easier than you may think. Even if you aren’t a skilled cook. So if you want to make some homemade vegan ice cream, here are the steps that you should follow.
What’s your base?
When preparing vegan ice cream, choosing the base is the first step. Although there are many non-dairy milk options, coconut milk, almond milk, and cashew milk are the most frequently used. These milk substitutes all have different benefits and taste profiles. When choosing your base, make sure you pick a product of the highest standard that is free from any additives or preservatives. To have complete control over the flavor and consistency of your ice cream, it is also important to pick an unflavored, unsweetened base.
Sprinkle in some flavors
After selecting your base, the next step is to add some flavor. You can add any flavorings you desire, from fresh fruit to nuts and chocolate chips. When adding fruit, make sure to choose ripe, seasonal fruits that are bursting with flavor. If you’re a fan of chocolate, try adding vegan chocolate chips or cocoa powder to your ice cream. For a nutty flavor, add chopped nuts such as almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts. And for a unique twist, experiment with spices like cinnamon, ginger, or peppermint.
The sweeter, the better
You have a few choices for sweetening your vegan ice cream. A great option is a natural sweetener like agave nectar, maple syrup, or coconut sugar. They offer a rich, nuanced flavor to the ice cream and have a low glycemic index. Ripe bananas, dates, or figs are excellent choices that also give the dessert a creamy texture if you choose to use fruit as a sweetener. Remember that some sweeteners, such as maple syrup, may change the texture of your ice cream; so use them sparingly.
Churn it
Churning is the process of mixing air into the ice cream base to create a creamy texture. If you have an ice cream maker, follow the instructions for churning. The churning process typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on the ice cream maker. The result is a perfectly smooth and creamy texture that you can enjoy immediately, or you can transfer it to a freezer-safe container to freeze.
If you don’t have an ice cream maker, don’t worry! You can still make delicious vegan ice cream by freezing the mixture and stirring it every hour or so to prevent ice crystals from forming. This process will take longer, but the end result will be worth it. Freeze the mixture until it is solid but still soft enough to stir, then transfer it to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. Return the mixture to the freezer and repeat the process every hour or so until the ice cream reaches your desired consistency.
It’s your time to get creative
One of the best things about making homemade vegan ice cream is that you can get creative with your toppings. You can add fresh fruit, nuts, or vegan whipped cream to take your ice cream to the next level. Try drizzling some chocolate sauce or caramel on top for an indulgent treat. Crushed cookies, cereal, or candy can also add texture and flavor to your ice cream. Your possibilities are pretty much endless.
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