As summer settles in, I often find myself reminiscing about those carefree childhood days spent running through the neighborhood with a popsicle in hand. There was something magical about ice cream back then—a simple treat that instantly brought a smile to my face, even on the hottest days. Fast forward a few years, and I’ve discovered a new, healthier twist on an old favorite: Vegan Chocolate Avocado Ice Cream.
I remember the first time I attempted to create this rich, creamy dessert. I was skeptical; could avocados really transform into ice cream? A common fear for many beginner cooks is the possibility of ruining a dish, especially one that sounds so decadent yet seems so complicated. What if the flavor didn’t blend well? What if it turned out gritty instead of creamy? But as I navigated through the steps, I found the process surprisingly simple and rewarding.
In this cozy blog post, I’m going to take you step-by-step through making your very own Vegan Chocolate Avocado Ice Cream. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or just looking to whip up something special without any fuss, I promise this recipe will be stress-free and totally doable—even if it’s your first try. Let’s dive in!
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Ingredients You’ll Need for Vegan Chocolate Avocado Ice Cream
Creating the best Vegan Chocolate Avocado Ice Cream starts with gathering a few key ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essentials
- Coconut Milk: 13.5 oz (380 g) of full-fat coconut milk gives our ice cream its creamy texture. Coconut milk is a fantastic dairy substitute, offering that luscious mouthfeel without the cholesterol.
- Avocado: 4.5 oz (about 1 medium avocado, 127 g) adds a rich creaminess—plus it’s packed with healthy fats!
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: 1/2 cup is essential for that deep chocolate flavor we crave.
- Maple Syrup: 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons provides natural sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract: 1 Tablespoon enhances the overall flavor of this dessert.
- Water: 1/2 cup helps blend the mixture into a smooth consistency.
Optional Add-Ons
- Vegan hot fudge: Drizzling this on top can elevate the experience to another level of indulgence.
- Vegan sprinkles: These add a fun, colorful touch to your dish!
Substitutions and Shortcuts
- If coconut milk is unavailable, a nut milk like almond or cashew could work, though the creaminess might differ.
- For sweetness, you can substitute maple syrup with agave nectar or date syrup.
- If you’re short on time, consider using store-bought vegan chocolate sauce instead of making hot fudge from scratch.
If you like fruity recipes, check out this chocolate-free ninja creami strawberry milkshake or get inspired by 7 irresistible ninja creami sorbet recipes.
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Deliciously Creamy Vegan Chocolate Avocado Ice Cream
- Total Time: 10 minutes plus chilling time
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A rich and creamy vegan dessert that combines avocados and chocolate for a guilt-free treat.
Ingredients
- 13.5 oz (380 g) full-fat coconut milk
- 4.5 oz (about 1 medium avocado, 127 g)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Blend the avocado and coconut milk in a food processor until smooth.
- Add cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and water. Blend until fully combined.
- For ice cream machine: Chill in the refrigerator for 2 hours. Then freeze according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- For no machine: Freeze for 1 hour, then whisk every 20 minutes for 3-4 hours until thickened.
- Serve and enjoy with optional toppings like hot fudge and sprinkles.
Notes
Using ripe avocados is crucial for the best flavor and texture. Don’t rush the chilling process for creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Freezing
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: vegan ice cream, chocolate, avocado, dessert, healthy treats
How to Make Vegan Chocolate Avocado Ice Cream Step-by-Step
Ready to make this delightful treat? Let’s break down the steps!
Step 1: Blend Base Ingredients
Start by adding your avocado and full-fat coconut milk into a food processor or blender. Pulse them together until they’re well combined. You’ll want a smooth consistency to form the base of the ice cream. If you notice any lumps from the avocado, scrape down the sides of your bowl and blend until everything is completely incorporated.
Step 2: Add Remaining Ingredients
Next, toss in your unsweetened cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and water. Blend everything again for about 2 minutes. This should give you a wonderfully smooth and rich mixture. Keep an eye on it and don’t hesitate to scrape down the sides of your bowl as needed, ensuring every bit of goodness is mixed well.
Step 3: Chill the Mixture (Ice Cream Machine)
If you’re using an ice cream machine, pour your blended base into a freezer-safe container and place it in the refrigerator for 2 hours. This step is crucial for allowing the flavors to meld together before you freeze it. After the chilling time is up, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your ice cream maker’s freezing process.
Step 4: Chill the Mixture (No Machine)
If you don’t have an ice cream maker, don’t worry! Pour the base into a freezer-safe container, and let it freeze for about 1 hour. After the first hour, take it out and whisk it slightly every 20 minutes. This step is key to preventing icy crystals from forming. Do this for around 3-4 hours until the mixture thickens enough to scoop.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once your ice cream has achieved the right thickness, it’s time to serve! If you’ve just taken it from the freezer, let it thaw for 5-10 minutes, and then scoop it into bowls. A scoop of hot fudge drizzled on top with a sprinkle of vegan sprinkles will add a lovely finishing touch to your delightful creation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Not Using Ripe Avocados
Using under-ripened avocados can lead to a slightly off taste and texture. Make sure they’re perfectly ripe for the best flavor and creaminess.
Skipping the Chilling Step
Rushing through the chilling process can lead to a less creamy texture. Allowing the mixture to set in the fridge before freezing enhances the overall flavor and consistency.
Over-Whisking
If you whisk too vigorously while the mixture is freezing, it might become too airy, leading to a texture that isn’t as dense or creamy as you want. Gentle whisking is key.
Underestimating Optional Toppings
Vegan hot fudge and sprinkles aren’t just extras; they can truly elevate your dessert! Don’t skip out on these fun touches.
Quick Wins for Beginner Cooks
Focus on Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh, high-quality avocados will make a noticeable difference in flavor. When the main ingredients shine, everything else falls into place.
Embrace Your Blender
If you’re not comfortable with food processing, don’t fret! A good quality blender will work just fine. Just ensure all ingredients are adequately blended together.
Measure Loose Ingredients Carefully
When dealing with cocoa powder and maple syrup, measure carefully. An extra spoon can throw off the balance of flavors.
Invest in Quality Containers
Using a good freezer-safe container ensures that your ice cream maintains its creaminess and doesn’t absorb other flavors from the freezer.
Looking for more delicious recipes? you can check the list of Ninja Creami recipes, and remember to join our community on Pinterest and Facebook !
Pro-Level Tips for When You’re Ready
Opt for Texture Variations
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, think about adding texture. Chopped nuts or dairy-free chocolate chips can bring a lovely crunch to each scoop.
Experiment with Flavors
Don’t be afraid to switch out the cocoa for different flavorings like matcha powder or blended fruit for a fun twist.
Create Swirls
Try swirling in some vegan fudge or a fruit puree right before freezing for a gorgeous marbled effect that looks as good as it tastes.
Serve It Right
For a fancier presentation, scoop the ice cream into sundae glasses or bowls and use additional toppings like toasted coconut or fruit for a pleasing aesthetic.
Conclusion & Next Steps
Making Vegan Chocolate Avocado Ice Cream is easier than it looks! By now, you see how simple and stress-free this delightful dessert can be. The base is both customizable and approved for beginners, making it a cozy classic.
I encourage you to give this recipe a try. Not only is it a delicious way to enjoy something sweet, but it’s also a fun and engaging way to get comfortable in the kitchen.
Do you have a favorite vegan dessert? Let me know in the comments, and feel free to share pictures of your creamy creation when you give it a go!
FAQs About Vegan Chocolate Avocado Ice Cream
1. Can I use a regular blender to make Vegan Chocolate Avocado Ice Cream?
Absolutely! A regular blender works just fine as long as you blend until the ingredients are smooth.
2. What can I substitute for maple syrup in Vegan Chocolate Avocado Ice Cream?
You can use agave nectar or date syrup for a different sweetness level.
3. How long does the Vegan Chocolate Avocado Ice Cream last in the freezer?
If stored in a proper container, it can last up to 2 weeks in the freezer, but it’s best enjoyed fresh!
4. Can I add other flavors to this Vegan Chocolate Avocado Ice Cream?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different extracts, fruits, or spices that you enjoy.
5. Is this recipe nut-free?
Yes, as written, this recipe is nut-free, making it suitable for those with nut allergies. Just ensure the cocoa powder and vanilla extract are also nut-free products.
I can’t wait for you to try this recipe—I’m sure it will bring you as much joy as it has for me!