Cashew Ice Cream that’s ultra-creamy, dairy-free, and naturally sweet! Just three ingredients, no refined sugar, and no ice cream maker needed!
author’s note
The Ice Cream That Loves You Back (No Dairy!)
It is satisfying to ice cream, but my stomach doesn’t always agree with all that dairy. So on the days when I’m not ready to face the stomach ache, I reach for a dairy-free alternative.
The only problem? None of the store-bought cashew ice creams really blew me away. So I got to work making my own, and let me tell you… this one delivers.
It’s rich, creamy, full of flavor, and has just the right hint of vanilla. If you’re into cashews and coconut, this is your kind of treat.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Tip |
|---|---|
| Cashews | Use plain, raw cashews. Soak until very soft so they blend smooth with no grit |
| Coconut cream | Best for a thick, rich base. Full-fat coconut milk works, but it won’t be as creamy |
| Maple syrup | Adds sweetness and a subtle flavor. Honey works, but maple keeps it smooth |
| Vanilla & salt | Small but important. They boost flavor and keep it from tasting flat |
| skippable toppings | Caramel, flaky salt, or chocolate take this over the top |
How To Make Cashew Ice Cream
- Soften cashews: Soak them overnight, in hot water, or boil them so they blend.
- Blend: Add cashews and other ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth.
- Freeze: Chill and use an ice cream maker or pour into ice cube trays, freeze solid, then blend again for creamy ice cream.
Tools Needed
- Powerful blender or food processor: Use a high-powered model (like a Blendtec®) to blend cashews smoothly and process frozen cubes into creamy ice cream without overheating or watering it down.
- Ice cream maker or ice cube trays: Use an ice cream maker or freeze the mixture in ice cube trays, then blend the cubes into creamy ice cream.
Quick Tip
Blend the mixture until completely smooth. A high-powered blender works fast, but a weaker one may need multiple rounds.
Leveling Up Cashew Ice Cream
- Brownie Sundae: Top healthy brownies with scoops of ice cream and whipped cream.
- Salted Caramel: Drizzle with caramel sauce and a pinch of sea salt. You can use our healthy version if avoiding refined sugar.
- Chocolate Topping: Add hot fudge sauce.
- Milkshake: Blend with milk and caramel sauce for a thick cashew milkshake using the method from our strawberry milkshake.
Recipe Source: Inspired and highly adapted from @katieclarimore’s TikTok page! Thanks, Katie for the idea!
