Simple Oatmilk Ice Cream Recipe for a Sweet Treat

Oatmilk ice cream is a delightful dairy-free treat that’s quickly becoming a favorite for anyone seeking a creamy, indulgent dessert without the lactose. Whether you’re vegan, lactose-intolerant, or just exploring alternative milks, oatmilk offers the perfect base for an ice cream that’s both rich and satisfying.

Unlike traditional ice cream, which relies on heavy cream and milk, oatmilk brings its own naturally creamy texture and subtle sweetness, making it an excellent choice for a variety of flavors.

This recipe is all about achieving that dreamy, smooth consistency without using any dairy or eggs. It’s a great way to enjoy the texture of traditional ice cream, but with the added benefit of being plant-based and allergy-friendly.

If you’ve been searching for a healthier alternative that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or creaminess, this oatmilk ice cream recipe will surely become a staple in your dessert rotation. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the simple steps you’ll need to create this frozen delight!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Oatmilk Ice Cream

To make the perfect oatmilk ice cream, you’ll need just a few key ingredients. Each one plays an important role in creating the ideal texture and flavor.

Base Ingredients

• Oatmilk: The star of the recipe, oatmilk provides the creamy consistency that makes this ice cream stand out. Whether you opt for sweetened or unsweetened oatmilk will influence the overall flavor, so pick according to your taste preference. Unsweetened oatmilk offers a neutral base, while sweetened adds a touch of natural sweetness.
• Coconut Milk: This ingredient is crucial for adding richness and creaminess. The full-fat coconut milk contributes a smooth, velvety texture that balances out the natural creaminess of the oatmilk. It also provides a subtle coconut flavor, which pairs beautifully with many ice cream flavors.
• Sugar (or Maple Syrup): To sweeten your ice cream, you can use granulated sugar, coconut sugar, or maple syrup. Maple syrup is a great choice if you’re looking for a more natural and slightly earthy sweetness. Adjust the amount based on how sweet you like your ice cream.

Thickening and Flavoring

• Cornstarch: This ingredient acts as a thickening agent, helping to give your ice cream the smooth, scoopable texture that makes it so irresistible. It works by binding the liquids together as they heat, creating a custard-like consistency.
• Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla extract enhances the flavor of your ice cream and gives it that classic, comforting taste. You can also experiment with other flavorings, such as almond or coconut extract, depending on the flavor profile you’re aiming for.

Optional Mix-ins

• Chocolate Chips, Fruit, or Nuts: If you want to take your oatmilk ice cream to the next level, consider adding mix-ins! Chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or swirls of fruit purée like strawberry or blueberry can be added during the churning process for extra texture and flavor. You can get creative here, choosing ingredients that complement your favorite base flavors.

With these simple, accessible ingredients, you’re ready to create a dairy-free dessert that rivals traditional ice cream in flavor and texture. The best part? You can easily adjust the flavors and sweetness to suit your own personal preferences. Let’s get started on making this delicious treat!

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Equipment Needed to Make Oatmilk Ice Cream

Making oatmilk ice cream is a fun, hands-on experience that requires just a few key tools.

Here’s the equipment you’ll need to get started:

Ice Cream Maker

While it’s possible to make oatmilk ice cream without an ice cream maker, using one will guarantee the smooth, creamy texture that makes this treat so irresistible. An ice cream maker ensures that the mixture is churned properly, breaking up any ice crystals and preventing the ice cream from becoming hard or icy. Whether you have a manual hand-cranked machine or an automatic electric model, it’s the best way to achieve that perfect, scoopable consistency.

Mixing Bowls and Whisk

A large mixing bowl will be needed to combine the oatmilk, coconut milk, sugar, and other ingredients. You’ll also need a whisk to thoroughly mix the ingredients together before cooking. This ensures that everything blends smoothly and that there are no lumps in your base.

Spatula and Wooden Spoon

A spatula or a wooden spoon is ideal for stirring your mixture while it’s heating. These utensils are gentle enough to keep the mixture from splattering, and they help prevent the base from sticking to the bottom of the pot. A spatula will also be useful when transferring the ice cream to your storage container after it’s churned.

Saucepan

You’ll need a medium-sized saucepan to heat your oatmilk ice cream base. The saucepan should be wide enough to allow for even heating but small enough to prevent the liquid from splashing over the sides. This is where you’ll mix and cook the ingredients to achieve the thickened custard-like consistency.

Freezer-Safe Container

After churning, your oatmilk ice cream will need to be transferred into a freezer-safe container. It’s best to use one with a tight-fitting lid to prevent freezer burn and preserve the ice cream’s texture. A glass or plastic container works well, as long as it’s big enough to hold your ice cream once it has thickened.

Optional: Blender

For a smoother, creamier texture, you might want to blend your oatmilk mixture before cooking. This is particularly helpful if you’re looking for a silky-smooth consistency without any lumps, and it’s especially useful if you’re using a homemade oatmilk that’s a bit chunkier than store-bought versions.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Oatmilk Ice Cream

Now that you’ve gathered all the equipment and ingredients, it’s time to get started!

Follow these simple steps to create your own creamy oatmilk ice cream at home.

1. Prepare the Base: Combine the Oatmilk and Coconut Milk

Start by pouring the oatmilk and coconut milk into a mixing bowl. Use a whisk to combine them thoroughly, ensuring the coconut milk is well incorporated into the oatmilk. This combination will form the creamy base of your ice cream.

2. Sweeten and Thicken the Mixture

Next, add your sweetener (sugar or maple syrup) to the mixture. Stir well to dissolve the sugar or evenly distribute the maple syrup throughout the liquids.

In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a few tablespoons of cold oatmilk to make a slurry. This step is crucial because it ensures the cornstarch blends smoothly into the mixture without clumping. Once the slurry is ready, add it to the main mixture and stir to combine.

3. Heat and Stir to Achieve the Perfect Consistency

Pour the oatmilk mixture into a saucepan over medium heat. As the mixture heats up, keep stirring constantly to prevent the milk from sticking to the bottom of the pan. You’ll notice the mixture beginning to thicken after a few minutes. Once it reaches a custard-like consistency (it should coat the back of a spoon), remove it from the heat. This is when you want to taste the base and adjust the sweetness if necessary.

4. Add Flavorings: Vanilla, Chocolate, or Your Choice

Once the mixture has thickened, add your vanilla extract (or any other flavoring you prefer). Stir until fully incorporated. This is also the time to add any optional flavorings like cocoa powder for chocolate oatmilk ice cream or cinnamon for a spiced twist. If you’re adding other extracts, do so sparingly—flavorings like mint or almond can be quite potent.

5. Cool the Mixture and Prepare for Freezing

Allow the ice cream base to cool at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. Then, transfer it to the fridge to chill for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight. The colder the base, the better the ice cream will turn out. Chilling ensures that the ice cream churns properly and helps to achieve that velvety smooth texture.

6. Churn the Ice Cream

Once the base is chilled, pour it into your ice cream maker and start the churning process according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on the machine. You’ll know the ice cream is ready when it reaches a soft-serve consistency and holds its shape.

7. Optional: Add Your Favorite Mix-ins

If you’re planning to include mix-ins like chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or chopped nuts, add them in during the last few minutes of churning. This ensures they are evenly distributed without being overworked in the machine. If you prefer a swirl of fruit or caramel, you can also fold these in by hand once the ice cream is done churning.

8. Freeze and Serve Your Oatmilk Ice Cream

Transfer the churned ice cream into a freezer-safe container and smooth the top with a spatula. Cover the container with a lid or plastic wrap and freeze for at least 4 hours to firm up the ice cream. The longer it freezes, the firmer it will become.

Once ready, scoop out the oatmilk ice cream, serve it in bowls or cones, and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Oatmilk Ice Cream Every Time

Making oatmilk ice cream can be straightforward, but a few helpful tips can elevate your results and ensure you end up with the creamiest, smoothest dessert possible.

Here are some tips to make sure your oatmilk ice cream turns out perfect every time:

1. Use Full-Fat Coconut Milk

Full-fat coconut milk is key to achieving that rich, creamy texture. It adds body and richness that oatmilk alone may lack. While light coconut milk is an option, it won’t deliver the same creaminess and consistency, so stick to the full-fat variety for the best results.

2. Chill the Base Thoroughly

Ensure that your ice cream base is thoroughly chilled before churning. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth consistency. If you try churning the base while it’s too warm, it could lead to a gritty or icy texture. Let it chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight.

3. Don’t Skip the Cornstarch

Cornstarch works as a natural thickener and helps prevent the ice cream from becoming icy. Be sure to make a slurry by mixing the cornstarch with cold oatmilk before adding it to the warm base. This prevents clumps from forming and gives your ice cream that smooth, custard-like consistency.

4. Adjust Sweetness to Your Preference

When making oatmilk ice cream, sweetness levels are key to getting it just right. Taste your base before chilling it to adjust the sweetness. Remember that the flavor will be slightly less sweet after freezing, so you may want to add a bit more sugar or maple syrup than you think is necessary.

5. Don’t Over-churn the Mixture

While it’s tempting to leave the ice cream maker running for longer, over-churning can result in a dense, too-hard texture. Watch for the point when your ice cream reaches a soft-serve consistency and stop churning at that stage. The ice cream will firm up nicely once it’s in the freezer.

6. Let It Rest Before Scooping

After your oatmilk ice cream has been frozen, let it sit out for a few minutes to soften slightly before scooping. This will make it much easier to serve and ensure you get those perfect, smooth scoops every time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Oatmilk Ice Cream

While making oatmilk ice cream is fun, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

Avoid these mistakes to ensure your ice cream turns out perfectly creamy and delicious:

1. Not Thickening the Base Enough

One of the most common mistakes when making oatmilk ice cream is not properly thickening the base. Cornstarch is vital for achieving that creamy texture, so don’t skip this step. If the mixture is too thin, your ice cream will have an icy texture rather than the smooth consistency you’re aiming for. Be sure to cook the base until it coats the back of a spoon before removing it from heat.

2. Skipping the Chilling Step

If you’re impatient and try to churn your base while it’s still warm, you might end up with an icy, grainy texture. It’s essential to let the base chill for at least 2 hours in the fridge. Chilling helps the flavors to meld and ensures the mixture is cold enough to churn into a creamy, smooth ice cream.

3. Overcrowding the Ice Cream Maker

If you pour in too much of the base at once, it can overwhelm your ice cream maker and prevent proper churning. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and churn in batches if needed. Overcrowding can result in uneven churning and a less-than-ideal texture.

4. Not Using the Right Ice Cream Maker

Not all ice cream makers are created equal, and some require additional steps or preparation. For example, some machines require you to freeze the bowl beforehand, while others have built-in freezers. Make sure you’re familiar with your machine’s instructions and allow enough time for proper preparation. Using an ice cream maker that doesn’t fit your needs can impact the texture and consistency of your ice cream.

5. Adding Mix-ins Too Early

Mix-ins like chocolate chips, fruit, or nuts should be added at the end of the churning process. If you add them too early, they might get over-processed or melted into the base. Adding them during the last few minutes of churning ensures they’re evenly distributed without losing their texture.

6. Freezing the Ice Cream for Too Long

While freezing the ice cream is necessary to firm it up, leaving it in the freezer for too long can result in a hard, icy texture that’s difficult to scoop. Ideally, you want your oatmilk ice cream to be scoopable within 4-6 hours, and you should let it sit for a few minutes to soften before serving.

By avoiding these common mistakes and following the tips outlined above, you’ll be able to consistently create creamy, delicious oatmilk ice cream that’s sure to be a hit!

How to Store Your Oatmilk Ice Cream

Proper storage is key to keeping your oatmilk ice cream fresh and maintaining its creamy texture.

Here’s how to store it the right way:

1. Use an Airtight, Freezer-Safe Container

After churning, transfer your oatmilk ice cream into a freezer-safe container. Be sure the container has an airtight lid to prevent ice crystals from forming and to keep the flavor intact. A glass or plastic container works well, as long as it has a secure seal.

2. Smooth the Top and Cover with Plastic Wrap

Before sealing the container, smooth the surface of the ice cream with a spatula. Then, for extra protection against freezer burn, place a layer of plastic wrap or parchment paper directly on top of the ice cream before putting on the lid. This step helps keep the ice cream from absorbing odors from other foods in the freezer.

3. Store in the Coldest Part of the Freezer

To keep your oatmilk ice cream at its best, store it in the coldest part of your freezer, usually towards the back. This ensures that the temperature remains consistently low, which helps prevent the ice cream from becoming too hard or icy.

4. Let It Sit Before Serving

When you’re ready to enjoy your oatmilk ice cream, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly. This will make it easier to scoop and will help restore some of its creamy texture.

Oatmilk ice cream can be stored for up to 1-2 weeks in the freezer. However, for the best texture and flavor, it’s always ideal to consume it within the first week.

Conclusion

Making oatmilk ice cream at home is a rewarding and delicious experience. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a creamy, indulgent treat that’s dairy-free, vegan, and full of flavor.

Whether you’re making a classic vanilla base or experimenting with your favorite mix-ins, this homemade ice cream is customizable to suit any taste.

By following the right techniques, avoiding common mistakes, and storing your ice cream properly, you’ll always have a batch of delicious oatmilk ice cream ready to serve when those sweet cravings hit.

Now that you know how to make the perfect oatmilk ice cream, why not experiment with different flavors and toppings? Get creative, enjoy the process, and most importantly, savor every scoop of this wholesome, homemade dessert!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make oatmilk ice cream without an ice cream maker?
Yes, you can! While an ice cream maker makes the process easier and helps achieve a smoother texture, you can make oatmilk ice cream without one. Simply pour the chilled mixture into a shallow dish, freeze it, and stir vigorously every 30 minutes for about 3-4 hours to break up ice crystals. This will help achieve a creamy consistency.

2. How long does oatmilk ice cream last in the freezer?
Oatmilk ice cream can be stored in the freezer for up to 1-2 weeks. For the best flavor and texture, try to consume it within a week. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.

3. Can I use sweetened oatmilk instead of unsweetened?
Yes, you can use sweetened oatmilk if you prefer a sweeter base. However, be mindful of the extra sweetness it adds, and adjust the amount of sugar or maple syrup accordingly. Taste the mixture before chilling it to ensure it’s to your liking.

4. Can I make oatmilk ice cream without coconut milk?
While coconut milk contributes to the creaminess of the ice cream, you can replace it with other plant-based milk like cashew or almond milk. However, for the best texture, you may want to add a bit of extra thickening agent like more cornstarch or use full-fat versions of these milks.

5. How can I prevent my oatmilk ice cream from becoming icy?
To prevent your ice cream from becoming icy, make sure to properly thicken the base using cornstarch, chill the mixture before churning, and avoid over-churning the ice cream. Also, storing the ice cream in an airtight container with a layer of plastic wrap on top can help maintain its creamy texture while frozen.