Vegan Ube Ice Cream
This Vegan Ube Ice Cream is a creamy, dairy-free dessert made from the naturally sweet purple yam known as ube. With its striking color and rich flavor, this frozen treat is as beautiful as it is delicious. The coconut milk base gives the ice cream a velvety smooth texture, and it's customizable with mix-ins like chocolate chips, coconut swirls, or toasted nuts. Perfect for those following a vegan or dairy-free lifestyle, this ice cream is a refreshing, indulgent dessert for all.
Equipment
- Blender or Food Processor (for pureeing the ube)
- Medium Mixing Bowl (for combining ingredients)
- Ice cream maker (Optional)
- Shallow Dish or Loaf Pan (if making without an ice cream maker)
- Airtight Container (for freezing the ice cream)
Ingredients
- 2 medium ube about 1 cup mashed or 1/2 cup ube extract/jam
- 2 cans 13.5 oz each coconut milk (full-fat)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar or maple syrup, agave
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1/4 cup coconut cream or soaked cashews for extra creaminess
Instructions
Prepare the Ube:
- If using fresh ube, peel and chop it into small chunks. Steam or boil it for 20-25 minutes until tender, then drain and mash it. Alternatively, use ube extract or jam for a quicker option.
Combine Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the mashed ube (or ube extract/jam), coconut milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. For an ultra-smooth texture, blend in a food processor or blender.
Churn the Ice Cream:
- If using an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into the machine and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions for about 20-30 minutes. If you don't have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into a shallow dish and freeze. Stir the mixture every 30-45 minutes until the ice cream reaches a creamy consistency.
Freeze and Set:
- Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm enough to scoop.
Serve:
- Scoop the ice cream into bowls or cones and enjoy! Add toppings like shredded coconut, crushed nuts, or chocolate chips for extra flavor.
Notes
- Sweetness Adjustment: Taste the mixture before freezing and adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar or sweetener if needed.
- Texture: For a creamier texture, consider adding coconut cream or blending in soaked cashews for extra richness.
- Storage: Store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Let it soften slightly at room temperature before serving.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to add chocolate chips, toasted nuts, or a swirl of coconut cream to elevate the flavor.