Coconut pineapple ice cream

This recipe is essentially a frozen Pina Colada, without alcohol, so the whole family can enjoy it. Its secret is high-fat coconut milk and fresh pineapple enzymes. Since it contains no dairy or eggs, creaminess is provided solely by the natural plant fats of coconut and pineapple fibres. A bite of tropical holiday, for which even an ice cream maker isn't strictly necessary.
🕒 Prep Time 15 mins
Total Time 5 hrs 15 mins
🍽️ Servings 4 servings
🔥 Calories 180 kcal
🌍 Cuisine International

Ingredients

Equipment Needed

  • High-power blender
  • Sealable freezer box
  • Knife, chopping board

Instructions

1

Open the coconut milk can. Only use the thick, fatty cream separated on top and a little liquid.

Tip: 'Light' coconut milk or carton coconut drink are not suitable for this, as their water content is too high, resulting in ice shards instead of creaminess.
2

Put pineapple cubes, coconut milk, honey, lime juice and a pinch of salt in the blender. Blend until you get a completely silky, homogeneous texture.

Tip: Salt highlights pineapple sweetness, and lime acidity gives freshness and counterbalances coconut richness.
3

Pour the mixture into a shallow, sealable box and place in the freezer.

Tip: In a shallow container cold reaches a larger surface area, so it freezes faster and more evenly.
4

For the first 2 hours, take it out every 30 minutes and mix/crush thoroughly with a fork or stick blender.

Tip: With this mechanical movement you break up growing ice crystals, making the result creamier (similar to what an ice cream maker does).
5

Let freeze for another 3-4 hours before serving.

Tip: If frozen too hard, let it rest on the counter before serving.

Recipe FAQ

Why did the ice cream get hard?
Since there are no eggs or cream, the water content can freeze into ice. Let it stand for 10-15 minutes at room temperature before eating.
Can I use tinned pineapple?
Yes, but fresh pineapple flavour is much more intense and fresh. Reduce sugar quantity if using tinned.
Can it be made without mixing?
Yes, but it will be more slushy texture. Mixing breaks up ice crystals.

Ingredients

  • 400 ml Full-fat coconut milk (canned, not drink!)
  • 300 g Fresh pineapple (peeled, cubed)
  • 100 g Honey or sugar
  • 1 pc Lime freshly squeezed juice
  • 1 pinch Salt