Oat Milk Ice Cream
A luscious, creamy, and dairy-free oat milk ice cream recipe that offers a smooth, velvety texture using simple, plant-based ingredients. Perfect for vegans, lactose-intolerant individuals, or anyone looking for a fresh twist on classic ice cream. This versatile recipe can be customized with various flavors and mix-ins and is ideal for a refreshing dessert any time of the year.
- Author: Emily
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours (including chilling and freezing time)
- Yield: About 1 quart (4 servings) 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Churning and Freezing
- Cuisine: Vegan
- Diet: Dairy-Free, Vegan, Gluten-Free
Base Ingredients
- 4 cups full-fat oat milk
- 3/4 cup raw cane sugar, maple syrup, or agave syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Ingredients for Creaminess and Texture
- 1/2 cup coconut cream (optional, for extra richness)
- 1–2 tablespoons cornstarch or tapioca starch (optional, for thickening)
Optional Flavor Variations
- 2–3 tablespoons cocoa powder and vegan chocolate chips for chocolate version
- 1/2 cup fresh berries or fruit puree for berry swirl
- 1/4 cup toasted nuts (almonds, pecans, or walnuts) for nutty crunch
- 1/2 teaspoon warming spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom) for spiced delight
- 1 tablespoon instant coffee or espresso powder combined with cocoa for mocha magic
- Prepare the Base: In a medium saucepan, combine 4 cups of oat milk, your chosen sweetener (approximately 3/4 cup), and a pinch of salt. Warm the mixture gently over low heat, stirring often, until the sweetener is fully dissolved and the liquid is hot but not boiling.
- Add Flavorings and Thicken: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1/2 cup coconut cream if using. If you prefer a thicker texture, prepare a slurry by mixing 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch or tapioca starch with a small amount of cold oat milk, then whisk it into the warm mixture. Return the pan to low heat and stir continuously until the mixture slightly thickens.
- Chill the Mixture: Pour the ice cream base into a clean container. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or ideally overnight; this step enhances flavor development and ensures a smoother texture.
- Churn the Ice Cream: Pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 20-30 minutes, until the texture resembles soft-serve ice cream.
- Freeze Until Firm: Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for an additional 2-4 hours to allow it to firm up and hold its shape when served.
Notes
- Use full-fat oat milk to achieve a creamier texture without dairy.
- Don’t skip the chilling step for a smoother final ice cream with fewer ice crystals.
- Make sure the sweetener is fully dissolved to prevent graininess.
- Taste the base before chilling to adjust sweetness to your preference.
- Add nuts, fruit pieces, or chocolate chips after churning for added texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container with parchment paper on top to prevent freezer burn, and consume within 2 weeks for best quality.
- If you don’t have an ice cream maker, freeze the base in a shallow container and stir vigorously every 30 minutes until creamy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup (approximately)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: oat milk ice cream, dairy-free dessert, vegan ice cream, lactose-free, plant-based dessert, creamy oat milk ice cream, homemade non-dairy ice cream