A dairy free chocolate ice cream recipe, made with only 4 ingredients. The whole family will love this rich, coconut milk ice cream treat perfect for those avoiding dairy.
I could just dive right into that bowl. Are you with me?
And—-what if I told you it only takes four ingredients, and is even dairy-free? Coconut milk, cocoa powder, and honey. That’s all it takes to get that deliciously rich and smooth ice cream up top.
Ever since I had a child with a dairy intolerance, I look for ways to cut back or eliminate dairy from a recipe. You know what? Sometimes it makes the rest of us feel better to avoid dairy as well. Gentle on tummy=more ice cream to enjoy!
FAQ’s for Dairy Free Chocolate Ice Cream Recipe:
What is dairy free ice cream made from?
Dairy free ice cream recipes typically call for vegan milk substitutes, such as coconut milk, almond milk, or soy milk. Coconut cream can also be added for extra creaminess.
Is there dairy free ice cream?
Ice cream that is made dairy free is referred to as a “frozen treat”. It is made with vegan milk substitutes instead of dairy.
Is coconut milk ice cream healthy?
Coconut contains a healthier type of saturated fat than dairy products, but coconut milk ice cream is still packed with added sugar, so portion control is important.
Ingredients for Dairy Free Chocolate Ice Cream:
- 2 cups full fat coconut milk
- ¾ cup cocoa powder
- ⅔ cup honey
- ½ cup, chocolate chips
- 2 tsps vanilla extract (if avoiding all traces of coconut flavor)
Directions for Dairy Free Chocolate Ice Cream:
- Place coconut milk, cocoa powder, and honey in blender and blend until smooth.
- Pour into freeze-safe container and stir in chocolate chips.
- Freeze until solid.
- Pull ice cream out of freezer about 1 hour before serving, for best results.
- Scoop into bowls, and top with more chocolate chips and sprinkles, enjoy!
This recipe uses a no-churn process. Simply blend up all the ingredients in a blender and freeze until solid. So easy to whip up. Even the kids can help out, and they love using these adorable, color changing ice cream bowls!
We love dairy-free ice cream in our house. Now everyone can join in on the fun. We like to top ours with chocolate chips and chocolate sprinkles… because chocolate overload, of course.
Coconut milk makes it so creamy and delicious. You’ll never look at ice cream the same way again.
Have on hand for the best dairy free ice cream:
Save yourself time with this amazing blender!
Make life easier (trust me) and use this scoop to serve the ice cream!
Dairy Free Chocolate Ice Cream Recipe
A dairy free chocolate ice cream recipe, made with only 4 ingredients. The whole family will love this rich, coconut milk ice cream treat perfect for those avoiding dairy.
Ingredients
For Ice Cream
- 2 cups full fat coconut milk
- ¾ cup cocoa powder
- ⅔ cup honey
Optional, for topping
- ½ cup, chocolate chips
- chocolate sprinkles
Instructions
- Pour into freeze-safe container and stir in chocolate chips.
- Freeze until solid.
- Pull ice cream out of freezer about 1 hour before serving, for best results.
- Scoop into bowls, and top with more chocolate chips and sprinkles, enjoy!
Notes
**Make life easier and use this scoop to serve the ice cream!
The coconut milk is very subtle in flavor, but if you want to avoid any taste of it, add 2 teaspoons vanilla extract to the batter.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 6 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 378Total Fat: 22gSaturated Fat: 17gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 13mgCarbohydrates: 49gFiber: 3gSugar: 39gProtein: 4g
Looking for more dairy-free “ice cream”?
Check out this Dairy-Free Fudge Brownie Ice Cream
Or Lactose-Free Cake Batter Ice Cream
Susan says
Hi! Can you swap the Almond Breeze almond milk cashew blend for homemade nut milk?
Thanks
Alison says
I don’t see why not. Enjoy!
Mia says
Do I use unsweetened cocoa powder or the one with sugar? I only have the unsweetened coco powder
Alison says
I used unsweetened:)
Zara says
Can you use half and half and also some heavy cream for this recipe?
Jade says
I’m allergic to bananas, so I was wondering if I could substitute avocados instead. If not what do you suggest.
Alison says
I think avocados would work. I would just add another teaspoon of cocoa powder to balance out the avocado flavor. Good luck!
Sky says
Is there an thing else you can use besides bannanas?? Why do u need them??
Alison says
Bananas make it more creamy and filling. You could try yogurt, but it would have to be the dairy-free variety. Full-fat coconut milk could work.
Kristin says
Could you put this in an ice cream maker of you have one?
Alison says
Sure, totally!
Lauren says
Can I just use skim milk or cream instead
Alison says
Yep!
Heather says
Yum! I was just looking for a healthier ice cream for my normal regular ice cream cravings! This one sounds amazing!
Alison says
Thanks Heather!
Missie says
What about maybe using the almond chocolate milk instead of the cashew milk?
Alison says
Sure!
Jolene says
How many calories
Alison says
Hi Jolene- You might find this site helpful: https://www.caloriecount.com/cc/recipe_analysis.php?ns=1
kaylyn covington says
Just made this and it’s in my freezer right now, I can’t wait for it to freeze up!! I already had to taste the mixture and wow it is yummy! Thank you for this wonderful recipe 🙂
Alison says
Awesome! Enjoy!
jo says
Hello
Can I use Rice milk instead. We don’t like almond milk. Or should it be a creamy milk?
Alison says
You could try rice milk, but yes, creamy is better. Maybe add in some coconut milk if your family doesn’t mind the taste? You could also try some Greek yogurt.
Cassie says
Do the bananas have to be frozen ! I used one banana and 3 tablespoons peanut butter and 1/2 cocoa powder
Alison says
No, as long as you freeze the mixture after you blend it together.
Lynne says
I’m assuming the choc chips are dairy free
Alison says
Yes…many chocolate chips are vegan, but I would definitely check the ingredients.
Tina Ray says
I made this tonight for my daughter-in-law, who is nursing a dairy- intolerant baby. I mixed the ingredients in my food processor – it was SOOOO chocolaty that I added two extra frozen bananas and an extra cup of almond milk – PERFECT! Then – I ruined my batch by thoughtlessly pouring in REGULAR chocolate chips! ?
(It’s not even completely frozen, though and it is SO good!
Oh, well….there’s always next time, right? ? Thanks for the recipe!
Alison says
Glad you enjoyed it, Tina! I created the recipe for one of my daughters, who is dairy-sensitive:)
Kristy says
Is there another substitute for the almond milk? My daughter is allergic to tree nuts. Thank you!
Alison says
Rice milk works…I’m assuming she’s allergic to dairy as well. Otherwise, adding a 1/4 a cup of Greek yogurt to the rice milk mixture would help to make it more creamy (rice milk is a little thinner than milk made from tree nuts).
Laura says
Hi, could I put maple syrup in to sweeten it up?
Alison says
Sure!
Elizabeth says
Are you using sweetened or unsweetened cocoa powder?
Alison says
Unsweetened
Olivia- Reinvented Collection says
Hi Alison,
This recipe looks amazing! It came across my Pinterest feed and I figured I’d click on over to see if this version would be a bit more ice creamy than some of the others I’ve seen.
I have not found an ice cream that is comparable to real ice cream. Since I have plain almond milk here, I’m going to add some vanilla to it. Having Celiac Disease is a struggle and many of us are unable to eat dairy because of the casein in it. Cheese in any form is out, but I seem to tolerate tiny bits of chocolate without a horrible flare up.
I am also a co–hostess of Thursday Favorite Things link party. If you would like to share your favorite blog posts with us we would love to have you join us. We go live each week on Wednesday at 7 p.m MST. This one would be a great share. Several of the co-hostesses are recipe bloggers. I’m a home decor, design, and faux finish painter blogger. We each choose blogs related to our niche to feature as well.
I’m really excited to try this and deeply appreciative to you for sharing this. This past week I was having a craving for ice cream and that coconut stuff was not appealing. It doesn’t come close to creamy ice cream. Thank you again for this recipe.
Amy says
So do you put the chocolate chip in the blenders as well or are they considered a topping you add after blended?
Alison says
Topping:)
Zoe says
What is the serving size for 167 cal?
Esty says
Hi, can I use chocolate soya milk instead of chashew? 🙂
Alison says
Yes!
Valeria says
Deos y IT Need Any sugar or sweetner of any kind?
Alison says
The ripe, frozen bananas give it its sweetness.
Kate gt says
looks fab. I just made some and am waiting for it to freeze up. thanks!
Nikki says
Could you use Rice Milk? My boys are allergic to almonds and soy.
Alison says
Absolutely, although it might be a little less creamy.
Vaishalee says
I just made this with unsweetened vanilla almond milk and it was AMAZING!!! I need to remember to keep this handy for when my sweet tooth attacks.
Raneem says
Hi,
Can i use regular milk insted of the almond milk?
Stephanie says
I am curious as to what Dairy free chocolate chips you used. And also Coco powder. Becuase normal ones have dairy. My daughter has a milk protein allergy so it’s very difficult find true recipes. Thank you
Keri says
Enjoy Life is a brand that is dairy free chocolate chips. Find them in the health food section of a grocery store.
Apple basnillo says
Can i store this for how many days?
Alison says
In the freezer, I would treat it just like ice cream. So a few weeks, at least.
Hannah says
Could u use some other things other than bananas?
What do u suggest
Alison says
If you’re avoiding dairy, I would suggest vegan “dairy” products like soy creamer. If you’re ok with adding dairy, then cream cheese or Greek yogurt would do the trick.
Hannah says
I used a 1/4 of a cup of cream cheese and it tastes like regular chocolate ice cream
Morgannorth says
Did you use it instead of banana or including?
Katrina Mehmen says
Hey Alison,what are the Ingredients to this ice cream for 8 people
Alison says
Katrina, the recipe works when doubled. Hope this helps!
Katrina mehmen says
What are the ingredients and the measurements of how to make it.
Alison says
Recipe is above, right next to the “Snacks Ebook” graphic. You can double the ingredient amounts to make enough for 8 people.
Katrina mehmen says
Thanks
Jenn H says
Just found this on Pinterest. Thank you so very much (and kudos) for creating an alternative to ice cream without using coconut products! I have been looking a long time for such a recipe and I can’t wait to try it!!
Alison says
Aw! You’re welcome, Jenn!
Callan says
I just went dairy free a month and a half ago because my baby has a dairy allergy and she is breastfeeding. I thought I had given up ice cream for good. I tried this tonight and was very pleasantly surprised! It tastes awesome. I think I will cut back on the cocoa a little next time because mine turned out pretty dark, but I am kind of hooked.
Alison says
Awesome, Callan! Glad you enjoyed it.
Michelle says
This is the first ice cream recipe I’ve found that seemed simple enough to be worth the risk, since I’m also allergic to cocoa and have to use carob powder and carob chips. This is one of the few recipes where that substitution has worked well!
Thank you for sharing this!!! I’m trying not to eat it all in one sitting.
Alison says
Awesome, Michelle! Enjoy!
Karelys says
I loved it, I tried it and it’s spectacular, it’s delicious
Alison says
Thanks so much! Glad you enjoyed it.
Jen says
Sorry if I missed it in the feed, but exactly what kind of cocoa powder did you use? I also plan on using a chocolate coconut milk in place of almond milk. Do you think this would be an acceptable replacement? I’m VERY excited about this recipe I can’t even begin to describe! Thank you so much for sharing!!
Alison says
First off, you’re very welcome:) I just used regular cocoa powder, nothing fancy. And I think chocolate coconut milk would be delicious!
Michelle says
Thank so much just started a Paleo diet and this is perfect.
I used Cacao powder which has given perfect flavour also I added Raw Vanilla Protein powder and Maca Powder for extra goodness. Sorry on a real health kick to change my weight and the way I feel, and its working.
It is so yummy, that I wanted to drink it before it was frozen.
Again Thanks.
Alison says
You’re welcome, Michelle! Glad you enjoyed it.
Nadia says
can I double the recipe ? I have lots of family members and I want all of them to have FUN!!!
Alison says
Yes, absolutely!
Caroline says
What kind of almond milk did you use for this? (as in original, unsweetened, vanilla,..?)
Thanks!
Alison says
I used Original, but I’m sure Vanilla would be delicious as well.
Krystin says
Hey, mine came out like a solid ice block.. took a day to thaw enough to scoop, and now it’s the consistency of pudding. It’s delicious, but what should I add/take away to convince it not to go solid again? More banana?
Alison says
More banana would definite help. I would also try cutting back a 1/2 cup on the almond milk, for next time. Hope that helps!
Leandi says
This looks absolutely fantastic! I’m trying it this weekend!
Carla Stroot says
Thank-you SO much for this great recipe!
This is one of my go-tos for the 4th of July. We add Red, White and Blue sprinkles for the occasion!
Zizi says
Hello Alison
It looks like a great recipe.
Can I use sweetened honemade almond milk?
To avoid the calories,I stick with the non coconut cream recipe.Do you think the ice cream is soft then?
Thank you
Alison says
Yes, I would think so. And we’ve enjoyed both recipes, so try it out:)
Frankie says
Can I use normal milk with this recipe or would macadamia milk be better
Alison says
I think either would work!
Chrissy says
Hello,
I’m excited to try this recipe, but I do not like the flavor of coconut and was wondering if the coconut cream you use in place of dairy cream has a neutral flavor? Thanks so much!
Alison says
I think the cocoa powder overpowers any coconut flavor. You could try adding an additional Tablespoon of it just to be sure. Let me know how it goes!
Liya says
could you use coconut milk instead of almond milk?
Alison says
Sure!
Babychaser says
Really enjoyed your recipe for my son’s birthday last summer and posted about it today. 🙂 You can find it here: https://mamasbrush.wordpress.com/2019/03/11/ice-cream-parlor-birthday-party-with-food-to-match-and-artwork/
Blessings,
Babychaser
Alison says
Aw, thanks! Hope he enjoyed his birthday!!
Lisa says
What kind of coconut cream do you use? Brand? Sweetened or unsweetened?
Alison says
I used Thai Kitchen, although any brand would work. I went with unsweetened, but that’s totally up to you.
Andrea Cimino says
Hello,
This looks great. Going to calculate WW points and give it a whirl. Was wondering if you thought adding fat free half and half instead of coconut cream would work to add extra creaminess ?
Thanks!
Alison says
Sure! I was aiming for a dairy-free recipe, but half and half would definitely make it creamy. Enjoy!
Sharon says
Are there bananas in this ice cream? They aren’t mentioned in the ingredients.
Alison says
I updated this recipe for better results, and there is no longer bananas in it. If you’re interested in a banana-based non-dairy ice cream, try this one.
shyam tomar says
Nice post! Thanks! Visit us at poleo cookbook
Belle says
I made the “new” version of this (without the bananas) yesterday- just honey, unsweetened cocoa powder, and unsweetened coconut milk; it was just too sweet. I had to have it with a side of almond-milk based whipped cream while the hubby had to down it with almond milk.
What would you suggest for me to use next time to prevent that?
Alison says
Thanks for the feedback! I would try agave syrup instead of honey next time, it’s less sweet. Let me know how it works out.
Paleo Cookbook says
Your article is really nice and informative. Thanks for sharing it!
Shristi Patni says
I have been searching for a good dairy-free ice cream recipe since ages (being lactose intolerant isn’t easy) when I happened to stumble on your recipe. What a delicious recipe Alison and the drool-worthy photos along with it! <3 Inspired by you, I've started my own blog to help people like me and would love to know your opinion. Feel free to check it out here F and B Recipes.
Hannah says
Hi! Am I missing something? I only see four ingredients listed on your recipe, but there’s lots of talk of adding bananas. I watched the video too and it only shows the four ingredients, no bananas. Can you set this straight for me, please? Excited to try your recipe!
Alison says
Hi Hannah! I updated this recipe for better results, and there is no longer bananas in it. If you’re interested in a banana-based non-dairy ice cream, try this one. Hope that helps!