Craving a refreshing scoop of ice cream but following a vegan diet? Your trusty Cuisinart ice cream maker is here for the rescue! This kitchen hero can be transformed into a haven for creating delicious, creamy, dairy-free treats with a few simple adjustments.
This article dives into the exciting world of vegan ice cream, offering 15 unique Cuisinart ice cream maker recipes that prove you don’t need dairy to indulge in delightful frozen desserts. Get ready to discover classic flavours reimagined, refreshing fruit sorbets, and unique creations that will tantalise your taste buds.
So, grab your favourite plant-based milk, ditch the dairy aisle, and create delicious vegan ice cream masterpieces in your Cuisinart!
Table of Contents
How to Use a Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker
Making homemade ice cream has never been easier, thanks to the Cuisinart ice cream maker. Whether you’re a dessert enthusiast or simply looking to create healthier, customised treats, this versatile appliance allows you to whip up delicious ice cream, sorbets, and gelato in the comfort of your kitchen. With its user-friendly design and consistent results, the Cuisinart ice cream maker is perfect for both beginners and seasoned chefs.
From classic vanilla to inventive flavours like salted caramel or mint choc chip, the possibilities are endless. Plus, making your own ice cream means you can control the ingredients, avoiding artificial additives and excess sugar. Ready to churn out your favourite frozen delights? Let’s dive into how to use your Cuisinart ice cream maker like a pro!
Freeze the Bowl or Insert – Most Cuisinart models come with a removable freezer bowl you need to freeze for 12–24 hours. – To check if it’s fully frozen, gently shake it; if you don’t hear the liquid sloshing inside, it’s ready.
Prepare the Ice Cream Mixture – Whisk together your ingredients (e.g., plant-based milk, sugar, flavourings) in a bowl. – For best results, chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours—this helps it freeze faster and more evenly.
Set Up the Machine – Place the frozen bowl into the ice cream maker’s base. – Insert the mixing paddle and secure the cover.
Turn It On and Pour the Mixture – Start the machine (most Cuisinart models require you to switch it on before pouring in the mixture). – Slowly pour in your chilled ice cream base through the opening in the lid.
Churn Until Thickened – Let the machine run for 15–25 minutes, depending on the recipe. – The ice cream will reach a soft-serve consistency once it’s done.
Transfer and Freeze (Optional) – If you prefer a firmer texture, spoon the churned ice cream into an airtight container. – Freeze for an additional 2–4 hours before serving.
Clean Up – Detach the paddle and remove the freezer bowl. – Hand-wash the bowl with warm, soapy water and wipe the base with a damp cloth. – Make sure the bowl is completely dry before placing it back in the freezer for your next batch.
Following these steps will help you create creamy ice cream every time with a Cuisinart ice cream maker—just remember to freeze your bowl thoroughly and chill your ingredients for the best results. Enjoy!
Being on a vegan or dairy-free diet should not keep you away from enjoying a nice refreshing bowl of frozen treats! With vegan ingredients in your refrigerator and a Cuisinart ice cream maker in your kitchen, you can create various vegan ice cream recipes that will leave your taste buds begging for more.
Here are fifteen dairy-free vegan ice cream recipes to get you started!
Vanilla Ice Cream
Craving the pure essence of vanilla? Look no further! This recipe uses your Cuisinart ice cream maker to create a smooth, creamy vegan ice cream infused with natural vanilla bean specks for a touch of elegance.
Ingredients
500ml plant-based milk
100g caster sugar
A pinch of salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Seeds from 1 vanilla pod
How to Make it
Combine plant-based milk, sugar, and a pinch of salt in a bowl.
Whisk until the sugar dissolves.
Stir in vanilla extract and vanilla bean seeds.
Chill the mixture thoroughly in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
Pour the chilled mixture into your frozen Cuisinart ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until thickened and creamy.
Enjoy your homemade Vanilla Bean Dream!
Chocolate Ice Cream
Looking for a decadent chocolate indulgence without the dairy? Your Cuisinart ice cream maker comes to the rescue! This recipe allows you to create a rich and satisfying chocolate ice cream using cocoa powder, melted vegan chocolate, or even plant-based chocolate chips.
Relive childhood memories with this classic combination made vegan and even more delicious in your Cuisinart ice cream maker! Creamy peanut butter, ripe bananas, and plant-based milk combine for a nostalgic and satisfying treat.
Ingredients
3 ripe bananas (medium-sized)
250ml plant-based milk
60g creamy peanut butter
1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)
How to Make it
Blend ripe bananas, plant-based milk, creamy peanut butter, and maple syrup (optional) until smooth.
Pour the mixture into your frozen Cuisinart ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until thickened and creamy.
Enjoy your homemade Peanut Butter Banana Blast!
Mango Lassi Ice Cream
Take your taste buds on a trip to India with this vibrant and refreshing sorbet made in your Cuisinart ice cream maker! The combination of creamy coconut or soy yoghurt, sweet mango, and a touch of cardamom creates a delightful and unique flavour experience.
Ingredients
200g frozen mango chunks
150ml chilled coconut or soy yoghurt
¼ teaspoon ground cardamom
1-2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional)
How to Make it
Blend frozen mango chunks, chilled plant-based yoghurt, a pinch of cardamom, and a touch of maple syrup (optional) until smooth.
Pour the mixture into your frozen Cuisinart ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until thickened and frozen.
Enjoy your homemade Mango Lassi Delight!
Strawberry Ice Cream
This recipe takes the classic strawberry ice cream and elevates it with a delightful swirl, all thanks to your Cuisinart ice cream maker! Sweet and fresh strawberries create a vibrant base, while a touch of vanilla adds a touch of complexity.
Ingredients
300ml plant-based milk
100g sugar
1 pinch of salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
200g fresh strawberries, sliced (divided into two portions)
1-2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional)
How to Make it
Combine plant-based milk, sugar, and a pinch of salt in a blender.
Blend until the sugar dissolves. Add vanilla extract and half of the sliced fresh strawberries. Blend until smooth.
Pour half of the mixture into your frozen Cuisinart ice cream maker.
Pulse the remaining strawberries with maple syrup (optional) until slightly chunky.
Gently fold the strawberry mixture into the remaining ice cream base in the Cuisinart ice cream maker.
Churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until thickened and creamy, with visible swirls of strawberry throughout.
Enjoy your homemade Strawberry Swirl ice cream!
Mocha Ice Cream
Coffee lovers rejoice! This recipe utilises your Cuisinart ice cream maker to create a delightful and refreshing vegan ice cream infused with the rich flavours of coffee and chocolate.
Ingredients
300ml plant-based milk
100g sugar
1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
1 pinch of salt
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make it
Combine plant-based milk, sugar, instant espresso powder, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan.
Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is slightly warm.
Remove from heat and stir in cocoa powder and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Chill the mixture thoroughly in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
Pour the chilled mixture into your frozen Cuisinart ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until thickened and creamy.
Enjoy your homemade Mocha Magic ice cream!
Watermelon Mint Ice Cream
Beat the heat with this refreshing sorbet created in your Cuisinart ice cream maker! Sweet watermelon chunks are blended with cool mint leaves and lime juice for a delightful and thirst-quenching treat.
Ingredients
500g seedless watermelon chunks
10 fresh mint leaves
Juice of 1 lime
1-2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional)
How to Make it
Blend seedless watermelon chunks, fresh mint leaves, lime juice, and a little maple syrup (optional) until smooth.
Pour the mixture into your frozen Cuisinart ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until thickened and frozen.
Enjoy your homemade Watermelon Mint Oasis!
Pina Colada Ice Cream
Transport yourself to paradise with this vibrant and creamy sorbet made in your Cuisinart ice cream maker! The combination of sweet pineapple chunks, creamy coconut milk, and a hint of rum (optional) creates a taste of the tropics in every scoop.
Ingredients
400g frozen pineapple chunks
200ml chilled coconut milk
1-2 tablespoons rum (optional)
How to Make it
Blend frozen pineapple chunks, chilled coconut milk, and a splash of rum (optional) until smooth.
Pour the mixture into your frozen Cuisinart ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until thickened and frozen.
Enjoy your homemade Tropical Escape!
Mixed Berries Ice Cream
This symphony of fresh or frozen berries, including strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, is transformed into a delightful and healthy sorbet using your Cuisinart ice cream maker.
Ingredients
400g fresh or frozen mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
Juice of ½ lemon
1-2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional)
How to Make it
Blend your desired combination of fresh or frozen berries, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a touch of maple syrup (optional) until smooth.
Pour the mixture into your frozen Cuisinart ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until thickened and frozen.
Enjoy your homemade Berry Medley!
Avocado Chocolate Ice Cream
Indulge in a healthy and decadent twist on chocolate ice cream using your Cuisinart ice cream maker! This recipe combines ripe avocado, cocoa powder, and maple syrup for a surprisingly creamy and satisfying treat.
Ingredients
1 ripe avocado
200ml plant-based milk
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
2-3 tablespoons maple syrup
1 pinch of salt
How to Make
Blend a ripe avocado, plant-based milk, cocoa powder, maple syrup, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
Pour the mixture into your frozen Cuisinart ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until thickened and creamy.
Enjoy your homemade Avocado Chocolate ice cream!
Salted Caramel Pretzel Ice Cream
Create a playful and delicious treat with this unique combination of flavours and textures in your Cuisinart ice cream maker! A creamy salted caramel base is studded with crushed pretzels for a delightfully sweet and salty experience.
Ingredients
300ml plant-based milk
100g sugar
1 pinch of salt
100ml vegan caramel sauce (prepared separately)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
50g crushed pretzels
How to Make it
Prepare a batch of vegan caramel sauce (recipe not included).
Combine plant-based milk, sugar, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan.
Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves and thickens slightly.
Remove heat and stir in the prepared vegan caramel sauce and vanilla extract.
Chill the mixture thoroughly in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
Fold in crushed pretzels before pouring the mixture into your frozen Cuisinart ice cream maker.
Churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until thickened and creamy.
Enjoy your homemade Salted Caramel Pretzel Playground!
Spiced Chai Ice Cream
Warm yourself up with this unique and flavourful creation made in your Cuisinart ice cream maker! This recipe features chai tea spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger infused into a creamy coconut milk base for a comforting and delicious experience.
Ingredients
2 chai tea bags
100ml hot water
300ml plant-based milk
100g sugar
1 pinch of salt
½ teaspoon ground cardamom
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground ginger
How to Make it
Steep chai tea bags in hot water for several minutes.
Remove the tea bags and stir in plant-based milk, sugar, and a pinch of salt.
Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves.
Remove from heat and stir in ground cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger.
Chill the mixture thoroughly in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
Pour the chilled mixture into your frozen Cuisinart ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until thickened and creamy.
Enjoy your homemade Spiced Chai Dream!
Tips and Recommendations for Making Ice Cream
Making homemade vegan Ice cream using your Cuisinart ice cream maker is easy and simple! However, it won’t hurt to learn a few tips and tricks to make sure your ice cream comes out perfect every single time.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
When making homemade ice cream, it is essential to choose the right ingredients to ensure a delicious and creamy result. For vegan ice cream recipes, you can use ingredients like cocoa powder, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, full-fat coconut milk, almond milk, and a pinch of salt.
These dairy-free alternatives will give your ice cream a rich and smooth texture. Opt for high-quality ingredients like full-fat milk and double cream if you prefer traditional dairy-based ice cream. Fresh free-range eggs add richness and act as emulsifiers to create a smooth consistency.
Using Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker
Making homemade dairy-free ice cream is a breeze with the Cuisinart ice cream maker. This handy machine creates creamy and delicious frozen treats right in your kitchen.
You can enjoy traditional ice cream flavours without any dairy using alternative ingredients such as non-dairy milk and coconut cream. The Cuisinart ice cream maker is easy to use; simply pour in your mixture and let it work.
There’s a perfect fit for every budget with options like the Ice Cream & Gelato Professional ICE100BCU and the Ice Cream Maker ICE30BCU models. Get creative with flavour combinations, from classic vanilla to indulgent chocolate peanut butter banana or refreshing mango sorbet.
Tips for Best Results
To make the best homemade ice cream, I’ve learned a few tips and tricks along the way. Here are my recommendations for achieving delicious results:
Plan and make sure to use chilled ingredients.
Opt for full-fat ingredients to create a richer and creamier texture.
Avoid using ingredients that may not work well in ice cream making.
Let your ice cream mixture chill for 2 hours before churning for better consistency.
Non-dairy alternatives can be used to make dairy-free ice cream.
In conclusion, with the help of a Cuisinart ice cream maker, you can easily make delicious dairy-free ice cream at home. Many recipes are available, whether you prefer classic flavours like chocolate and vanilla or want to try something unique like peanut butter, banana or mango. So grab your ingredients and get ready to indulge in creamy, homemade, dairy-free treats!
FAQs
How long will my vegan ice cream stay frozen?
Homemade vegan ice cream typically lasts less than dairy-based versions due to the lack of milk fat. However, it can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for 2-3 weeks.
Can I add mix-ins to my vegan ice cream?
Absolutely! Fold in your favourite chopped nuts, chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or fruit chunks after the ice cream has churned to a soft-serve consistency. This prevents the mix-ins from sinking to the bottom.
Can I use my recipe with the Cuisinart ice cream maker?
Yes! While the provided recipes are a good starting point, feel free to experiment and adapt existing recipes to your preferences. However, ensure your recipe accounts for the specific properties of plant-based ingredients and adjust churning times as needed.
How do I achieve a smooth and creamy texture?
Pre-chill all ingredients thoroughly before churning. This helps the ice cream freeze evenly and prevents the formation of ice crystals. Mix ripe fruits until completely smooth before adding them to the ice cream base. Consider adding ingredients like avocado, nut butter, or full-fat coconut milk for richer textures.
Ciaran Connolly 