Pumpkin Ice Cream (Dairy-Free And Vegan)

Indulge in the creamy flavors of fall with this dairy-free vegan pumpkin ice cream recipe. Made with full-fat coconut milk, pumpkin pie spice, and natural sweeteners, this vegan treat is the perfect sweet indulgence for pumpkin season. Easy to make, rich in flavor, and perfect for the whole family!

Vegan Pumpkin Ice Cream

As the leaves begin to change and the air gets crisp, pumpkin season comes into full swing. While pumpkin spice lattes often take center stage, there’s a new way to satisfy those pumpkin cravings—dairy-free pumpkin ice cream. This vegan pumpkin ice cream captures the cozy flavors of fall in a rich, creamy form, making it a perfect sweet treat for the whole family.

At first, when I moved to the United States, I was not so much into pumpkins. In Poland, pumpkins were, for many years, an underestimated vegetable (well, the debate is still on, whether pumpkin is a vegetable or a fruit). The pumpkin was sparingly used in the daily preparations of meals. Currently, the orange “giant” has a common occurrence in various recipes! I eventually fell in love with pumpkins, making them a mainstay in many of my cooking quite often.

Why Dairy-Free Pumpkin Ice Cream?

Traditional ice cream is delicious, but if you’re looking for a healthier ice cream option without the dairy, this pumpkin ice cream recipe is your answer. Made with full-fat coconut milk and sweetened with coconut sugar, this ice cream is not only rich in flavor but also free from dairy and refined sugars. The result is a creamy consistency that rivals any traditional ice cream, with a delightful coconut flavor that pairs beautifully with pumpkin pie spice.

Why Use Pumpkin In Ice Cream?

Pumpkins are known for their high quantity of fiber, tons of minerals and vitamins, vitamin C, and potassium. The vegetable is also known for its function as a boost for antioxidants in the body. Pumpkins contain beta-carotene folic acid and actively protect the body against harmful radicals. Pumpkin seeds are known to provide a significant content of lecithin and zinc to increase metabolism and help the proper function of the brain. Pumpkin oil is known to have a rich composition of vitamins and essential minerals.

Pumpkins work wonders in both savory and sweet versions. Some of the most common formulations of pumpkins that are absolute hits include cakes, tarts, velvet cheesecakes, brownies, muffins, and the thrilling pumpkin zebra!

1. Pumpkin Spice Paradise: The moment you take that first bite, you’re transported to a pumpkin spice paradise. The warm notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves blend seamlessly with the rich, velvety texture of the ice cream. It’s a symphony of flavors that mirrors the cozy aromas of pumpkin pies baking in the oven.
2. Creamy Elegance: Pumpkin ice creams are known for their luxurious and creamy texture. The addition of real pumpkin puree imparts a luscious quality, creating a smooth and velvety treat that feels like a celebration in every spoonful. The creaminess is not just a sensation but an experience that elevates the enjoyment of this seasonal delight.
3. Variety of Indulgences: One of the most exciting aspects of pumpkin ice creams is the wide array of variations available. From classic pumpkin spice to innovative combinations like pumpkin caramel swirl or pumpkin cheesecake, there’s a flavor for every palate. Explore local creameries and artisanal ice cream shops to discover unique creations that showcase the creativity of ice cream makers.
4. Savoring the Harvest: Fall is a harvest season, and pumpkin ice creams are a delicious way to savor the season’s bounty. Using fresh, locally sourced pumpkins enhances the flavor profile and supports local farmers. It’s a culinary journey that connects you with the earth’s abundance and the traditions of the autumn harvest.
5. Pairing Pleasures: Pumpkin ice creams are versatile, making them an ideal companion for a variety of desserts and treats. Whether you prefer them atop a warm slice of pumpkin pie, sandwiched between two cookies for an ice cream sandwich, or paired with a drizzle of caramel sauce, the pairing possibilities are endless. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect pumpkin indulgence.

Simple Ingredients, Creamy Results

The base of this vegan pumpkin pie ice cream starts with canned coconut milk. For the creamiest ice cream, it’s essential to use full-fat coconut milk or coconut cream. These provide the rich texture that makes this ice cream so satisfying. A little bit of almond milk or cashew milk can be added to the ice cream base for an extra layer of creaminess, or you can stick with the coconut milk for a stronger flavor.

To sweeten the deal, maple syrup or coconut sugar and brown sugar are added to the mix. These natural sweeteners bring a deep, caramel-like sweetness that complements the pumpkin spice and vanilla extract perfectly. A touch of pure maple syrup can be a good swap for the coconut sugar if you prefer a slightly different flavor profile.

How to Make Dairy-Free Ice Cream

The process is simple and can be done with or without an ice cream maker. Start by combining the full-fat coconut milk, pumpkin pie spice, ground ginger, ground nutmeg and canned pumpkin puree in a blender. Stir in the coconut sugar or brown sugar, and vanilla extract, and blend it until all the ingredients are well blended. Pour it into your ice cream machine and let it run until the mixture is frozen.

If you don’t have an ice cream machine, you can still achieve creamy results by pouring the mixture into a freezer-safe container or a loaf pan. Place the container in the freezer, and every 30 minutes, stir the mixture to break up any ice crystals. This helps create a creamy texture, similar to what you’d get from a traditional ice cream machine.

Tips for the Best Results

• Chill the ice cream bowl: If you’re using an ice cream maker, the first thing you should do is chill the bowl in the freezer for at least 24 hours. This ensures the ice cream freezes quickly and evenly.
• Avoid ice crystals: For best results, keep the ice cream mixture as cold as possible before churning. This minimizes the formation of ice crystals, leading to a smoother texture.
• Use an airtight container: Once your homemade pumpkin ice cream is ready, transfer it to an airtight container or a plastic bag to prevent freezer burn and preserve the creamy consistency.
• Customize your ice cream: Add-ins like raw pecans, chocolate chips, or a drizzle of coconut oil can elevate your dairy-free pumpkin ice cream, giving it that little bit of extra flavor and crunch.

Enjoying Your Homemade Pumpkin Ice Cream

This dairy-free pumpkin ice cream is the perfect way to indulge in all things pumpkin this time of year. Whether you serve it soft serve straight from the machine or let it harden in the freezer for a firmer scoop, the creamy texture and warm spices will have you reaching for seconds. The best part? It’s a sweet treat that everyone can enjoy, from the dairy-free crowd to the most devoted pumpkin spice latte fans.

For those who love experimenting with homemade ice cream, this vegan pumpkin spice ice cream recipe will be a new favorite. With its simple ingredients and decadent results, you might find yourself making it again and again throughout the pumpkin season. And don’t worry if it’s your first time making dairy-free ice cream—this recipe is as easy as it is delicious.

There’s something special about making your own ice cream, especially when it’s packed with the flavors of fall. Whether you’re using a traditional ice cream maker or trying a nice cream recipe for the first time, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process. Next time you’re in the mood for a pumpkin spice latte, consider whipping up a batch of this dairy-free pumpkin ice cream instead. You won’t be disappointed.

And if you’re looking for more dairy-free ice cream recipes, be sure to check out the recipe card below, where you can find other creamy delights that are perfect for any time of the year. Remember, by using affiliate links to purchase your ingredients, you’re supporting the creation of more great recipes like this one—so thank you for your support!

Enjoy your pumpkin ice cream, and happy fall!

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