20 Creamy Coconut Ice Cream Recipes with Tropical Flavors

recipesforlife

April 5, 2025

Get ready to indulge in a taste of paradise with these 20 creamy coconut ice cream recipes that are infused with tropical flavors. From classic combinations to unique twists, we’ve got you covered with a variety of mouthwatering flavors that will transport your taste buds to a tropical island getaway.

Whether you’re a fan of sweet treats or looking for a refreshing dessert option, our collection of creamy coconut ice cream recipes has something for everyone. With ingredients like coconut milk, toasted coconut, and exotic fruits, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.

Classic Coconut Milk Ice Cream

Classic Coconut Milk Ice Cream
Relish the creamy and rich flavors of tropical coconut milk ice cream, perfect for hot summer days or as a sweet treat any time of the year.

Ingredients:

– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is warm.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let it cool to room temperature.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes (heating) + chilling time

Toasted Coconut and Chocolate Chip Ice Cream

Toasted Coconut and Chocolate Chip Ice Cream
Take a tropical getaway with every scoop of this Toasted Coconut and Chocolate Chip Ice Cream! A hint of toasted coconut flakes adds a delightful crunch to the rich, creamy ice cream, while dark chocolate chips provide a velvety contrast.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in unsweetened shredded coconut, toasted coconut flakes, and dark chocolate chips. Let cool to room temperature.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Churn according to ice cream maker’s instructions.
5. Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: None (chill time included)

Pina Colada Coconut Ice Cream

Pina Colada Coconut Ice Cream
Escape to a tropical paradise with this creamy Pina Colada Coconut Ice Cream recipe, featuring the sweetness of pineapple and the richness of coconut. This refreshing dessert is perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a taste of sunshine.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup coconut cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in unsweetened shredded coconut, pineapple juice, and coconut cream. Let cool to room temperature.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (chilling time included)

Coconut Mango Swirl Ice Cream

Coconut Mango Swirl Ice Cream
Escape to a tropical paradise with this creamy Coconut Mango Swirl Ice Cream recipe. A perfect blend of sweet and tangy, this unique flavor combination is sure to delight!

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in unsweetened shredded coconut, mango, vanilla extract, and salt. Let cool to room temperature.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Once chilled, pour mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once set, transfer to an airtight container and swirl in additional mango puree, if desired.

Cooking Time: None (refrigeration required)

Yield: 1 1/2 quarts

Vegan Coconut Matcha Ice Cream

Vegan Coconut Matcha Ice Cream
Elevate your ice cream game with this refreshing and unique vegan coconut matcha treat. A perfect blend of creamy coconut, vibrant green tea, and natural sweetness.

Ingredients:

– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk or other non-dairy milk
– 1 tablespoon matcha powder
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine coconut milk, almond milk, matcha powder, maple syrup, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy.
2. Add vanilla extract and blend for another second or two.
3. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions (about 20-25 minutes).
4. Once frozen, scoop and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a no-cook, churn-and-freeze affair.

Coconut Lime Sorbet

Coconut Lime Sorbet
This sorbet recipe combines the creamy richness of coconut with the bright, citrusy flavor of lime, perfect for hot summer days or as a palate cleanser between meals.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup (200ml) coconut cream
– 1/2 cup (120g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (60ml) freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon grated lime zest

Instructions:

1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together coconut cream and sugar until well combined.
2. Add lime juice and lime zest; whisk until smooth.
3. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once set, scoop the sorbet into airtight containers and store in the freezer.

Cooking Time: None required (just chill and freeze!)

Thai Iced Tea Coconut Ice Cream

Thai Iced Tea Coconut Ice Cream
This unique dessert combines the bold flavors of Thai iced tea with the creaminess of coconut ice cream, perfect for a hot summer day. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this refreshing treat in no time!

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 teaspoon instant Thai iced tea powder (or to taste)
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup coconut cream

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and unsweetened shredded coconut. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 170°F.
2. Remove from heat and stir in instant Thai iced tea powder and kosher salt. Let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl. Whisk in coconut cream.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator until cold, then churn in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes (including steeping time)

Coconut Almond Fudge Ice Cream

Coconut Almond Fudge Ice Cream
Coconut and almond flavors combine beautifully in this rich and creamy ice cream, perfect for warm weather treats or as a unique dessert option. With the added bonus of fudgy texture from melted chocolate, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup melted dark chocolate (at least 60% cocoa)
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and stir in unsweetened shredded coconut, sliced almonds, vanilla extract, and melted dark chocolate until well combined.
3. Let mixture cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Churn the mixture according to your ice cream maker’s instructions.
5. Once churned, transfer to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including cooling time)

Roasted Pineapple Coconut Ice Cream

Roasted Pineapple Coconut Ice Cream
This recipe combines the sweetness of pineapple with the creaminess of coconut ice cream, all tied together with a hint of caramelized flavor from roasting. Perfect for hot summer days or as a unique dessert option.

Ingredients:

– 1 ripe pineapple, cut into wedges
– 1 can full-fat coconut milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the pineapple wedges on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until caramelized.
2. In a blender, combine roasted pineapple, coconut milk, heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.
3. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Once frozen, scoop and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (roasting time) + 30-40 minutes (churning time)

Coconut Avocado Ice Cream

Coconut Avocado Ice Cream
This refreshing dessert combines the creamy richness of avocados with the tropical flavor of coconut, perfect for hot summer days.

Ingredients:

– 3 ripe avocados
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice

Instructions:

1. Peel and pit the avocados, then blend with the coconut milk, sugar, salt, and lime juice in a medium bowl until smooth.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
3. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Once churned, transfer to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours to set.

Cooking Time: None (chill time: 2-24 hours)

Spiced Coconut Chai Ice Cream

Spiced Coconut Chai Ice Cream
Warm up with a creamy scoop of Spiced Coconut Chai Ice Cream, infused with the comforting flavors of Indian spices and sweet coconut.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
– 1/2 cup strong brewed chai tea (cooled)

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together cream, milk, sugar, and coconut until well combined.
2. Add cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and black pepper; whisk until smooth.
3. Stir in cooled chai tea until fully incorporated.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
5. Churn the mixture in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once churned, transfer to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (including chilling time)

Coconut Banana Nice Cream

Coconut Banana Nice Cream
A creamy and refreshing dessert that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the richness of coconut milk.

Ingredients:

– 3 ripe bananas
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)

Instructions:

1. Peel the bananas and place them in a freezer-safe blender or food processor.
2. Add the unsweetened shredded coconut, coconut milk, and honey (if using) to the blender.
3. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
4. Pour the nice cream into a bowl and serve immediately. You can also transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the freezer for up to 3 days.

Cooking Time: None (freezer-based dessert)

Coconut Passionfruit Swirl Ice Cream

Coconut Passionfruit Swirl Ice Cream
This creamy ice cream combines the richness of coconut with the sweet and tangy flavors of passionfruit, swirled together for a unique and delicious treat.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup passionfruit puree
– 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and unsweetened shredded coconut. Heat over medium heat until the mixture simmers.
2. Remove from heat and stir in granulated sugar until dissolved.
3. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
4. Stir in passionfruit puree and vanilla extract.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Churn the mixture in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Once churned, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and swirl in the remaining passionfruit puree.
8. Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes (heating the mixture) + refrigeration time

Coconut Lemongrass Ice Cream

Coconut Lemongrass Ice Cream
A refreshing tropical twist on classic ice cream, this Coconut Lemongrass Ice Cream combines the creamy richness of coconut with the bright, citrusy flavor of lemongrass. Perfect for hot summer days or as a unique dessert for your next dinner party.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon lemongrass extract
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh lemongrass leaves (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, unsweetened shredded coconut, granulated sugar, and kosher salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 170°F to 180°F.
2. Remove from heat and stir in lemongrass extract. Let cool slightly.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Churn the mixture in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once churned, fold in chopped fresh lemongrass leaves (if using).
6. Transfer to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: Approximately 20 minutes + chilling time

Coconut Caramel Swirl Ice Cream

Coconut Caramel Swirl Ice Cream
Experience the tropical taste of coconut and caramel blended together in this creamy ice cream recipe.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Stir in the unsweetened shredded coconut and vanilla extract.
3. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Once the ice cream is almost set, drizzle the caramel sauce through a whisk or spoon, creating a swirly pattern.
5. Continue churning until the caramel is fully incorporated and the ice cream is smooth.
6. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (depending on ice cream maker)

Coconut Blueberry Cheesecake Ice Cream

Coconut Blueberry Cheesecake Ice Cream
A creamy and refreshing dessert that combines the sweetness of blueberries with the richness of coconut and a hint of cheesecake flavor.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup frozen blueberries, thawed and drained
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and unsweetened shredded coconut until well combined.
2. Add the vanilla extract and blueberries to the mixture; stir until the blueberries are evenly distributed.
3. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Remove the chilled mixture from the refrigerator and pour it into the ice cream maker.
6. Churn the mixture according to the manufacturer’s instructions until thickened, about 20-25 minutes.
7. In a small bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese and confectioners’ sugar.
8. Once the ice cream is churned, fold in the cream cheese mixture until well combined.
9. Transfer the finished ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Coconut Coffee Ice Cream

Coconut Coffee Ice Cream
Elevate your coffee game with this creamy and aromatic ice cream infused with the richness of coconut. Perfect for warm weather, this unique flavor combination will transport you to a tropical paradise.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee
– 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in unsweetened shredded coconut, brewed coffee, and vanilla extract. Let it steep for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container. Cover and refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 hours.
4. Churn the mixture according to your ice cream maker’s instructions.
5. Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes + chilling time

Enjoy your delicious Coconut Coffee Ice Cream!

Coconut Ginger Ice Cream

Coconut Ginger Ice Cream
Beat the heat with this refreshing coconut ginger ice cream that combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with the spicy warmth of fresh ginger.

Ingredients:

– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk, chilled
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 inches piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, sugar, and water until well combined.
2. Add the grated ginger and vanilla extract; whisk until smooth.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Remove from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before churning to allow it to come to room temperature.
5. Churn in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once churned, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours to set.

Cooking Time: None (chill and freeze only)

Coconut Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

Coconut Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
This refreshing dessert combines the creamy richness of coconut with the sweet, subtle flavor of vanilla beans. Perfect for warm weather or as a unique treat any time of the year.

Ingredients:

– 1 can full-fat coconut milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup vanilla bean paste (or 1/2 vanilla bean, split)
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine coconut milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Add vanilla extract and vanilla bean paste (or sliced vanilla bean). Whisk to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
6. Cover and refrigerate until chilled, at least 2 hours or overnight.
7. Churn in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Coconut Rum Raisin Ice Cream

Coconut Rum Raisin Ice Cream
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this unique and creamy ice cream flavor, combining the warmth of rum, the sweetness of raisins, and the richness of coconut.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons dark rum (such as Myers’s)
– 1/2 cup raisins, chopped
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in coconut, rum, and raisins. Let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Strain mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container. Discard solids.
4. Chill mixture in refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Churn ice cream according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once churned, transfer ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: None (preparation and chilling)

Summary

Indulge in the creamy and tropical world of coconut ice cream with these 20 mouthwatering recipes! From classic flavors like Coconut Milk Ice Cream to unique twists like Thai Iced Tea Coconut Ice Cream, there’s something for every palate. Explore a range of tropical flavors such as Pina Colada, Mango Swirl, Passionfruit Swirl, and more. Plus, discover vegan options like Matcha and Avocado Coconut Ice Cream. Get ready to cool down with these refreshing and creamy treats!

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