Oat Milk Ice Cream is a delicious and dairy-free alternative that has captured the hearts of dessert lovers everywhere. Made from creamy oat milk, this frozen treat offers a smooth texture and a subtly sweet flavor, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a vegan-friendly dessert option. As the popularity of oat milk continues to rise, more and more recipes are incorporating this versatile ingredient into a variety of treats, including ice cream. Whether you’re lactose intolerant, vegan, or simply looking to try something new, oat milk ice cream is sure to delight your taste buds while providing a satisfying and indulgent experience.
Oat Milk Ice Cream Recipe
Ingredients
To create a delicious oat milk ice cream, you’ll need the following essential ingredients:
- Oat Milk: The base for your ice cream, providing a creamy texture and mild flavor.
- Sweetener: Choose from maple syrup, agave syrup, or granulated sugar to add the perfect touch of sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract: For that classic ice cream flavor, a splash of vanilla extract enhances the overall taste.
- Cornstarch: Used as a thickening agent, cornstarch helps achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Optional Add-Ins: Get creative by incorporating chocolate chips, fresh fruit, or nuts to personalize your oat milk ice cream and add extra flavor and texture.
Directions
- Prepare the Oat Milk Base:
- In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of oat milk, 1/2 cup of sweetener (maple syrup, agave, or sugar), and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract. Whisk until well mixed.
- Thicken the Mixture:
- In a small bowl, dissolve 2 tablespoons of cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of oat milk. Make sure there are no lumps.
- Pour the cornstarch mixture into the saucepan with the oat milk base. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until it begins to thicken (about 5-7 minutes). Do not let it boil.
- Chill the Mixture:
- Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
- Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until thoroughly chilled.
- Churn the Ice Cream:
- Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes.
- Add Optional Ingredients:
- If desired, fold in any optional add-ins (chocolate chips, fruit, or nuts) during the last few minutes of churning.
- Freeze the Ice Cream:
- Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container. Smooth the top with a spatula and cover tightly.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm.
- Serve:
- When ready to serve, scoop the oat milk ice cream into bowls or cones. Enjoy your creamy, dairy-free treat!
Tips:
- If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the chilled mixture into a shallow container and freeze. Stir it every 30 minutes for the first few hours to break up ice crystals until it reaches the desired texture.
Oat Milk Ice Cream Recipe Tips
- Choosing Oat Milk:
- Opt for barista-style oat milk if available, as it tends to have a creamier texture and better frothing properties, resulting in a richer ice cream.
- Adjusting Sweetness:
- Taste the base mixture before freezing and adjust the sweetness according to your preference. Keep in mind that the sweetness may become less pronounced once frozen.
- Cornstarch Alternatives:
- If you prefer a completely natural thickener, consider using arrowroot powder or tapioca starch as a substitute for cornstarch.
- Flavoring Options:
- Experiment with different extracts, such as almond or coconut, to add unique flavors. You can also infuse the oat milk with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for added warmth.
- Mix-Ins:
- Get creative with your add-ins! Chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or swirls of nut butter can enhance the flavor and texture of your oat milk ice cream.
- Storage:
- Store your oat milk ice cream in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. For the best texture, allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping.
- Serving Suggestions:
- Serve your oat milk ice cream with fresh fruit, granola, or a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for an extra treat.
- No Ice Cream Maker?:
- If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the chilled mixture into a shallow dish and freeze it. Stir vigorously every 30 minutes for the first few hours to break up ice crystals until it reaches a smooth consistency.
- Infuse for Extra Flavor:
- For a unique twist, infuse the oat milk with herbs (like mint) or spices (like ginger) before adding it to the ice cream base. Strain out the solids before cooking.
- Batch Preparation:
- Make a double batch and experiment with different flavors by dividing the mixture and adding various add-ins to create a variety of oat milk ice creams.
Oat Milk Ice Cream Recipe
Equipment
- Medium Saucepan: For heating the oat milk mixture and thickening it with cornstarch.
- Mixing Bowls: To combine the ingredients and for dissolving the cornstarch.
- Whisk For mixing the ingredients and ensuring there are no lumps in the cornstarch mixture.
- Ice Cream Maker but highly recommended for churning the ice cream to achieve a smooth texture.
- Freezer-Safe Container: To store the ice cream once it has been churned and is ready for freezing.
- Spatula: For transferring the ice cream mixture to the container and smoothing the top.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurately measuring the ingredients.
Ingredients
- 2 cups oat milk
- 1/2 cup sweetener
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
Optional Topping
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped fruit
- 1/4 cup nuts
Instructions
- In a saucepan, whisk together 2 cups of oat milk, 1/2 cup sweetener, and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, then heat until thickened (about 5-7 minutes).
- Dissolve 2 tablespoons of cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of oat milk, then stir into the thickened mixture.
- Cool the mixture to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Churn in an ice cream maker for 20-25 minutes, adding any optional mix-ins during the last few minutes.
- Transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 4 hours before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
- Oat Milk Selection: Choose a high-quality, creamy oat milk, preferably barista-style, for the best texture and flavor.
- Sweetener Choices: Adjust the type and amount of sweetener based on your taste preferences. Different sweeteners can impact the final flavor and texture.
- Thickening Process: Make sure to stir the mixture continuously while heating to prevent the cornstarch from clumping and ensure even thickening.
- Chilling Time: Allow sufficient chilling time for the mixture. A colder base will yield a smoother ice cream texture.
- Ice Cream Maker: If using an ice cream maker, follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. If you don't have one, the no-churn method can work well, but will require more frequent stirring during freezing.
- Optional Add-Ins: Get creative with mix-ins, but remember that larger or heavier ingredients may affect the texture and churning process. Consider chopping or breaking them into smaller pieces.
- Freezing Time: Allow the ice cream to freeze completely for the best texture. If it becomes too hard, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping.
- Storage: Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn and maintain its flavor and texture.
- Dietary Considerations: This recipe is vegan and dairy-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs. Adjust the recipe as necessary for allergies or specific dietary preferences.
- Serving Suggestions: Consider serving with fresh fruit, granola, or a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for added flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Oat milk ice cream is not only simple to make but also incredibly delicious, offering a creamy, dairy-free alternative that everyone can enjoy. With just a few essential ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a delightful frozen treat that suits various dietary preferences. We encourage you to get creative and experiment with different flavors and add-ins—whether it’s rich chocolate, refreshing fruit, or crunchy nuts, the possibilities are endless! Embrace the versatility of oat milk and indulge in this delightful dessert, perfect for warm days or any occasion that calls for a sweet treat. Enjoy making your own batches and discovering your favorite combinations!
Hi, I’m Katelyn Williams, the expert behind Ninjacreamiicecream.com. With a deep passion for creating delectable ice cream recipes, I’m here to share my love for all things ice cream. I earned my Bachelor’s degree from Louisiana State University, and since then, I’ve been dedicated to perfecting the art of ice cream making. From classic flavors to innovative creations, my goal is to inspire you to make delicious and creamy treats at home effortlessly. Join me for the best recipes, tips, and techniques to elevate your ice cream game and indulge in delightful frozen desserts!