Creamy Pineapple Ice Cream

This recipe is designed to be easy and uses simple ingredients to achieve a wonderfully smooth and tangy pineapple ice cream.

Yields: Approximately 4 servings Prep time: 10 minutes Freeze time: At least 4-6 hours (or overnight) for traditional ice cream, or 30-60 minutes for soft-serve style if using an ice cream maker.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (approx. 450g) frozen pineapple chunks (very important that they are frozen solid)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) full-fat coconut milk (from a can, shaken well before measuring, or use the creamy part from the top if you want it extra rich)
• 1/4 cup (60ml) pineapple juice (from a can or fresh)
• 2-4 tablespoons granulated sugar or agave nectar (adjust to your sweetness preference and the sweetness of your pineapple)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but adds a nice depth)
• Pinch of salt (enhances flavor)

Equipment:

• High-speed blender or food processor
• Airtight freezer-safe container (for traditional ice cream)
• Ice cream maker (optional, for softer texture)

Instructions:

Method 1: Blender/Food Processor (No Ice Cream Maker Required)

1. Prepare Ingredients: Ensure your pineapple chunks are thoroughly frozen. If they are not frozen solid, your ice cream won’t be thick enough.
2. Combine in Blender: Add the frozen pineapple chunks, full-fat coconut milk, pineapple juice, sugar (start with 2 tablespoons), vanilla extract (if using), and a pinch of salt to your high-speed blender or food processor.
3. Blend Until Smooth: Start blending on low, then gradually increase to high. You’ll need to stop frequently to scrape down the sides with a rubber spatula. It might look crumbly at first. Keep blending and scraping until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, resembling a thick soft-serve ice cream. This can take a few minutes. Be patient! If your blender is struggling, add an extra tablespoon or two of pineapple juice, but add as little liquid as possible to maintain thickness.
4. Taste and Adjust: Taste the mixture. If you prefer it sweeter, add the remaining 1-2 tablespoons of sugar and blend again until combined.
5. Serve Immediately (Soft-Serve Style): For a soft-serve consistency like in the picture, serve immediately in chilled glasses or bowls.
6. Freeze for Firmer Ice Cream: If you prefer a firmer, scoopable ice cream, transfer the mixture to an airtight freezer-safe container. Freeze for at least 4-6 hours, or preferably overnight.
7. Scoop and Serve: When ready to serve the firmer ice cream, let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to soften slightly before scooping.

Method 2: With an Ice Cream Maker (for a smoother, airier texture)

1. Prepare Ingredients: Ensure your pineapple chunks are thoroughly frozen.
2. Blend Initial Mixture: In a high-speed blender, combine the frozen pineapple chunks, full-fat coconut milk, pineapple juice, sugar (start with 2 tablespoons), vanilla extract (if using), and a pinch of salt. Blend until mostly smooth, but it doesn’t need to be as perfectly creamy as in Method 1.
3. Chill Mixture (Optional but Recommended): For best results with an ice cream maker, chill the blended mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to an hour. This helps the ice cream maker churn it more effectively.
4. Churn in Ice Cream Maker: Pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream maker bowl and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes 20-30 minutes, or until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
5. Serve Immediately or Freeze: Serve immediately for a soft-serve consistency. For a firmer ice cream, transfer to an airtight freezer-safe container and freeze for 2-4 hours.

Tips for Success:

• Use Very Frozen Pineapple: This is the most crucial step for the right texture. If your pineapple isn’t solid, your “ice cream” will be more like a smoothie.
• Adjust Sweetness: Pineapples vary in sweetness. Taste and add sugar as needed. You can also use maple syrup or honey instead of sugar.
• Don’t Over-blend (for no-churn): While you want it smooth, avoid blending for too long after it’s creamy, as it can warm up the mixture.
• For a Tangier Flavor: Add 1/2 – 1 teaspoon of fresh lime juice to the mixture.
• Serving Suggestions: Garnish with fresh pineapple chunks, a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes, or a maraschino cherry.

Enjoy your refreshing homemade pineapple ice cream!