Top Vegan Ice Cream Brands and Easy Recipes to Try at Home

Craving a creamy, cold treat without dairy? Vegan ice cream has become a delicious and accessible option for many. Whether you follow a plant-based diet or just want to try something new, there are plenty of brands and homemade recipes that deliver rich flavors and smooth textures. This post explores some of the best vegan ice cream brands available today and shares five easy recipes you can make in your own kitchen.

A bowl of creamy vegan ice cream topped with fresh berries

Best Vegan Ice Cream Brands to Know

The market for vegan ice cream has grown rapidly, with many brands offering unique flavors and plant-based ingredients. Here are some top picks that stand out for taste, texture, and ingredient quality.

1. So Delicious Dairy Free

So Delicious is a pioneer in the plant-based frozen dessert world. Their coconut milk-based ice creams are creamy and come in classic flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and salted caramel. They also offer options made with almond and cashew milk, catering to different preferences.

• Uses organic ingredients

• Free from dairy, soy, and gluten

• Widely available in grocery stores

  
  

2. Ben & Jerry’s Non-Dairy

Ben & Jerry’s offers a popular non-dairy line made with almond milk. Their vegan flavors include fan favorites like Chocolate Fudge Brownie and Chunky Monkey. The brand is known for rich, indulgent textures and creative mix-ins.

• Certified vegan and fair trade

• Contains no artificial growth hormones

• Bold and creative flavor combinations

  
  

3. NadaMoo!

NadaMoo! specializes in coconut milk-based ice creams with a focus on organic and non-GMO ingredients. Their flavors range from simple vanilla bean to adventurous options like Birthday Cake and Mint Chip.

• Certified organic and vegan

• Uses fair trade ingredients

• No artificial flavors or preservatives

  
  

4. Cado

Cado uses avocado as the base for their vegan ice cream, which gives it a creamy texture and healthy fats. Their flavors are rich and smooth, with options like Chocolate and Vanilla Bean.

• Made with avocado and coconut milk

• High in healthy fats and nutrients

• Free from refined sugars and artificial ingredients

  
  

5. Oatly

Oatly’s oat milk ice cream is a great choice for those who prefer a less sweet, more natural flavor. Their ice creams have a smooth texture and come in flavors like Chocolate and Hazelnut.

• Made from oat milk

• No artificial colors or flavors

• Environmentally friendly production

  
  

Five Easy Vegan Ice Cream Recipes to Make at Home

Making vegan ice cream at home is simpler than you might think. You don’t always need an ice cream maker, and you can customize flavors to your liking. Here are five recipes to get started.

1. Classic Coconut Milk Vanilla Ice Cream

Ingredients:

• 2 cans full-fat coconut milk

• 3/4 cup maple syrup

• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

  
  

Instructions:

1. Blend all ingredients until smooth.

2. Pour into a container and freeze for 4-6 hours.

3. Stir every hour to prevent ice crystals.

4. Serve with fresh fruit or vegan chocolate sauce.

   
   

2. Chocolate Avocado Ice Cream

Ingredients:

• 3 ripe avocados

• 1/2 cup cocoa powder

• 1/2 cup agave syrup or maple syrup

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

  
  

Instructions:

1. Blend all ingredients until creamy.

2. Freeze in a container for 3-4 hours.

3. Stir occasionally for a smooth texture.

4. Enjoy as a rich, healthy dessert.

   
   

3. Banana and Peanut Butter Ice Cream

Ingredients:

• 4 ripe bananas, sliced and frozen

• 1/4 cup peanut butter

• 1/4 cup almond milk

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

  
  

Instructions:

1. Blend frozen bananas, peanut butter, almond milk, and cinnamon until smooth.

2. Serve immediately for soft-serve texture or freeze for firmer ice cream.

3. Top with chopped nuts or vegan chocolate chips.

   
   

4. Strawberry Cashew Ice Cream

Ingredients:

• 1 cup raw cashews (soaked overnight)

• 1 cup fresh strawberries

• 1/2 cup coconut milk

• 1/4 cup maple syrup

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

  
  

Instructions:

1. Drain cashews and blend with strawberries, coconut milk, maple syrup, and lemon juice.

2. Freeze for 4-5 hours, stirring occasionally.

3. Serve with fresh strawberry slices.

   
   

5. Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream

Ingredients:

• 2 cans full-fat coconut milk

• 1/2 cup maple syrup

• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract

• 1/2 cup vegan chocolate chips

  
  

Instructions:

1. Blend coconut milk, maple syrup, and peppermint extract.

2. Freeze for 3 hours, stirring every 30 minutes.

3. Add chocolate chips and freeze for another hour.

4. Scoop and enjoy a refreshing treat.

   
   

Homemade vegan mint chocolate chip ice cream in a bowl with fresh mint leaves

Tips for Making the Best Vegan Ice Cream

• Use full-fat coconut milk or creamy bases like avocado or cashews for smooth texture.

• Sweeten naturally with maple syrup, agave, or dates to avoid refined sugars.

• Stir the ice cream during freezing to reduce ice crystals and improve creaminess.

• Experiment with mix-ins like nuts, fruit, or vegan chocolate for added flavor and texture.

• Store ice cream in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.