- Three-Ingredient Mango Coconut Ice Cream
Introduction
In a world of complex recipes and lengthy ingredient lists, sometimes the most profound delights come from simplicity. This Three-Ingredient Mango Coconut Ice Cream is a testament to that philosophy. It requires no ice cream maker, no cooking, and just a few minutes of active preparation. The result is a luxuriously creamy, intensely fruity, and refreshing dessert that feels both indulgent and wholesome. It’s vegan, naturally sweetened, and a perfect treat for a warm day or a quick sweet craving.
History & Formation
The concept of minimalist “nice cream” (fruit-based ice cream) has grown in popularity with the rise of plant-based and whole-food diets. While traditional ice cream relies on dairy, eggs, and refined sugar, this recipe draws inspiration from tropical culinary traditions—specifically, the widespread use of mango and coconut throughout Southeast Asia and the Caribbean. By freezing ripe mango and blending it with rich coconut cream, we mimic the classic churn-and-freeze method through a modern, no-fuss technique. It’s a contemporary recipe born from ancient, beloved flavors.
Benefits
· Dairy-Free & Vegan: Ideal for those with lactose intolerance or following a plant-based lifestyle.
· No Added Sugar: Relies solely on the natural sweetness of ripe mangoes.
· Rich in Nutrients: Mangoes are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, while coconut cream provides healthy medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs).
· Quick & Easy: Minimal prep, minimal cleanup, and no special equipment needed.
Ingredients
· 3 cups ripe mango chunks, frozen (about 2-3 large mangoes)
· 1 (13.5 oz) can full-fat coconut cream, chilled overnight in the fridge
· 1-2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (from about 1 lime)
· (Optional garnish: toasted coconut flakes, fresh mint)
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, serves 4)
· Calories: ~230 kcal
· Fat: 18g (mostly from coconut)
· Carbohydrates: 20g
· Fiber: 2g
· Sugars: 16g (natural)
· Protein: 2g
· Excellent source of Vitamin C & A.
Methods & Instructions
Method: No-Churn Blending
This recipe uses the power of your food processor or high-speed blender to break down frozen fruit into a smooth, creamy consistency. The fat from the solidified coconut cream coats the ice crystals, creating a rich and scoopable texture without any churning.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Ingredients: The night before, peel and chop ripe mangoes into chunks. Spread them on a parchment-lined tray and freeze solid for at least 4 hours. Also, place the unopened can of coconut cream in the refrigerator.
2. Scoop Coconut Cream: Open the chilled can of coconut cream. The solid cream will have separated and risen to the top. Scoop out 1 cup of this solid coconut cream into your food processor or blender. (Reserve the leftover liquid for smoothies).
3. Blend: Add the 3 cups of frozen mango chunks and 1 tablespoon of lime juice to the processor.
4. Process to Creaminess: Pulse and then blend continuously. At first, it will be crumbly. Stop and scrape down the sides as needed. Continue blending until the mixture is completely smooth, creamy, and begins to clump together like soft-serve ice cream. This may take 1-3 minutes.
5. Taste & Adjust: Taste and add the remaining lime juice if you desire a brighter, tangier flavor.
6. Serve or Set: For soft-serve, serve immediately in bowls. For a firmer, scoopable texture, transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or airtight container, smooth the top, and freeze for 2-3 hours.
7. Scoop & Garnish: Let sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before scooping if frozen solid. Garnish with toasted coconut flakes or mint if desired.
Conclusion
This Three-Ingredient Mango Coconut Ice Cream proves that you don’t need a long list of components to create something truly special and satisfying. It captures the pure, unadulterated essence of its ingredients, offering a frosty, creamy escape in every bite. It’s a recipe that respects your time, your health, and your palate.
For the Lovers…
· Chocolate Lovers: Drizzle with melted dark chocolate before serving or add cacao nibs to the blend.
· Nut Lovers: Blend in 2 tablespoons of almond or peanut butter for a nutty ripple.
· Herb & Spice Lovers: Add a few fresh basil leaves or a pinch of cardamom to the food processor.
· Texture Lovers: Fold in chopped pistachios or diced fresh mango after blending.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this dessert is a joyful, simple creation that’s sure to become a warm-weather staple. Enjoy the magic of minimalism!
