Vegan Salted Caramel Ice Cream Delight
Indulge in this rich and creamy vegan salted caramel ice cream that is deeply sweet with a hint of saltiness. Perfect for warm days!
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsweetened almond milk
- ½ cup + 2 tablespoons water, divided
- 1 cup cashews
- 1 ½ cups sugar
- ½ cup water
- 3 tablespoons Earth Balance
- 2 teaspoons flake sea salt
- 1 (14-ounce) can full-fat coconut milk (do not substitute with light coconut milk)
- 1 cup cashews, soaked for at least 6 hours
- 3 tablespoons coconut oil
- 2 cups salted caramel sauce, divided
Instructions
- Prepare the traditional salted caramel sauce: In a high-speed blender, blend ½ cup almond milk, 2 tablespoons water, and 1 cup cashews until very smooth. Strain for the best texture.
- In a heavy saucepan, combine sugar and ½ cup water over medium-low heat until dissolved. Increase heat and boil without stirring until syrup turns golden (about 12 minutes). Brush down the sides with water if necessary.
- Remove from heat, whisk in Earth Balance, then gradually add the cashew cream. Stir over low heat until smooth. Add 2 teaspoons sea salt. This makes about 2 cups of sauce.
- If using the refined-sugar-free caramel option, combine all the ingredients in a saucepan, bring to a boil, whisking well for 8 minutes, then remove from heat and cool.
- For the vegan ice cream base, blend the coconut milk, soaked cashews, coconut oil, and 1 ½ cups of the salted caramel sauce until very smooth. Refrigerate until cold.
- Churn the mixture according to your ice cream maker s instructions. After churning, gently swirl in the remaining ½ cup of salted caramel sauce and freeze for at least 2-3 hours.
Nutritional Information
Nutritional values are for one serving:
- Calories: 1275
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 81g
- Saturated Fat: 56g
- Cholesterol: 16mg
- Sodium: 1912mg
- Potassium: 693mg
- Total Carbs: 140g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 73g
- Net Carbs: 137g
Why Choose Vegan Desserts?
Vegan desserts have gained immense popularity over the past few years, and for good reason. As more people become aware of the health benefits and ethical implications of plant-based diets, the demand for delicious vegan options has soared. Vegan desserts, such as our Vegan Salted Caramel Ice Cream Delight, are not only cruelty-free but also often lower in cholesterol and saturated fat, making them a healthier choice for indulgence. With ingredients like cashews and coconut milk, these treats can be surprisingly creamy and satisfying, proving that you don t need dairy to enjoy a rich dessert experience.
Exploring the Health Benefits of Vegan Ingredients
When you indulge in vegan salted caramel ice cream, you re treating yourself to a dessert that can be as nutritious as it is delicious. Ingredients like almond milk and coconut milk provide beneficial fats and vitamins, while cashews are a great source of protein and healthy fats. This combination not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also nourishes your body. Additionally, using less refined sugars or opting for natural sweeteners can help you manage your sugar intake without sacrificing flavor. Incorporating these wholesome ingredients into your diet can lead to better overall health and wellness.
How to Make Vegan Salted Caramel Sauce
The key to achieving the perfect vegan salted caramel sauce lies in the balance of flavors and textures. With our recipe, you can create a rich and creamy sauce that elevates any dessert. Start by caramelizing sugar until it reaches a golden hue, then whisk in Earth Balance and cashew cream for that luscious consistency. The addition of flake sea salt enhances the sweetness and creates that irresistible salty-sweet contrast. This versatile sauce can be used in various recipes, from drizzling over pancakes to mixing into baked goods, showcasing its adaptability in vegan cooking.
Tips for Churning the Perfect Vegan Ice Cream
Churning vegan ice cream can be an art form that requires a few tips and tricks to master. First, ensure that your ice cream maker is pre-frozen according to the manufacturer s instructions; this will help achieve a smooth texture. Secondly, allowing the mixture to chill in the refrigerator before churning will contribute to a creamier result. While churning, keep an eye on the consistency; you want it to be thick but still pourable. Finally, don t forget to gently swirl in that remaining salted caramel sauce after churning to create beautiful ribbons of flavor throughout your ice cream.
Customizing Your Vegan Ice Cream Delight
The beauty of making your own vegan ice cream is the ability to customize it to your taste preferences. You can experiment with different flavors by adding ingredients like vanilla extract, cocoa powder, or even fruit purees. For a nutty twist, consider mixing in crushed nuts or nut butter. If you re feeling adventurous, try incorporating spices like cinnamon or cardamom for a unique flavor profile. The possibilities are endless, making this vegan salted caramel ice cream not just a treat, but a canvas for your creativity in the kitchen.
Storing Your Vegan Salted Caramel Ice Cream
Once you ve churned your delicious vegan salted caramel ice cream, proper storage is essential to maintain its fantastic flavor and texture. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and smooth the top to minimize air exposure. For the best results, allow it to freeze for at least 2-3 hours before serving. When stored correctly, vegan ice cream can last in the freezer for up to a month, although it s likely to be devoured long before then! Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping for the perfect serving consistency.