Make this 4 ingredient chocolate cookies 'n' cream ice cream with coconut milk for a rich, dairy-free treat. Ready in minutes with an ice cream maker!

The Story Behind This Easy Dairy-Free Ice Cream

This dairy-free chocolate cookies and cream ice cream gets its velvety texture from coconut milk, not heavy cream. It comes from my friend Alice’s cookbook, Savory Sweet Life, who created it for her daughter sensitive to dairy. With just four ingredients, coconut milk, sugar, cocoa powder, and Oreos, it couldn’t be simpler. I’ve been making it every summer since I discovered it.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Coconut Milk Ice Cream

You need only four ingredients, and you probably already have most of them.
It’s completely dairy-free, yet the coconut milk makes it just as rich and creamy as traditional ice cream.
The whole process takes just a few minutes of active time, then the ice cream maker does the work.

Key Ingredients for the Best Cookies and Cream Ice Cream

Coconut milk: Use full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest results. Chaokoh brand is recommended for its high fat content. Don’t substitute light coconut milk, as the ice cream won’t set up properly.
Cocoa powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder gives a deep chocolate flavor without adding extra sugar. Dutch-process or natural both work.
Oreos: Original Oreos are dairy-free, but check the label if you need strict vegan. Crush them by hand for chunky pieces or pulse in a bag for finer crumbs.

What You Need to Make This Ice Cream

Ice cream maker (any model works)
Blender (for blending the base)
Airtight freezer container (to store the finished ice cream)

Tips for Perfectly Creamy Ice Cream Every Time

Start with a cold can of coconut milk, it churns better. Blend just until smooth, about 20 seconds; over-blending can incorporate too much air. When you add the Oreos, crush them to your preferred size. Fold them in during the last few minutes of churning so they stay chunky. After churning, transfer to a container and freeze for at least 4 hours for a scoopable texture.

Why Coconut Milk Makes the Creamiest Dairy-Free Ice Cream

Coconut milk is the key to this dairy-free ice cream’s rich, creamy texture. It contains about 20% fat, similar to heavy cream, which creates a smooth, scoopable consistency without any dairy. The natural emulsifiers in coconut milk also help prevent large ice crystals from forming. For best results, use a brand with no gums or thickeners, Chaokoh is a top pick.

Ways to Change Up This 4-Ingredient Dessert

If you want to switch things up, try using gluten-free sandwich cookies for a gluten-free version. You can also replace the cocoa powder with matcha for a green tea twist. For a minty kick, add 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract along with the cocoa. Dark chocolate Oreos give a richer flavor.

How to Serve This Summer Dessert

This ice cream is great on its own, but you can dress it up. Drizzle with warm chocolate sauce and a dollop of coconut whipped cream. For crunch, sprinkle extra crushed Oreos on top. Serve in a waffle cone for a classic summer treat, or alongside fresh strawberries for a bright contrast.

How to Store Your Homemade Ice Cream

Store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. Press a piece of parchment paper directly on the surface to prevent ice crystals. It will keep well for up to two weeks, though it’s best eaten within the first week.

Frequently Asked Questions About This Ice Cream

Can I use light coconut milk?

No, light coconut milk has too little fat and will result in icy, hard ice cream. Stick with full-fat.

Can I make this without an ice cream maker?

Yes, you can pour the blended mixture into a shallow pan, freeze, and stir every 30 minutes until creamy. It requires more effort but works.

Are Oreos vegan?

Original Oreos are dairy-free and vegan. However, some variations (like double stuf) may contain dairy, so check the label.

Why is my ice cream icy?

Icy texture usually means the fat content is too low. Make sure to use full-fat coconut milk and churn long enough to incorporate air.

Equipment

blender
ice cream maker
plastic container

Recipe

4 Ingredient Chocolate Cookies 'n' Cream Ice Cream

Pin recipe

Prep: PT0M
Cook: PT0M
Total: PT0M
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

1 can coconut milk
0.333 cup granulated sugar
2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
10 Oreos (crushed)

Instructions

Combine the coconut milk, sugar, and cocoa powder in a blender and blend for 20 seconds. Pour the liquid mixture into the bowl of an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions. During the last 5 minutes of churning, add the crushed Oreos.
Transfer the ice cream to a plastic container, cover, and freeze until ready to eat.
Note-Alice recommends using Chaokoh brand coconut milk because of its high fat content.