With the warm sun shining down and the sweet smell of summer in the air, there’s nothing quite like indulging in a rich, creamy ice cream that also happens to be vegan. As I mixed up the vibrant blue spirulina with velvety coconut milk, I couldn’t help but feel a surge of nostalgia. This Vegan Cookie Monster Ice Cream is a delightful twist on childhood favorites, blending the classic flavors of Oreos and chocolate chip cookies into every scoop.
After a long week of cooking—and let’s be honest, some too-frequent bites of fast food—I was on the hunt for something that would satisfy my sweet tooth without sacrificing my love for wholesome ingredients. This recipe not only checks all the boxes for great taste but also pleases the crowd, making it a perfect treat for both family gatherings or solo indulgence. Imagine the joy of serving up vibrant blue ice cream that tastes as good as it looks, made easy with just a few wholesome ingredients! Let’s dive into this delicious adventure together.
Why is Vegan Cookie Monster Ice Cream a Must-Try?
Unique Flavor: This delightful twist on ice cream combines classic Oreos and chocolate chips for an unforgettable taste experience.
Colorful Presentation: The vibrant blue from spirulina makes it visually stunning, perfect for impressing guests.
Easy to Make: With just a blender involved, it simplifies the ice cream-making process.
Guilt-Free Indulgence: Being vegan, it satisfies your sweet cravings while using wholesome ingredients.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Ideal for family gatherings or a solo treat, it ensures everyone will love it!
For another irresistible dessert, check out my Chocolate Chip Banana Muffins.
Vegan Cookie Monster Ice Cream Ingredients
For the Base
- Coconut milk – A rich base for creaminess that’s essential for your Vegan Cookie Monster Ice Cream.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens the mix; you can substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier option.
- Vanilla extract – Adds a wonderful flavor depth; pure vanilla is always best for more richness.
- Blue spirulina powder – Not just a color booster, it’s packed with nutrients and makes the ice cream pop!
- Salt – A pinch enhances all the flavors, bringing out the sweetness beautifully.
For the Mix-ins
- Oreo cookies – Chopped to add that nostalgic crunch and flavor; feel free to use gluten-free Oreos for a variation!
- Crunchy chocolate chip cookies – These add additional texture and a chocolate hit that’s simply irresistible.
Enjoy making this vibrant Vegan Cookie Monster Ice Cream and bring a smile to your family’s faces!
How to Make Vegan Cookie Monster Ice Cream
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Prepare the Ice Cream Maker: Begin by placing the churning bowl of your ice cream maker in the freezer the day before. This ensures it’s perfectly chilled and ready for the magic to happen!
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Blend Ingredients: In a high-speed blender, combine coconut milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, blue spirulina powder, and salt. Blend for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is smooth and creamy, creating the delightful base of your Vegan Cookie Monster Ice Cream.
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Churn the Mixture: Pour your blended mixture into the ice cream maker. Churn it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. In the final minute or two, sprinkle in the chopped Oreo and chocolate chip cookies so they are evenly distributed!
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Freeze the Ice Cream: Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container. Cover it and chill in the freezer for at least 4 hours, or until it’s firm. If you’re feeling impatient, you can dive in right away as a soft serve!
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Scoop and Serve: Before serving, remove the ice cream from the freezer and let it thaw for 5-10 minutes. This makes it easier to scoop! Then, enjoy the creamy, cookie-filled bliss.
Optional: Serve with extra cookie crumbles on top for a delightful crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Vegan Cookie Monster Ice Cream?
Imagine the delightful sweetness of homemade desserts mingling with a burst of fun! This vibrant treat deserves the perfect companions to elevate your ice cream experience.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: These classic cookies mirror the flavors in your ice cream, offering a deliciously simple crunch and sweetness. They’ll be a favorite for dunking!
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or blueberries add a refreshing tartness, perfectly balancing the rich creaminess. A sprinkle of these vibrant fruits brightens up each scoop!
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzled lightly, this sweet topping enhances the cookie flavors while adding a silky texture that’s simply irresistible. It’s indulgence on a whole new level!
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Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this vegan topping brings an extra layer of creaminess that pairs beautifully with the vibrant flavors of your ice cream. A dollop is a must!
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Nutty Granola: Crunchy and hearty, granola provides texture and a nutty twist. The oats and nuts bring depth and add a satisfying bite to each sweet spoonful.
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Mint Iced Tea: This refreshing drink acts as a palate cleanser, perfect after a decadent dessert, leaving you feeling cool and refreshed while you enjoy your treat.
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Chocolate Fudge Brownies: Warm, gooey brownies will make a decadent sundae or dessert combo with your ice cream. Just think of the chocolatey goodness in every layer!
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Pineapple Sorbet: For a tropical flair, this light and fruity sorbet adds brightness and pairs well with the richness of the cookie ice cream, creating a beautiful contrast.
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Festive Sprinkles: Fun and colorful, a sprinkle of these on top adds whimsy while enhancing the festive feel. Perfect for celebrating any occasion!
With these delicious side dishes and treats, you’ll create a memorable dessert spread that truly celebrates your Vegan Cookie Monster Ice Cream!
Expert Tips for Vegan Cookie Monster Ice Cream
• Cold Bowl Essential: Ensure the ice cream maker bowl is fully frozen; a partially frozen bowl can lead to soft ice cream.
• Blend Well: Mix until smooth and creamy; grainy texture can ruin your Vegan Cookie Monster Ice Cream experience.
• Add Cookie Crunch Last: Incorporate chopped cookies during the final minutes of churning to keep them crunchy and not soggy.
• Careful Thawing: Thaw ice cream for 5-10 minutes before scooping; skipping this can make scooping difficult and frustrating!
• Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn and maintain the delicious flavors of your ice cream.
How to Store and Freeze Vegan Cookie Monster Ice Cream
Room Temperature: Do not leave the Vegan Cookie Monster Ice Cream out for more than 30 minutes to prevent melting and loss of texture.
Fridge: It’s best to store ice cream in the freezer; however, if you want some soft serve, you can keep it in the fridge for up to 1 hour before serving.
Freezer: Store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks for the best flavor and texture. Make sure to cover it well to avoid freezer burn!
Reheating: If the ice cream becomes too hard, let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping to enjoy its creamy goodness!
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Cookie Monster Ice Cream treats are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the base mixture up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in the refrigerator to ensure all flavors meld beautifully. Simply blend together the coconut milk, sugar, vanilla extract, blue spirulina powder, and salt as instructed, then refrigerate. This way, when you’re ready to churn, everything will be at the ideal temperature. Additionally, you can chop the cookies a day ahead and store them in an airtight container to maintain their crunch. When you’re ready to serve, just churn the mixture in your ice cream maker and fold in the chopped cookies during the last minute of churning. This method guarantees that your ice cream will be just as delicious, saving you time on busy evenings!
Vegan Cookie Monster Ice Cream Variations
Feel free to get creative with this fun ice cream recipe and make it your own!
- Nut-Free: Swap coconut milk for oat milk for a nut-free version that still delivers creaminess.
- Sugar-Free: Use a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit for a lighter, sugar-free option. You can indulge without the guilt!
- Chocolate Lovers: Add a few tablespoons of cocoa powder or chocolate syrup to the base for an extra chocolaty delight.
- Fruity Twist: Incorporate fresh blueberries or raspberries into the mix before churning for a burst of fruity flavor and color.
- Extra Crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts, like almonds or walnuts, during the last minutes of churning for added texture and a delightful crunch.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a surprising heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
- Health Boost: Stir in some chia seeds or flaxseeds to create a nutrient-packed ice cream that’s also filling.
- Vegan Cookie Dough: Blend in pre-made vegan cookie dough chunks for a delicious twist that satisfies those cookie cravings too!
Vegan Cookie Monster Ice Cream Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my coconut milk is the right consistency?
Absolutely! Look for full-fat canned coconut milk that’s creamy and thick, with no separation. If you notice any dark spots or clumps, it’s best to choose another can. A smooth, velvety texture is ideal for your Vegan Cookie Monster Ice Cream base.
How should I store leftover Vegan Cookie Monster Ice Cream?
To maintain the best flavor and texture, store your Vegan Cookie Monster Ice Cream in an airtight container. It can last in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Make sure to press a layer of parchment paper directly on the ice cream’s surface to prevent freezer burn!
Can I freeze the Vegan Cookie Monster Ice Cream? What’s the best way?
Yes, you can freeze it! After churning, transfer the ice cream to a freezer-safe container, cover it tightly with a lid, and store in the freezer. For optimal texture, enjoy it within 2 weeks. If you plan to keep it longer, I recommend wrapping it in plastic wrap and then placing it in a container to avoid freezer burn.
What should I do if my ice cream is too hard to scoop?
No worries! If your Vegan Cookie Monster Ice Cream is too hard, simply remove it from the freezer and thaw it at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes. This will soften it enough to scoop smoothly without compromising the creamy texture you love.
Are there any allergy considerations I should be aware of?
Yes! Both Oreos and chocolate chip cookies may contain allergens like wheat, dairy, and nuts, depending on the brand. Always check the packaging for any allergen warnings if you’re serving guests with dietary restrictions. Alternatively, you can make your own cookies using allergen-free ingredients for a safe treat!
Can I substitute any ingredients for a healthier version?
Very! For a healthier twist, you can use agave syrup or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar. If you’re avoiding gluten, try using gluten-free Oreos and chocolate chip cookies. Additionally, you can experiment with different plant-based milks for varying flavors and textures!
Indulge in Vegan Cookie Monster Ice Cream Bliss at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Ice Cream Maker: Place the churning bowl of your ice cream maker in the freezer the day before.
- Blend Ingredients: In a blender, combine coconut milk, sugar, vanilla extract, blue spirulina, and salt. Blend until smooth.
- Churn the Mixture: Pour the mixture into the ice cream maker and churn according to instructions. Add chopped Oreos and chocolate chip cookies in the last minute.
- Freeze the Ice Cream: Transfer to a freezer-safe container and chill for at least 4 hours.
- Scoop and Serve: Allow to thaw for 5-10 minutes before serving to make scooping easier.
