This vegan chocolate tahini cherry chunk ice cream is a decadent and unique twist on traditional ice cream. With the rich flavors of tahini, a creamy chocolate base, and chunks of fresh cherries, it's the perfect indulgence for anyone craving a dairy-free dessert. Not only does it taste amazing, but it's also nut-free, making it a great option for those with nut allergies. Best of all, it requires no ice cream maker!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This ice cream combines creamy chocolate with tahini’s sesame flavor and juicy cherries for an irresistible combination. The frozen cherries break up the richness of the tahini and chocolate, creating a delightful texture contrast. It’s a perfect treat for anyone who loves rich, yet balanced flavors. Plus, it’s vegan, nut-free, and easy to make, making it a dessert everyone can enjoy!
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 cup coconut cream
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1¼ cup brown sugar
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½ cup tahini
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1 cup cocoa powder
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½ cup strong coffee
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2 cups coconut cream
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1 cup cherries, pitted
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¼ cup smooth tahini
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1 tablespoon sesame seeds (black and white)
Directions
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In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of coconut cream, brown sugar, ½ cup tahini, cocoa powder, and coffee. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, whisking to combine, for about 3-5 minutes. Once smooth, remove from heat and whisk in the remaining 2 cups of coconut cream. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
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Pour the cooled mixture into a freezable container. Gently fold in the cherries. Drizzle the top with the remaining ¼ cup tahini and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
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Freeze the ice cream for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until fully set.
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Let the ice cream thaw for a few minutes before scooping. Enjoy the chunks of cherries and tahini swirled throughout the creamy ice cream.
Servings and Timing
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Serves: 8
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Prep Time: 4 hours
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Cook Time: 5 minutes
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Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes
Variations
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Fruit Options: If cherries are not available, feel free to substitute with blackberries, chopped strawberries, or raspberries.
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Tahini Substitute: If you’re allergic to sesame, you can use sunbutter instead of tahini for a similar creamy texture.
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Sweetener Adjustments: You can experiment with other sweeteners like maple syrup or agave to replace the brown sugar.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store this ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
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Reheating: Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping to make it easier to serve.
FAQs
How do I make sure my ice cream is smooth without an ice cream maker?
You don’t need an ice cream maker for this recipe! Simply follow the instructions, freeze the ice cream, and let it sit for a few minutes to soften before serving.
Can I use a different nut butter instead of tahini?
Yes, you can substitute tahini with almond butter or cashew butter, but it will change the flavor profile of the ice cream slightly.
Can I add other mix-ins to this ice cream?
Yes! You can add vegan chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or even caramel swirls to customize this ice cream to your liking.
How do I store leftover ice cream?
Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. It will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks.
Can I make this ice cream without coffee?
Yes, you can omit the coffee. It adds a deep flavor, but the ice cream will still be delicious without it.
How long does this ice cream take to freeze?
This ice cream requires at least 4 hours to freeze, but for the best texture, it’s ideal to leave it overnight.
Can I make this ice cream ahead of time for a party?
Yes! You can prepare this ice cream in advance and store it in the freezer for up to 2 weeks, so it’s perfect for making ahead of a party.
Is this ice cream suitable for people with nut allergies?
Yes, this recipe is nut-free because it uses tahini, which is a sesame paste, not a nut butter.
What is the texture of the tahini in this ice cream?
The tahini adds a creamy, slightly nutty flavor and texture. When frozen, it creates a lovely swirl in the chocolate ice cream.
Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Just make sure to thaw them before adding to the ice cream base.
Conclusion
This Vegan Chocolate Tahini Cherry Chunk Ice Cream is an indulgent yet healthy dessert option. It combines the deep flavors of chocolate, tahini, and fresh cherries, making it a unique treat. With no ice cream maker required, it’s an easy recipe to whip up and enjoy with friends and family. Whether you're vegan, allergic to nuts, or just craving something new, this ice cream is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
