Strawberry Dole Whip
Savor the creamy and refreshing flavors of this homemade Strawberry Dole Whip! Made with just a few simple ingredients like frozen strawberries and coconut milk, this vegan and dairy-free dessert is a healthier twist on a classic treat, perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A
- Total Time: 10 minutes (plus optional freezing time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Blender
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
- 3 cups frozen strawberries
- 1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional)
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Blend the Ingredients: Combine frozen strawberries, coconut milk, lemon juice, and honey (if using) in a blender or food processor. Blend on high until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the mixture and add more honey or maple syrup if needed. Blend again until fully incorporated.
- Achieve Desired Consistency: Serve immediately for a soft-serve texture. For a firmer consistency, transfer to a container and freeze for 30–60 minutes.
- Serve: Scoop into bowls or cones. Garnish with fresh strawberry slices or shredded coconut if desired.
Notes
- For best results, use full-fat canned coconut milk for a creamier texture.
- Sweetener is optional and depends on the sweetness of your strawberries.
- This recipe is easily adaptable—try substituting strawberries with other frozen fruits like mangoes or peaches.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Requires only a handful of natural components, making it both accessible and budget-friendly.
- Quick Preparation: With minimal prep time, you can satisfy your sweet tooth without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Versatile and Customizable: Easily adaptable to suit various dietary preferences and flavor variations.
Ingredients
- 3 cups frozen strawberries
- 1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional)
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Blend the Ingredients: Combine the frozen strawberries, coconut milk, lemon juice, and honey (if using) in a blender or food processor. Blend on high until the mixture is smooth, pausing to scrape down the sides as needed.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the blend. If it’s not sweet enough, add more honey or maple syrup to your liking, and blend again.
- Achieve Desired Consistency: For a soft-serve texture, serve immediately. If a firmer consistency is preferred, transfer the mixture to a container and freeze for 30–60 minutes before serving.
- Serve: Scoop into bowls or cones. Garnish with fresh strawberry slices or a sprinkle of shredded coconut if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
- Preparation Time: About 10 minutes.
- Optional Freezing Time: An additional 30–60 minutes for a firmer texture.
Variations
- Alternative Fruits: Swap strawberries with frozen mangoes, peaches, or a mix of berries for a different flavor profile.
- Dairy Option: Replace coconut milk with dairy milk or yogurt if dairy consumption is not a concern.
- Sweetener Substitutes: Use agave nectar or stevia as alternative sweeteners, adjusting the quantity to taste.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one week.
- Reheating: To enjoy again, let the Dole Whip sit at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes to soften before serving.
FAQs
What is a Dole Whip?
A Dole Whip is a soft-serve frozen dessert, traditionally pineapple-flavored, that gained popularity at Disney theme parks. This strawberry version offers a fruity twist on the classic treat.
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen ones?
Yes, but you’ll need to freeze them first to achieve the desired creamy, ice-cream-like texture.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
Absolutely. By using coconut milk and a plant-based sweetener like maple syrup, this dessert remains vegan.
Can I make this recipe without any added sweeteners?
If your strawberries are particularly sweet, you can omit the honey or maple syrup. Taste the blended mixture first, and add sweetener only if necessary.
How can I make the Dole Whip firmer without additional freezing time?
Reducing the amount of coconut milk slightly can result in a thicker consistency right after blending.
What type of coconut milk is best for this recipe?
Full-fat canned coconut milk provides a rich and creamy texture, but light coconut milk can be used for a lower-fat version, keeping in mind it may be less creamy.
Can I substitute coconut milk with another non-dairy milk?
Yes, alternatives like almond milk or cashew milk can be used, though they may result in a less creamy texture compared to coconut milk.
How long can I store leftovers in the freezer?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one week.
Can I add other flavors or ingredients to this recipe?
Certainly! Consider adding a handful of fresh mint leaves for a refreshing twist or a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a chocolate-strawberry variation.
Is it possible to make this recipe without a high-powered blender?
While a high-powered blender makes the process easier, a standard blender or food processor can work. You may need to blend in smaller batches and allow the frozen strawberries to thaw slightly before blending.
Conclusion
This Strawberry Dole Whip is a delightful, easy-to-make dessert that brings the joy of a classic theme park treat into your home. Its simplicity, combined with the rich flavors of strawberry and coconut, makes it a go-to recipe for satisfying sweet cravings in a wholesome way. Whether enjoyed immediately or after a brief chill in the freezer, this treat is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
