ไอศกรีมกะทิ

ไอศกรีมกะทิ (Coconut Milk Ice Cream) — Easy Homemade Recipe

Introduction

ไอศกรีมกะทิ is a classic Thai-style coconut milk ice cream known for its rich, creamy coconut flavor and tropical simplicity. This beginner-friendly recipe shows you two easy methods — a no-churn version and a custard/churn version — so home cooks can make authentic, silky ไอศกรีมกะทิ with minimal equipment. Perfect for hot days or as a light dessert after a Thai meal.

Ingredients for ไอศกรีมกะทิ

• 2 cups (480 ml) full-fat canned coconut milk
• 1 cup (240 ml) coconut cream or the thick part from an extra can
• 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or 1 small pandan leaf (optional for aroma)
• Optional custard variation: 3 large egg yolks (for a richer, creamier texture)
• Toppings (optional): roasted peanuts, toasted coconut flakes, sweet corn, sticky rice, palm sugar syrup

Instructions: How to make ไอศกรีมกะทิ

1. Combine the coconut milk, coconut cream, sugar, and salt in a medium saucepan. Add pandan leaf if using. Warm gently over medium-low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Do not boil — just heat until steaming (about 5–8 minutes).
2. If using the custard method for extra creaminess: whisk the egg yolks in a small bowl. Temper by slowly whisking 1/2 cup of the warm coconut mixture into the yolks, then pour the yolk mixture back into the saucepan. Cook gently, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon (about 3–5 minutes). Remove from heat and strain through a fine sieve to remove any cooked bits and pandan.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract (if using). Cool the mixture to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2–4 hours or overnight. Well-chilled base freezes with fewer ice crystals and a smoother texture.
4. Churn method: pour the chilled base into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 20–30 minutes) until soft-serve texture. Transfer to an airtight container and freeze 4 hours or overnight to firm up.
5. No-churn method: pour the chilled mixture into a shallow metal or glass pan and freeze. Every 30–45 minutes for the first 3 hours, remove and vigorously whisk or beat with a fork/hand mixer to break up ice crystals. Repeat 3–4 times, then allow to firm in the freezer for another 2–4 hours.
6. When serving, let ไอศกรีมกะทิ sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes to soften slightly. Scoop and top with roasted peanuts, toasted coconut, or a drizzle of palm sugar syrup as desired.

Cooking Tips for ไอศกรีมกะทิ

– Use full-fat canned coconut milk and coconut cream for the best texture and flavor. Light coconut milk produces icier results.

– If you have an ice cream maker, it dramatically improves texture, but the no-churn method works well for beginners without one.

– Chill the base thoroughly before freezing or churning — this helps reduce ice crystals and speeds up churning.

– For a very smooth custard version, strain the warm base before chilling to remove any bits of cooked egg or pandan.

– Adjust sweetness to your taste; Thai desserts often balance sweetness with a pinch of salt. A little salt enhances the coconut flavor.

– Store in an airtight container with a piece of plastic wrap pressed on the surface to prevent ice crystal formation.

Nutritional Information for ไอศกรีมกะทิ (approximate per 1/2 cup / 100 g serving)

These values are estimates and will vary by brand of coconut milk and whether you use the custard or no-churn method.

– Calories: ~260 kcal

– Total fat: ~22 g (Saturated fat: ~19 g)

– Carbohydrates: ~13 g (Sugars: ~12 g)

– Protein: ~1.5 g

– Fiber: ~0.5 g

– Sodium: ~40 mg

Conclusion

Making ไอศกรีมกะทิ at home is an easy and rewarding way to enjoy a taste of Thailand. Whether you choose the simple no-churn method or the richer custard approach, this coconut milk ice cream delivers tropical flavor with minimal fuss. Try the recipe, customize it with your favorite toppings, and share your results — ไอศกรีมกะทิ is perfect for summer, parties, or any time you crave something cool and coconutty.