Cashew Coffee Chocolate Swirl Ice Cream (Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free, Vegan)
If you’re living with celiac disease, you know that finding safe, delicious desserts can be a challenge—especially if you also can’t tolerate dairy. Did you know that many people with celiac disease experience secondary lactose intolerance? When your gut is healing from gluten exposure, digesting dairy can become difficult or even painful. That’s why dairy-free desserts aren’t just a trend—they’re a necessity for so many in our gluten-free community.
Why Dairy-Free Ice Cream Is Perfect for People with Celiac Disease
After a celiac diagnosis, it’s common to discover that your body struggles with dairy. The damage gluten does to your small intestine can temporarily reduce your ability to digest lactose, the sugar in milk. For some, this sensitivity persists, making traditional ice cream off-limits. That’s why I love this Cashew Coffee Chocolate Swirl Ice Cream—it’s entirely dairy-free, gluten-free, and packed with creamy, satisfying flavor.
Why This Recipe Works for Celiacs and Dairy-Free Diets
This ice cream is not only gluten-free and dairy-free but also vegan and refined sugar-free (if you use stevia). It’s a treat you can enjoy without worrying about cross-contamination or hidden ingredients—perfect for those with celiac disease, lactose intolerance, or anyone looking for a healthier dessert. And let me tell you, its hard to find a dairy-free ice cream!
My Journey with Celiac Disease
I know firsthand how overwhelming it can be to navigate a new celiac diagnosis—especially when it comes to food. My own journey started in 2018, and it inspired me to create resources and recipes like this one to empower others. If you’d like to read more about my story and how I turned my diagnosis into a mission to help others, check out My Journey with Celiac Disease: From Diagnosis to Empowering Others.
The Power and Benefits of Cashews
Cashews are the secret to this recipe’s luscious, creamy texture—without a drop of dairy! When soaked and blended, cashews become a smooth, rich base that rivals any traditional ice cream. Plus, cashews are loaded with plant-based protein, heart-healthy fats, and essential minerals like magnesium and zinc. They’re also naturally sweet and neutral, making them the perfect canvas for bold flavors like coffee and chocolate.
Cashew Coffee Chocolate Swirl Ice Cream Recipe
Ingredients:
2 cups raw cashews, soaked overnight in water
3/4 cup very strong coffee (decaf works great!)
1 cup unsweetened cashew milk
1/2 cup pure maple syrup or 2 tbsp stevia
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons coconut oil
1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (I recommend Hu Kitchen Dark Chocolate Baking Chips for their simple, gluten-free ingredients)
Instructions:
Drain and rinse the soaked cashews.
Add cashews, coffee, cashew milk, maple syrup (or stevia), vanilla and almond extracts and salt to a high-speed blender. Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. I have had this similar machine for 20+ years!: Cuisinart Ice Cream Machine
While the ice cream is churning, in a microwave safe bowl combine the coconut oil and dark chocolate chips together and heat in 30 second increments , stirring in between, until melted.
Once the ice cream is almost set, drizzle in the melted chocolate to create a swirl effect.
Transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 2 hours to firm up.
Scoop, serve, and enjoy!
Ready to Go Gluten-Free? Start Here!
If you’re new to gluten-free living, don’t miss The Beginner’s Guide to Going Gluten-Free: Tips, Tricks, and Hidden Gluten Ingredients. It’s packed with practical advice, ingredient lists, and tips for avoiding accidental gluten exposure—perfect for anyone starting their journey.
Enjoy this Cashew Coffee Chocolate Swirl Ice Cream knowing it’s safe, satisfying, and supports your healing journey. For more gluten-free, dairy-free recipes and community support, subscribe to my newsletter!