Tropical Coconut Frozen Yogurt

Name: Tropical Coconut Frozen Yogurt
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 4 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk; 2 cups plain Greek yogurt; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 tsp vanilla extract; A pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Nourish & Refresh Recipes

I love creating desserts that transport me to a tropical paradise, and this Tropical Coconut Frozen Yogurt does just that! Every bite offers a creamy, refreshing taste of coconut that perfectly balances the tanginess of yogurt. It's incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and time. Plus, the best part is that it’s a healthier alternative to traditional ice cream without skimping on flavor. Whether for a hot summer day or a sweet treat any time, this frozen yogurt is sure to impress everyone!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-25T16:33:27.183Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of making frozen yogurt at home, I was intrigued. After a couple of trial runs, I realized using full-fat coconut milk gave the yogurt a creaminess that was irresistible. Experimenting with the sweetness helped me find the perfect balance; this way, I avoid any overly sugary desserts!

One tip I learned is to let the mixture chill in the freezer for at least four hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Trust me; the waiting will be worth it when you scoop out that creamy, velvety yogurt!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy texture that cools you off on hot days
Natural sweetness from coconut without refined sugar
Easy to customize with your favorite fruits or toppings

Understanding Ingredients

The star ingredient of this Tropical Coconut Frozen Yogurt is the coconut milk, which imparts a luscious creaminess and a rich coconut flavor. When selecting coconut milk, opt for a full-fat variety to get that indulgent texture. Lower-fat options will yield a less creamy result, which may affect the overall mouthfeel of the frozen yogurt. Don't forget to shake the can well before using to ensure the cream and liquid are fully combined.

Using plain Greek yogurt not only provides a healthy source of probiotics but also contributes a delightful tanginess that balances the sweetness of honey or maple syrup. If you're looking for a vegan alternative, you can replace Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt made from coconut or almond. Just be sure to check that it has a similar consistency to Greek yogurt to maintain the desired texture.

Churning and Freezing Tips

When it comes to churning your yogurt mixture, make sure your ice cream maker’s bowl is fully frozen for at least 24 hours prior to use. This step is crucial for achieving the soft-serve consistency that defines a great frozen yogurt. If your mixture isn’t properly chilled before pouring it into the machine, it may not freeze well, leading to a grainy texture instead of the desired smoothness.

For those without an ice cream maker, you can still make this delicious frozen yogurt by using a simple hand-mixing method. Pour the chilled mixture into a shallow dish, and every 30 minutes, stir vigorously with a fork. Repeat this for about 2-3 hours until you have a creamy, frozen treat. This method may require a little more effort, but the results are definitely worth it.

Ingredients

For the Frozen Yogurt

1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
2 cups plain Greek yogurt
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1 tsp vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

Mix all the ingredients well before freezing.

Instructions

Prepare the Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the coconut milk, Greek yogurt, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whisk the mixture until smooth and fully incorporated.

Chill the Mixture

Transfer the mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour. This chilling step enhances the flavors.

Freeze It

Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 20-25 minutes, until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.

Serve and Enjoy

For a firmer consistency, transfer the yogurt to a container and freeze for an additional 3-4 hours. Scoop and enjoy the refreshing treat!

Garnish with fresh fruit or toasted coconut flakes if desired!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, experiment with different extracts like almond or coconut. Additionally, fresh fruits like mango or pineapple can be blended into the mixture for a tropical twist.

Serving Suggestions

This Tropical Coconut Frozen Yogurt serves beautifully on its own, but you can elevate it even more with fresh fruit toppings like mango slices, pineapple, or even berries. Adding a sprinkle of toasted shredded coconut can introduce a delightful crunch and extra coconut flavor, giving your dessert a tropical flair. Alternatively, a drizzle of chocolate sauce can add a luxurious touch that contrasts beautifully with the yogurt's creaminess.

For something a bit more elaborate, serve your frozen yogurt in a coconut shell for a fun presentation that truly embodies the tropical theme. You can also layer it with granola and nuts for a parfait-style dessert, which not only enhances the texture but adds nutty flavors that pair well with coconut.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to prepare ahead, this frozen yogurt can be made a day or two in advance. Just be sure to keep it stored in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. If it becomes too hard after being in the freezer, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before scooping. This will help soften it back to the perfect consistency, making it easier to serve.

When looking to experiment with flavors, consider adding in pureed fruits or extracts to customize your frozen yogurt. For instance, adding a swirl of mango puree can create a vibrant tropical flavor, while a hint of lime zest can introduce zesty freshness. Just remember not to overdo it, as too much liquid can affect the freezing process.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use non-dairy yogurt?

Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt with a non-dairy alternative like coconut yogurt for a fully dairy-free version.

→ How long does it last in the freezer?

The frozen yogurt can last for up to 2-3 weeks in the freezer if stored properly in an airtight container.

→ Can I make this without an ice cream maker?

Absolutely! Pour the mixture into a container and stir it every 30 minutes for the first 2-3 hours to prevent ice crystals from forming.

→ What can I add as toppings?

You can add fresh fruits, nuts, chocolate chips, or even a drizzle of honey or chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.