Save This dreamy frozen dessert combines the sweetness of ripe strawberries with tropical pineapple undertones. The frozen banana adds incredible creaminess without any dairy, while coconut milk creates a silky smooth texture perfect for scooping into cones or bowls. Ready in just 10 minutes, it's an instant crowd-pleaser that happens to be vegan and gluten-free.
The first time I made this, my kitchen smelled like a strawberry patch in July, and I honestly could not stop tasting it
Last summer my niece visited, and we made batches of this every single afternoon until the freezer was completely stocked
Ingredients
- 3 cups frozen strawberries: Frozen fruit is the secret here, no need to add ice which waters everything down
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice: Chilled works best, and this is what gives it that classic Dole Whip tang
- 1 medium banana, frozen: Slice it before freezing, and yes this frozen step is what makes it creamy instead of icy
- 1/2 cup coconut milk: Use the carton kind, not canned, or it gets way too rich and heavy
- 2-3 tablespoons maple syrup: Start with two, taste, and add more only if your strawberries were particularly tart
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice: Totally optional but I love how it makes everything pop
Instructions
- Blend everything together:
- Throw all those frozen strawberries, banana, pineapple juice, coconut milk, maple syrup, and lemon juice into your blender
- Get it smooth:
- Pulse on high, stopping frequently to scrape down the sides, until the mixture is completely creamy with no frozen chunks
- Taste and adjust:
- Give it a try, and if it needs more sweetness add another splash of syrup
- Serve it up:
- Either dive in immediately for soft serve vibes or pop it in the freezer for an hour if you prefer it firmer
Save This recipe saved me during a dinner party when I realized I had forgotten to buy dessert
Making It Extra Special
Sometimes I freeze the mixture in a piping bag for swirled cones that look straight out of an ice cream shop
Get Creative With Toppings
Fresh strawberries, toasted coconut flakes, even a drizzle of melted chocolate take this to the next level
Make It Your Way
Any plant milk works here, so feel free to experiment until you find your favorite combination
- Oat milk makes it extra creamy
- Almond milk adds a nice nutty background flavor
- Keep the portions in the freezer for those emergency sweet cravings
Save Hope this brings as much joy to your summer as it has to mine
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen?
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Fresh strawberries won't achieve the same thick, creamy texture. If using fresh, freeze them solid first for at least 4 hours before blending.
- → Is the frozen banana necessary for creaminess?
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The frozen banana is essential for achieving that soft-serve consistency. Without it, the mixture will be more like a smoothie than scoopable dessert.
- → How long can I store this in the freezer?
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For best texture, enjoy immediately. If storing, freeze up to 1 week. Let thaw 5-10 minutes before scooping, as it becomes quite firm.
- → Can I make this without a high-powered blender?
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A food processor works, though you may need to stop and scrape more frequently. Let ingredients soften slightly before blending to help your equipment.
- → Is this suitable for people with dairy allergies?
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Yes! This treat is completely dairy-free, vegan, and gluten-free. Just ensure your coconut milk and other ingredients are certified for your specific allergies.
- → What other fruit combinations work well?
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Try swapping strawberries for mango, peaches, or mixed berries. The pineapple juice helps maintain that signature tropical Dole Whip flavor.
