Of course! Homemade pineapple soft-serve is a revelation. It’s incredibly easy, requires only a few ingredients (or even just one!), and tastes incredibly fresh and vibrant.
This method mimics the famous “Dole Whip” you find at Disney parks.
The Famous 1-Ingredient Pineapple Soft-Serve
This is the simplest, purest form. The magic lies in freezing the pineapple and then blending it into a creamy, smooth consistency.
Prep Time: 5 mins (plus freezing) | Cook Time: 0 mins | Total Time: 5 mins + freezing
Servings: 2
Ingredients
· 4 cups frozen pineapple chunks (about 1 small pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut)
· Optional: 1-2 tablespoons of honey, agave, or maple syrup if your pineapple isn’t very sweet
· Optional: A splash of coconut milk, pineapple juice, or milk to help with blending
Instructions
- Freeze the Pineapple: Spread the fresh pineapple chunks in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze for at least 4 hours, or until solid. (You can also use a bag of pre-frozen pineapple).
- Blend: Place the frozen pineapple chunks in a high-powered blender or food processor.
- Pulse and Blend: Start by pulsing to break up the chunks. Then, blend on high. At first, it will look crumbly. Stop and scrape down the sides as needed.
- Watch the Magic Happen: Keep blending! After a minute or two, the pineapple will break down into a smooth, creamy, soft-serve consistency. If it’s having trouble coming together, add a tiny splash (1-2 teaspoons) of liquid (coconut milk, pineapple juice, or water) to help it along.
- Serve Immediately: Scoop straight from the blender or food processor into bowls. It has the perfect soft-serve texture right away!
Creamier Pineapple Soft-Serve (Dole Whip-Style)
For a richer, creamier, and more authentic “Dole Whip” experience, this recipe adds a few simple ingredients.
Prep Time: 5 mins (plus freezing) | Cook Time: 0 mins | Total Time: 5 mins + freezing
Servings: 4
Ingredients
· 4 cups frozen pineapple chunks
· ½ cup cold coconut milk (from a can, use the creamy part) or heavy cream
· 2 tablespoons honey or sugar (adjust to taste)
· 1 tablespoon lemon or lime juice (brightens the flavor)
· 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Combine: Place all ingredients into a high-powered blender or food processor.
- Blend Until Smooth: Start on low and gradually increase to high speed. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth, creamy, and has a soft-serve texture. You will need to stop and scrape down the sides a few times.
- Serve or Freeze: For the best texture, serve immediately. If you want a firmer, scoopable ice cream, transfer it to a sealed container and freeze for 1-2 hours.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Soft-Serve
· The Right Equipment: A high-powered blender (like a Vitamix or Blendtec) works best, but a food processor is also excellent and sometimes even easier.
· Don’t Add Too Much Liquid: The key to a thick, creamy texture is using as little liquid as possible. Add it only a teaspoon at a time if your blender is struggling.
· Sweeten to Taste: The sweetness of frozen fruit can vary. Always taste and add a little more sweetener if needed after blending.
· For a Make-Ahead Option: You can make this ahead of time and freeze it. Let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping to soften.
· Get Creative with Flavors:
· Piña Colada: Use coconut milk and add a handful of frozen banana.
· Tropical Swirl: Blend in some frozen mango or strawberry.
· Spiced Pineapple: Add a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a sweet and spicy kick.
Enjoy your refreshing, healthy, and delicious homemade treat! It’s the perfect way to cool down on a warm day.