Coconut drink is not coconut milk from a tin

This recipe uses the pourable coconut drink sold as a milk alternative. Full-fat tinned coconut milk contains much more fat and creates a heavier result, especially when combined with coconut ice cream. Check the carton before measuring; the distinction matters more than the brand.

The ice cream supplies sweetness and structure, so choose an unsweetened drink where possible. A strongly sweetened carton plus a sweet frozen dessert can make the shake cloying before any garnish is added. Lime gives contrast, while zest supplies aroma without requiring a large amount of acidic juice.

Read the frozen-dessert label

Coconut-flavoured ice cream is not necessarily dairy-free: some versions use ordinary milk or cream with coconut added. Select a product explicitly appropriate for your dietary needs. If preparing for someone with a milk allergy, a vegan label alone does not establish that cross-contact with milk has been controlled; check the allergen information.

Blend only until the ice cream and liquid come together. Long blending melts the frozen dessert and makes the shake thinner, even though it may look foamy on top. Serve in two small glasses rather than one oversized one. Coconut flakes add texture but can obstruct a narrow straw, so a spoon or wider straw is more practical if you include them.

What you'll need

160 g dairy-free coconut ice cream
180 ml unsweetened coconut drink, chilled
1 tbsp lime juice
1/2 tsp finely grated lime zest
1 tbsp toasted coconut flakes, optional

Let's make it

Let the ice cream soften briefly until a spoon can cut through it without force. Wash and zest the lime, avoiding the white pith.
Blend coconut drink, ice cream, lime juice and zest just until combined. Stop before the mixture becomes warm or excessively foamy.
Taste for acidity and add a few more drops of lime juice if needed. Divide into two glasses and add coconut flakes only if using.

Make it your own

Unsweetened oat drink can replace coconut drink for a milder coconut flavour; check oat and other allergen information.

Leave out the flakes for a completely smooth drink. Extra zest is more effective than extra coconut flakes if you want a brighter aroma.

Keeping it fresh

Serve immediately. Keep ingredients chilled or frozen according to their labels. Do not return a served, partially melted shake to the ice-cream tub; discard leftovers that have been left warm.