I love this Homemade Orange Dole Whip because it’s a refreshing, creamy treat that’s easy to make with just a few ingredients. It’s a dairy-free option when I use coconut milk ice cream, and perfect for a bright, citrusy dessert that feels like a tropical escape at home.
Ingredients
2 cups frozen orange segments (peeled and seedless)
1/2 cup vanilla ice cream (or coconut milk ice cream for dairy-free)
1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
A pinch of salt
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Freeze the oranges: Peel and segment fresh oranges, then freeze them for at least 4–6 hours or overnight. Alternatively, I use store-bought frozen orange slices to save time.
Blend everything: In a high-speed blender or food processor, I combine the frozen orange segments, ice cream, orange juice, honey (if using), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
Blend until smooth: I blend the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. If it feels too thick, I add a splash more orange juice.
Serve it up: I spoon it into a bowl or pipe it into a swirl with a piping bag for that classic Dole Whip look. I serve it immediately for soft-serve texture or freeze it for 1 hour if I want it firmer.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 2 servings. The active prep time is around 10 minutes, but freezing the orange segments requires at least 4 to 6 hours or overnight, so planning ahead helps.
Variations
Creamsicle Vibes: I add a little extra vanilla extract for that nostalgic creamsicle flavor.
Dairy-Free/Vegan: I swap in coconut or almond milk ice cream to keep it plant-based.
Tropical Blend: I mix in some frozen pineapple or mango chunks to add tropical flair.
Storage/reheating
I recommend eating this Dole Whip fresh for the best texture. If I store leftovers, I keep them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, I let it thaw at room temperature for about 10 minutes and stir well before serving to soften it back up.
FAQs
Can I use fresh oranges instead of frozen?
I suggest freezing fresh orange segments first. Fresh oranges won’t give that creamy, soft-serve texture unless frozen and blended.
What if I don’t have vanilla ice cream?
I use vanilla ice cream to add creaminess, but coconut milk ice cream works great for dairy-free versions. If you don’t have either, a frozen banana can be a good substitute for texture.
Is honey necessary in this recipe?
Honey or maple syrup is optional. I add it when the oranges aren’t as sweet or if I want extra sweetness, but sometimes the orange juice and ice cream provide enough natural sugar.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare and freeze it in advance. For the best texture, I freeze it solid and then let it sit for a few minutes before scooping or serving.
How do I get that classic Dole Whip swirl look?
I use a piping bag with a star tip to pipe the Dole Whip into a swirl. If you don’t have a piping bag, spooning it into a bowl works just as well.
Conclusion
This Homemade Orange Dole Whip is one of my favorite refreshing desserts because it’s easy, healthy, and bursting with natural citrus flavor. I enjoy how versatile it is—whether I want a dairy-free treat or a tropical twist, it always feels like a mini-vacation in a bowl. Next time I want something sweet but light, this recipe is my go-to.
Recipe:
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Homemade Orange Dole Whip
- Total Time: 4–6 hours (including freezing time)
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing, creamy, and dairy-free orange soft serve made with frozen oranges, vanilla ice cream, and a touch of honey, perfect for a tropical, guilt-free dessert.
Ingredients
2 cups frozen orange segments (peeled and seedless)
1/2 cup vanilla ice cream (or coconut milk ice cream for dairy-free)
1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
A pinch of salt
Instructions
- Freeze the oranges: Peel and segment fresh oranges, then freeze them for at least 4–6 hours or overnight. Alternatively, use store-bought frozen orange slices.
- Blend everything: Combine frozen orange segments, ice cream, orange juice, honey (if using), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a high-speed blender or food processor.
- Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. Add more orange juice if too thick.
- Serve immediately for soft-serve texture or freeze for 1 hour for a firmer consistency. Optionally, pipe into a swirl using a piping bag for a classic Dole Whip look.
Notes
Use coconut milk ice cream for a dairy-free and vegan version.
For a creamsicle flavor, add extra vanilla extract.
Add frozen pineapple or mango for a tropical twist.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer up to 2 days; thaw 10 minutes before serving and stir.
Honey or maple syrup is optional depending on sweetness preference.
Frozen oranges are key for achieving the soft-serve texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus freezing time for oranges)
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
