Save
This creamy strawberry Dole Whip brings the magic of Disney parks right to your kitchen in just 10 minutes. The perfect balance of sweet strawberries and tangy pineapple creates a refreshing treat that tastes just like vacation.
I first made this Dole Whip during a sweltering July heatwave when my kids were reminiscing about our Disney trip. Now it's our special weekend treat that brings back those magical vacation memories without leaving home.
Ingredients
- Frozen strawberries: provides the perfect icy base and vibrant color choose ripe berries before freezing for best flavor
- Pineapple juice: adds that signature Dole Whip tang look for 100% juice with no added sugar
- Unsweetened coconut milk: creates creaminess without heaviness any milk works but coconut enhances the tropical notes
- Lemon juice: brightens all the flavors and balances sweetness fresh squeezed makes a noticeable difference
- Powdered sugar: dissolves easily and provides smooth sweetness adjust based on how sweet your strawberries are
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Blend The Base:
- Add frozen strawberries, pineapple juice, coconut milk, and lemon juice to your blender. Start on low speed to break down the berries, then gradually increase to high until everything is completely smooth and creamy. This should take about 1-2 minutes depending on your blender power. If the mixture is too thick to blend properly, add an extra tablespoon of liquid.
- Adjust Sweetness:
- Pause to taste your mixture before adding any sugar. Strawberries vary greatly in natural sweetness. Add powdered sugar gradually, starting with 1 tablespoon, then blend again briefly to incorporate. Taste and add the second tablespoon if needed. The flavor should be pleasantly sweet with noticeable berry tartness coming through.
- Achieve Perfect Texture:
- For soft serve consistency, transfer the mixture to a piping bag with a star tip and serve immediately. For a firmer, more scoopable texture, pour into a shallow container and freeze for 30 minutes, stirring once halfway through. If frozen longer, let it sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
The pineapple juice is truly the secret ingredient that gives this treat its authentic Disney flavor. When my daughter first tasted it, her eyes lit up and she declared it even better than the park version because it had strawberries. That moment made all the kitchen cleanup worthwhile.
Flavor Variations
This recipe welcomes creative adaptations while maintaining that signature Dole Whip texture. Replace strawberries with frozen mango chunks for a traditional pineapple Dole Whip experience. For a berry medley version, use a combination of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. Each variation maintains that refreshing tropical undertone from the pineapple juice base. My personal favorite twist is adding a small handful of frozen banana for extra creaminess and natural sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your Dole Whip presentation for a truly special dessert experience. Serve in chilled glasses or coconut shells for tropical flair. Create a Dole Whip float by adding a splash of lemon lime soda or pineapple juice to the glass before adding your swirl. For an adult version, a splash of coconut rum transforms this into a sophisticated dessert cocktail. Top with fresh strawberry slices, a pineapple wedge, or toasted coconut flakes for beautiful presentation.
Troubleshooting Tips
Even simple recipes can sometimes present challenges. If your Dole Whip seems too runny, add more frozen strawberries or freeze the mixture for 15 minutes before serving. For a mixture that's too thick to blend properly, add additional liquid one tablespoon at a time. If your Dole Whip lacks that signature tangy flavor, add an extra teaspoon of lemon juice. The perfect Dole Whip should have a soft serve consistency that holds its shape when piped or scooped.
Save
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use different frozen fruits for this dole whip?
Yes! While this version uses strawberries, you can substitute with frozen pineapple, mango, or mixed berries. Just maintain the same proportions of frozen fruit to liquid ingredients for the proper consistency.
- → Is this strawberry dole whip dairy-free?
Yes, when made with coconut milk as specified, this strawberry dole whip is completely dairy-free. You can also use other plant-based milks like almond, oat, or soy milk if preferred.
- → How long can I store leftover strawberry dole whip?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Allow it to thaw for 5-10 minutes before serving, or briefly blend again to restore the creamy texture.
- → Can I make this strawberry dole whip without sugar?
Absolutely! You can omit the powdered sugar or substitute with honey, maple syrup, or a sugar-free sweetener. The natural sweetness of ripe strawberries and pineapple juice may be sufficient depending on your taste preferences.
- → What can I use instead of pineapple juice?
Orange juice makes an excellent substitute for pineapple juice. You could also use apple juice or white grape juice, though each will slightly alter the final flavor profile.
- → What equipment do I need to make strawberry dole whip?
A standard blender or food processor is essential for creating the smooth, creamy texture. A high-powered blender works best, but any blender capable of crushing ice should work effectively.