The Strawberry Dole Whip is a refreshing and wholesome treat that captures the tropical magic of pineapple and the sweetness of ripe strawberries. It’s a dairy free delight that’s blended to perfection, making it a great alternative to traditional ice cream.
Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a healthy dessert, or a light and fruity option to cool down during the summer, this whip hits all the right notes. With just a few simple ingredients and five minutes of your time, you’ll have a soft-serve-style dessert that everyone will love kids and adults alike.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 cups frozen strawberries
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1/2 cup frozen pineapple chunks
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1/2 cup vanilla almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
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1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional, to taste)
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1 teaspoon lemon juice
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1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Directions:
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In a high speed blender or food processor, combine the frozen strawberries and pineapple chunks.
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Pulse a few times to break down the fruit.
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Add almond milk, maple syrup (if using), lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
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Blend on high until the mixture is smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
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For a soft-serve swirl, spoon the mixture into a piping bag and pipe into bowls or cones.
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Serve immediately for a soft texture, or freeze for 30–60 minutes for a firmer consistency.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 5 minutes
Kcal: 95 kcal | Servings: 2 servings
The Ultimate Guide to Homemade Strawberry Dole Whip: A Guilt Free Tropical Treat
There’s something utterly nostalgic and blissfully indulgent about enjoying a cold, fruity treat on a warm day especially when it brings together the tropical flavors of pineapple and the natural sweetness of strawberries. Strawberry Dole Whip is one of those desserts that’s not only refreshingly delicious but also incredibly simple, healthy, and easy to make at home. It’s a fan favorite for kids and adults alike, and for good reason: this soft-serve-style frozen dessert offers all the satisfaction of ice cream without the dairy, refined sugars, or artificial ingredients.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about homemade Strawberry Dole Whip from its origins and health benefits to serving ideas, customization tips, and more. Whether you’re already a fan of the original Dole Whip or you’re trying this strawberry twist for the first time, you’ll find out why this fruity frozen treat deserves a spot in your regular recipe rotation.
A Fruity Spin on a Classic Favorite
Dole Whip originally gained fame in the 1980s as a pineapple-flavored soft serve created by the Dole Food Company. It was famously served at Disneyland and other theme parks, quickly becoming a cult favorite. Traditionally dairy-free and light, Dole Whip has evolved into various flavors and styles, but pineapple has always remained the base.
The homemade Strawberry Dole Whip recipe gives the beloved original a fresh and colorful twist. By combining frozen strawberries with frozen pineapple and a touch of vanilla and non-dairy milk, this version maintains the tropical essence while adding a berry burst that’s both familiar and novel. The strawberry flavor balances the tangy pineapple, creating a delightful sweet-tart combo that’s both refreshing and crave worthy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with this strawberry-pineapple swirl, but let’s break it down to the top benefits:
1. It’s Naturally Sweetened and Nutrient-Rich
Unlike traditional ice creams or soft serves that contain added sugars, artificial flavors, or heavy cream, this recipe uses the natural sweetness of frozen fruit. A hint of maple syrup is optional only if needed and you still get that rich flavor without any sugar crash. Plus, strawberries and pineapples are loaded with essential nutrients, including:
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Vitamin C: Supports the immune system and promotes healthy skin.
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Fiber: Aids digestion and helps maintain a feeling of fullness.
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Antioxidants: Fight inflammation and oxidative stress.
2. It’s Dairy-Free and Vegan-Friendly
This Strawberry Dole Whip is 100% plant-based, making it suitable for those who are lactose intolerant, vegan, or just looking to reduce their dairy intake. With plant based milk like almond, oat, or coconut milk, you can keep it creamy without compromising on dietary preferences.
3. It’s Quick and Easy
Five ingredients. One blender. Five minutes. That’s all it takes to whip up a batch of this fruity soft serve. There’s no need for fancy machines or waiting hours for a churn to finish. It’s perfect for when you want something sweet right now without the guilt or effort.
4. Customizable for All Taste Buds
This recipe is incredibly versatile. Prefer it a bit more tart? Add extra pineapple or a squeeze of lemon. Want it sweeter? Add a banana or a little extra maple syrup. You can even sneak in some spinach or collagen powder for a nutritional boost. And if you want more tropical flavor, coconut milk works beautifully as a creamy base.
Health Benefits of Strawberry Dole Whip
Not only does this dessert taste amazing, but it also checks all the boxes for a feel good, health forward treat.
– Low-Calorie & Guilt-Free
Coming in at under 100 calories per serving, this dessert is ideal for those watching their weight or sugar intake. It’s an excellent option for curbing your sweet tooth without derailing your wellness goals.
– High in Antioxidants
Strawberries are known for their high antioxidant content, particularly vitamin C, polyphenols, and anthocyanins. These compounds help fight oxidative stress, support heart health, and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
– Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Both strawberries and pineapples contain anti-inflammatory compounds. Pineapple is especially rich in bromelain, a natural enzyme that aids digestion and reduces inflammation.
– Hydrating and Refreshing
Because the base of this whip is fruit, which is high in water content, it makes for a naturally hydrating snack perfect for hot summer days or post-workout recovery.
Best Ways to Serve Strawberry Dole Whip
One of the best things about this dessert is how creative you can get with the presentation. Here are some favorite ways to serve it up:
1. Swirled Soft-Serve Style
Use a piping bag or a reusable silicone squeeze bag to swirl it into a bowl or cone for that classic soft-serve experience. This is a great way to impress guests or create a kid-friendly summer treat.
2. Layered Parfait
Layer your Dole Whip with granola, coconut flakes, and fresh fruit in a glass for a breakfast parfait or mid-day snack that looks as good as it tastes.
3. Smoothie Bowl Base
Scoop it into a bowl and top with chia seeds, sliced bananas, kiwi, shredded coconut, and a drizzle of almond butter for a nutritious and beautiful smoothie bowl.
4. Freeze into Popsicles
Pour the blended mixture into popsicle molds and freeze for a few hours. You’ll end up with grab-and-go frozen treats that kids absolutely love.
Tips for the Perfect Texture
While this recipe is pretty forgiving, here are a few tips to help you get that creamy, dreamy consistency every time:
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Use a High-Speed Blender or Food Processor: A powerful blender will give you the smoothest texture and can handle frozen fruit without overheating.
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Don’t Overblend: Blending for too long can cause the mixture to warm up and become too soft. Blend just until smooth.
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Adjust Liquid Slowly: Add your almond milk a little at a time. You want just enough to blend the fruit without turning it into a smoothie.
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Serve Immediately or Freeze Briefly: For soft serve, enjoy it right after blending. If you prefer a scoopable texture, freeze for 30–60 minutes before serving.
Conclusion:
Strawberry Dole Whip is more than just a dessert it’s a celebration of simple ingredients, tropical flavors, and healthy indulgence. It’s proof that you don’t need artificial sweeteners, heavy creams, or a long list of ingredients to make something truly satisfying. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, hosting a summer brunch, or just looking for a midday pick-me-up, this frozen treat fits the bill.
As health-conscious eating continues to grow in popularity, recipes like this one serve as a reminder that nutritious food can be just as enjoyable and flavorful as any sugary indulgence. With its ease of preparation, dietary flexibility, and beautiful presentation, Strawberry Dole Whip is a standout recipe that deserves a permanent place in your dessert lineup.
So next time your sweet tooth calls, reach for your blender instead of the freezer aisle you might just find your new favorite treat.