Description:
This Strawberry Cottage Cheese Ice Cream recipe offers a healthier and protein-packed alternative to traditional ice cream. It’s a creamy, delicious treat with the sweetness of fresh strawberries, the tang of cottage cheese, and a hint of vanilla, all while being surprisingly low in sugar and high in protein. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to satisfy their sweet cravings without the guilt. It’s a simple, no-cook recipe that transforms everyday ingredients into a delightful frozen dessert using the Ninja Creami.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cottage cheese (1% or 2% milkfat recommended for best texture)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 3 tablespoons honey (adjust to taste based on desired sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
Preparation:
Step 1: Blend the Base: In a Ninja Creami pint container, combine the cottage cheese, chopped strawberries, honey, and vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste).
Step 2: Achieve Smoothness: Use an immersion blender directly in the pint container to blend the ingredients until completely smooth. Alternatively, you can blend the ingredients in a regular blender until smooth and then carefully pour the mixture into the Ninja Creami pint.
Step 3: Freeze Overnight: Secure the lid tightly on the pint container. Place the pint in the freezer and freeze for a minimum of 24 hours to ensure it’s completely frozen.
Step 4: Process the Ice Cream: After the 24-hour freezing period, remove the pint from the freezer. Insert the pint into the Ninja Creami machine. Select the “Lite Ice Cream” function and start the cycle.
Step 5: Re-Spin for Creaminess (If Needed): After the initial cycle is complete, examine the texture of the ice cream. If it appears powdery or crumbly rather than creamy, insert the pint back into the Ninja Creami and run a “Re-Spin” cycle. If the mixture still seems too dry, add a tablespoon of liquid, such as milk or almond milk, before the re-spin. This is particularly helpful if you are using fat-free cottage cheese, which tends to freeze more firmly.
Step 6: Customize and Serve: Once the ice cream has reached a creamy consistency, you can add your favorite mix-ins. Gently fold in ingredients like crushed graham crackers, mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or a swirl of strawberry jam. Serve immediately for the best texture and enjoy your protein-packed treat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Healthy Indulgence: This recipe provides a guilt-free way to enjoy ice cream, thanks to the high protein content from the cottage cheese and the natural sweetness of strawberries.
- Easy to Make: With only a few ingredients and minimal steps, this recipe is incredibly simple to prepare, especially with the Ninja Creami.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe to your liking by adjusting the amount of honey or adding different mix-ins to create your perfect flavor combination.
- Delicious and Creamy: The combination of cottage cheese and strawberries creates a surprisingly creamy texture that rivals traditional ice cream.
- Perfect for Dietary Needs: This recipe is a great option for those looking for lower-sugar, higher-protein dessert alternatives.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve in a bowl or cone as a refreshing dessert.
- Top with extra fresh strawberries or a drizzle of honey.
- Pair with a side of fresh fruit or a few crunchy granola pieces.
- Serve as part of an ice cream sundae bar with various toppings and sauces.
- Enjoy as a post-workout snack to replenish protein.
Tips:
- Cottage Cheese Choice: Using 1% or 2% milkfat cottage cheese will result in a creamier texture. Fat-free cottage cheese can be used, but you may need to add a tablespoon or two of liquid to achieve the desired consistency.
- Sweetness Adjustment: Adjust the amount of honey to suit your taste preferences. You can also use other sweeteners like maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Freezing Time: Ensure the mixture is frozen solid for at least 24 hours for the best results.
- Mix-In Incorporation: Be gentle when adding mix-ins to avoid over-processing the ice cream.
- Re-Spin is Key: Don’t be afraid to use the “Re-Spin” function multiple times if needed to achieve the desired creamy texture. A little patience makes a big difference.
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes (plus 24 hours freezing)
Total Time: 24 hours 5 minutes
Nutrition Information (per serving, approximate):
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: 150-200
- Protein: 20-25g
- Sodium: 200-300mg
Conclusion:
This Strawberry Cottage Cheese Ice Cream is a delightful and nutritious treat that is perfect for any occasion. It’s incredibly easy to make, customizable to your liking, and provides a healthy alternative to traditional ice cream. Whether you’re looking for a post-workout snack or a guilt-free dessert, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings. The Ninja Creami makes the process a breeze, turning simple ingredients into a creamy, dreamy, and protein-packed delight. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
- Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just make sure to thaw them slightly and drain any excess liquid before adding them to the mixture. This will prevent the ice cream from becoming too icy.
- What if I don’t have a Ninja Creami?
- While this recipe is optimized for the Ninja Creami, you can still make it using a regular ice cream maker. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your ice cream maker, but the basic steps of blending the ingredients and freezing remain the same.
- Can I add other fruits besides strawberries?
- Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or peaches. Adjust the amount of honey as needed based on the sweetness of the fruit.
- Is it necessary to use the “Re-Spin” function?
- The “Re-Spin” function is often necessary to achieve the creamiest texture, especially if the ice cream appears powdery after the first spin. Don’t hesitate to use it multiple times if needed. Adding a tablespoon of liquid can also help.
- How long can I store the ice cream in the freezer?
- For the best texture, it’s recommended to consume the ice cream within a week. Store it in an airtight container in the freezer. When ready to serve, you may need to re-spin it to restore the creamy texture.
