A creamy and protein-rich ice cream that combines the natural sweetness of strawberries with the smooth texture of cottage cheese, offering a healthier twist on a classic dessert. This frozen treat is perfect for warm days when you crave something refreshing yet nutritious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High in protein – Cottage cheese adds a protein boost, making this ice cream both satisfying and nourishing.
- Low in fat and calories – A great option for those looking for a lighter dessert without sacrificing taste.
- Easy to make – With just a few ingredients and a blender, you can create a delicious frozen treat.
- Naturally sweetened – You can use monk fruit sweetener for a sugar-free version.
- Customizable – Adjust the sweetness or add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 3 tablespoons sugar or monk fruit sweetener
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- ¼ cup 2% milk
Directions
- Macerate the Strawberries – In a small bowl, mix the sliced strawberries with the sugar or monk fruit sweetener. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their juices and form a syrupy mixture.
- Blend the Mixture – In a blender or food processor, combine the macerated strawberries (including their juices), cottage cheese, and milk. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Freeze the Mixture – Pour the blended mixture into a Ninja Creami pint container, making sure not to exceed the maximum fill line. Secure the lid and freeze for at least 24 hours.
- Process in Ninja Creami – Remove the pint from the freezer, take off the lid, and place it into the outer bowl of the Ninja Creami machine. Secure the outer bowl lid and select the "Lite Ice Cream" function. Let the cycle complete.
- Adjust Consistency if Needed – If the ice cream appears crumbly, reinsert it into the machine and select the "Re-spin" function. If it's still crumbly, add a tablespoon of milk and re-spin until smooth.
- Serve – Scoop the ice cream into bowls and enjoy immediately. Optionally, garnish with additional fresh strawberries.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 servings
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Freezing Time: 24 hours
- Total Time: 24 hours 20 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 120 kcal per serving
Variations
- Chocolate Strawberry Twist – Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a chocolatey flavor.
- Vanilla Bean Version – Mix in ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract for a richer taste.
- Berry Blend – Replace half of the strawberries with raspberries or blueberries.
- Crunchy Additions – Stir in chopped nuts or dark chocolate chips after blending.
- Dairy-Free Option – Use a dairy-free cottage cheese and plant-based milk.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover ice cream in the Ninja Creami pint container with the lid securely on. Keep it in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
- Reheating: If the ice cream hardens too much, let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes or run it through the "Re-spin" function in the Ninja Creami to soften.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, but thaw them slightly before macerating to help release their juices.
2. What if I don’t have a Ninja Creami?
You can freeze the mixture in a container and stir it every 30 minutes until firm, though the texture may be less creamy.
3. Can I make this ice cream without added sweeteners?
Yes, if your strawberries are very ripe, you may not need extra sweetener.
4. Is this ice cream gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.
5. How can I make this ice cream creamier?
Use full-fat cottage cheese and whole milk for a richer texture.
6. Can I use a different sweetener?
Yes, honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute like erythritol can be used.
7. Does this ice cream taste like cottage cheese?
Not really! The blending process makes it smooth and creamy with a fresh strawberry flavor.
8. Can I add protein powder?
Yes, adding a scoop of vanilla or strawberry protein powder will boost the protein content.
9. How long should I freeze the mixture?
At least 24 hours to ensure it’s firm enough for the Ninja Creami to process properly.
10. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but you’ll need to freeze it in separate containers, as the Ninja Creami processes one pint at a time.
Conclusion
Strawberry Cottage Cheese Ice Cream is a delicious, high-protein frozen treat that’s perfect for anyone looking for a healthier alternative to traditional ice cream. With just four ingredients and a little patience for freezing, you can enjoy a creamy, refreshing dessert that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Try it with your favorite mix-ins and enjoy a guilt-free indulgence!
Strawberry Cottage Cheese Ice Cream
- Total Time: 24 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A creamy and protein-rich ice cream that combines the natural sweetness of strawberries with the smooth texture of cottage cheese, offering a healthier twist on a classic dessert. This frozen treat is perfect for warm days when you crave something refreshing yet nutritious.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 3 tablespoons sugar or monk fruit sweetener
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- ¼ cup 2% milk
Instructions
- Macerate the Strawberries – In a small bowl, mix the sliced strawberries with the sugar or monk fruit sweetener. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their juices.
- Blend the Mixture – In a blender or food processor, combine the macerated strawberries (including their juices), cottage cheese, and milk. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Freeze the Mixture – Pour the blended mixture into a Ninja Creami pint container, ensuring not to exceed the maximum fill line. Secure the lid and freeze for at least 24 hours.
- Process in Ninja Creami – Remove the frozen pint, take off the lid, and place it into the Ninja Creami machine. Secure the outer bowl lid and select the "Lite Ice Cream" function.
- Adjust Consistency if Needed – If the ice cream appears crumbly, reinsert it into the machine and select the "Re-spin" function. If still crumbly, add a tablespoon of milk and re-spin.
- Serve – Scoop into bowls and enjoy immediately. Optionally, garnish with additional fresh strawberries.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, use full-fat cottage cheese and whole milk.
- Sweetener options: Use honey, maple syrup, or erythritol as substitutes.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based cottage cheese and milk.
- Storage: Store in the Ninja Creami pint container for up to 2 weeks. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes or use the "Re-spin" function if it hardens too much.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Freezing Time: 24 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Blending & Freezing
- Cuisine: American
