Cottage Cheese Ice Cream is a delightful and nutritious treat that offers a high-protein alternative to traditional ice creams. By blending cottage cheese with natural sweeteners and mix-ins, you can create a creamy dessert that’s both satisfying and health-conscious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High Protein and Low Carb: Each serving provides approximately 13 grams of protein and only 5 grams of net carbs, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
- No Special Equipment Needed: This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require an ice cream maker.
- Customizable: The base recipe is versatile, allowing you to add your favorite fruits, nuts, or flavorings to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
- 2 cups full-fat cottage cheese
- 1/3 cup liquid sweetener (such as sugar-free honey or agave syrup)
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter, almond butter, or cashew butter
- Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 2 tablespoons chocolate chips
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Blend the Cottage Cheese: Place the cottage cheese in a blender and blend on high speed for 1–2 minutes until it becomes very smooth and creamy.
- Add Sweetener and Nut Butter: Add the liquid sweetener and your choice of nut butter to the blended cottage cheese. If using vanilla extract, add it now. Blend again on medium speed until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth.
- Incorporate Mix-Ins: Using a spatula, gently stir in the chocolate chips or any other desired mix-ins.
- Freeze: Transfer the mixture into a freezer-safe container, smoothing the top with a spatula. Cover the container to prevent ice crystals from forming. Place it in the freezer for at least 3–4 hours until firm.
- Serve: Before serving, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes to soften slightly, making it easier to scoop.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Freeze Time: 3–4 hours
- Total Time: Approximately 3 hours and 5 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate: Mix in 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder for a rich chocolate flavor.
- Fruity: Blend in fresh or frozen fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a fruity twist.
- Nutty: Add chopped nuts such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
- Coffee: Incorporate a shot of espresso or a teaspoon of instant coffee granules for a coffee-flavored treat.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover ice cream in a freezer-safe container in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- Serving After Freezing: When ready to enjoy, remove the ice cream from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes to soften before scooping.
FAQs
What type of cottage cheese should I use?
Full-fat cottage cheese is recommended for a creamier texture, but you can use low-fat versions if you prefer.
Can I use a different sweetener?
Yes, you can substitute the liquid sweetener with alternatives like powdered monk fruit allulose blend or xylitol. Keep in mind that xylitol is toxic to dogs, so use it with caution if you have pets.
Do I need an ice cream maker for this recipe?
No, this recipe is designed to be made without an ice cream maker. Blending the cottage cheese until smooth and freezing the mixture yields a creamy consistency.
How can I prevent ice crystals from forming?
Ensure that the container is well-sealed before placing it in the freezer. Using liquid sweeteners like allulose can also help maintain a smooth texture, as they resist crystallization.
Can I add other flavors to the ice cream?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, allowing you to add various flavorings such as cocoa powder for chocolate ice cream, or blended fruits for a fruity version.
How long does the ice cream last in the freezer?
The ice cream can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. For the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to consume it within this timeframe.
Is this ice cream suitable for a keto diet?
Yes, this cottage cheese ice cream is low in carbs and high in protein, making it suitable for a keto diet. Ensure that the sweeteners and mix-ins you choose are also keto-friendly.
Can I make this ice cream dairy-free?
Since the main ingredient is cottage cheese, making a dairy-free version would require substituting the cottage cheese with a plant-based alternative, which may alter the texture and flavor.
What can I serve with this ice cream?
You can serve this ice cream on its own or pair it with keto-friendly cookies, fresh berries, or a drizzle of sugar-free chocolate syrup.
How can I make the ice cream softer?
Adding a small amount of alcohol, such as vodka, to the mixture can help keep the ice cream softer, as alcohol lowers the freezing point. Alternatively, letting the ice cream sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving will also soften it.
Conclusion
Cottage Cheese Ice Cream is a simple, healthy, and customizable dessert that satisfies sweet cravings without derailing your dietary goals. With
Print
Cottage Cheese Ice Cream
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 3–4 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: Blending, Freezing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Cottage Cheese Ice Cream is a high-protein, low-carb frozen treat that’s creamy, delicious, and made without an ice cream maker! Naturally sweetened and customizable with your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or fruit, this healthy dessert is perfect for satisfying sweet cravings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups full-fat cottage cheese
- 1/3 cup liquid sweetener (sugar-free honey, agave syrup, or allulose)
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter, almond butter, or cashew butter
- Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 2 tablespoons chocolate chips
Instructions
- Blend the Cottage Cheese: Blend cottage cheese on high for 1–2 minutes until smooth and creamy.
- Add Sweetener & Nut Butter: Blend in the liquid sweetener and nut butter. If using vanilla extract, add it now. Blend again until fully combined.
- Incorporate Mix-Ins: Stir in chocolate chips or other mix-ins using a spatula.
- Freeze: Transfer to a freezer-safe container, smooth the top, and cover tightly. Freeze for at least 3–4 hours.
- Serve: Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before scooping for the best texture.
Notes
- Chocolate Variation: Mix in 1 tablespoon cocoa powder for a rich chocolate flavor.
- Fruity Variation: Blend in strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a fruit-flavored ice cream.
- Nutty Crunch: Stir in chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts for added texture.
- Coffee Flavor: Add 1 teaspoon instant coffee or a shot of espresso.
- Storage: Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
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