This easy ice cream mixes creamy cottage cheese with smooth peanut butter for a tasty treat! It’s healthy and super simple to make, perfect for hot days or just because you can.
You won’t believe how delicious it is to enjoy a scoop of this ice cream. I love topping it with some chocolate chips or fresh fruit for fun. Who knew being healthy could taste this good? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: Low-fat cottage cheese is key here for creaminess without a lot of calories. If you’re not a fan, you can use Greek yogurt for a similar texture but a stronger tang.
Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter gives the ice cream a smooth feel. You can swap it for almond butter or other nut butters if you want a different flavor. Just watch for added sugars in some brands.
Sweetener: I recommend honey for its classic taste, but maple syrup works great for a vegan option. Adjust the amount based on how sweet you like it – taste as you go!
Milk: The milk helps blend everything smoothly. Almond, soy, or oat milk can be used if you’re dairy-free. You can also skip it if you prefer a thicker ice cream.
How Do I Achieve That Creamy Texture?
The secret to a smooth texture lies in the blending process. Here are some tips to ensure your ice cream is perfectly creamy:
- Blend on high until everything is fully combined. Don’t rush this step; the smoother it is now, the creamier it will be later.
- If it’s too thick, gradually add milk. Just a little bit at a time works best.
- When freezing, stir every hour. This keeps ice crystals at bay and maintains that smooth ice cream texture.
- Let it sit out for a few minutes before scooping for the best results. It makes serving easier!
With these tips, your peanut butter cottage cheese ice cream will turn out fantastic every time! Enjoy making and sharing this delicious treat!
Easy Creamy Peanut Butter Cottage Cheese Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup (adjust for sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based, optional to adjust consistency)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparing this ice cream takes about 10 minutes of active time, plus around 3-4 hours to freeze. You’ll blend all the ingredients quickly, and then just let it set in the freezer. It’s a simple and worthwhile wait for a tasty treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Blend the Ingredients:
Start by placing the low-fat cottage cheese, creamy peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt into a blender or food processor. Blend everything on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy, making sure to scrape down the sides of the container as needed. If the mix is too thick, gradually add the milk until you achieve a nice, pourable consistency.
2. Prepare for Freezing:
Once you have a creamy mixture, pour it into a freezer-safe container. Make sure to cover it tightly with a lid or plastic wrap to prevent any freezer odors from affecting the flavor.
3. Freeze the Mixture:
Place the container in the freezer. Every hour, take it out and stir the mixture gently to break up any ice crystals that form. This will help keep your ice cream creamy instead of icy. After about 3-4 hours, it should be firm and ready to enjoy!
4. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes to soften a bit for easier scooping. Scoop the ice cream into bowls and enjoy it plain or with your favorite toppings like chopped peanuts, chocolate chips, or fresh fruit!
This recipe creates a creamy, protein-rich ice cream packed with delicious peanut butter flavor and the smoothness of cottage cheese. Enjoy your healthy and easy homemade treat!
Can I Use Non-Dairy Cottage Cheese?
Yes! If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can find non-dairy cottage cheese alternatives made from soy, almond, or cashew proteins. Just check the consistency to ensure it blends well!
How Can I Sweeten This Ice Cream Naturally?
If you’d like a natural sweetener, honey or maple syrup works wonderfully. You can also try using agave nectar or date syrup for a different flavor profile. Start with the recommended amount and adjust to your taste preference!
What If I Don’t Want to Wait for Freezing?
If you’re in a hurry, you can enjoy the blended mixture as a soft-serve ice cream right after blending! Just be aware it will have a different texture than if frozen completely.
How Should I Store Leftover Ice Cream?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer. Make sure to press plastic wrap against the surface before sealing to minimize ice crystals. Best consumed within a week for optimal flavor and texture!
