This creamy peanut butter cottage cheese ice cream is a delightful treat that’s both tasty and protein-rich! It’s super easy to make, and you only need a few ingredients to whip it up.
I love how smooth and rich this ice cream is. Plus, sneaking a scoop makes snacking feel a little fancy! Trust me, it’s a great way to cool down on hot days. 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: Use low-fat cottage cheese for a lighter version. If you’re not a fan, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute, giving similar creaminess with added tang.
Peanut Butter: Natural peanut butter is best for flavor and texture, but feel free to use almond or cashew butter if you want something different. Crunchy adds texture, while creamy is smooth—choose based on your taste.
Milk: I like using whole milk for extra creaminess, but almond milk or oat milk are great for a dairy-free version. Adjust the quantity based on how thick or creamy you want your ice cream.
Sweetener: Honey or maple syrup works well, but you can swap in agave or a sugar substitute to make it lower in calories. Just remember that sweetness can vary, so taste as you go!
How Do I Ensure My Ice Cream is Smooth and Creamy?
The secret to getting the perfect creamy texture lies in blending. Make sure to blend your ingredients thoroughly until smooth. Here’s how:
- Start with the cottage cheese and peanut butter in the blender. This gives a good base.
- Add the milk, honey (or other sweeteners), vanilla, and salt. Blend on high until you see a uniform consistency.
- Stop to scrape down the sides of the blender to ensure everything is mixed well.
- If using chopped peanuts or chips, stir them in after blending, rather than blending them, to keep the texture.
Churning in the ice cream maker is also vital. Follow your machine’s instructions carefully, allowing it to incorporate air, which makes the ice cream light and fluffy. After churning, be patient—freezing solidifies the creamy texture beautifully!
Creamy Peanut Butter Cottage Cheese Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 2 cups low-fat cottage cheese
- 3/4 cup natural peanut butter (creamy or crunchy as preferred)
- 1/2 cup milk (whole, almond, or your choice)
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts or peanut butter chips for texture
Time Needed:
This recipe will take approximately 10 minutes of prep time, plus 20-25 minutes for churning in an ice cream maker, and you’ll need to freeze it for at least 2 hours to set. Total time: around 2 hours and 35 minutes but most of it is just waiting time while it freezes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Blend the Base Ingredients:
Start by combining the cottage cheese, natural peanut butter, milk, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a blender or food processor. Blend everything together until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides as needed to make sure everything gets incorporated nicely!
2. Add Texture (Optional):
If you want a little crunch in your ice cream, now is the time to stir in the chopped peanuts or peanut butter chips. Mix them gently with a spoon or spatula so they’re evenly distributed throughout the creamy base.
3. Churn the Mixture:
Pour your blended ice cream mixture into an ice cream maker. Churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, which usually takes about 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for a soft-serve consistency.
4. Freeze to Set:
Once churning is complete, transfer the ice cream into a freezer-safe container. Cover tightly and pop it in the freezer for at least 2 hours. This step is essential to firm it up for better scooping later!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious creation, take the container out of the freezer and let the ice cream sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes. This will make scooping easier! Use an ice cream scoop or a spoon to serve into bowls or cones, and savor every creamy bite of your peanut buttery treat!
This creamy peanut butter cottage cheese ice cream is not only a delightful snack but also a healthier option packed with protein. Your taste buds will thank you for this indulgent yet guilt-free treat!
FAQ about Creamy Peanut Butter Cottage Cheese Ice Cream
Can I Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Cottage Cheese?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt can be a delicious substitute for cottage cheese if you prefer a smoother texture. Just keep in mind that it may lend a tangier flavor to the ice cream.
How Can I Make This Ice Cream Dairy-Free?
To make it dairy-free, simply replace the cottage cheese with a dairy-free alternative like silken tofu or full-fat coconut milk. Use almond milk or another dairy-free milk in place of regular milk for the same creamy consistency!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Ice Cream?
You can store your creamy peanut butter cottage cheese ice cream in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 weeks. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping, as it may harden in the freezer.
Can I Add Other Flavors or Mix-Ins?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with flavors by adding cocoa powder for a chocolate version, or mix in shredded coconut, banana slices, or even chocolate chips for added texture and taste. Just remember to blend it well!
