This creamy treat mixes cottage cheese and peanut butter for a tasty, healthy ice cream. It’s easy to whip up, giving you a delicious dessert without the fuss!
I love how it feels like I’m having a rich ice cream, but it’s packed with protein! Perfect for a hot day or when I need a quick sweet fix. Just blend, freeze, and enjoy!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: Using smooth or well-blended cottage cheese is key for creaminess. If you’re not a fan or need a dairy-free option, try silken tofu for a similar consistency.
Bananas: Ripe bananas are perfect here since they provide natural sweetness. If bananas aren’t available, consider using frozen mango or avocado for a different flavor and texture.
Peanut Butter: I love natural peanut butter for its rich taste. Almond butter or sunflower seed butter are great alternatives for those avoiding peanuts or looking for a nut-free option.
Cocoa Powder: This is optional, but if you’re a chocolate lover, you shouldn’t skip it! You can also use carob powder for a caffeine-free choice.
Sweetener: Honey and maple syrup work well, but feel free to use agave syrup or a sugar substitute like stevia if you want a lower-calorie option.
How Do I Achieve the Creamiest Texture?
To get that smooth, creamy texture, blending is crucial. Use a high-speed blender or food processor for the best results.
- Start with frozen banana slices. They create that ice cream-like texture.
- Blend the bananas first until they become a smooth base before adding other ingredients. This helps prevent clumps.
- If it gets too thick, a small splash of milk (dairy or plant-based) helps everything blend smoothly.
- Don’t rush! Take breaks while blending if needed to scrape down the sides to ensure an even mix.
Easy Cottage Cheese Peanut Butter Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup cottage cheese (preferably smooth or well blended)
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced and frozen
- 1/4 cup natural peanut butter (creamy or chunky as preferred)
- 2-3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (optional for chocolate flavor)
- 1-2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
- Optional: a splash of milk or plant-based milk for smoother blending
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. After that, you’ll want to freeze the mixture for at least 2 hours so that it firms up nicely. It’s a quick and easy treat with minimal waiting time—perfect for a hot day or any time you crave something sweet!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bananas:
Start by placing the frozen banana slices into a high-speed blender or food processor. These frozen slices will create the creamy texture we want in our ice cream!
2. Add the Other Ingredients:
Next, add the cottage cheese, peanut butter, optional cocoa powder, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. These ingredients together will create a flavorful and rich ice cream base!
3. Blend Until Smooth:
Blend the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy. If you find the mixture is too thick or isn’t blending well, add a small splash of milk to help it blend more easily. Scrape down the sides if needed to make sure everything is mixed evenly.
4. Taste and Adjust:
Before you transfer it, taste the mixture! If you’d like it sweeter or want more peanut butter flavor, feel free to adjust the amounts and quickly blend again to combine.
5. Freeze the Mixture:
Transfer the blended mixture to a container that is suitable for freezing. Spread it out so it freezes evenly.
6. Firm Up the Ice Cream:
Now, it’s time to freeze! Place the container in the freezer and let it sit for at least 2 hours to firm up. If you want to enjoy it right away, it can be eaten immediately as a soft-serve option!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to indulge, scoop the chilled ice cream into bowls and serve! Enjoy your healthy, high-protein, creamy peanut butter ice cream! You can top it with nuts, granola, or a drizzle of chocolate if you’re feeling fancy.
This easy recipe combines the creaminess of cottage cheese with the beloved peanut butter flavor and a hint of sweetness from frozen bananas, making it a delightful and guilt-free treat!
FAQ – Easy Cottage Cheese Peanut Butter Ice Cream
Can I Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Cottage Cheese?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt can be a great substitute for cottage cheese. It will give you a similar creamy texture while adding a slightly tangy flavor. Just make sure to choose plain Greek yogurt for the best results.
How Can I Make This Dairy-Free?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, you can replace cottage cheese with silken tofu or a dairy-free yogurt. Just ensure it’s unsweetened to maintain the flavor balance in the recipe.
How Long Does This Ice Cream Last in the Freezer?
You can store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a week. Just know that it may harden quite a bit, so let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping if it’s too hard.
Can I Add Mix-Ins Like Chocolate Chips or Nuts?
Definitely! Feel free to fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit after blending. Just stir them in gently before transferring the mixture to the freezer to keep them evenly distributed throughout your ice cream.
