Cottage Cheese Ice Cream
Cottage Cheese Ice Cream is a creamy, tangy, protein-packed dessert that offers a guilt-free indulgence. Combining the wholesome richness of cottage cheese with natural sweeteners and optional mix-ins like fruits, nuts, or chocolate, this easy-to-make treat is low in sugar and versatile, perfect for health-conscious sweet lovers seeking a refreshing and satisfying dessert.
- Author: Emily
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours (including freezing time)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Freezing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free, High Protein
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat recommended for creaminess)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or Greek yogurt (choose based on texture preference)
- 2–3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Mix-ins and Toppings
- Fresh or frozen berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) – 1/2 cup
- Mini dark chocolate chips – 1/4 cup
- Diced mango or pineapple – 1/2 cup
- Shredded coconut – 2 tablespoons
- Crushed almonds or walnuts – 1/4 cup
- Cinnamon or spices (optional) – 1/4 teaspoon
- Prepare the Base: Start by blending 1 cup of smooth cottage cheese with 1/2 cup of your choice of heavy cream or Greek yogurt using a blender or food processor. This ensures a rich, creamy texture reminiscent of traditional ice cream.
- Sweeten and Flavor: Add 2 to 3 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup along with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the blended base. Blend again until the mixture is silky smooth and all ingredients are fully combined.
- Add Mix-ins: Gently fold in any optional fruits, nuts, or chocolate chips to your desired taste and texture, ensuring an even distribution for tasty surprises in every bite.
- Freeze: Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container. Freeze for at least 4 to 6 hours, stirring every hour initially to prevent ice crystals and achieve a creamy consistency.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once set, scoop your Cottage Cheese Ice Cream into bowls or cones. Garnish as desired with fresh fruit, a drizzle of honey, crushed nuts, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an enhanced flavor and texture experience.
Notes
- Blend Thoroughly: Puree the cottage cheese well to avoid curds and get a smooth texture.
- Use Full-Fat Dairy: For richer creaminess, use full-fat cottage cheese and heavy cream or Greek yogurt.
- Sweeten Gradually: Adjust sweetness by adding honey or maple syrup little by little according to taste.
- Stir During Freezing: Stirring every hour during the initial freeze prevents ice crystals and improves texture.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try adding spices like cinnamon or cardamom for unique taste variations.
- Lactose Intolerance: Use lactose-free or plant-based cottage cheese alternatives to make it suitable for sensitive stomachs.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two weeks, best eaten within the first few days.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve in waffle cones, hollowed-out fruit, or parfait glasses for creative presentation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Cottage Cheese Ice Cream, Healthy Dessert, Low Sugar Ice Cream, Protein Packed Dessert, Homemade Ice Cream, No Ice Cream Maker, Low Fat Dessert