This Easy Cottage Cheese Peanut Butter Ice Cream is a creamy and tasty treat that’s super easy to whip up. It’s loaded with protein and has the rich flavor of peanut butter!
If you’re like me, you might have to hide it from roommates or family. It’s that good! I love enjoying a scoop after a long day, and it feels like a small reward. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: This is the base of the ice cream and gives it a creamy texture while being high in protein. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using silken tofu instead for a similar texture.
Bananas: Ripe bananas add natural sweetness and a creamy consistency when blended. If bananas aren’t your favorite or you have an allergy, try frozen mango or avocado for a different flavor and texture.
Peanut Butter: Use your favorite peanut butter, whether it’s natural or creamy. For nut-free versions, sun butter or soy nut butter work well and still provide a great taste.
Cocoa Powder: This gives the chocolate flavor in the recipe. If you want an extra chocolatey experience, use chocolate protein powder instead, or melt some dark chocolate and mix it in.
Sweeteners: Honey and maple syrup add to the sweetness. You can swap these out for agave syrup or a sugar substitute if trying to cut down on sugar.
How Do I Blend Everything for the Best Texture?
Getting the texture just right is key to this ice cream. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure your bananas are well frozen. This helps create a creamy texture once blended.
- Add all your ingredients into the blender in the suggested order: frozen bananas on the bottom for easier blending.
- Start blending on low and gradually increase the speed. This ensures everything mixes evenly without clumping.
- If it’s too thick, add a small amount of milk or non-dairy milk until it blends smoothly.
- Once you achieve a creamy consistency, taste it before freezing. You can always adjust sweetness or flavors at this stage.
With these tips, you’ll be able to make your cottage cheese peanut butter ice cream come out perfectly every time! Enjoy making this simple and satisfying treat.
Easy Cottage Cheese Peanut Butter Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1/4 cup peanut butter (natural or creamy)
- 2-3 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1-2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional, to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious ice cream will take about 15 minutes of active prep time. You’ll need to freeze the bananas for at least 2 hours beforehand, so plan accordingly. If you’d like to enjoy the ice cream immediately for a soft-serve texture, you can skip the freezing step after blending!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Freeze the Bananas:
Start by peeling the ripe bananas. Break them into chunks and lay them flat on a baking sheet or place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for at least 2 hours until they are fully frozen. This is key for achieving that creamy ice cream texture.
2. Blend the Ice Cream Mixture:
Once the bananas are frozen, grab your blender or food processor. Toss in the frozen banana chunks, cottage cheese, peanut butter, cocoa powder, honey or maple syrup (if you like it sweeter), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. This combination is going to create a rich and dreamy flavor!
3. Get Blending:
Blend all the ingredients until everything is smooth and creamy. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides a few times to help with the mixing. If the mixture feels too thick, just add a little splash of milk or water to help it blend more easily.
4. Taste and Adjust:
Once blended, give it a taste! You can adjust the sweetness by adding more honey or maple syrup, or you can add more peanut butter if you want a stronger flavor. Blend again briefly to mix any adjustments.
5. Freeze or Serve Immediately:
If you want a firmer ice cream, transfer the mixture to an airtight container and freeze for 1-2 hours. If you prefer it soft-serve style, go ahead and enjoy it right away!
6. Scoop and Garnish:
Scoop the ice cream into bowls and serve. You can add a sprinkle of cocoa powder or some chopped peanuts on top for an extra special touch. Enjoy your homemade, nutritious indulgence!
This recipe yields a rich, creamy, and protein-packed ice cream with the delightful flavors of peanut butter and chocolate banana, all thanks to the cottage cheese. It’s a guilt-free treat that you’ll love!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Non-Dairy Alternatives?
Absolutely! For a dairy-free version, you can substitute cottage cheese with silken tofu or a non-dairy yogurt. Both options will keep the creamy texture while accommodating dietary preferences.
What Can I Substitute for Bananas?
If you don’t like bananas or can’t have them, you can use frozen mango or avocado for a similar creamy consistency. Keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How Long Does This Ice Cream Last in the Freezer?
If stored in an airtight container, this ice cream can last for up to 2 weeks in the freezer. Just remember it may become a bit harder after freezing, so allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping.
Can I Customize the Flavor?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment by adding ingredients like chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or different nut butters. Just blend in any additional mix-ins after the ice cream base is smooth!
