This Easy Creamy Peanut Butter Cottage Cheese Ice Cream is a delicious and healthy treat! It combines smooth peanut butter with cottage cheese for a creamy, high-protein dessert.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: I prefer low-fat cottage cheese for a creamy texture without too many calories. If you don’t have cottage cheese, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute for a similar consistency.
Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter is my choice for a smooth blend. Natural peanut butter works well too, but stir it well first to incorporate the oil. If you have nut allergies, try sunflower seed butter instead.
Sweetener: Honey adds a natural sweetness, but you can adjust based on your taste. Maple syrup is a great vegan option. For a sugar-free version, consider using stevia or erythritol.
Milk: I used regular dairy milk, but plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk match perfectly. Just watch the taste; some varieties are sweeter than others!
How Do You Get a Creamy Ice Cream Texture?
To ensure a creamy texture, blending is key! Here’s how to get it right:
- Use a high-speed blender for a smooth mixture. Blend for 1 to 2 minutes until all lumps disappear.
- Taste and adjust sweetness during blending to your liking. This step is crucial for perfect flavor.
- For added creaminess, stir the mixture every 30 minutes during the first 2 hours of freezing. This breaks up ice crystals and keeps it smooth.
- Let it sit out for 5 minutes before scooping; this makes serving easier.
Easy Creamy Peanut Butter Cottage Cheese Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (natural or smooth)
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup (adjust to sweetness preference)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based, as preferred)
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped peanuts or peanut butter chips for texture
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious ice cream takes about 10 minutes of prep time and then needs to freeze for at least 4 hours. Altogether, you’re looking at a little planning, but the effort is totally worth it for a delightful and creamy treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Blend the Ingredients:
Start by adding the cottage cheese, creamy peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, milk, and a pinch of salt into a high-speed blender. Blend everything on high until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. This should take about 1 to 2 minutes.
2. Taste and Adjust:
Don’t forget to taste the mixture! If you want it sweeter, feel free to add a little more honey or maple syrup. You can also add a spoonful more of peanut butter if you’re feeling adventurous!
3. Add Crunch (Optional):
If you want an extra crunch, gently fold in the chopped peanuts or peanut butter chips with a spoon. This will give your ice cream some delicious texture!
4. Freeze the Mixture:
Transfer the ice cream mixture into an airtight container. This is super important for keeping it fresh! Put the container in the freezer for at least 4 hours until it’s firm. If you’d like a softer texture, stir the mixture every 30 minutes during the first 2 hours of freezing.
5. Time to Serve:
When you’re ready to indulge, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes to soften slightly. This will make it easier to scoop. Finally, scoop into bowls, serve, and enjoy your creamy, protein-packed peanut butter cottage cheese ice cream!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Nut Butters?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for peanut butter, you can use almond butter, cashew butter, or any other nut butter you prefer. Just keep in mind that different nut butters will change the flavor slightly!
How Do I Store Leftover Ice Cream?
Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. It will keep well for up to 2 weeks. To avoid ice crystals, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface before sealing the container.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! Simply use maple syrup as the sweetener and choose plant-based milk. Ensure your peanut butter is also free from animal products, and you’ll have a delicious vegan dessert!
What If I Don’t Have a Blender?
If you don’t have a blender, you can use a food processor to combine the ingredients. Just ensure everything is mixed well and smooth. If you don’t have either, you can mash the cottage cheese by hand, but it may have a chunkier texture.
