Cottage cheese ice cream has taken social media by storm, particularly thanks to Lainie Cooks on TikTok. While Kates may have popularized the idea, the credit for the original recipe goes to Kenzie Akers, who seems to have first created and shared it on TikTok in March 2022 as part of her wellness regimen. After witnessing the enthusiastic response from my Instagram followers who tried and adored it, I knew I had to share the recipe on the blog!
While there are numerous variations available, the foundation remains delightfully straightforward: just two ingredients, cottage cheese, and honey! The rendition I’m presenting includes the delectable additions of peanut butter and chocolate chips, resulting in a truly irresistible combination.
Reasons to Adore This Cottage Cheese Ice Cream Recipe:
- A protein-packed treat or snack boasting over 20 grams of protein per serving!
- Requires just four simple ingredients and comes together swiftly.
- No need for an ice cream maker!
- Easily customizable to create your preferred ice cream flavor.
Ingredients Required for Cottage Cheese Ice Cream:
- Cottage cheese: The star ingredient, lending a creamy texture and rich flavor with a substantial protein content. Opt for full-fat cottage cheese for the creamiest result, although low-fat varieties will also work.– Honey: Providing sweetness to complement the cottage cheese. Maple syrup or your preferred liquid sweetener can be substituted for honey.
- Peanut butter: Adding a nutty essence and boosting the protein content. While peanut butter pairs well with honey and cottage cheese, almond butter or any nut/seed butter can be used as alternatives.
- Chocolate chips: Offering a delightful crunch and chocolatey goodness to the ice cream. Opt for sugar-free options like Lily’s dark chocolate chips sweetened with stevia.
Instructions:
- Blend: Combine cottage cheese, honey, and peanut butter in a food processor or high-speed blender. Pulse or process until smooth and creamy. Stir in chocolate chips.
- Freeze: Transfer the cottage cheese ice cream mixture to its original container or a loaf pan. Freeze for approximately 4 hours, or until firm.
- Serve: Remove from the freezer and let thaw for 5-10 minutes until scoop able. Using an ice cream scoop, portion into bowls and enjoy.
Serving Suggestions:
- In a bowl or cone: Enjoy the ice cream solo in a bowl or within an ice cream cone.
- Toppings: Elevate your treat with various toppings such as fresh fruit, chopped nuts, granola, or drizzles of honey or chocolate sauce.
- Parfait-style: Layer the ice cream with fresh fruit, yogurt, or whipped cream for a delightful parfait.
- Sandwich: Create a decadent dessert by sandwiching a scoop of ice cream between two cookies or waffles.
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Flavor Variations of Cottage Cheese Ice Cream:
- Chocolate: Incorporate 1/2-1 tablespoon of cacao powder or cocoa powder along with chocolate chips or cacao nibs for a rich chocolatey flavor.
- Fruity: Blend in your preferred frozen fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, bananas, mangoes, or peaches for a refreshing fruity twist. You can also add a swirl of your favorite jam or strawberry chia jam.
- Nutty: Substitute chocolate chips with chopped nuts like almonds, pecans, walnuts, or pistachios for a crunchy nutty texture.
- Spiced: Enhance the flavor with a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, or pumpkin pie spice for a cozy and comforting taste.
- Coffee: Mix in a shot of espresso or a spoonful of instant coffee powder to create a delightful coffee-infused ice cream.
- Vanilla: Add richness with vanilla bean paste from 1/2 – 1 vanilla bean pod or vanilla extract for a classic vanilla flavor.
- Strawberry Cheesecake: Incorporate frozen or fresh strawberries and crushed graham crackers for a delectable strawberry cheesecake combination.
Storage Instructions:
- Freezer: Store the cottage cheese ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. To prevent ice crystals from forming, cover the surface with a piece of plastic wrap before sealing the container.
- Thawing: Allow the ice cream to thaw at room temperature for approximately 5-10 minutes before scooping and serving. This will ensure easier scooping and a smoother texture.
FAQs:
- What type of cottage cheese is best to use?
The choice of cottage cheese depends on personal preference. Opt for organic options free from antibiotics and hormones, such as Good Culture, Organic Valley, and Nancy’s. Another recommended option is Friendship Diaries no salt-added, small curd 1% cottage cheese. This variety has slightly lower sodium content compared to typical brands, although it’s not organic.
- Is cottage cheese healthy?
Absolutely! Cottage cheese ice cream can be a healthier alternative to traditional ice cream. Made with minimal, wholesome ingredients and without refined sugar or artificial preservatives, it offers a nutritious treat option.
Compared to regular ice cream, it typically contains more protein and less sugar, making it a satisfying choice that can help balance blood sugar levels and curb cravings.
With 22 grams of protein per serving, this ice cream can leave you feeling full and satisfied, reducing the temptation to overindulge. If you’re someone who enjoys a generous serving of ice cream, this recipe is an excellent option for a guilt-free indulgence.