Who doesn’t crave ice cream that’s delicious and guilt-free? Let me introduce you to a treat that’s as indulgent as it is healthy: Strawberry Cheesecake Cottage Cheese Protein Ice Cream. Inspired by the creamy goodness of cheesecake and the fresh sweetness of strawberries, this recipe is packed with protein and flavor. And the best part? You’ll make this beauty in the Ninja Creami, a kitchen gadget that turns simple ingredients into ultra-creamy magic.
Here’s what makes this recipe unique: cottage cheese. I know—it sounds a little unusual for ice cream. But trust me, when blended, it creates a luxuriously creamy base loaded with protein. Toss in some chopped strawberries and graham crackers, and boom! You’ve got all the flavors of strawberry cheesecake in one dreamy scoop.
Let’s get started!
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Freeze Time: At least 24 hours
Makes: 1 pint (16 ounces)
Difficulty: Super easy—you’ve got this!
Equipment Needed:
- Ninja Creami
- Pint container (Ninja Creami-compatible)
- Small blender
No Ninja Creami? No worries! You can try freezing this mixture in popsicle molds or use a traditional ice cream maker. It won’t be quite the same, but hey—it’ll still taste fantastic.
Ingredients
The Base:
- 11.5 oz Strawberry Protein Shake – Brings a touch of sweetness and a protein punch.
- ½ cup Low-Fat Cottage Cheese – This is the secret to creamy ice cream. Want it richer? Use full-fat cottage cheese.
- ¼ tsp Strawberry Extract – Boosts the strawberry flavor. No extract? Vanilla works too—or skip it.
Mix-ins (optional but highly recommended):
- ½ cup Fresh Strawberries (chopped) – Adds a sweet, juicy texture. Frozen works too—just thaw before using.
- ½ Graham Cracker (crumbled) – Because cheesecake needs a crust, right?
Optional Add-in:
- 1–2 tbsp Almond Milk – Use this if your ice cream is too crumbly after freezing.
How to Make It
Step 1: Blend Your Base
Toss the protein shake, cottage cheese, and strawberry extract into a blender. Blend until the mixture is silky smooth—no lumps allowed! Pour it into your Ninja Creami pint container. Just don’t fill past the max line, or things could get messy later.
Pro tip: Let the blended mixture chill in the fridge for a bit first. It’ll freeze better that way.
Step 2: Freeze It
Place the container (lid off) on a flat surface in your freezer. Make sure the temp is nice and cold—anywhere from 9°F to -7°F is ideal. Let it freeze for at least 24 hours.
Why no lid? It prevents weird lumps from forming on top. Trust me on this.
Step 3: Spin It
Time for the fun part! Pop your frozen pint into the Ninja Creami. Select the “Lite Ice Cream” setting and let the machine do its thing. In minutes, you’ll have creamy, dreamy ice cream.
If it looks crumbly after the first spin, don’t panic. Add 1–2 tablespoons of almond milk down the center and hit “re-spin.” Repeat if necessary until you reach that perfect, creamy consistency.
Step 4: Add the Mix-ins
Make a little well in the middle of your ice cream and add the chopped strawberries and crushed graham crackers. Use the “Mix-in” setting to gently distribute these bits of yumminess.
Tips & Variations
Make it Your Own:
- Gluten-Free? Swap the graham cracker for a GF option or leave it out.
- Dairy-Free? Try using silken tofu or a plant-based yogurt instead of cottage cheese (though the texture might change).
- Low-Sugar? Use sugar-free protein shakes and skip the graham cracker.
Seasonal Spins:
- Fresh blueberries or peaches are amazing substitutes for strawberries when in season.
- Feeling festive? Add a dash of cinnamon for a cozy flavor or drizzle a little strawberry sauce on top to impress a crowd.
Serving & Storage
How to Serve:
Serve your ice cream right after spinning for that perfect soft-serve consistency. Want to go fancy? Top with more fresh strawberries or a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers for a little crunch.
Leftovers?
Store in the pint container with the lid on. If it hardens too much in the freezer, just microwave for 20–30 seconds or pop it back in the Ninja Creami for another spin.
There you have it: creamy, dreamy, protein-packed ice cream that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Whether you’re a dessert lover or just looking for a healthier way to satisfy that sweet tooth, this recipe is your new best friend.
Happy scooping!
PrintNinja Creami Strawberry Cheesecake Cottage Cheese Ice Cream
This Strawberry Cheesecake Cottage Cheese Protein Ice Cream is a creamy, high-protein dessert with all the flavor of strawberry cheesecake—without the guilt. Perfect for a quick dessert that fits your health goals while still feeling indulgent!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A
- Total Time: 24 hours 5 minutes (Including Freezing Time)
- Yield: 4 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Ice Cream Base:
- 11.5 oz strawberry protein shake
- ½ cup low-fat cottage cheese (unsalted)
- ¼ tsp strawberry extract
Mix-ins:
- ½ cup fresh strawberries (chopped)
- ½ graham cracker (crumbled)
Optional:
- 1–2 tbsp unsweetened almond milk (for texture adjustment after freezing)
Instructions
Step 1: Blend the Base
- Blend the protein shake, cottage cheese, and strawberry extract in a blender until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into a Ninja Creami pint container, leaving space at the top.
Step 2: Freeze
- Freeze the pint (uncovered) on a flat surface for at least 24 hours.
Step 3: Spin in Ninja Creami
- Place the frozen pint into the machine and select “Lite Ice Cream.” Spin until creamy.
- If it looks crumbly, add 1–2 tablespoons almond milk and re-spin until smooth.
Step 4: Mix in Goodies
- Make a small well in the ice cream and add chopped strawberries and graham cracker crumbs.
- Use the “Mix-in” setting to combine.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve immediately for the best texture or garnish with extra strawberries for flair.
Notes
Serving Suggestions:
- Top with more fresh fruit or a drizzle of strawberry compote for added sweetness.
Tips & Tricks:
- Ensure cottage cheese is fully blended for a silky texture.
- Chill the mixture before freezing for even consistency.
Storage & Reheating:
- Store leftovers in the Ninja Creami pint container with a lid for up to 2 weeks.
- If the ice cream hardens, microwave for 20–30 seconds or re-spin in the Ninja Creami.
Enjoy this healthier take on ice cream that combines the richness of cheesecake with fresh strawberry flavor—all in one easy, protein-packed recipe!
