This creamy cottage cheese peanut butter ice cream is a treat you won’t want to miss! It’s packed with protein and has a smooth, rich flavor that satisfies sweet cravings.
Making this ice cream is super easy! Just blend the ingredients and freeze. I love enjoying a scoop after dinner—it’s the perfect way to cool down and feel good about my snack! 🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: Small curd cottage cheese gives a smooth texture, but large curd works too. If you’re not a fan of cottage cheese, Greek yogurt is a nice alternative that still adds protein.
Bananas: Ripe bananas sweeten the ice cream naturally. If bananas aren’t available, try using frozen mango or avocado for a different flavor and creaminess.
Peanut Butter: I prefer smooth peanut butter for a creamier texture, but crunchy peanut butter adds a lovely crunch. Sunflower seed butter is a great nut-free option!
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powders create the chocolate flavor. For a sweeter taste, use Dutch-process cocoa. If you want the chocolate to shine through, semi-sweet chocolate chips can also work well.
Sweeteners: Honey is my go-to, but maple syrup is an excellent vegan option. You can also try agave syrup or even a sugar-free sweetener if you need to control sugar intake.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Creamy Texture?
The texture of this ice cream depends on how well you blend the ingredients. Here’s how to get it smooth and creamy:
- Use frozen bananas; this is key for a creamy base. Make sure to freeze them until solid.
- Blend the ingredients in a high-speed blender to break down everything smoothly. Pause to scrape the sides often.
- If the mixture is too thick, gradually add more milk while blending until it reaches your desired consistency.
For a firmer ice cream, let it freeze for an additional hour or two, but remember to let it soften for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy delight!
How to Make Creamy Cottage Cheese Peanut Butter Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 cup cottage cheese (small curd works best)
- 2 ripe bananas
Flavor Additions:
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy based on preference)
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- 2-3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based, adjust for desired consistency)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful ice cream will take about 10 minutes of active prep time. Don’t forget to factor in at least 2 hours of freezing time for the bananas beforehand, and an optional additional 1-2 hours in the freezer for firmer ice cream.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bananas:
Begin by peeling the ripe bananas and slicing them into small chunks. Spread the banana pieces on a plate or in a single layer in a container and place in the freezer for at least 2 hours, or until they are completely solid. This step is essential for a creamy texture!
2. Blend the Ice Cream Base:
Once your bananas are frozen, grab your blender or food processor. Add the frozen banana chunks, cottage cheese, peanut butter, cocoa powder, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, milk, and a pinch of salt into the blender. This combination creates a rich and flavorful base for your ice cream.
3. Achieve the Perfect Creamy Texture:
Blend all the ingredients until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Take a moment to stop and scrape down the sides to make sure everything blends evenly. You may need to adjust the milk if it’s too thick—just add a little more until you reach the desired consistency!
4. Sweeten to Taste:
Taste your mixture to see if it needs any extra sweetness or peanut butter—feel free to add more honey or peanut butter according to your preference. Blend again to mix any additions in!
5. Freeze for Serving:
Pour the blended ice cream base into a freezer-safe container. If you like it softer, feel free to serve it immediately. For a firmer texture, cover and freeze for an additional 1-2 hours.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to enjoy, scoop the ice cream into bowls. If there are leftovers, store them in the freezer and let the ice cream soften slightly before serving again. Enjoy this delicious, healthy treat guilt-free!
This ice cream is a delightful mix of peanut butter and chocolate flavors enhanced by the creamy richness of cottage cheese. It’s a nutritious and satisfying dessert that you’ll love!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Bananas Straight from the Freezer?
Yes, you can! Just ensure they’ve been frozen until solid. If they’re too hard, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before blending to make the process easier.
What Can I Substitute for Peanut Butter?
If you’re allergic to nuts or want a different flavor, you can use sunflower seed butter or tahini. These alternatives provide a similar creaminess and taste.
How Should I Store Leftover Ice Cream?
Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften before scooping.
Can I Add Mix-Ins Like Chocolate Chips or Nuts?
Absolutely! Stir in chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even pieces of fruit right after blending the base for added texture and flavor. Just be careful not to overmix, so they don’t get crushed!
