This Easy Cottage Cheese Peanut Butter Ice Cream is a creamy treat that’s perfect for hot days! With just cottage cheese, peanut butter, and a hint of sweetness, it’s simple and satisfying.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: I recommend using low-fat cottage cheese for a smooth texture. If you prefer a dairy-free version, try using a plant-based alternative like almond or soy yogurt for a similar creaminess.
Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter works best for this recipe, but you can substitute crunchy for a bit of texture. If you’re allergic to peanuts, almond butter or sunflower seed butter also make great swaps.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder gives that rich chocolate flavor. For a twist, you could use carob powder if you want something a bit different. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary.
Sweeteners: I love using honey for its natural sweetness, but maple syrup or agave syrup also work. For a low-calorie option, you can use stevia or erythritol, but adjust to taste since they’re much sweeter.
Banana: A ripe banana adds sweetness and creaminess. If you’re not a fan, try substituting with frozen mango or avocado for a different flavor and texture.
How Do I Get the Right Creamy Texture?
Getting a smooth and creamy texture is key to this ice cream. Start by blending the cottage cheese thoroughly. Here are a few tips to help:
- Make sure the cottage cheese is well-blended until there are no lumps left.
- If the mixture is too thick during blending, just add a little milk or almond milk gradually until you achieve your desired consistency.
- Churning in an ice cream maker helps incorporate air, making it lighter. If you don’t have one, freeze the mixture in a shallow pan and stir every 30 minutes for few hours.
Following these tips will help you create a delightful, creamy ice cream that’s both healthy and delicious!
Easy Cottage Cheese Peanut Butter Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup cottage cheese (preferably low-fat for creaminess)
- 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder (for a chocolate peanut butter flavor)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (adjust sweetness to taste)
- 1 ripe banana (adds natural sweetness and creaminess)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1/4 cup milk or almond milk (to adjust consistency if needed)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This entire recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes for churning in an ice cream maker. After that, you’ll want to freeze it for at least 2 hours to get that perfect scoopability. In total, plan for about 2 hours and 45 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Blend Your Ingredients:
Start by placing the cottage cheese, creamy peanut butter, cocoa powder, honey (or maple syrup), ripe banana, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt into a blender or food processor. Blend on high speed until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. If it looks a bit too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of milk or almond milk to help it blend better. Blend again until you reach your desired consistency.
2. Taste and Adjust:
After blending, take a moment to taste the mixture. This is your chance to adjust the sweetness or flavor! If you prefer it sweeter, add a bit more honey or maple syrup, then blend again. Trust your taste buds!
3. Churn the Mixture:
Next, transfer the blended mixture into your ice cream maker. Churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, which usually takes around 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture has thickened and resembles soft serve ice cream.
4. Freeze to Firm Up:
Once churned, spoon the ice cream into a freezer-safe container. Cover it well and place it in the freezer for at least 2 hours to firm up. This step is essential for getting that nice, scoopable texture!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to enjoy your ice cream, scoop it into bowls and, if you like, add toppings such as sliced bananas or crushed nuts. This not only adds decoration but also a delightful crunch!
6. Storage:
If there’s any ice cream left after serving, you can store it in the freezer for up to a week. Just make sure to seal it tightly to prevent ice crystals from forming. Enjoy your delicious creation!
This creamy, chocolatey peanut butter ice cream is not only a treat but also packs in some protein thanks to the cottage cheese. Treat yourself—you deserve it!
FAQ for Easy Cottage Cheese Peanut Butter Ice Cream
Can I Use Non-Dairy Alternatives?
Absolutely! You can use non-dairy cottage cheese alternatives like almond or soy yogurt to make this ice cream dairy-free. Be sure to choose a variety that has a similar texture for the creamiest results.
How Can I Sweeten This Without Sugar?
You can use naturally sweet alternatives like mashed dates or pureed stewed apples to sweeten the ice cream. Just blend them into the mixture until fully incorporated for a healthier option!
What If I Don’t Have an Ice Cream Maker?
No problem! You can still make this ice cream by pouring the blended mixture into a shallow dish and freezing it. Stir it every 30 minutes for about 2-3 hours until it reaches your desired consistency.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a week. To make scooping easier, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving! Enjoy your delicious treat!
