This creamy peanut butter cottage cheese ice cream is a tasty treat that’s simple to whip up! All you need are a few ingredients like cottage cheese, peanut butter, and honey.
It’s a fun way to enjoy ice cream with a twist! I love how it’s healthy yet feels like a dessert. Just blend, freeze, and scoop! Perfect for a hot day or a sweet snack. 🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: I recommend using small curd cottage cheese for a smoother texture. If you’re not a fan, Greek yogurt could be a good swap, offering similar creaminess and protein.
Peanut Butter: Smooth peanut butter will give you the best texture. If you need a nut-free option, sun butter or almond butter works well too. Natural varieties with minimal ingredients are my favorite!
Milk: Whole milk makes it creamy, but almond milk or oat milk are excellent low-calorie alternatives, just adjust the amount based on how rich you want it. For a creamier version, try using full-fat coconut milk.
Sweetener: Honey adds a nice flavor, but maple syrup is also a great choice if you’re vegan. You can even use agave syrup or a sugar substitute based on your taste preference.
How Do I Get the Ice Cream to Be Creamy and Smooth?
The key to a creamy ice cream lies in how you blend and freeze it. Start by blending all ingredients until perfectly smooth. A powerful blender or food processor helps eliminate any lumps. If you do not use an ice cream maker, be sure to stir every 30 minutes while it freezes, which will help prevent ice crystals from forming and keep that luscious texture.
- Blend the mixture thoroughly for a velvety finish.
- When freezing without an ice cream maker, stir it every half hour to break up ice crystals.
- Let it sit out for a few minutes before scooping for easier serving.
Creamy Peanut Butter Cottage Cheese Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ cups cottage cheese (small curd preferred)
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter (natural or regular)
- ½ cup whole milk or almond milk (adjust as needed for creaminess)
- ⅓ cup honey or maple syrup (for sweetness)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 2 tbsp powdered sugar or sweetener of choice for extra sweetness
- Optional: chopped peanuts for garnish and texture
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious ice cream takes about 10-15 minutes of prep time and then requires 20-25 minutes to churn if you’re using an ice cream maker. If you’re freezing without one, plan for about 3-4 hours, stirring every 30 minutes to keep it creamy. It’s quick and easy for a delightful homemade treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Blend the Ingredients:
In a blender or food processor, add the cottage cheese, peanut butter, milk, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Blend on high until everything is smooth and creamy. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides as needed to incorporate all the ingredients. Taste your mixture and adjust the sweetness by adding a bit of powdered sugar or more honey if desired; just blend for a few seconds more to mix it in.
2. Churning the Mixture:
If you have an ice cream maker, transfer the creamy mixture into it and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically around 20-25 minutes. It should reach a soft-serve consistency at this point!
3. Freezing Without an Ice Cream Maker:
If an ice cream maker isn’t available, simply pour the mixture into a shallow, freezer-safe container. Place it in the freezer, and every 30 minutes, take it out and stir vigorously with a fork to break up any ice crystals. Continue this process until fully frozen and creamy, which should take about 3-4 hours.
4. Add Texture (Optional):
If you fancy some crunch in your ice cream, now’s the time to fold in chopped peanuts before the final freeze. Alternatively, you can sprinkle them on top when you’re ready to serve!
5. Serve Your Ice Cream:
Once your ice cream is fully frozen, scoop it into bowls and serve right away, or store it in an airtight container in the freezer for later. If it’s too firm to scoop, just let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy peanut butter cottage cheese ice cream—your healthier yet indulgent dessert!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Low-Fat Cottage Cheese?
Yes! You can use low-fat cottage cheese, but keep in mind that it may result in a slightly less creamy texture. If you prefer a smoother consistency, consider adding a splash of cream or extra milk.
Can I Substitute the Peanut Butter?
Absolutely! If you’re allergic to peanuts or just want a different flavor, you can use almond butter, cashew butter, or even sun butter for a nut-free alternative. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness level if your chosen butter is sweetened.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. It should stay fresh for about 1-2 weeks. To serve, let it sit out for a few minutes to soften before scooping for easier serving.
Can I Add Mix-Ins Like Chocolate Chips or Fruit?
Definitely! Feel free to add chocolate chips, chopped fruit, or other favorite mix-ins when you fold in the chopped peanuts. Just be sure to add them right before the final freeze to prevent sinking to the bottom.
