If you’ve been looking for a way to enjoy ice cream that’s healthy, creamy, and packed with protein, you’re in the right place. This cottage cheese ice cream recipe is one of my favorite desserts to make for clients who crave sweetness without sacrificing their goals.
As a nutrition coach, I love showing people that ice cream can actually fit into a balanced lifestyle. Unlike traditional ice creams loaded with sugar and cream, this recipe is:
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High in protein (thanks to cottage cheese + chia seeds)
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Lower in sugar (with sugar-free syrup, or natural options if you prefer)
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Versatile (hello, keto cottage cheese ice cream and even chocolate cottage cheese ice cream variations!)
I often make mine in my Ninja Creami machine, which gives that store-bought creamy texture, but don’t worry, I’ll share how to make it without one, too.
Ingredients and Substitutions
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100g / 3.5 oz fresh blackberries
Sub: raspberries, blueberries, or chopped strawberries work too. -
1 tsp ground cinnamon
Adds warmth. Sub with nutmeg or cardamom for a flavor twist. -
1 tbsp chia seeds
These thicken naturally and add fiber. Sub with ground flax seeds if needed. -
2 tbsp sugar-free syrup
Use honey or maple syrup if not keeping it sugar-free. -
300g / 10.5 oz fat-free cottage cheese
Sub with full-fat cottage cheese for extra creaminess or use Greek yogurt for a tangier base.
Step-by-Step Method
1. Prepare the berry mixture
Mash the blackberries in a medium bowl with a fork. Stir in chia seeds and syrup. Let it sit for 5 minutes so the chia seeds absorb liquid.
Coach Tip: This step creates a naturally thick, jam-like texture without extra sugar.
2. Add the cottage cheese
Stir in the cottage cheese and cinnamon until everything is well combined.
Coach Tip: For an extra-smooth base, pre-blend the cottage cheese before mixing it in.
3. Freeze overnight
Pour mixture into a Ninja Creami pint container (or any freezer-safe container). Seal and freeze at least 8 hours.
Coach Tip: Shallow containers freeze faster and are easier to scoop later.
4. Creamify!
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With Ninja Creami: Place the frozen pint into your machine and use the “Lite Ice Cream” or “Ice Cream” setting. If it’s crumbly, hit “Re-spin” for ultra-creamy results.
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Without Ninja Creami: Let the frozen mixture soften at room temp for 10 minutes, then blend in a high-speed blender or food processor until creamy.
5. Serve & enjoy
Scoop into bowls, add toppings (think white chocolate chips, freeze-dried raspberries, or granola), and enjoy your healthy homemade ice cream!
Tips for Success
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For a high protein ice cream recipe boost, add 1 scoop of vanilla whey protein before freezing.
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Like it sweeter? Mix in a few drops of vanilla extract or an extra spoon of syrup.
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Want a softer texture? Stir in 1 tsp nut butter before freezing—it adds creaminess and flavor.
Variations
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Chocolate Cottage Cheese Ice Cream: Add 1 tbsp cocoa powder + chocolate chips.
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Keto Cottage Cheese Ice Cream: Use monk fruit or stevia syrup and full-fat cottage cheese.
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Berry Swirl Delight: Reserve half the mashed blackberries and swirl them in after blending.
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Whey Protein Ice Cream: Blend in your favorite whey protein powder for an even higher-protein dessert.
FAQs
Can I make this without a Ninja Creami?
Yes! Just freeze in a container, let it soften slightly, then blend in a food processor or high-speed blender until creamy.
Is this really creamy like regular ice cream?
Yes—the Ninja Creami nails the texture. Without it, blending still gives you a smooth, scoopable result.
Can I use frozen berries?
Absolutely! Just thaw slightly before mashing.
How much protein is in this high protein ice cream recipe?
It depends on your cottage cheese brand, but usually around 25–30g per batch—much higher than traditional ice cream!
Storage and Serving
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Storage: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
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Serving: Let sit at room temperature 5–10 minutes for easy scooping.
Cottage Cheese Ice Cream Recipe
This creamy and refreshing cottage cheese ice cream recipe is the perfect high-protein dessert to enjoy at home. It’s quick to prepare, made with just 5 simple ingredients, and ideal for anyone looking for a healthy homemade ice cream that’s naturally sweet, customizable, and guilt-free. Whether you’re using a Ninja Creami for a smooth, scoopable texture or a blender for a simple alternative, this high protein ice cream recipe will satisfy your cravings while fueling your body.
Ingredients
- 100 g / 3.5 oz fresh blackberries
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- 2 tbsp sugar-free syrup (or honey/maple syrup if not sugar-free)
- 300 g / 10.5 oz fat-free cottage cheese
Instructions
Prepare the fruit base:
Mash blackberries in a medium bowl using a fork or masher.
Stir in chia seeds and syrup. Let sit for 5 minutes so chia seeds absorb liquid and thicken.
Mix in cottage cheese:
Add cottage cheese and cinnamon to the berry mixture.
Stir until smooth and well combined. For a creamier texture, blend the mixture before freezing.
Freeze
Pour the mixture into a Ninja Creami pint container (or freezer-safe container).
Seal with a lid and freeze overnight, at least 8 hours.
Creamify or blend
With Ninja Creami: Place frozen pint in the machine and process on the “Lite Ice Cream” setting. If the texture is crumbly, press “Re-spin” for a smoother finish.
Without Ninja Creami: Remove container from freezer and let sit for 10 minutes to soften. Blend in a high-speed blender or food processor until creamy.
Serve and enjoy
Scoop into bowls and top with extras like freeze-dried berries, chocolate chips, or granola.
Notes
- Protein boost: Add 1 scoop vanilla whey protein before freezing for a whey protein ice cream option.
- Keto-friendly: Use monk fruit or stevia syrup and full-fat cottage cheese.
- Flavor variations: Try adding cocoa powder for chocolate cottage cheese ice cream, or swap blackberries for mango, raspberries, or strawberries.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Let sit 5–10 minutes at room temp before scooping.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4Amount Per Serving: Calories: 95Total Fat: 2gSaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 250mgCarbohydrates: 8gFiber: 2gSugar: 5gProtein: 8g
Healthy eating isn’t about restriction, it’s about creativity. This high protein ice cream is proof you can enjoy dessert while supporting your fitness goals. Whether you’re team Ninja Creami or blender, you’ll love having this healthy homemade ice cream on hand.
I’d love to hear if you try this cottage cheese ice cream recipe, especially if you experiment with flavors. Drop a comment below or tag me on Instagram so I can see your creations!
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