Introduction & Inspiration
Whenever I want a frozen dessert that feels like a tropical escape, I turn to this Mango Cottage Cheese Ice Cream. It’s creamy, naturally sweet, and bursting with juicy mango flavor—all made with just a few wholesome ingredients. If you’re a mango lover or just craving something cool and refreshing, this simple ice cream is exactly what you need.
Nostalgic Appeal
Mangoes always remind me of long summer days, sticky fingers, and eating sweet slices right over the sink. This ice cream captures that same sun-drenched joy, but with a creamy twist that makes it feel a little more indulgent. It’s like scooping up sunshine—smooth, sweet, and oh-so-satisfying.
Homemade Focus
What I love most about this recipe is how easy and clean it is. No ice cream maker needed, no long list of ingredients—just cottage cheese, mango, honey, and vanilla. You blend it, freeze it, stir a couple of times, and you’re done. It’s homemade ice cream at its simplest, and I promise, the flavor speaks for itself.
Flavor Goal
The flavor goal was to keep things tropical, bright, and creamy. Mango brings that rich, exotic sweetness. Cottage cheese gives a smooth, high-protein base. Honey or maple syrup adds a gentle sweetness without overpowering the mango, and vanilla rounds it out into a balanced, spoon-worthy treat.
Ingredient Insights
Cottage cheese creates a thick, creamy base with extra protein and a light tang that pairs beautifully with fruit. Mango puree gives a vibrant, naturally sweet flavor and a silky texture. You can use fresh, frozen (thawed), or canned—just make sure it’s smooth and ripe. Honey or maple syrup adds a mellow sweetness that complements the mango without masking its freshness. Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor with a warm, soft finish.
Essential Equipment
A high-speed blender or food processor for a creamy blend
A shallow freezer-safe dish for faster, more even freezing
A spatula to stir the ice cream as it freezes
List of Ingredients with Measurements
2 cups cottage cheese
1 cup mango purée
½ cup honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Blend the Ingredients
Add the cottage cheese, mango purée, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract to a blender or food processor. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides if needed to make sure everything is well incorporated.
Step 2: Pour and Freeze
Pour the blended mixture into a shallow container or dish. Spread it out evenly to promote even freezing. Place the dish in the freezer.
Step 3: Stir While Freezing
Every 30 minutes, stir the mixture thoroughly with a spatula to prevent ice crystals and help maintain a creamy texture. Repeat this process for about 1 to 2 hours, or until the ice cream is firm but scoopable.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5 minutes to soften slightly before serving. Scoop into bowls, cones, or enjoy it straight from the dish. It’s that good.
Storage Instructions
Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 week. Let it sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before scooping to get the best texture. Blend and freeze the mixture ahead of time for a healthy, tropical dessert ready to enjoy anytime. Skip the microwave—just let the container sit at room temp to soften naturally.
Troubleshooting (FAQ)
Stirring during freezing is essential. It helps break up any ice crystals and keeps the texture smooth and creamy. Yes! You can use frozen mango. Just thaw it before blending so your mixture blends smoothly and evenly. You can make mango puree by blending ripe mango chunks until smooth—fresh or thawed frozen mango both work beautifully.
Tips and Variations
Add a pinch of chili powder for a spicy mango twist. Stir in shredded coconut for texture and extra tropical flavor. Drizzle with lime juice before serving for brightness and balance. Fold in chopped pistachios for crunch and color contrast.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Top with extra diced mango and fresh mint for a colorful finish. Pair with coconut cookies or graham crackers for crunch. Serve after a light grilled meal as a refreshing summer dessert.
Nutritional Information
This Mango Cottage Cheese Ice Cream is rich in protein, naturally sweetened, and packed with vitamin C from the mango. It’s a feel-good, tropical dessert that’s just as nourishing as it is delicious.
Mango Cottage Cheese Ice Cream
Description
Make this Mango Cottage Cheese Ice Cream! Creamy, tropical, and naturally sweet, this protein-rich frozen dessert is perfect for summer or anytime.
Ingredients
2 cups cottage cheese
1 cup mango purée
½ cup honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Blend the Ingredients
Add the cottage cheese, mango purée, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract to a blender or food processor. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides if needed to make sure everything is well incorporated.
Step 2: Pour and Freeze
Pour the blended mixture into a shallow container or dish. Spread it out evenly to promote even freezing. Place the dish in the freezer.
Step 3: Stir While Freezing
Every 30 minutes, stir the mixture thoroughly with a spatula to prevent ice crystals and help maintain a creamy texture. Repeat this process for about 1 to 2 hours, or until the ice cream is firm but scoopable.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5 minutes to soften slightly before serving. Scoop into bowls, cones, or enjoy it straight from the dish. It’s that good.
Storage Instructions
Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 week. Let it sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before scooping to get the best texture. Blend and freeze the mixture ahead of time for a healthy, tropical dessert ready to enjoy anytime. Skip the microwave—just let the container sit at room temp to soften naturally.
Recipe Summary and Q&A
This Mango Cottage Cheese Ice Cream is creamy, fruity, and irresistibly refreshing. It’s easy to make, healthy enough to enjoy anytime, and bursting with real mango flavor. If you’re looking for a tropical twist on classic ice cream, this one’s for you.
Call-to-Action
If you make this Mango Cottage Cheese Ice Cream, leave a comment and tell me how it turned out. Save this recipe for the next hot day, or share it with a friend who loves mango anything. Let’s keep creating simple, feel-good desserts that bring sunshine to every bite.