Description
Craving a creamy, guilt-free dessert that’s as nutritious as it is delicious? Cottage Cheese Ice Cream transforms simple ingredients into a smooth, protein-rich frozen treat with the natural sweetness of maple syrup and a hint of vanilla.
Ingredients
Scale
Cottage Cheese Ice Cream uses just three simple ingredients to create a creamy, delicious treat. Here’s what you’ll need for 4-6 servings (about 3 cups):
- 3 cups cottage cheese: Provides a creamy, protein-rich base.
- ⅓ cup maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances flavor with a warm, aromatic note.
Optional Mix-Ins or Toppings (Add Before Freezing):
- Fruit: ½ cup chopped strawberries, blueberries, or mango.
- Nuts: ¼ cup chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts.
- Chocolate: ¼ cup chocolate chips or cocoa nibs.
- Swirls: 2 tablespoons peanut butter, caramel, or fruit jam.
- Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or cocoa powder.
Why These Ingredients Matter
- Cottage Cheese: Creates a creamy, high-protein base that mimics traditional ice cream without heavy cream.
- Maple Syrup: Provides natural sweetness with a rich, caramel-like flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and enhances the dessert-like quality.
Substitutions and Variations
- Cottage Cheese: Use low-fat or full-fat cottage cheese; substitute with Greek yogurt or plant-based yogurt for a vegan option (note: this may alter protein content).
- Maple Syrup: Swap with honey, agave nectar, or a sugar-free sweetener like monk fruit syrup.
- Vanilla Extract: Replace with almond extract or omit for a simpler flavor.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based yogurt or cashew-based cream cheese and agave nectar or vegan maple syrup.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free; ensure mix-ins are gluten-free if used.
- Flavor Variations:
- Chocolate: Add 2 tablespoons cocoa powder and ¼ cup chocolate chips.
- Berry Blast: Mix in ½ cup blended raspberries or strawberries.
- Cookie Dough: Add ¼ cup edible cookie dough bits and a pinch of cinnamon.
- Coffee: Stir in 1 teaspoon instant coffee or espresso powder
Instructions
Step 1: Gather and Prep
- Gather all ingredients: 3 cups cottage cheese, ⅓ cup maple syrup, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and optional mix-ins or toppings.
- Ensure cottage cheese is chilled for best blending results.
Tip: Use full-fat cottage cheese for richer texture; low-fat works for a lighter option.
Step 2: Blend Ingredients
- In a blender, combine 3 cups cottage cheese, ⅓ cup maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
- Blend for 30 seconds, or until completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides if needed.
Tip: Blend thoroughly to eliminate any cottage cheese curds for a silky texture.
Step 3: Add Mix-Ins and Freeze
- Pour the blended mixture into a metal loaf pan or an ice cream container (about 9×5-inch size works well).
- If using mix-ins (e.g., fruit, nuts, chocolate chips), gently stir them in or swirl on top.
- Cover with plastic wrap or a lid and freeze for at least 3 hours, or until frozen solid.
Tip: A metal loaf pan freezes faster; stir mix-ins gently to avoid sinking.
Step 4: Serve
- Remove from the freezer and let sit for 5-10 minutes to soften slightly for easier scooping.
- Scoop with an ice cream scoop into bowls or cones (about ½–¾ cup per serving).
- Optionally top with extra mix-ins, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a sprinkle of nuts.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tip: If too hard to scoop, let soften a bit longer or dip the scoop in warm water.