Description

Craving a rich, nutty dessert that’s both indulgent and nutritious? Pistachio Ice Cream transforms whole milk cottage cheese and roasted pistachios into a creamy, protein-rich frozen treat, sweetened with maple syrup and enhanced with vanilla and almond extracts

Ingredients

Scale

Pistachio Ice Cream uses simple, wholesome ingredients to create a creamy, nutty treat. Here’s what you’ll need for 4-6 servings (about 3-4 cups):

1 ¼ cup shelled dry roasted pistachios (divided): Provides nutty flavor and texture (1 cup blended, ¼ cup chopped).
½ cup maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness with a caramel-like note.
1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Enhances flavor with a warm, aromatic depth.
¼ teaspoon almond extract: Complements pistachios with a subtle nutty note.
3 cups cottage cheese (4% or whole milk): Creates a rich, creamy, protein-packed base.

Why These Ingredients Matter

Whole Milk Cottage Cheese: Delivers a creamy texture and high protein content for a rich base.
Pistachios: Add bold, nutty flavor and a crunchy contrast when chopped.
Maple Syrup: Provides natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with pistachios.
Vanilla and Almond Extracts: Enhance the nutty profile with warm and complementary flavors.

Substitutions and Variations

Cottage Cheese: Use 4% or full-fat for best results; low-fat works but is less creamy; substitute with Greek yogurt or plant-based yogurt for a vegan option (may alter texture).
Pistachios: Swap with roasted almonds or hazelnuts; use unsalted if preferred.
Maple Syrup: Replace with honey, agave nectar, or a sugar-free sweetener like monk fruit syrup.
Almond Extract: Omit or use a pinch of cardamom for a different flavor twist.
Vegan Option: Use plant-based yogurt or cashew-based cream cheese and agave nectar; ensure pistachios are vegan-friendly.
Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free; ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Flavor Variations:
- Pistachio Chocolate Chip: Add ½ cup dark chocolate chips with the chopped pistachios.
- Pistachio Cardamom: Replace almond extract with ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom.
- Pistachio Berry: Mix in ½ cup chopped strawberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
- Pistachio Coconut: Add ¼ cup shredded coconut for a tropical note.

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Instructions

Step 1: Gather and Prep

Gather all ingredients: 1 ¼ cup shelled dry roasted pistachios, ½ cup maple syrup, 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, ¼ teaspoon almond extract, and 3 cups whole milk cottage cheese.
Prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan or a large ice cream container and set aside.
Divide pistachios: 1 cup for blending, ¼ cup for chopping.

Tip: Use high-quality, 4% or whole milk cottage cheese for the creamiest texture; low-fat is less rich but still works.

Step 2: Blend Base

In a blender, combine 1 cup shelled dry roasted pistachios, ½ cup maple syrup, 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, and ¼ teaspoon almond extract.
Blend on high speed for 2 minutes until creamy and smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
Add 3 cups cottage cheese and blend for an additional 3 minutes until fully combined and smooth, pausing to scrape down the sides if necessary.

Tip: Blend thoroughly to eliminate cottage cheese curds and ensure pistachios are finely processed for a silky texture.

Step 3: Add Chopped Pistachios

Roughly chop the remaining ¼ cup pistachios.
Pour the blended ice cream mixture into a large bowl and stir in the chopped pistachios for added texture.

Tip: Chop pistachios to your preferred size for a crunchy contrast; mix gently to distribute evenly.

Step 4: Freeze

Pour the ice cream mixture into the prepared 9×5-inch loaf pan or ice cream container.
Cover securely with plastic wrap or an airtight lid to prevent ice crystals.
Freeze for 8 hours or overnight until solid.

Tip: A metal loaf pan freezes faster; ensure a tight seal to maintain texture.

Step 5: Serve

Remove from the freezer and let thaw for 15-20 minutes on the countertop to soften for easier scooping.
Run an ice cream scooper under hot water, shake off excess, and scoop into bowls or cones (about ½–¾ cup per serving).
Optionally garnish with extra chopped pistachios or a drizzle of maple syrup.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tip: If too hard to scoop, let soften a bit longer or dip the scooper in hot water again.