Description

Craving a refreshing, guilt-free dessert that bursts with summer flavor? Strawberry Cottage Cheese Ice Cream transforms high-quality whole milk cottage cheese and fresh strawberries into a creamy, protein-rich frozen treat, sweetened naturally with maple syrup.

Ingredients

Scale

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

3 cups whole milk cottage cheese (high quality): Provides a rich, creamy, protein-packed base.
½ cup maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness with a caramel-like flavor.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances flavor with a warm, aromatic note.
1 ½ cups halved fresh ripe strawberries: Brings vibrant, fruity flavor and color.

Optional Mix-Ins or Toppings (Add Before Freezing or Serving):

Freeze-dried strawberries: For extra strawberry flavor and crunch.
Chocolate chips: ¼ cup for a sweet contrast.
Chopped strawberries: ¼ cup for added texture.
Almond butter: A drizzle for nutty richness.

Why These Ingredients Matter

Whole Milk Cottage Cheese: Delivers a creamy, rich texture and high protein content.
Fresh Strawberries: Provide natural sweetness, vibrant color, and a fresh, fruity taste.
Maple Syrup: Offers a natural sweetener that complements the strawberries.
Vanilla Extract: Rounds out flavors with a warm, dessert-like note.

Substitutions and Variations

Cottage Cheese: Use low-fat cottage cheese for a lighter option or plant-based yogurt/cream cheese for a vegan version (note: this may reduce protein content).
Maple Syrup: Swap with honey, agave nectar, or a sugar-free sweetener like monk fruit syrup.
Strawberries: Replace with raspberries, blueberries, or mixed berries; frozen berries work if thawed and drained.
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 like chocolate chips are gluten-free.
Flavor Variations:
- Strawberry Chocolate Chip: Add ¼ cup chocolate chips and a pinch of cocoa powder.
- Tropical Strawberry: Mix in ¼ cup chopped mango or pineapple.
- Strawberry Cheesecake: Add ¼ cup crushed graham crackers and a swirl of cream cheese.
- Mocha Strawberry: Stir in 1 teaspoon instant coffee for a subtle coffee twist.

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Instructions

Step 1: Gather and Prep

Gather all ingredients: 3 cups whole milk cottage cheese, ½ cup maple syrup, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 ½ cups halved fresh ripe strawberries, and optional mix-ins/toppings.
Halve fresh strawberries; ensure cottage cheese is chilled for best blending.

Tip: Use high-quality whole milk cottage cheese for the creamiest texture; low-fat works for a lighter option.

Step 2: Blend Ingredients

In a blender, combine 3 cups cottage cheese, ½ cup maple syrup, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 ½ cups halved strawberries.
Blend for 30-60 seconds, or until completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides if needed.

Tip: Blend thoroughly to eliminate cottage cheese curds and fully incorporate strawberries for a smooth, pink texture.

Step 3: Add Mix-Ins and Freeze

Pour the blended mixture into a Ninja Creami container, a metal loaf pan, or an ice cream container (about 9×5-inch size works well).
If using mix-ins (e.g., freeze-dried strawberries, chocolate chips, chopped strawberries, or almond butter), gently stir them in or swirl on top.
Cover with an airtight lid or plastic wrap and freeze for 6-8 hours, or until frozen solid.

Tip: A metal loaf pan or Ninja Creami container freezes evenly; ensure a tight seal to prevent ice crystals.

Step 4: Serve

Remove from the freezer and let thaw for 15 minutes at room temperature to soften for easier scooping.
If using a Ninja Creami, process according to the manufacturer’s instructions for the best creamy texture.
Alternatively, break up the ice cream with a spoon before scooping into bowls or cones (about ½–¾ cup per serving).
Optionally top with extra freeze-dried strawberries, chocolate chips, or a drizzle of almond butter.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tip: If too hard to scoop, let soften a bit longer or dip the scoop in warm water; Ninja Creami users can use the “ice cream” setting for optimal results.