This creamy cottage cheese peanut butter ice cream is quick to make and taste great! Just blend cottage cheese, peanut butter, a bit of sweetener, and freeze.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: I recommend using small-curd cottage cheese for a smoother texture. If you’re not a fan, Greek yogurt can be a good substitute for a similar creamy consistency and extra protein.
Peanut Butter: Natural peanut butter offers rich flavor without added sugars. If you’re allergic or prefer to switch it up, try almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a unique taste.
Bananas: Ripe bananas are essential here for sweetness and creaminess. If you want to mix it up, avocado can be a great alternative, but it will change the taste a bit.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder gives a nice chocolaty flavor. If you’re aiming for a sweeter taste, you could use chocolate syrup, but adjust the amount of sweetener accordingly.
Sweetener: Honey or maple syrup works well, but feel free to use agave or stevia if you’re looking for a lower-calorie option.
How Can You Blend Everything Properly for Smooth Ice Cream?
Getting a creamy texture is crucial for this ice cream. Here’s how to make it smooth:
- Make sure your bananas are fully frozen; this helps achieve the ice cream texture.
- Add all the ingredients to the blender in the order listed. This helps with blending smoothly.
- Start blending on low speed, then gradually increase to high until the mixture is creamy. Stop to scrape down the sides often so everything blends evenly.
- If it’s too thick, adding milk a tablespoon at a time can help, but don’t add too much—keep it nice and thick!
By following these blending tips, you’ll have a creamy, delicious ice cream that everyone will love!
Easy Cottage Cheese Peanut Butter Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup cottage cheese (small or large curd, well drained)
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (smooth or crunchy based on preference)
- 2 ripe bananas, peeled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (adjust for sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1/4 cup milk or plant-based milk for a creamier texture
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful ice cream takes about 10 minutes to prepare and requires 2 hours in the freezer to fully set. So, in total, you’ll need about 2 hours and 10 minutes to enjoy this creamy treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Freeze the Bananas:
Start by slicing your ripe bananas and placing them in the freezer. Let them freeze until solid, which takes about 2 hours or you can do it overnight for convenience. This will help give your ice cream that nice, creamy texture!
2. Blend the Ice Cream Ingredients:
Once your bananas are frozen, take them out and put them in a blender or food processor. To the bananas, add the cottage cheese, peanut butter, cocoa powder, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Blend it all together until you achieve a creamy and smooth consistency. Make sure to pause and scrape down the sides as needed!
3. Adjust Consistency and Sweetness:
If you find the mixture is too thick, you can add a bit of milk, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired creaminess. Don’t forget to taste it—if you prefer it sweeter, add more honey or maple syrup to match your taste!
4. Freeze to Set:
Transfer the blended mixture into an airtight container and smooth the top. Pop it in the freezer for 1-2 hours to firm up. This will give you that perfect scoopable ice cream texture!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
After the ice cream has firmed up, scoop it out into bowls and enjoy your homemade cottage cheese peanut butter chocolate ice cream. It’s a guilt-free treat that’s packed with protein!
This no-churn recipe yields a rich, creamy ice cream that’s not just tasty but also a healthier option for dessert lovers. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Sweeteners Instead of Honey or Maple Syrup?
Absolutely! You can use agave syrup, stevia, or any other sweetener of your choice. Just keep in mind that different sweeteners can vary in sweetness, so taste the mixture as you go and adjust accordingly!
Can I Make This Ice Cream Dairy-Free?
Yes! To make it dairy-free, simply substitute the cottage cheese with a dairy-free alternative like silken tofu or any plant-based yogurt. Ensure that the peanut butter you select is also dairy-free.
How Long Can I Store the Ice Cream in the Freezer?
This ice cream can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 month. However, for the best texture and taste, aim to consume it within 1-2 weeks.
Can I Use Other Fruits in This Recipe?
Definitely! While bananas are great for creaminess and sweetness, you can experiment with other fruits like mangoes or berries. Just remember that different fruits may alter the final flavor and texture, so adjust accordingly.
