Vanilla protein ice cream is a delicious treat with a creamy texture and a satisfying kick of protein. Perfect for ice cream lovers with an active lifestyle, this recipe combines basic ingredients like vanilla protein powder, almond milk, and a hint of sweetener to create a feel-good version of traditional ice cream. It’s easy to make with a Ninja Creami machine, giving you control over your favorite mix-ins and dietary preferences.
Protein: 33 grams per serving (1/2 tub)
Protein in this homemade ice cream recipe comes from high-quality vanilla protein powder, a staple in my kitchen for high-protein creations. The first time I made this, I was blown away by how creamy and delicious it turned out—no need for those expensive store-bought pints! It’s been a game-changer for my sweet tooth and nutrition goals.
Contents
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Why you will love this recipe
- High Protein: Packs 33 grams of protein for a nutritious sweet treat.
- Low Sugar: Uses natural sweeteners like stevia for less sugar.
- Customizable: Choose mix-ins like chocolate chips, cookie dough, or fresh fruit.
- Simple Process: Quick prep with just 5-10 minutes of active work.
- Diet-Friendly: Adaptable for low-carb or dairy-free options.
Key ingredients and substitutions
- Vanilla Protein Powder: The star of this recipe, it provides the flavor and protein. You can use whey, plant-based, or your favorite.
- Filtered Milk: A creamy base like Fairlife milk works best. For a dairy-free option, try oat milk, almond milk, or coconut milk.
- Xanthan Gum: Helps create that creamy texture. If you don’t have it, you can skip it, but the texture might be less smooth.
- Liquid Stevia: Adds sweetness without sugar. Swap with maple syrup, honey, or another sweetener to taste.
- Optional Mix-ins: Chocolate chunks, frozen banana, or pudding mix add fun textures and flavors to your ice cream.
How to make vanilla protein ice cream
- Add the ingredients: Add milk, protein powder, and xanthan gum to a Ninja Creami pint tub.
- Blend: Use an immersion blender to mix until smooth. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
- Top it up: Fill the pint up to the line with additional milk, ensuring no air pockets remain, and add the liquid stevia.
- Stir and seal: Stir to mix, then secure the lid and freeze the container on a flat surface in the freezer for 24 hours.
- Thaw a little: After freezing, let the pint sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before processing.
- Flatten and spin: Scrape down any raised areas to flatten the surface, then process in the Ninja Creami machine using the Light Ice Cream mode. If the result is powdery, opt for a Respin and scrape down the sides before blending again.
- (Optional) add mix-ins: Add mix-ins during the final spin for a personalized touch. Enjoy immediately!
Recipe notes and tips
- Freezing Time: Make sure the pint freezes for a full 24 hours for the best creamy texture.
- Consistency Fix: If the ice cream is powdery, use the Respin function until it reaches the desired creaminess. If it’s being stubborn, add a splash of milk.
- Flat Surface: Scrape the surface smooth before processing for even blending. I like to use a metal spoon heated in hot water to scrape it down, or I place a ziplock filled with hot water on top to melt it a bit.
- Mix-In Magic: Stir in your favorite add-ins like chocolate chips or cookie dough during the final spin.
- Sweetness Check: Adjust the liquid stevia to match your taste buds before freezing.
Storage instructions
- Freezer-Friendly: Keep leftovers in the Ninja Creami pint container.
- Reprocess for Creaminess: If the ice cream hardens, use the Respin function to restore the creamy texture.
- Freeze individual scoops: Alternatively you can scoop out individual scoops onto a baking tray and freeze them overnight. Then just pop them into a ziplock bag to store. When youre read to eat, add as many scoops as you like to a bowl and let it thaw for 10 minutes before eating.
- Short-Term Storage: Best enjoyed within 3-5 days for optimal flavor.
- Avoid Refreezing: If it thaws completely, it’s best not to refreeze as the texture might change.
Variations
- Chocolate Protein Ice Cream: Swap vanilla protein powder with chocolate and add cocoa powder for a rich twist.
- Peanut Butter Bliss: Mix in a spoonful of peanut butter for a nutty flavor boost.
- Berry Burst: Add fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries for a fruity twist.
- Vanilla Bean Upgrade: Use real vanilla beans for a more concentrated flavor.
- Chocolate Chunk Dream: Toss in dark chocolate chunks for added texture.
What to serve with this recipe
- Toppings: Sprinkle with granola, drizzle maple syrup, or add a dollop of whipped cream.
- Sides: Serve with warmed up protein bars, fresh fruit, or a warm cookie for extra indulgence.
- Drinks: Pair with a vanilla protein shake or a glass of almond milk for a protein-packed combo.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a different protein powder?
Yes! Choose whey, plant-based, or any flavor that complements your mix-ins.
What if I don’t have xanthan gum?
You can skip it, but the texture may be less creamy.
How can I make it sweeter?
Add extra liquid stevia, maple syrup, or honey to taste.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely, but use separate pint containers to ensure even freezing.
More high-protein treats to try
- Raspberry White Chocolate Protein Powder Ice Cream
- Cottage Cheese Banana Pudding
- Strawberry Cottage Cheese High-Protein Ice Cream Recipe
- Peanut Butter Protein Balls
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Ninja Creami Vanilla Protein Ice Cream
Vanilla protein ice cream is a delicious treat with a creamy texture and a satisfying kick of protein. Perfect for ice cream lovers with an active lifestyle, this recipe combines basic ingredients like vanilla protein powder, almond milk, and a hint of sweetener to create a feel-good version of traditional ice cream.
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups filtered milk - e.g. fairlife or arla bob
- 2 scoops vanilla protein powder
- 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum
- 20 drops liquid stevia - add more to taste
Instructions
- Add all of the ingredients to a regular-sized ninja creami pint tub.1.5 cups filtered milk, 2 scoops vanilla protein powder, 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum, 20 drops liquid stevia
- Mix well with an immersion blender.
- Taste, add extra liquid stevia if needed, and fill the pint up to the line with more milk if it's not already there.
- Give it one final mix.
- Pop the lid on and place it on a flat surface in your freezer for 24 hours.
- After 24 hours, take it out of the freezer, and let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Scrape down any visible hump until the surface is flat.
- Insert the container into the outer bowl and secure the blade lid until it clicks.
- Insert the outer bowl into the Ninja Creami machine and process it on Light Ice Cream mode.
- (Optional) If the result is powdery or not creamy, put the lid back on and select Respin. You can also scrape down the sides before respinning with a metal spoon if some icy ice cream has gotten stuck. Enjoy!
Notes
- Freezing Time: Make sure the pint freezes for a full 24 hours for the best creamy texture.
- Consistency Fix: If the ice cream is powdery, use the Respin function until it reaches the desired creaminess. If it’s being stubborn, add a splash of milk.
- Flat Surface: Scrape the surface smooth before processing for even blending. I like to use a metal spoon heated in hot water to scrape it down, or I place a ziplock filled with hot water on top to melt it a bit.
- Mix-In Magic: Stir in your favorite add-ins like chocolate chips or cookie dough during the final spin.
- Sweetness Check: Adjust the liquid stevia to match your taste buds before freezing.
Storage instructions
- Freezer-Friendly: Keep leftovers in the Ninja Creami pint container.
- Reprocess for Creaminess: If the ice cream hardens, use the Respin function to restore the creamy texture.
- Freeze individual scoops: Alternatively you can scoop out individual scoops onto a baking tray and freeze them overnight. Then just pop them into a ziplock bag to store. When youre read to eat, add as many scoops as you like to a bowl and let it thaw for 10 minutes before eating.
- Short-Term Storage: Best enjoyed within 3-5 days for optimal flavor.
- Avoid Refreezing: If it thaws completely, it’s best not to refreeze as the texture might change.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 153kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 33g | Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 4mg | Sodium: 101mg | Potassium: 301mg | Fiber: 0.3g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 90IU | Calcium: 285mg
