This Easy Cottage Cheese Peanut Butter Ice Cream is a creamy treat that’s both simple and delicious! With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a cool dessert that feels like a sundae.
Who would have thought cottage cheese could be so sweet? I love how rich and satisfying it is. I usually top it with some chocolate chips or fruit for an extra special touch. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: Use small-curd cottage cheese for a smoother texture. If you’re not a fan, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute, adding creaminess and protein with a different flavor.
Bananas: Ripe bananas are key as they add natural sweetness. Need a substitute? You can use frozen avocado instead for creaminess, but it will change the flavor a bit.
Peanut Butter: I love smooth peanut butter for a creamier treat, but crunchy adds fun texture! Almond butter or sunflower seed butter work well too for nut-free options.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa gives a rich chocolate flavor. If you prefer white chocolate, you can use white chocolate chips melted down to replace cocoa.
Sweetener: Honey and maple syrup add sweetness, but feel free to use agave syrup or a sugar substitute to fit your dietary needs.
How Do I Get Creamy Ice Cream Without an Ice Cream Maker?
Creating creamy ice cream at home is easy, even without fancy equipment! The magic lies in blending your ingredients well and freezing them properly. Here’s how to make it smooth:
- First, ensure your bananas are completely frozen. This is crucial for the right texture.
- Blend everything until super smooth. Take your time—less time blending could leave bits of banana or cottage cheese.
- If it’s too thick, add a bit of milk slowly until you reach your desired consistency.
- After blending, freeze the mixture. By letting it sit in the freezer for 1-2 hours afterwards, it firms up without getting icy!
These steps help achieve a creamy finish just like store-bought ice cream. Enjoy your homemade treat!
Easy Cottage Cheese Peanut Butter Ice Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup cottage cheese (preferably small-curd)
- 2 ripe bananas
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter (smooth or crunchy, as preferred)
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1/4 cup milk or plant-based milk (to adjust consistency)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cottage Cheese Peanut Butter Ice Cream recipe takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes total. This includes about 15 minutes for preparation and freezing the banana, plus an additional 1-2 hours for the ice cream mixture to firm up in the freezer. Perfect for a cool treat after some prep!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Freeze the Bananas:
Start by peeling the bananas and breaking them into chunks. Place the banana chunks in a bag or container and pop them into the freezer for at least 2 hours, or overnight. This is the key to a creamy texture in your ice cream!
2. Blend It All Together:
Once your bananas are nice and frozen, take them out and add them to a blender or food processor. Then, carefully throw in the cottage cheese, peanut butter, cocoa powder, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Blend everything until it’s super smooth and creamy. If the mixture seems too thick, you can add milk a little at a time until you achieve your desired consistency.
3. Taste and Adjust:
Give your mixture a taste. If you’d like it sweeter or a little more peanut buttery, feel free to add more honey or peanut butter and blend again for just a few seconds until everything is mixed well.
4. Freeze for a Firmer Texture:
Now, transfer your creamy mixture into an airtight container. Cover it up and freeze it for about 1 to 2 hours. This will make it easier to scoop later on and gives it that delicious ice cream texture!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
After it’s frozen, scoop the ice cream into bowls and serve immediately. For an extra special treat, top with chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, or sliced bananas. Enjoy your rich, creamy, and protein-packed Cottage Cheese Peanut Butter Ice Cream!
FAQ for Easy Cottage Cheese Peanut Butter Ice Cream
Can I Use Non-Dairy Alternatives?
Absolutely! You can substitute the cottage cheese with a non-dairy yogurt or silken tofu for a plant-based version. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary a bit!
Can I Make This Without a Blender?
If you don’t have a blender, you can use a hand mixer or a food processor. Just ensure everything is thoroughly mixed and smooth. If you’re using a fork, it may take a bit longer, but it’s doable!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer. For best results, consume within 1-2 weeks. If it hardens too much, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping.
Can I Add Other Mix-Ins?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your ice cream by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or even a swirl of fruit puree during the blending process. Just mix them in before freezing for a delicious variation!
