Description
This Peppermint Frosty Protein Ice Cream is a refreshing, low-calorie dessert that combines the festive flavor of peppermint with a creamy, protein-packed base. Made with Greek yogurt, vanilla protein powder, and a hint of hot chocolate flavor, it’s a perfect guilt-free treat for those craving something sweet and nutritious during the holidays or any time of year.
Ingredients
Ice Cream Base
- 1 cup 2% milk
- ½ cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk
- 85 g non-fat plain Greek yogurt
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (about 31 g)
- 1 reduced calorie hot chocolate packet
- 1 tsp stevia or sweetener of choice, to taste
- Pinch of salt
Mix-Ins
- 1 candy cane, crushed
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Add all ingredients listed under the Ice Cream Base into your Ninja Creami pint and whisk or froth thoroughly to combine. Alternatively, you can blend the ingredients in a blender before pouring the mixture into the pint container for a fully smooth base.
- Freeze the Base: Seal the pint with its lid and place it on a level surface in the freezer. Freeze undisturbed for 24 hours to ensure it solidifies properly.
- Thaw Slightly: After freezing, run the outside of the pint under hot water for 1 to 2 minutes to slightly thaw the ice cream, which helps achieve a smoother texture during processing.
- Process Ice Cream: Place the pint in the Ninja Creami machine and select the lite ice cream setting to spin and churn the frozen base into a creamy consistency.
- Respin For Creaminess: If the texture is not smooth enough, respin the pint 1 to 2 additional times on the same setting until the ice cream reaches your preferred creaminess.
- Add Mix-Ins: Use a spoon to create a small well or indentation in the center of the ice cream if one hasn’t naturally formed. Add most of the crushed candy cane pieces into the well, reserving some for garnish.
- Mix Candy Cane: Put the pint back into the Ninja Creami and use the mix-in setting to evenly distribute the crushed candy cane pieces throughout the ice cream.
- Serve: Sprinkle the remaining crushed candy cane on top as a garnish and enjoy your refreshing Peppermint Frosty Protein Ice Cream immediately.
Notes
- Make sure to freeze the base on a flat, level surface to avoid uneven freezing.
- Running the pint under hot water slightly softens the ice cream for optimal processing in the Ninja Creami.
- Adjust the level of stevia or sweetener according to your taste preference.
- If you don’t have a Ninja Creami, a high-powered blender can be used to blend the frozen mixture for a similar effect, though texture may vary.
- Use crushed candy canes that are fine enough to mix well but still add a crunchy texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 24 hours freezing + 5 minutes processing
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
