HOME»RECIPES»DESSERTS»NINJA CREAMI PROTEIN ICE CREAM
Will the Ninja Creami change your life? We think so. Thanks to our amazing friend Kimmi for letting us know all about this life-changing machine. We are now officially obsessed with making Ninja Creami protein ice cream! I love having protein shakes as a snack but nothing is better than turning them into a magical creamy protein ice cream. We are going to show you how to do it and get the most incredible results. The Ninja Creami will spin almost anything into a delicious and decadent super creamy masterpiece. Simply customize your favorite protein ice cream combination, freeze overnight, and enjoy!
Why You Will Love Ninja Creami Protein Ice Cream
- Just pour the liquid into the pint-sized container and freeze it overnight.
- The Ninja Creami does all the work to turn it into ice cream.
- This ice cream is high in protein and low in calories and sugar.
- The Ninja Creami quickly turns the frozen liquid into ice cream.
- Use your favorite protein shake and mix in your favorite toppings.
What Is Ninja Creami Protein Ice Cream?
Ninja Creami protein ice cream is made with a protein shake and optional instant pudding. This mixture is frozen overnight in one of the Creami containers. Then, the Ninja Creami machine does all of the work to turn it into the consistency of ice cream.
Ingredients For Ninja Creami Protein Ice Cream
- Protein Shake: Use your protein shake of choice for this recipe.
- Thickener: A thickener helps make this protein ice cream extra creamy. Instant pudding mix and guar gum are great options for achieving this.
- Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings. Blend any frozen or large toppings with the protein shake before freezing.
What Protein Shake To Use
You can use your favorite protein shake to make Ninja Creami protein ice cream. Also, you can use any flavor! We like to use pre-made protein shakes. Here are some great options on what protein shake to use:
- Fairlife: The chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry Fairlife protein shakes work great!
- Premier Protein: Premier Protein shakes are another great option. They have 30 grams of protein and only 1 gram of sugar.
- Orgain: Orgain protein shakes contain grass-fed milk protein or plant protein. Also, Orgain offers Organic protein shakes.
- Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard: Gold Standard protein shakes have 24 grams of protein and 1 gram of sugar.
- OWYN: Only What You Need protein shakes are non-dairy and have 20 grams of vegan plant-based protein.
- Iconic: Iconic protein shakes have 20 grams of protein and 0 grams of sugar. Also, they are keto-friendly, non-GMO, and lactose-free.
How To Make Ninja Creami Protein Ice Cream
First, add the protein shake, instant pudding mix, and all ad-ins to a blender and thoroughly blend. If your add-ins are frozen, they need to be blended in before freezing.
Then, pour the mixture into a Ninja Creami pint-sized container and only fill to the fill line. After that, put the lid on the container and freeze for 24 hours.
Once completely frozen, remove the container from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature. Then, remove the lid. If there is a peak from freezing, scrape it off with a spoon.
Next, properly secure the container in the Ninja Creami machine. Then, press the Lite Ice Cream or Ice Cream button.
Once the ice cream is done with its first spin, it may look powdery, so we recommend adding a splash of milk. Then, re-spin it again on Lite Ice Cream or Ice Cream. After the second spin, the ice cream should be creamy and thick.
Next, add your favorite small unfrozen mix-ins on top and enjoy!
Toppings And Mix-Ins
Enjoy this protein ice cream as is or with your favorite ice cream toppings! You can add the toppings on top once done or use the mix-in setting on the Ninja Creami to combine them in the ice cream. If you add frozen fruit, make sure to thoroughly blend it with the protein shake before freezing. Here are some delicious toppings:
- Oreos
- Chocolate syrup
- Caramel sauce
- Freeze-dried strawberries
- Shredded coconut flakes
- Fruit
- Sprinkles
- Peanut butter
- Marshmallows
- Peanuts
- Chocolate chips
- Peanut butter cups
How To Make Protein Ice Cream Thick And Creamy
For even creamier and thicker Ninja Creami protein ice cream, use a thickener to achieve the desired creamy texture. Here are some thickeners you can add:
- Instant Pudding: Adding a little bit of instant pudding mix helps give the protein ice cream a creamier and thicker texture and adds a boost of flavor.
- Xanthan Gum: Xanthan gum is a thickening agent that is used to improve texture and consistency. It helps give a super creamy texture to protein ice cream. Usually, about 1/4 teaspoon for one container will do the trick because it is very effective.
- Guar Gum: Guar gum is another thickening agent, similar to xanthan gum. You can add 1/4 teaspoon of guar gum to one container. It helps create a creamy ice cream consistency.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: Sweetened condensed milk is a sweetener and a thickening agent. It adds richness to ice cream and is useful for making Ninja Creami protein ice cream. One teaspoon to one tablespoon can be added.
- Evaporated Milk: Evaporated milk can also help contribute to the thickness and creaminess of ice cream. Two teaspoons can be added to one pint of protein ice cream.
- Full-Fat Dairy Products: Whole milk and heavy cream naturally help thicken ice cream. Full-fat dairy products can help add a smooth and creamy texture due to the fat content.
- Cream Cheese: When cream cheese is added to the ice cream mixture, it adds flavor, gives a velvety texture, and helps thicken. Also, you can use light or fat-free cream cheese. Just let the cream cheese come to room temperature before adding it. In addition, make sure to thoroughly mix or blend it with the rest of the ingredients. Use one to two tablespoons of cream cheese for one pint of protein ice cream.
Tips For Making Ninja Creami Protein Ice Cream
Re-Spin The Ice Cream
For best results, make sure to re-spin the ice cream. Spin it once, then add a splash of milk. Then, re-spin it one more time. After the second spin, the consistency is thicker and looks like ice cream.
Leave Room In The Container
Make sure not to fill past the fill line on the pint container. Also, don’t worry if the liquid is slightly below the fill line before freezing. There needs to be room in the container to turn the frozen liquid into ice cream.
Beware Of The Noise
Keep in mind that the Ninja Creami is loud when it spins the ice cream. However, it only takes a few minutes for each spin so the noise doesn’t last that long.
Let It Sit Before Spinning
We recommend letting the frozen pint container of ice cream sit at room temperature on the counter for 10-15 minutes before spinning it in the Ninja Creami. It helps ensure that the frozen liquid isn’t rock hard when the Ninja Creami tries to spin it. This will result in a looser consistency of protein ice cream.
Scrape Off The Peak
When the liquid in the pint container freezes, there is often a peak in the center. We recommend letting the container sit at room temperature for about 10 to 15 minutes. Then, scrape the peak off with a spoon so the Ninja Creami can easily spin. We recommend this because we tried to spin our Creami with a peak and the blade hit the peak, got knocked off, and destroyed our machine.
Protein Ice Cream Flavor Variations
There are so many different protein ice cream flavor combinations that you can make. The options are endless, but here are some of our favorites:
- Double Chocolate: Use one chocolate protein shake and one tablespoon of chocolate instant pudding mix.
- Cookies And Cream: Use one cookies and cream protein shake and one tablespoon of chocolate instant pudding mix. Also, you can mix in some Oreo cookies.
- Strawberry Cheesecake: Use one vanilla or strawberry protein shake and 1/3 cup of frozen strawberries. Also, add one tablespoon of cheesecake pudding mix.
- Peaches And Cream: Use one peach protein shake and one tablespoon of vanilla instant pudding mix or sugar-free jello pudding mix.
- Cake Batter: Use one vanilla or chocolate protein shake and one tablespoon of vanilla or chocolate pudding. Also, add a few drops of cake batter extract to taste.
- Salted Butterscotch: Use one vanilla or caramel protein shake and one tablespoon of butterscotch pudding mix.
- Use Sugar-Free Jello Pudding: You can use sugar-free Jello pudding. Some sugar-free pudding flavors are cheesecake, lemon, pistachio, banana cream, white chocolate, and chocolate fudge.
- Use Simply Delish Instant Pudding: Also, Simply Delish instant pudding is another great option. It is keto, low-carb, gluten-free, allergen-free, non-GMO, has zero sugar, and is plant-based and vegan.
- Add Flavored Extracts: Flavored extracts are a great way to add flavor to your ice cream. You only need a few drops because a little goes a long way. Here are a few ideas: vanilla extract, mint extract, coconut extract, butter extract, chocolate extract, strawberry extract, almond extract, lemon extract, and coffee extract.
- Added Protein: For even more added protein you can add 1/4-1/3 cup of Greek yogurt or cottage cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Ninja Creami?
The Ninja Creami is a machine that can make ice cream, gelato, milkshakes, and smoothie bowls with a frozen liquid mixture. We love making protein ice cream in the Ninja Creami. The machine turns the frozen liquid into the consistency of thick and creamy ice cream.
Is Protein Ice Cream Healthy?
Yes, protein ice cream is healthy. All you need is a protein shake and instant pudding. Also, you can use sugar-free instant pudding or omit it altogether.
Do I Need To Use A Thickening Agent?
No, a thickening agent is not necessary for making this protein ice cream. The Ninja Creami is great at providing a thick and creamy ice cream texture. However, feel free to experiment with some thickening agents for even creamier ice cream.
Why Is The Mixture Powdery After The First Spin?
The mixture in your Ninja Creami may look powdery after the first spin and this is normal. We recommend adding a splash of milk and re-spinning it. You can also re-spin without milk for a thicker consistency. After the second spin, it often looks just like ice cream and is no longer powdery. If not, you can re-spin again.
Can I Use Protein Powder Instead?
Yes, you can use protein powder instead of a pre-made protein shake. We love Orgain protein powder. For 30% off Orgain products, use code HEALTHYFOODIEGIRL. Just mix the protein powder with your milk of choice. For extra creaminess, add a thickening agent.
More Recipes To Try Next!
- Viral Cottage Cheese Ice Cream – You can use the Ninja Creami for this recipe!
- Ninja Creami Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Ice Cream
- Dairy-Free Peaches and Cream Ice Cream
- Oreo Ice Cream Sandwich Recipe
- Best Healthy Dole Whip
- Homemade Fruit Popsicles
If you try this recipe please be sure to leave us a comment and star rating ★★★★★ letting us know how it turns out for you. We hope you enjoy this Ninja Creami protein ice cream!
NINJA CREAMI PROTEIN ICE CREAM
Recipe by Shawna
4.6 from 7 votes
Course: DessertCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy
Prep time
5
minutes
Cooking time
1
minute
Calories
190
kcal
This is the ultimate Ninja Creami protein ice cream! I love having protein shakes but nothing is better than turning them into a creamy protein ice cream.
Ingredients
1 protein shake of choice
1 TBSP instant pudding mix of choice or 1 TSP sugar-free instant pudding mix, or 1/4 TSP guar gum, for extra creaminess
1 TBSP milk, almond milk, fat-free non-dairy creamer, or light cream
1/4 CUP favorite add-ins
Directions
- Add the protein shake, instant pudding mix, and all ad-ins to a blender and thoroughly blend. If your add-ins are frozen, they need to be added and blended in before freezing. However, we recommend blending in all of your add-ins before so they are evenly distributed.
- Then, pour the mixture into a Ninja Creami pint-sized container. Only fill to the fill line. If you have extra you can make another protein shake or drink what is remaining. Put the lid on the container and freeze for 24 hours.
- Once completely frozen, remove the container from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature on the counter for 10-15 minutes. Then, remove the lid and if there is a peak from freezing, scrape it off with a spoon. You want the Creami to be as flat and even as possible before spinning so the blade doesn’t have trouble.
- Properly secure the container in the Ninja Creami. Then, press the Lite Ice Cream or Ice Cream button. Once the ice cream is done with its first spin, it may look powdery and crumbly. We recommend adding a splash of milk. Or you can add a splash of almond milk, fat-free non-dairy creamer, or light cream instead. Then, re-spin it again on Lite Ice Cream or Ice Cream until your desired consistency is reached. After the second spin, the ice cream should be thick and creamy. If not, you can re-spin again.
- Add your favorite small unfrozen mix-ins on top or add them to the container and use the mix-in setting to mix them into the ice cream. However, we have found that the Ninja Creami has a hard time adding in and evenly distributing the add-ins. If you do mix them in, don’t add anything frozen or large. Enjoy!
Equipment
- Extra PintsBuy Them Here
- Ninja CreamiBuy It Here
- Sleeves For Pint ContainersBuy Them Here!
Recipe Video
Notes
- Ninja Creami protein ice cream is a great Weight Watchers WW-friendly dessert! Points will vary based on what protein shake and other ingredients you use. We have come up with creations that are anywhere from 2-6 WW points.
- Nutritional information is provided as a reference, using an online calculator. We recommend verifying the information independently. It could vary based on cooking methods and ingredients used.
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Nutrition Facts
1 servings per container
- Amount Per ServingCalories190
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 3.3g 5%
- Saturated Fat 1.2g 5%
- Cholesterol 21mg 8%
- Sodium 297mg 13%
- Total Carbohydrate 11.5g 4%
- Dietary Fiber 3g 12%
- Sugars 6.4g
- Protein 30.5g 60%
* The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.