If you’re craving a delightful treat that’s both refreshing and packed with a protein boost, you’re in for a real treat with this Ninja Creami Peppermint Frosty Protein Ice Cream Recipe. It’s a cool, minty indulgence that balances creamy decadence with health-conscious ingredients, making it perfect for anyone wanting a guilt-free dessert that still satisfies those sweet cravings. This recipe brings together the invigorating zing of peppermint, the richness of protein powder, and a hint of chocolate, resulting in a frosty that’s utterly irresistible and perfect for a quick, nutritious indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s wonderful about the Ninja Creami Peppermint Frosty Protein Ice Cream Recipe is how straightforward and approachable the ingredients are, yet each one plays an essential role in building texture, flavor, and that perfect frosty finish. Let’s look at what you’ll need.
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of your choice): This provides a creamy base without overpowering the flavor, and using almond milk keeps it light and dairy-free if desired.
- 1 scoop protein powder (whey or plant-based, vanilla or chocolate flavor): Adds the protein punch and a subtle flavor foundation, making this ice cream both tasty and nourishing.
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract: The star of the show, delivering that crisp peppermint freshness that makes this frosty unique.
- 1-2 tablespoons sweetener (honey, agave syrup, or zero-calorie sweetener): Sweetens the mix to your liking, balancing the refreshing mint with just the right amount of sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder (optional): Adds a chocolatey depth for those who love a peppermint-chocolate combo without extra sugar.
- Greek yogurt or silken tofu (optional, for creamier texture): Boosts creaminess and adds a subtle tang or smoothness, depending on your preference.
How to Make Ninja Creami Peppermint Frosty Protein Ice Cream Recipe
Step 1: Mix Your Ingredients Thoroughly
Start by whipping together your base. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of your chosen milk, a scoop of your selected protein powder, a teaspoon of peppermint extract, and your chosen sweetener. If you want that delicious chocolate hint, toss in a tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder. Whisk everything until it’s perfectly smooth—this step is crucial for a creamy, well-blended frosty.
Step 2: Freeze to the Perfect Semi-Frozen Stage
Pour this minty, protein-packed mixture into a freezer-safe container and let it chill out in the freezer. You’ll want it to be semi-frozen in about 1 to 2 hours – firm enough to scoop but not rock solid. This prepares it perfectly for the Ninja Creami to work its magic and transform it into a luscious treat.
Step 3: Ninja Creami Time
Transfer your semi-frozen mixture into the Ninja Creami’s pint container, secure that lid tightly, and place it in the machine. Select the ‘Ice Cream’ setting and watch the magic happen as your mixture gets transformed into a frosty delight with a smooth, creamy texture.
Step 4: Adjust Texture to Your Taste
After the cycle ends, check the consistency. If it’s a bit soft for your liking, simply run the ‘Ice Cream’ function once more. If you crave ultra-creaminess, add a splash more milk before re-blending to get that perfect scoopable texture. The Ninja Creami Peppermint Frosty Protein Ice Cream Recipe is incredibly forgiving and customizable here.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once your frosty reaches that ideal texture, scoop it into bowls or cones. Feel free to add your favorite garnishes like crushed peppermint candies or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for an extra touch of indulgence. Now, you’re ready to savor your nutritious, refreshing frosty creation.
How to Serve Ninja Creami Peppermint Frosty Protein Ice Cream Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your frosty experience, garnishing is key. Crushed peppermint candies add a delightful crunch and crystal-like sparkle, while a drizzle of rich chocolate syrup brings a luscious finish. For a lighter touch, try some fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of cocoa nibs to keep things visually appealing and tasty.
Side Dishes
The cool and refreshing nature of this peppermint protein ice cream pairs wonderfully with simple, light side dishes. Think fresh fruit salads, a small serving of oatmeal cookies, or even a crisp biscotti to add a contrasting texture. These combos perfectly complement the protein-packed, minty flavor without overwhelming your palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation makes any dessert feel extra special, and this Ninja Creami Peppermint Frosty Protein Ice Cream Recipe is no exception. Serve it in festive holiday glasses layered with chocolate shavings, or swirl it into parfait cups with layers of granola and berries. For a fun twist, try freezing the frosty in popsicle molds for portable, refreshing treats that are perfect for on-the-go enjoyment.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra frosty, no problem! Just store it in an airtight container in the freezer. Be sure to cover the surface tightly with plastic wrap or parchment paper before sealing the container to prevent ice crystals from forming on your frosty’s surface.
Freezing
This protein ice cream recipe freezes beautifully. To maintain the best texture, try to consume leftovers within a week or two. When freezing, keep the temperature steady and avoid repeated thawing and refreezing to preserve that smooth, creamy mouthfeel you loved from the first batch.
Reheating
The beauty of this recipe is that it doesn’t require traditional reheating. If the texture feels too firm straight out of the freezer, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 5 to 10 minutes to soften slightly before scooping. If you used the Ninja Creami, you can always spin the ‘Ice Cream’ function again for that perfect soft-serve-like texture anytime.
FAQs
Can I use different protein powder flavors in this recipe?
Absolutely! Vanilla and chocolate are great choices to complement the peppermint, but feel free to experiment with flavors like mocha or even plain to see what you enjoy most in your protein ice cream.
Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, it can be! Use a plant-based protein powder and your favorite non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. Choose agave or another plant-based sweetener and skip the Greek yogurt unless you use a vegan substitute like silken tofu for creaminess.
How do I get the ice cream extra creamy?
Adding Greek yogurt or silken tofu to the base before freezing boosts creaminess significantly. Another trick is to blend a small splash of milk during the final Ninja Creami cycle to smooth out any icy bits.
Can I make this without a Ninja Creami machine?
You can make a similar version by freezing the mixture and stirring it every 30 minutes to break up ice crystals, but the Ninja Creami delivers the smoothest texture effortlessly, which is why it’s our top recommendation for this recipe.
What’s the best way to sweeten if I want to keep it low-calorie?
Zero-calorie sweeteners like stevia or erythritol work beautifully here and won’t interfere with the flavor or texture. Just add to taste and whisk until fully dissolved.
Final Thoughts
This Ninja Creami Peppermint Frosty Protein Ice Cream Recipe has quickly become a personal favorite because it’s fun, fresh, and so satisfying without feeling heavy or overly sweet. Whether you’re looking for a post-workout treat or a cool dessert to brighten your day, this frosty will hit the spot every time. Give it a try—you might just find your new go-to frozen indulgence that blends flavor and good-for-you ingredients flawlessly.
Print
Ninja Creami Peppermint Frosty Protein Ice Cream Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Ninja Creami Peppermint Frosty Protein Ice Cream is a refreshing, guilt-free frozen treat packed with protein. Combining peppermint extract with your choice of protein powder and milk, this recipe offers a creamy, flavorful dessert perfect for a post-workout snack or a festive holiday dessert. The use of the Ninja Creami machine ensures a smooth, ice cream-like texture without the need for complex ingredients or long wait times.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of your choice)
- 1 scoop protein powder (whey or plant-based, vanilla or chocolate flavor)
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1–2 tablespoons sweetener (honey, agave syrup, or zero-calorie sweetener)
Optional Add-ins
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder (optional)
- Greek yogurt or silken tofu (optional, for creamier texture)
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of your chosen milk, 1 scoop of protein powder, 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract, and 1-2 tablespoons of sweetener. If you’re using cocoa powder or Greek yogurt/silken tofu for creaminess, add them now. Whisk everything together until smooth and fully blended.
- Freeze Mixture: Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container and place it in the freezer for about 1-2 hours until it becomes semi-frozen but not completely solid, ensuring it will blend well in the Ninja Creami.
- Prepare Ninja Creami: Transfer the semi-frozen mixture into the Ninja Creami pint container. Secure the lid tightly and place it into the machine. Select the ‘Ice Cream’ function to process and achieve a creamy, frosty texture.
- Adjust Texture: After the initial cycle, check the consistency. If the ice cream is too soft, run the ‘Ice Cream’ cycle again. For even creamier results, you can add a splash more milk and blend again using the Ninja Creami.
- Serve and Garnish: Once the desired texture is reached, scoop the Peppermint Frosty Protein Ice Cream into bowls or cones. Optionally, garnish with crushed peppermint candies or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for extra flavor and festive appeal.
Notes
- You can substitute almond milk with any plant-based or dairy milk depending on your dietary preference.
- For a vegan version, use plant-based protein powder and silken tofu instead of Greek yogurt.
- The sweetness level can be adjusted to taste by varying the amount and type of sweetener.
- If you don’t have a Ninja Creami, you can achieve a similar effect by stirring the mixture every 30 minutes during freezing to reduce ice crystals.
- Adding cocoa powder provides a chocolatey twist that complements the peppermint flavor nicely.
