Chunky Monkey Cottage Cheese Ice Cream is a creamy, indulgent treat that’s packed with protein and flavor. This no-churn ice cream is made with simple ingredients like cottage cheese, honey, peanut butter, banana, and chocolate chips. It’s a healthier alternative to traditional ice cream, with the cottage cheese providing a smooth, rich base that’s naturally high in protein. The addition of peanut butter, banana, and chocolate chips makes this dessert a deliciously satisfying treat that you can enjoy guilt-free.
Ingredients:
- 1 (16 oz) tub full-fat cottage cheese: The base of the ice cream, providing creaminess and a boost of protein.
- 1/3 cup honey: Adds natural sweetness and a touch of floral flavor.
- 1/3 cup peanut butter: Brings a rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture.
- 1 ripe banana: Adds natural sweetness and enhances the creaminess of the ice cream.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Provides a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- ½ cup chocolate chips: Adds a bit of indulgence with every bite, creating the classic “Chunky Monkey” experience.
Instructions:
Step 1: Blend the Cottage Cheese Base
- In a food processor or blender, add the cottage cheese: Blend until completely smooth and creamy. This step is crucial to ensure a silky texture for your ice cream.
- Add the honey, peanut butter, ripe banana, and vanilla extract: Blend again until all the ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Fold in the Chocolate Chips
- Transfer the blended mixture to a mixing bowl: Use a spatula to scrape down the sides of the blender to ensure all the mixture is used.
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips: Stir until the chocolate chips are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 3: Freeze the Ice Cream
- Pour the mixture into a loaf pan or any freezer-safe container: Spread it out evenly with a spatula.
- Cover the container with plastic wrap or a lid: This prevents ice crystals from forming on the surface of the ice cream.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight: The longer you freeze it, the firmer the ice cream will become.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the ice cream from the freezer: Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before scooping.
- Scoop into bowls or cones: Garnish with extra chocolate chips, banana slices, or a drizzle of peanut butter if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Choose full-fat cottage cheese: This will give your ice cream a richer and creamier texture.
- Use ripe bananas: The riper the banana, the sweeter and more flavorful it will be, enhancing the overall taste of the ice cream.
- Blend thoroughly: Make sure the cottage cheese is blended until completely smooth to avoid any grainy texture in the ice cream.
Variations:
- Add nuts: For extra crunch, fold in some chopped walnuts or pecans along with the chocolate chips.
- Swirl in extra peanut butter: For a more intense peanut butter flavor, swirl an extra tablespoon of peanut butter through the mixture before freezing.
- Use different flavors of chocolate chips: Try dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
Chunky Monkey Cottage Cheese Ice Cream is a delightful, easy-to-make dessert that’s both satisfying and nutritious. The combination of creamy cottage cheese, sweet honey, rich peanut butter, ripe banana, and chocolate chips creates a treat that’s perfect for hot summer days or whenever you’re craving something sweet. With this simple recipe, you can enjoy a healthier version of ice cream without sacrificing flavor or texture. Whether you serve it in a bowl, on a cone, or with your favorite toppings, this ice cream is sure to become a new favorite in your household.
