Indulging in ice cream doesn’t have to derail your low-carb diet, especially with this delicious and nutritious Low Carb High Protein Blueberry Ice Cream. Made with cottage cheese and sweetened naturally, this ice cream is packed with protein and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth in a healthy way.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
- 1/4 cup sugar substitute (like erythritol or stevia)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (optional for creamier texture)
Instructions:
- Blend the Cottage Cheese: Place the cottage cheese in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy. This will form the base of your ice cream.
- Add the Blueberries: Add the fresh or frozen blueberries to the blender. If using frozen blueberries, let them thaw slightly before blending. Blend until the blueberries are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
- Sweeten the Mixture: Add the sugar substitute, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the blender. Blend again until all the ingredients are well combined. Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness if necessary.
- Adjust the Consistency: If the mixture is too thick, add the unsweetened almond milk a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Blend until smooth.
- Chill the Mixture: Pour the blueberry mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes. If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can pour the mixture into a shallow container and freeze it, stirring every 30 minutes to break up ice crystals until it reaches a creamy consistency.
- Freeze: Transfer the churned ice cream to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for at least 2 hours or until firm.
- Serve: Scoop the ice cream into bowls and enjoy! You can garnish with extra blueberries or a sprig of mint if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Berry Alternatives: Feel free to substitute blueberries with other low-carb berries like raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries.
- Flavor Enhancements: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest for a more intense lemon flavor.
- Texture Tweaks: For a chunkier texture, fold in whole blueberries after blending the mixture.
Keto-Friendly Tips:
- Cottage Cheese Selection: Use full-fat cottage cheese to increase the fat content, which is suitable for a keto diet.
- Sweetener Choice: Ensure the sugar substitute you use is keto-friendly and does not have any added fillers or carbs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a different base instead of cottage cheese? A: Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or a combination of cream cheese and heavy cream for a different texture and flavor, keeping it high in protein.
Q: How long can I store this ice cream? A: This ice cream can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. For best texture, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping.
Q: Can I make this ice cream without an ice cream maker? A: Yes, you can make this ice cream without an ice cream maker. Pour the blended mixture into a shallow dish and freeze, stirring every 30 minutes until it reaches a creamy consistency.
Q: Is there a way to make this dairy-free? A: To make a dairy-free version, substitute cottage cheese with a dairy-free yogurt or a blend of coconut cream and a dairy-free protein powder.
Q: Can I use frozen berries directly? A: Yes, you can use frozen berries directly. Just let them thaw slightly before blending to make the blending process easier.
Q: What if my ice cream is too hard after freezing? A: If the ice cream is too hard, let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving to soften it up.
Q: Can I add other mix-ins to this ice cream? A: Absolutely! Consider adding low-carb chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut for extra texture and flavor.
Low Carb High Protein Blueberry Ice Cream is a delightful and healthy way to enjoy a frozen treat without the guilt. With its creamy texture, rich blueberry flavor, and high protein content, this ice cream is perfect for those following a low-carb or keto diet. It’s easy to make and customizable to your taste preferences. Enjoy a scoop (or two) of this refreshing dessert and savor the balance of sweetness and nutrition in every bite!
