When you cannot decide between a cozy mug of hot chocolate and a creamy scoop of ice cream, you make both. This High Protein Frozen Hot Chocolate Ice Cream is rich, chocolatey, and unbelievably smooth and creamy. Made with cottage cheese for a protein boost and naturally sweetened with maple syrup, this recipe is refined sugar free and incredibly simple.
It is especially fun during those in between seasons when it is not quite Spring. You still crave cozy chocolate flavors, but you also want something cold and refreshing. This recipe gives you both in one creamy scoop.
Please note that this recipe does work best in either the Ninja CREAMi and the Ninja Swirl CREAMi machines.
BE SURE TO SAVE THIS RECIPE TO YOUR FAVORITE PINTEREST BOARD FOR LATER!
Equipment You Will Need
- Ninja CREAMi – For best results, I highly recommend using a Ninja CREAMi Ice Cream Maker. It’s a total game-changer when it comes to texture. Unlike a regular blender, the Ninja CREAMi uses its Creamerizer System to finely shave and churn the ice particles, which results in the creamiest, smoothest ice cream—no icy chunks or gritty texture.
- You can use any Ninja CREAMi model—I actually own all of them (LOL). For this recipe, I used the newest model: the Ninja CREAMi Deluxe 11-in-1 Soft Serve Maker, which gives that fun, swirled soft-serve look. But don’t worry, this recipe works perfectly with any version of the CREAMi! This is the original one.
- If you don’t have a CREAMi, you can try using a high-speed blender, but just know the texture may not be quite as smooth or scoopable.
- Ninja CREAMi pint container
- Spoon or small whisk for mixing
- Freezer
Ingredients
- 16 oz cottage cheese (2%, small curd)
- 1/8 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract if you can’t find)
- 1/4 cup hot chocolate mix (I use the Collagen Hot Chocolate mix by Nutra Naturals. It is SOOOO good & made with clean ingredients! Also has protein in it!!)
- 2 tbsp cacao powder (organic, raw)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Add the cottage cheese, maple syrup, vanilla bean paste, hot chocolate mix, and cacao powder to your Ninja CREAMi pint container. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is fully incorporated and smooth.
- Secure the lid and freeze for at least 4 hours, though overnight yields the creamiest texture.
- Once fully frozen, place the pint into your Ninja CREAMi and run the appropriate setting based on your model:
- Original Ninja CREAMi : Place the frozen pint in the outer bowl, lock the lid, and run the Lite Ice Cream function.
- Ninja CREAMi Deluxe 11-in-1 Soft Serve Maker (newer model): Insert the pint and run the Lite Ice Cream + Soft Serve function.
- After the full cycle runs, I recommend doing one respin to ensure it is fully incorporated and extra creamy.
- Scoop and enjoy immediately. If you are using the Deluxe model, you can dispense it directly from the soft serve side for that smooth, swirled finish.
Dietary Information
This recipe is high protein and refined sugar free. It is naturally gluten free depending on your hot chocolate mix. I use this one.
To make it lower carb, use a sugar free hot chocolate mix and substitute the maple syrup with a low calorie liquid sweetener. For a dairy free version, swap the cottage cheese for a thick dairy free yogurt alternative, though the protein content will vary.
Tips & Variations
- Add mini dark chocolate chips after spinning.
- Stir in a splash of espresso for a mocha flavor.
- If your pint looks crumbly after spinning, always use the respin function.
FAQ’s
Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
Yes! Honey works well, though it will slightly change the flavor.
Do I have to freeze it for 24 hours?
Yes, at least 24 hours is best. If it’s not frozen solid, the Ninja Creami won’t process it correctly.
What if my soft serve is too crumbly?
Just hit the Re-Spin button until you reach your desired texture. You can even add a splash of milk and spin again.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Swap the maple syrup for a sugar-free sweetener like monk fruit or allulose to make it low-carb and keto-friendly.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in the pint container with the lid on. To re-serve, re-spin before scooping.
How To Store Leftovers
If you’re not serving it all right away, smooth the top, secure the lid, and return the pint to the freezer. When ready to enjoy again, re-spin it twice to restore that creamy texture.
Why the Ninja CREAMi is a Game-Changer
The Ninja CREAMi is truly a game-changer when it comes to making homemade ice cream. Unlike traditional ice cream makers that require constant attention and churning, the Ninja CREAMi takes your frozen base and transforms it into a perfectly creamy texture in just a few minutes. Whether you’re making a healthy version like this one or a more indulgent treat, the CREAMi ensures that every scoop is smooth and velvety.
Check Me Out On Social Media!
I post all of my recipes on social media as well and you can stay up-to-date on what I am up to! Also, I love seeing people try my recipes! When make these, snap a picture and share it to your socials. Tag @cookingkatielady and #cookingkatielady so I can admire your masterpiece and share with others!
This refined sugar free hot chocolate ice cream is a creamy, refreshing treat that feels indulgent but is actually full of clean, wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re using the original Ninja CREAMi or the new Ninja CREAMi Deluxe Soft Serve Machine, you’re going to love how easy and satisfying this one is!
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Description
When you cannot decide between a cozy mug of hot chocolate and a creamy scoop of ice cream, you make both. This High Protein Frozen Hot Chocolate Ice Cream is rich, chocolatey, and unbelievably smooth and creamy. Made with cottage cheese for a protein boost and naturally sweetened with maple syrup, this recipe is refined sugar free and incredibly simple.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Add the cottage cheese, maple syrup, vanilla bean paste, hot chocolate mix, and cacao powder to your Ninja CREAMi pint container. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is fully incorporated and smooth.
-
Secure the lid and freeze for at least 4 hours, though overnight yields the creamiest texture.
-
Once fully frozen, place the pint into your Ninja CREAMi and run the appropriate setting based on your model:
-
Original Ninja CREAMi : Place the frozen pint in the outer bowl, lock the lid, and run the Lite Ice Cream function.
-
Ninja CREAMi Deluxe 11-in-1 Soft Serve Maker (newer model): Insert the pint and run the Lite Ice Cream + Soft Serve function.
-
After the full cycle runs, I recommend doing one respin to ensure it is fully incorporated and extra creamy.
-
Scoop and enjoy immediately. If you are using the Deluxe model, you can dispense it directly from the soft serve side for that smooth, swirled finish.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
Serving Size 1/4 pint
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 145kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 3g5%
- Cholesterol 0.3mg1%
- Sodium 357mg15%
- Total Carbohydrate 12.8g5%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Sugars 6.8g
- Protein 18g36%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Did you make this recipe?
The next time you make it, snap a picture, and share it to your socials. Tag @cookingkatielady and #cookingkatielady so I can admire your masterpiece and share with others!:)
Please note that my nutrition label is approximate and can have slight rounding. Macros can very depending on brands you use.
