Spring is just around the corner, and with it comes the craving for all things citrus! If you’re like me and can’t resist the fresh, zesty flavors of orange, then you’ll absolutely love this healthy homemade Orange Creamsicle Ice Cream. It’s a must-try treat that’s high in protein, low in calories, and incredibly satisfying.
Made with natural ingredients, this ice cream features the perfect balance of sweetness and tang—without the added refined sugar. Plus, it’s made using the best appliance for homemade ice cream: the Ninja CREAMi. Trust me, it’s a game-changer when it comes to creating the smoothest, creamiest texture that rivals store-bought options.
BE SURE TO SAVE THIS RECIPE TO YOUR FAVORITE PINTEREST BOARD FOR LATER!
Why You’ll Love This Healthy Orange Creamsicle Ice Cream
- High in Protein & Low in Calories This healthy ice cream is not only delicious but also a great source of protein. The secret ingredient? Cottage cheese! Sounds surprising, right? But don’t worry—you won’t taste it at all! Cottage cheese gives this ice cream a rich, creamy texture while keeping the calorie count low. It’s the perfect guilt-free treat to satisfy your ice cream cravings without derailing your health goals.
- Refined Sugar-Free & Naturally Sweetened This recipe is sweetened with organic maple syrup, so it’s free from refined sugars and artificial sweeteners. The natural sweetness of the maple syrup combined with the citrusy orange flavor creates a refreshing, balanced taste you’ll crave all spring and summer long.
- Perfect for Spring and Beyond With spring fast approaching, citrus flavors are taking center stage in my kitchen. There’s something so uplifting about the tangy, bright taste of orange that just screams sunshine! This healthy orange creamsicle ice cream is the perfect way to celebrate the season and indulge in your favorite childhood flavor in a much healthier way.
What You Will Need:
- Blender or Ninja Creami – To get the true ice cream consistency, you will need a blender. I have a Ninja CREAMi Ice Cream Maker, which is HIGHLY recommended. It gives the perfect combination of speed, pressure, and time to create creamy ice cream. Ninja’s innovative Creamerizer System finely shaves and churns ice particles, which differentiates it so much from a regular blender. You won’t have those frozen icy pieces. It is an investment, but SO worth it.
- 16 oz. cottage cheese (1%)
- 1 cup orange juice (organic freshly squeezed)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (organic)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: A little bit of orange extract or orange zest for a stronger orange flavor
How To Make It
- In a pint sized Ninja CREAMi container, combine the cottage cheese, orange juice, vanilla, and maple syrup. Mix well, cover with the lid and freeze.
- Remove from the freezer. Allow to sit out at room temp for 10-15 minutes or run under hot water over the container for 1-2 minutes to slightly thaw it out so that it blends better.
- Blend the ice cream in your Ninja CREAMi using the lite ice cream setting.
- Immediately serve each serving with a fresh slice of orange and enjoy!
How To Store Leftovers
If you end up having any leftovers, you can store them in an air tight container in the freezer for up to 1 month. I like to let mine defrost a few hours before I want to enjoy it again in my fridge for that perfect creamy consistency. Or, you can run it under hot water for 2 minutes and then re-mix it in your CREAMi.
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!
More Healthy Cottage Cheese Ice Cream Recipes
This orange creamsicle flavor is just the tip of the iceberg. If you’re a fan of healthy ice cream, make sure to check out the many cottage cheese ice cream recipes on my blog! From strawberry cheesecake and mint chocolate to sea salt honey, there’s endless flavors.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a refreshing, protein-packed, low-calorie dessert that’s naturally sweetened, this healthy homemade orange creamsicle ice cream is for you. The Ninja Creami makes it easy to achieve the perfect creamy texture every time, and the addition of cottage cheese ensures it’s both nutritious and delicious. Say goodbye to store-bought ice cream loaded with sugar and preservatives, and make this healthy, indulgent treat at home!
Don’t forget to check out the rest of my blog for even more cottage cheese ice cream ideas to keep you satisfied and healthy all year long. Happy spring, and enjoy your homemade healthy ice cream!
Orange Creamsicle Protein Ice Cream (Ninja CREAMi)
Spring is just around the corner, and with it comes the craving for all things citrus! If you’re like me and can’t resist the fresh, zesty flavors of orange, then you’ll absolutely love this healthy homemade Orange Creamsicle Ice Cream. It’s a must-try treat that’s high in protein, low in calories, and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients
16 oz. cottage cheese (1%)
Instructions
- In a pint sized Ninja CREAMi container, combine the cottage cheese, orange juice, vanilla, and maple syrup. Mix well, cover with the lid and freeze.
- Remove from the freezer. Allow to sit out at room temp for 10-15 minutes or run under hot water over the container for 1-2 minutes to slightly thaw it out so that it blends better.
- Blend the ice cream in your Ninja CREAMi using the lite ice cream setting.
- Immediately serve each serving with a fresh slice of orange and enjoy!
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.
