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Peanut butter cup ninja creami protein ice cream delivers a rich and creamy treat you can feel good about eating. Packed with real peanut butter flavor and a crave worthy chocolate swirl from classic candy pieces this recipe brings together the satisfaction of dessert with a remarkable 45 grams of protein per pint. After experimenting with countless protein ice cream attempts this version truly nails both texture and taste thanks to a few clever ingredient swaps and modern Ninja Creami magic.
Made this on a weeknight when craving a healthier treat and could not believe how creamy it turned out even after being in the freezer. Now when late night dessert cravings hit I whip this up and never feel like I am missing out.
Ingredients
- Fairlife two percent milk: gives creamy texture with high protein and low fat content look for Fairlife brand for the best protein boost
- Unsweetened almond milk: lightens the mixture while adding a subtly nutty taste always check nutrition labels for minimal added sugar
- Peanut butter cookie protein powder from PEScience: brings bold peanut flavor and gives a smooth ice cream body taste test protein powders before using to be sure you love the flavor
- Vanilla jello pudding mix: makes the base extra thick and rich use the instant variety for a quick blend and check for freshness
- PBFit: delivers an extra punch of peanut flavor with less fat than traditional peanut butter use freshly opened powder for best results
- Chopped Reese's peanut butter cups or Reese's pieces: bring chocolate peanut butter candy bits into every bite chop or crush ahead so pieces blend evenly
Instructions
- Mix the Base:
- Combine Fairlife milk unsweetened almond milk protein powder pudding mix and PBFit in your Ninja Creami container. Blend with a handheld frother until completely smooth. Make sure to blend up to the max fill line and scrape down any powder stuck to the sides.
- Freeze Solid:
- Transfer the container to the freezer and let it freeze for twenty four hours until hard as a rock. This extended freeze is what gives the Ninja Creami its signature scoopable texture.
- First Spin:
- Remove your pint from the freezer. Run the outside of the container under hot water for about one minute to help release the sides. Place container in your Ninja Creami and select the Lite Ice Cream setting. The machine will churn for just a couple minutes.
- Texture Check and Re Spin:
- If your initial spin leaves the ice cream a bit powdery or crumbly do not add milk yet. Replace the pint and press the Re Spin button once. Usually that second spin brings everything together into a creamy smooth base.
- Adjust Consistency:
- Still not creamy enough after two spins Add a tablespoon of milk directly to the base and spin again on the Re Spin setting. If the mix was not frozen completely solid skip the Re Spin and use the Mix Ins setting instead to prevent a soupy result.
- Add Mix Ins:
- Create a small divot in the center of the ice cream and drop in your chopped Reese's candy. Attach the lid and hit the Mix Ins button for a quick gentle blend. This will swirl chocolate and peanut butter pieces evenly throughout.
- Ready to Serve:
- Scoop straight from the container and enjoy. If desired let the pint sit at room temperature for a couple minutes to soften further for the ultimate creamy texture.
My favorite ingredient in this pint is the PBFit because it gives real roasted peanut flavor with way less fat than traditional peanut butter. Made this once for my dad who was constantly disappointed by healthy ice creams and now he asks for a double batch every time he visits.
Storage Tips
Store extra ice cream in the Ninja Creami container itself tightly covered in the freezer. If it hardens too much let it sit out for five to ten minutes or run another quick spin in the machine. Avoid adding extra milk until you have tried the Re Spin so you do not end up with icy or overly thin results.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have Fairlife milk any ultra filtered high protein milk will work just note that fat levels affect creaminess. Swap PBFit for another powdered peanut butter brand or try classic peanut butter for richer flavor. Plant based protein can be subbed for whey but texture may change slightly. Always choose add ins based on your preferences try chopped nuts or dark chocolate chips for variety.
Serving Suggestions
Top with warmed peanut butter drizzle for an extra indulgent moment. Serve it in a waffle cone for nostalgia or add a scoop to your favorite brownies for a high protein sundae. This also works as a meal prep breakfast if you enjoy sweet morning treats just add banana coins and granola.
Ninja Creami Ice Cream History
Homemade high protein ice creams have exploded in popularity with the rise of Ninja Creami machines making smooth scoopable treats at home with simple ingredients. Adapting fun childhood flavors like peanut butter cup takes classic comfort and combines it with today’s nutrition knowledge for the best of both worlds.
Seasonal Adaptations
For fall try mixing in chopped apples and cinnamon instead of candy. In summer swirl through mini chocolate chips and sliced strawberries. Cool off after a workout by serving with chilled protein coffee poured over the top.
Success Stories
Have heard from friends on fitness journeys who now make this as a nightly treat because it helps crush late night cravings while supporting their goals. Even kids who usually turn up their noses at protein powder love the hidden candy pieces.
Freezer Meal Conversion
If prepping in advance double the base and freeze in two pints. You can make mix ins pints to have a variety ready to customize. Mark the date on the lid so you always know when it will be at its freshest.
The biggest lesson learned was to always blend the base fully so no dry powder remains. That’s the secret to avoiding chalkiness and getting that dreamy creamy Ninja Creami finish everyone raves about.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do I achieve the creamiest texture?
Let the base freeze solid for 24 hours, then use the Lite Ice Cream spin on your Ninja Creami. If needed, respin or add a tablespoon of milk for added smoothness.
- → Can I substitute different milks?
Yes, Fairlife skim or other 2% milks can be used. Higher fat milk yields a richer and smoother dessert.
- → What protein powder works best?
Peanut Butter Cookie-flavored protein powder works well, but other flavors are also suitable for different taste profiles.
- → Is it necessary to add chocolate mix-ins?
The treat is delicious on its own, but adding chopped peanut butter cups or Reese's pieces elevates the flavor and texture.
- → What if my frozen base is still powdery after spinning?
Try using the respin function before adding extra milk. The extra spin often improves the texture.
- → Can I freeze for less than 24 hours?
Freezing for 24 hours provides the best results, but in a pinch, 12-16 hours can work with an adjusted Creami spin sequence.