Save I was skeptical when I first heard about blending cottage cheese into ice cream. It was one of those Tuesday nights where I wanted something sweet but didn't want to derail my workout efforts. The first spoonful made me laugh out loud in my kitchen. I couldn't believe something this creamy came from the same tub I usually eat with savory toppings.
Last summer my sister rolled her eyes when I told her what was in her bowl. She'd taken three spoonfuls before asking for the recipe. Now she keeps frozen berries stocked specifically for this. Something about watching people's faces when they realize they're eating cottage cheese never gets old.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cottage cheese: Full fat gives you that premium ice cream mouthfeel but low fat still works beautifully if that's what you keep on hand
- 3 tbsp honey: This amount hits that sweet spot but start with two tablespoons if you prefer subtler sweetness and adjust from there
- 2 cups frozen mixed berries: Frozen fruit is essential here because it creates that thick creamy texture that fresh fruit just can't achieve
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Don't skip this tiny detail because it makes cottage cheese taste like actual dessert
- Pinch of salt: Just like with any dessert this tiny amount wakes up all the other flavors
Instructions
- Blend the base:
- Toss the cottage cheese honey and vanilla into your food processor and let it run for a full minute until it's silkier than you thought possible
- Add the fruit:
- Dump in those frozen berries and salt then blend again stopping to scrape down the sides until everything is uniform and thick like soft serve
- Taste and tweak:
- Give it a try and add another drizzle of honey if it needs more sweetness but remember it'll taste slightly sweeter after freezing
- Choose your texture:
- Eat it right now for soft serve that rivals any fro yo shop or pop it in the freezer for a few hours for something you can scoop into cones
- Freeze properly:
- Transfer to a freezer safe container smooth the top and freeze for two to four hours but don't forget to let it soften for ten minutes before serving
Save This recipe became my go to when I hosted book club last spring. Everyone kept asking what made the texture so different from store bought frozen yogurt. Watching friends genuinely excited about eating protein rich dessert felt like a small victory.
Fruit Combinations That Work
I've tested dozens of fruit variations and some combinations rise above the rest. Mango and lime transport you straight to the tropics while cherries with dark chocolate chips feel legitimately fancy.
Mix Ins to Consider
Sometimes I swirl in almond butter after blending for that chunks style experience or add a handful of chocolate chips right before freezing. Toasted coconut adds the most incredible texture contrast against the smooth base.
Serving Suggestions
A drizzle of peanut sauce over the berry version tastes like something from a fancy dessert restaurant. The contrast between cold creamy ice cream and room temperature toppings is magic.
- Try crushing a graham cracker over the top for instant cheesecake vibes
- Fresh mint leaves make it feel like you put real effort into plating
- A sprinkle of sea salt flakes on chocolate versions changes everything
Save This is the kind of recipe that makes you feel clever every time you serve it. Simple protein transformed into something that feels like a real treat.
Questions & Answers
- → Can I use different fruits instead of berries?
Yes, mango, peaches, or cherries can be used for varied flavors and textures.
- → How can I make the dessert dairy-free?
Substitute cottage cheese with thick coconut yogurt for a dairy-free version.
- → What tool is best for blending the ingredients smoothly?
A food processor or high-speed blender works best to achieve a creamy, smooth texture.
- → Can I adjust the sweetness level?
Absolutely, add more honey or maple syrup to suit your taste preferences.
- → How long should I freeze for a firmer texture?
Freeze for 2 to 4 hours, then let it stand a few minutes at room temperature before serving.