This Blackberry Cheesecake Cottage Cheese Ice Cream is a creamy, indulgent frozen treat that combines the rich, tangy flavor of cheesecake with the natural sweetness of fresh blackberries. Using cottage cheese as the base, this ice cream is a healthier alternative to traditional ice cream, offering high protein and lower sugar while still delivering a smooth, decadent texture. It’s the perfect refreshing summer dessert!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy alternative – High in protein and naturally sweetened.
- No ice cream maker needed – Just blend and freeze!
- Creamy & rich – Cottage cheese and Greek yogurt create a smooth texture.
- Refreshing & fruity – Blackberries add a burst of fresh, tangy sweetness.
- Cheesecake-inspired – Crushed graham crackers provide that signature cheesecake flavor.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cottage cheese – Provides a creamy base with a boost of protein.
- Fresh blackberries – Or frozen blackberries, thawed for convenience.
- Greek yogurt – Adds extra creaminess and a slight tang.
- Honey or maple syrup – Natural sweeteners to enhance the flavor.
- Vanilla extract – Brings out the cheesecake flavor.
- Lemon juice – Brightens the flavor and complements the berries.
- Crushed graham crackers (optional) – Adds a delicious cheesecake-like crunch.
Directions
1. Blend the Base:
- In a blender or food processor, combine cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and lemon juice.
- Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
2. Add the Blackberries:
- Add blackberries to the mixture and blend again until the berries are fully incorporated.
- You can leave small fruit chunks for added texture or blend completely smooth.
3. Fold in Graham Crackers (Optional):
- For a true cheesecake effect, gently fold in crushed graham crackers.
4. Freeze:
- Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Cover and freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight, until firm.
5. Serve:
- Let the ice cream sit out for a few minutes before scooping to soften slightly.
- Enjoy as is or top with extra blackberries and graham cracker crumbs for a beautiful presentation!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours (freezing time)
- Calories: Approximately 180 kcal per serving
Variations
- Other berries – Swap blackberries for blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries.
- Dairy-free option – Use plant-based cottage cheese and yogurt for a dairy-free version.
- Chocolate twist – Add a handful of dark chocolate chips for a chocolatey touch.
- Extra crunch – Mix in chopped nuts or granola instead of graham crackers.
- Zesty flavor – Add lemon zest for an extra citrusy kick.
Storage/Reheating
- Freezing: Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
- Softening: Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before scooping.
FAQs
Can I use frozen blackberries?
Yes! Just thaw them first to blend smoothly.
How do I make the ice cream creamier?
For an extra creamy texture, stir the mixture every 30 minutes while freezing to prevent ice crystals.
Can I use a sweetener substitute?
Yes! You can use monk fruit sweetener, stevia, or coconut sugar instead of honey or maple syrup.
Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
Yes, but Greek yogurt provides a thicker and creamier texture.
How do I prevent the ice cream from getting too hard?
Adding a tablespoon of vodka to the mixture helps keep it softer and easier to scoop.
Can I make this recipe without a blender?
Yes! Use a hand mixer or mash the ingredients very well with a fork for a chunkier texture.
What toppings go well with this ice cream?
Try topping with whipped cream, fresh berries, granola, or dark chocolate shavings.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to freeze it in a larger container or multiple smaller ones.
Can I make this into popsicles?
Yes! Pour the mixture into popsicle molds for a fun frozen treat.
Is this ice cream keto-friendly?
Yes, if you use sugar-free sweetener and skip the graham crackers.
Conclusion
This Blackberry Cheesecake Cottage Cheese Ice Cream is a creamy, protein-packed dessert that’s both healthy and indulgent. Whether you enjoy it as a refreshing summer treat or a guilt-free sweet fix, this homemade ice cream is sure to become a new favorite. Try it today and savor the delicious cheesecake-meets-ice-cream goodness!
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Blackberry Cheesecake Cottage Cheese Ice Cream
Blackberry Cheesecake Cottage Cheese Ice Cream is a creamy, high-protein frozen dessert that blends cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, and fresh blackberries for a healthy yet indulgent treat. Naturally sweetened and packed with cheesecake flavor, this no-churn ice cream is perfect for summer and requires just a few simple ingredients!
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups cottage cheese (full-fat for the creamiest texture)
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 cup fresh blackberries (or frozen, thawed)
- ¼ cup crushed graham crackers (optional, for a cheesecake flavor)
Instructions
-
Blend the Base:
- In a blender or food processor, blend cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, honey, vanilla extract, and lemon juice until smooth.
-
Add the Blackberries:
- Add blackberries and blend again until fully incorporated. Leave some fruit chunks for texture or blend until completely smooth.
-
Fold in Graham Crackers (Optional):
- For a cheesecake twist, gently fold in crushed graham crackers.
-
Freeze:
- Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container. Smooth the top with a spatula, cover, and freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight.
-
Serve:
- Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before scooping.
- Top with extra blackberries and graham cracker crumbs for a delicious presentation.
Notes
- For a dairy-free option, use plant-based cottage cheese and yogurt.
- For a chocolatey twist, mix in dark chocolate chips before freezing.
- For a softer texture, stir the ice cream every 30 minutes while freezing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Dessert, Frozen Treats, High-Protein Ice Cream Method
- Method: Blending, Freezing
- Cuisine: Healthy, American
- Diet: Gluten Free
