Strawberry Cottage Cheese Ice Cream

This strawberry cottage cheese ice cream is a deliciously creamy and refreshing treat that combines the smooth texture of cottage cheese with the natural sweetness of fresh strawberries. Perfect for those looking for a healthier alternative to traditional ice cream, this recipe is simple to make and bursting with flavor. It’s a great way to indulge in a frozen dessert without the guilt.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love how this strawberry cottage cheese ice cream balances creamy richness with fruity freshness. The cottage cheese provides a smooth, tangy base that perfectly complements the sweet, juicy strawberries. It's a healthier twist on traditional ice cream, with the cottage cheese adding a boost of protein and a velvety texture that’s hard to beat. Plus, it’s easy to whip up and can be made with just a few simple ingredients. It’s the perfect treat for a warm day or whenever I’m craving something sweet and refreshing.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of cottage cheese

• 1 ½ cups of fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped

• ½ cup of honey or maple syrup

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• Pinch of salt

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Start by washing and hulling the strawberries. Cut them into small pieces and place them in a bowl.

2. In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth.

3. Add the chopped strawberries to the mixture, and pulse a few times to break them up, but still leave some small chunks of strawberry for texture.

4. Pour the mixture into a container that’s safe for freezing, and cover it. Place the container in the freezer for at least 4-6 hours or until firm.

5. When ready to serve, scoop the ice cream into bowls or cones and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields about 4 servings. The total prep time is around 15 minutes, but you’ll need to let it freeze for 4-6 hours to achieve that perfect ice cream consistency.

Variations

• If I’m feeling adventurous, I like to add a handful of crushed nuts, like almonds or walnuts, for a bit of crunch.

• For a dairy-free version, I can swap out the cottage cheese for a non-dairy yogurt or silken tofu for a similar creamy texture.

• I sometimes toss in a bit of mint for an extra refreshing flavor, or I’ll add a swirl of strawberry jam to give it a little extra sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

This ice cream can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. When storing, make sure to cover the top with plastic wrap before sealing the container to prevent ice crystals from forming.

If it becomes too hard to scoop, I let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften before serving. If I’m reheating it, I just give it a quick stir to get the consistency back to a creamy texture.

FAQs

How long will this strawberry cottage cheese ice cream last in the freezer?

This ice cream will last up to 2 weeks in the freezer if stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, frozen strawberries can work just as well. Just make sure to thaw them slightly before blending so they mix well into the ice cream base.

Can I make this recipe without a blender or food processor?

While a blender or food processor helps to create a smooth and creamy texture, it’s possible to make it without. You can mash the strawberries by hand and whisk the cottage cheese and other ingredients together, but the texture may be a bit chunkier.

Is there a way to make this ice cream lower in sugar?

To reduce the sugar, you can cut back on the honey or maple syrup or use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit. Just keep in mind that the flavor may change slightly depending on the sweetener you use.

Can I make this without honey or maple syrup?

Yes, you can use a sugar-free sweetener or any other natural sweetener of your choice, like agave syrup or coconut sugar, depending on your dietary preferences.

Conclusion

This strawberry cottage cheese ice cream is a fantastic alternative to traditional ice cream. I love how it combines the richness of cottage cheese with the bright, fruity flavor of fresh strawberries. Whether I’m looking for a healthier dessert or just want to try something new, this recipe never disappoints. It’s a great way to enjoy a frozen treat, and I can easily customize it to suit my tastes. So, the next time I want something sweet, I’ll be reaching for this refreshing, creamy ice cream!