Snickerdoodle Protein Ice Cream

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Snickerdoodle is simply one of those flavors that can do no wrong! It is sweet, buttery, cinnamon-ny, just all of the good things in life baked into a cookie basically.

Getting a cookie at the mall? Snickerdoodle. In a sub shop? Snickerdoodle. What kind of cookie did I bake to beat all of my family members in the Christmas Cookie Competition this year? SNICKERDOODLE. And the crazy part about all of this is the fact that I’m allergic to cinnamon, but for snickerdoodle… the potential allergic reaction is a risk I’m willing to take.

Now, just like I can’t have just one cookie, I also can’t have just one little baby scoop of ice cream, whether it’s Snickerdoodle or any other flavor. If I can’t eat the whole pint in one sitting, I DON’T WANT IT. Thus began my quest to make a healthy-enough Snickerdoodle Ice Cream that I can devour in 5 minutes and not feel bad about. This particular recipe is high protein, low-calorie, has no added sugars, so on and so forth. But who cares, really? This recipe is great whether you’re trying to be healthy or not and you can even adjust it to be unhealthy if that’s what your heart desires LOL, I’m not stopping you! All I’m saying is try it, or simply use it as inspiration for making your own recipe, you won’t regret it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Snickerdoodle Protein Ice Cream is:

• High-Protein: With a base of Greek yogurt and vanilla protein powder, you’re sneaking in that protein without sacrificing flavor.
• Perfectly Sweet: The cheesecake pudding mix and a touch of stevia create that ideal balance of indulgence and lightness.
• Simple Ingredients: Everything you need is likely already in your kitchen. (Except maybe the butter extract, but it’s worth the small investment!)
• Low-Calorie: No heavy creams or sugary syrups here!
• Customizable: Adjust the sweetness, cinnamon, or extracts to make it your own.

If you’re already a Ninja Creami fan, trust, this recipe will become a staple in your rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 cup 2% milk: The perfect balance of creaminess and lower calories.
• ½ cup almond milk: Just to keep things light.
• 85g nonfat plain Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess and protein.
• 1 scoop (31g) vanilla protein powder: Use your favorite brand for that sweet, high-protein base.
• 14g cheesecake pudding mix: For that velvety texture and classic snickerdoodle twang.
• 1 tsp cinnamon: The star spice that gives snickerdoodle its signature flavor.
• ½ tsp vanilla extract: A touch of vanilla enhances the sweetness.
• ½ tsp butter extract: Adds a rich, buttery flavor without the extra calories.
• ⅛ tsp almond extract: Just a tiny bit adds to the cookie vibes.
• 1 tsp stevia (or your sweetener of choice): Adjust to your preferred sweetness level.
• Pinch of salt: Balances the flavors and enhances sweetness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Mix Your Base

In your Ninja Creami pint, combine the 2% milk, almond milk, greek yogurt, vanilla protein powder, cheesecake pudding mix, cinnamon, vanilla extract, butter extract, almond extract, stevia, and pinch of salt. Whisk thoroughly to ensure everything is well blended, or combine ingredients in a blender before transferring to your pint.

3. Chill the Mixture

Secure the lid on your Ninja Creami Pint. Place it in the freezer and let it freeze for at least 24 hours. This step is crucial for achieving the creamy texture we’re after!

4. Process in the Ninja Creami

Once the base is fully frozen, remove it from the freezer, rinse under hot water for 1-2 minutes, and place it in the Ninja Creami. Use the “Lite Ice Cream” setting to process it into a smooth and creamy consistency. If it looks crumbly, no worries—just run the “Re-spin” cycle until it’s perfectly smooth.

5. Optional Mix-Ins

Want to take it up a notch? Add crushed cinnamon graham crackers, cookies, or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for extra texture and flavor. Just select the “Mix-In” setting to incorporate them.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Scoop your Snickerdoodle Protein Ice Cream into a bowl, sprinkle with a little extra cinnamon if you’d like, and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Snickerdoodle Protein Ice Cream

1. Choose the Right Protein Powder

Not all protein powders are created equal! Make sure to use a vanilla protein powder with a flavor you love. Some powders can have an overpowering aftertaste, so taste-test beforehand.

2. Don’t Skip the Pudding Mix

The cheesecake pudding mix is key to achieving that creamy texture. If you’re out, you can substitute with vanilla pudding mix, but cheesecake really enhances the flavor.

3. Play with Sweeteners

Stevia works great, but feel free to use monk fruit, erythritol, or even maple syrup (if you’re okay with adding a few extra calories). Adjust to suit your taste.

4. Let the Base Freeze Completely

Patience is everything! Give your base a full 24 hours to freeze before processing in the Ninja Creami for the best results. (Not going to lie, I don’t always follow this rule, but we’ll pretend I didn’t just say that.)

5. Re-spin as Needed

If the ice cream looks crumbly after the first spin, don’t panic. The Ninja Creami’s re-spin function works like magic to create that smooth texture.

Why the Ninja Creami is a Game-Changer

If you’ve never used a Ninja Creami before, you’re in for a treat—literally. This machine makes it easy to turn healthy ingredients into creamy, decadent desserts. Unlike traditional ice cream makers, the Ninja Creami lets you customize your creations completely, so you can skip the sugar and fat without sacrificing texture or flavor.

For this recipe, the Ninja Creami’s ability to create that dreamy, churned consistency is what takes it over the top. If you don’t have one, you can get one here, or a high-speed blender and some patience can work as a substitute, the flavor will be there regardless!

Customizing Your Snickerdoodle Protein Ice Cream

One of the best parts about this recipe is how easy it is to tweak. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Make it Extra Spicy: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a spicier flavor profile.
• Add a Crunch: Mix in cookie pieces, granola, or even some nuts for some added texture.
• Switch Up the Extracts: Swap almond extract for maple or caramel extract to change up the flavor.
• Go Dairy-Free: Use a plant-based Greek yogurt and a vegan protein powder for a dairy-free version.

More Protein Ice Cream Recipes:

• Red Velvet Cake Ice Cream
• Peppermint Frosty Ice cream
• Egg Nog Ice Cream

The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion

Whether you’re enjoying this Snickerdoodle Protein Ice Cream after a workout, as a post-dinner treat, or just because you’re in the mood for something delicious, it’s guaranteed to satisfy. The warm cinnamon and buttery flavors make it especially perfect for fall/winter, but honestly, it’s amazing year-round.

FAQ for Snickerdoodle Protein Ice Cream

1. Can I use a different protein powder?

Yes! Any vanilla protein powder will work, but the flavor and texture might vary depending on the brand. Make sure to use a protein powder you enjoy.

2. What can I substitute for the cheesecake pudding mix?

If you don’t have cheesecake pudding mix, vanilla pudding mix is a good alternative. However, the cheesecake flavor adds a unique richness, so try not to skip it if possible!

3. Can I make this without a Ninja Creami?

While the Ninja Creami provides the best creamy texture, you can use a high-speed blender or food processor. The texture won’t be as smooth, but it’ll still taste great!

4. How can I make this dairy-free?

Swap the 2% milk and Greek yogurt for plant-based alternatives like almond milk or coconut yogurt, and use a vegan protein powder.

5. Can I reduce the sweetness?

Absolutely! Adjust the stevia or sweetener to taste, and remember that the pudding mix adds sweetness too, so you can skip it if you prefer less sweetness.

6. How long should I freeze the base?

For best results, freeze the base for a full 24 hours. This ensures it’s solid enough to process in the Ninja Creami.

7. Can I add mix-ins?

Yes! Crushed graham crackers, cinnamon sugar, or chopped nuts make excellent mix-ins. Use the Ninja Creami’s “Mix-In” setting to blend them in evenly.

8. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover ice cream in the Ninja Creami pint container in the freezer. Before enjoying again, let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes, then use the “Re-spin” function for the perfect texture.

Final Thoughts

This Snickerdoodle Protein Ice Cream is proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to mean giving up on dessert or eating nasty alternatives. With its rich, cinnamon-kissed flavor and creamy texture, it’s a treat that satisfies your sweet tooth and your protein goals all in one scoop or pint rather.

So go ahead and make this Ninja Creami recipe today. Your taste buds (and macros) will thank you!