Salted Pretzel Protein Ice Cream

Jump to Recipe

This Salted Pretzel Protein Ice Cream was such a pleasant surprise for me. Like, of course, I didn’t plan on making something nasty, but I also wasn’t prepared for how good it would be! The idea came from me craving a soft pretzel from the mall, and then I was just like… you know what… what if… and then the ice cream was born. It really does embody that buttery, salty, melt-in-your-mouth experience that you expect from a pretzel. Just taste the base before you put it in the freezer—your mind will be blown.

And actually, I’m sad. Because I feel like this recipe isn’t going to get the love it deserves. It’ll be overlooked and outshined by its peers with better-sounding names… I’m going to shed a tear now on its behalf. BUT for those of you Curious Georges with sophisticated palates who managed to find this hidden gem—know that you are in luck, and I hope you enjoy.

Let’s get into it!

Why You Need This In Your Life

• Soft Pretzel Vibes: It’s like a mall snack, but in frozen form.
• Protein-Packed: A dessert that fuels your goals? Yes, please.
• Simple Ingredients: No fancy stuff here. Just pantry staples and a little creativity.
• Nostalgic and Fun: Who doesn’t love a throwback to their favorite mall treat?

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to make this deliciously salty-sweet creation:

• 1 ½ cups 2% milk (360 mL)
• 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (31 g)
• 14 g sugar-free vanilla pudding mix
• 30 g salted pretzels (mini pretzels, sticks, or whatever you have on hand; half for the base, half to mix-in)
• ¼ tsp butter extract
• 1 tsp stevia (or sweetener of your choice)
• ¼ tsp salt

How to Make Salted Pretzel Protein Ice Cream

Step 1: Blend the Base

In a blender, combine:

• 1 ½ cups of 2% milk
• Vanilla protein powder
• Sugar-free vanilla pudding mix
• 15 g of salted pretzels (mini pretzels work great)
• Butter extract
• Stevia
• Salt

Blend until everything is completely smooth. Don’t worry—those pretzels will blend right into the mix, giving you all that salty, buttery pretzel goodness.

Step 2: Freeze the Base

Pour your blended mixture into your Ninja Creami pint. Make sure it’s on a level surface in your freezer, and let it freeze for 24 hours. (Yes, the wait is worth it!)

Step 3: Spin It

Once your base is frozen solid, it’s time to spin!

1. Run the pint under hot water for 1–2 minutes on all sides, including the bottom.

2. Spin the pint in your Ninja Creami on Light Ice Cream Mode.

3. If the consistency isn’t quite right, re-spin 1–2 times until it’s perfectly creamy.

Step 4: Add the Pretzels

Now, to make it even better:

1. If there isn’t already a well in the middle of your ice cream, create one.

2. Add 15 g of salted pretzels (about 11 mini pretzels) to the well.

3. Reserve a few pretzels for topping, if you like.

4. Spin again on Mix-In Mode to blend the pretzels into the ice cream.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Scoop your Salted Pretzel Protein Ice Cream into a bowl or enjoy it straight from the pint. Top with the reserved pretzels for a little extra crunch, and enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Salted Pretzel Protein Ice Cream

• Milk Options: I used 2% milk, but feel free to swap in almond milk, oat milk, or whatever works for you. Just keep in mind the texture might vary slightly.
• Protein Powder: Vanilla works best for that classic soft pretzel flavor, but if you’re feeling adventurous, caramel or salted caramel could be a fun twist.
• Sweetener: I used stevia, but you can adjust to taste or use your favorite sweetener.
• Pretzels: Mini pretzels work great for this recipe, but pretzel sticks or nuggets will work, too. Just weigh out 15 g and you’re good to go.

Customization Ideas

The beauty of this Salted Pretzel Protein Ice Cream is that you can make it your own! Whether you’re craving a fun twist or just want to elevate the existing vibes, here are a few ideas to customize your pint:

• Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Vibes: Add a dash of cinnamon (about ¼ teaspoon) to your base and an extra sprinkle of stevia or sweetener to amp up the sweetness. You’ll get that warm, sugary flavor of a classic cinnamon sugar pretzel.
• Almond Crunch: Stir in some crushed or toasted almonds when you add the pretzel mix-ins. The nutty crunch pairs perfectly with the salty-sweet base.
• Cream Cheese Swirl: If you’re a fan of dipping pretzels in cream cheese, why not recreate that here? Add a dollop of sweetened cream cheese (just mix cream cheese with a bit of stevia or powdered sugar) to the well before spinning on Mix-In Mode. It’s indulgent, tangy, and so good.
• Chocolate Pretzel Delight: Toss in some chopped sugar-free chocolate or mini chocolate chips with the pretzel mix-ins for a chocolate-covered pretzel vibe.
• Peanut Butter Pretzel Perfection: Drizzle a little powdered peanut butter (like PB2) mixed with water over the top after spinning. It’ll give you that salty-sweet combo peanut butter lovers dream about.
• Caramel Pretzel Bliss: Drizzle sugar-free caramel sauce into the well before spinning on Mix-In Mode. It adds that sticky, buttery sweetness that’s irresistible.

These fun ideas keep the recipe sweet, playful, and endlessly customizable—perfect for switching things up every time you make it!

Why This Recipe Works

Blending pretzels directly into the base is the secret to nailing that soft pretzel flavor. The butter extract adds a hint of richness, while the pudding mix and protein powder keep everything creamy and satisfying. Every bite has that perfect balance of salty and sweet, with just enough crunch from the pretzel mix-ins.

More Ninja Creami Recipes to Try:

• Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Protein Ice Cream
• New York Cheesecake Protein Ice Cream
• Rice Krispie Treat Protein Ice Cream

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of milk?

Absolutely! While I used 2% milk, almond milk, oat milk, or cashew milk will also work. Just keep in mind that creamier milks may yield a richer texture.

What if I don’t have a Ninja Creami?

While the Ninja Creami is ideal for this recipe, you can pour the base into a freezer-safe container and freeze it. Stir it every 30 minutes until it reaches your desired consistency. It won’t be as creamy as the Ninja Creami version, but it’ll still be delicious.

Do I really need butter extract?

Yes! The butter extract is what gives this ice cream that buttery pretzel flavor. It’s a small detail, but it makes a big difference.

In Conclusion

It’s everything you love about mall pretzels, but in a creamy, protein-packed ice cream form. This recipe is simple to make, ridiculously satisfying, and sure to become a new favorite.