Mango Colada Protein Ice Cream

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Mango Colada Protein Ice Cream!!! It’s fruity, creamy, and gives just enough coconut to remind you of that one time in South Beach, at that one restaurant, on Ocean Drive, when you ordered like five piña coladas because they were just really hitting the spot — remember? That one time? Yeah, that was fun! And you know what? While we’re on the topic ☝️… I was especially taken aback by the flavor of that piña colada because I normally don’t even like them. Never had, never thought I would. But I stand before you here today, channeling that South Beach piña colada energy with my mango colada Ninja Creami in hand, to formally announce my conversion: from hater to lover, enemy to friend. Now, let’s get into the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Ice Cream

This one’s an easy yes. Here’s why:

• Creamy but refreshing. It’s tropical and fruity but still has that dreamy soft-serve texture.
• High protein, low effort. One scoop of protein powder adds the boost you need to stay on track without tasting like a protein shake.
• No added sugar. Naturally sweetened with fruit and a little stevia—so it feels indulgent without the crash.
• Perfect for summer—or pretending it’s summer. This is sunshine in a pint, no matter the season.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for the base:

• 240 ml (1 cup) 2% milk – Just enough creaminess without going overboard on fat.
• 120 ml (½ cup) unsweetened coconut milk – Adds tropical flavor and richness.
• 1 scoop (31g) vanilla protein powder – I use whey, but plant-based works if you’re dairy-free.
• 14g sugar-free vanilla pudding mix – This is the texture hack you didn’t know you needed.
• 70g frozen pineapple – Juicy and tart, balances everything out.
• 70g frozen mango – Sweet, creamy, and full of flavor.
• 1 tsp stevia (or sweetener of choice) – Adjust to your taste.
• Pinch of salt – Enhances all the flavors and makes it pop.

Toppings:

• Shredded Coconut: Adds the perfect bit of texture. I use unsweetened, but you could toast it or use sweetened if you’re feeling fancy.
• Sugar-Free Whipped Cream: A little swirl makes it feel a little more decadent.
• Maraschino Cherry: She’s cute, she’s classic, she makes it feel finished.

You could even add a little umbrella if you’re feeling extra. No one’s judging. And actually I’m mad that I didn’t think of that before now, smh.

How to Make Mango Colada Protein Ice Cream

Step 1: Blend your base.

Add the 2% milk, coconut milk, protein powder, sugar-free pudding mix, frozen pineapple, frozen mango, stevia, and salt to a blender. Blend until completely smooth and creamy.

Step 2: Freeze.

Pour the mixture into your Ninja Creami pint container. Freeze on a flat surface for 24 hours.

Step 3: Prep to spin.

Once frozen, remove the pint from the freezer. Run it under hot water for 1 to 2 minutes on all sides including the bottom.

Step 4: Spin on lite ice cream mode.

Pop the pint into your Ninja Creami and spin it once on Lite Ice Cream mode.

Step 5: Re-spin if needed.

If it looks crumbly or icy, don’t worry. Re-spin once or twice until it reaches your ideal texture. You can add a splash of milk between re-spins if needed, but I usually don’t have to.

Step 6: Top and enjoy.

Once it’s perfectly creamy, top with your shredded coconut, a dollop of sugar-free whipped cream, and a cherry. That’s it—done.

Taste Breakdown

This ice cream is bright and tropical with just the right balance of creamy and fruity. The mango adds sweetness, the pineapple brings a little tang, and the coconut milk ties it all together with a soft, mellow richness. The vanilla pudding mix gives it a soft, scoopable texture—seriously, don’t skip it.

The protein powder blends in seamlessly. No chalky aftertaste, no weird grittiness. Just smooth, satisfying spoonfuls.

It tastes indulgent, but it’s light and fresh enough that you could eat the whole pint without feeling weighed down. (And yes, I usually do.)

Tips for Perfect Creami Texture

• Use frozen fruit. It thickens the base and freezes smoother.
• Level your pint before freezing. Uneven surfaces = uneven spins.
• Run it under water. I know it’s annoying, but it really helps prevent that dry crumbly texture.
• Be patient with re-spins. Sometimes one is all it takes, other times it needs more. Just keep spinning—it’ll come together.
• Let it chill in the freezer for a little if it’s too soft after spinning. This will give you a more scoopable texture.

Customization Ideas

One of the best things about making your own ice cream is the opportunity to customize it to fit your tastes. While the Mango Colada Protein Ice Cream is already packed with tropical flavors, there are plenty of fun ways you can tweak it. Check out these ideas to make it even more your own:

1. Amp Up the Coconut Flavor

If you’re a big coconut fan, you can intensify the coconut flavor by adding a few drops of coconut extract. This extra boost will bring the coconut front and center without having to add more coconut milk. You can also swap the shredded coconut for toasted coconut flakes for a nuttier, more complex texture.

2. Make It a Classic Piña Colada

For a more traditional piña colada vibe, skip the mango and double the pineapple. This will create that pure, sweet, and nostalgic piña colada taste. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a splash of rum extract for that classic piña colada twist (without the alcohol).

3. Change Up the Fruit for a New Twist

• Berry Colada: If you’re more into berries, swap the mango and pineapple for frozen strawberries and blueberries. This will create a tangier, berry-packed version of the ice cream.
• Tropical Twist: Try using frozen papaya and kiwi in place of the pineapple and mango for a more exotic, vibrant flavor profile.
• Citrus Zing: Add some frozen oranges or lime zest to give the ice cream a refreshing, zesty kick. A splash of lime juice can also give it some extra zing!

4. Incorporate Healthy Mix-Ins

For some added texture and variety, throw in a few mix-ins after spinning the ice cream. Here are some great ideas:

• Chopped almonds or cashews for crunch.
• Dark chocolate chips for a rich contrast to the tropical flavors.
• Granola for extra crunch and fiber.
• Chia seeds for added omega-3s and texture.

5. Turn It Into a Sorbet

If you’re looking for a lighter, dairy-free treat, you can make a sorbet version by replacing the dairy (milk and coconut milk) with just fruit and a little water or coconut water. You’ll still have a vibrant, fruity dessert without the creaminess.

With these customization options, you can easily switch up the Mango Colada Protein Ice Cream to fit your personal preferences. Whether you’re doubling the pineapple for a more classic piña colada flavor or adding a fun mix-in for some extra crunch, the possibilities are endless!

More Ninja Creami Recipes to Try

If you love this Mango Colada Protein Ice Cream, you’ll want to try these other delicious protein-packed frozen treats. These recipes are all designed for the Ninja Creami and offer a variety of flavors and textures to keep your taste buds excited!

1. White Chocolate Matcha Protein Ice Cream

For a smooth and creamy treat with a slightly earthy twist, this White Chocolate Matcha Protein Ice Cream is a must-try! The combination of sweet white chocolate and vibrant matcha powder creates a unique flavor profile that’s both refreshing and indulgent. With protein-packed goodness, it’s a perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth while staying on track with your fitness goals.

2. Chunky Monkey Protein Ice Cream

If you’re a fan of bananas and chocolate, the Chunky Monkey Protein Ice Cream is for you! This delicious creation features creamy banana ice cream, chunks of chocolate, and a handful of walnuts for crunch. It’s a satisfying and indulgent way to get your protein in, with all the rich flavors of a classic version that we all know and love.

3. Butter Pecan Protein Ice Cream

For those who enjoy a nutty, caramel-like dessert, the Butter Pecan Protein Ice Cream is sure to please. The rich butter flavor combined with crunchy pecans makes this ice cream a perfect treat for any time of year.

4. Pineapple Upside Down Cake Protein Ice Cream

This Pineapple Upside Down Cake Protein Ice Cream brings the flavors of a classic cake to your spoon, minus the guilt. With sweet pineapple and a hint of brown sugar, this ice cream is a true tropical treat. It’s perfect for when you’re craving something indulgent but still want a healthy, high-protein dessert.

5. Lemon Bar Protein Ice Cream

For those who love a tangy, refreshing dessert, the Lemon Bar Protein Ice Cream is the perfect choice. With zesty lemon flavor and a crumbly, buttery texture, this ice cream tastes just like a lemon bar but in a creamy frozen form. The addition of protein makes it a nutritious option that satisfies your sweet and citrus cravings all at once.

These Ninja Creamy recipes offer a variety of flavors to suit every mood and taste preference. Whether you’re in the mood for something fruity, nutty, or indulgent, these protein-packed ice creams will keep you coming back for more. Plus, they’re all incredibly easy to make with your Ninja Creami, so you can enjoy homemade ice cream in no time!

FAQ

Can I use fresh fruit instead of frozen?

Yes, you can, but I highly recommend using frozen fruit. It gives the ice cream that perfect thick, creamy texture and makes it easier to blend. Fresh fruit may not freeze as well and could make your ice cream too icy.

Can I make this without protein powder?

You can! While protein powder gives this ice cream that creamy, satisfying consistency, you could skip it if you’re not worried about hitting your protein. You may want to add a bit of extra sweetener to compensate, though, as the protein powder helps balance the flavors.

What kind of protein powder should I use?

I use whey protein because it blends smoothly and has a great flavor, but plant-based protein powders work too. Just keep in mind that some plant-based proteins can have a grittier texture or more noticeable flavor, so it might affect the end result.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, simply swap the 2% milk with an alternative like almond milk or oat milk. Make sure to use a dairy-free protein powder as well, and you’ll have a fully dairy-free treat.

How do I store this ice cream?

After making it, store your ice cream in the freezer in the Ninja Creami pint or another airtight container. It’s best to eat within a few days, but it should last for about a week.

Can I make this in advance?

Yes! In fact, I recommend making this in advance. You can store it in the freezer for up to a week.

Final Thoughts

Mango Colada Protein Ice Cream is one of those recipes that just gets it right. It hits the sweet, fruity, creamy spot while keeping your goals front and center. It doesn’t taste like a diet food, and it doesn’t require any extra steps or fancy tools—just blend, freeze, spin, and go.

I love that it’s light enough to eat any time of day and satisfying enough to feel like a treat. And if you’re on a Ninja Creami kick like I am, this one deserves a permanent spot in your freezer lineup.

Trust me—you’re gonna want to keep coming back to it.