Ninja Creami Peppermint Frosty Protein Ice Cream
Ah, the classic combination of cool peppermint and creamy chocolate—it’s a flavor match that feels just right for winter. This Peppermint Frosty, made using the Ninja Creami, takes that classic pairing and transforms it into a high-protein, festive treat you’ll want to make all season long. It’s simple to prepare, has the perfect flavor, and offers a lighter way to enjoy a frozen dessert without any compromise.
Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Frosty
- High Protein: It’s full of protein, but also low calorie making it guilt-free!
- Festive Flavor: Crushed candy canes bring the holiday vibes to life.
- Customizable: Prefer a stronger peppermint flavor? Add a touch of peppermint extract. Want a richer chocolate taste? Swap the vanilla protein powder for chocolate.
- Easy to Make: The Ninja Creami makes it foolproof, and with a few spins, you’ll have a soft, creamy dessert that feels like a Frosty straight from the drive-thru.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this Peppermint Frosty:
- 1 cup 2% milk
- ½ cup almond milk
- 1 scoop (31g) vanilla protein powder
- 1 reduced-calorie hot chocolate packet
- 85g nonfat plain Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon stevia (or sweetener of choice)
- A pinch of salt
- 1 candy cane, crushed
How to Make Peppermint Frosty in the Ninja Creami
1. Mix the Base
In a blender or directly in your Ninja Creami pint, combine the 2% milk, almond milk, vanilla protein powder, hot chocolate packet, Greek yogurt, stevia, and salt. Blend or froth until smooth.
2. Freeze the Pint
Pour the mixture into your Ninja Creami pint, ensuring it doesn’t exceed the max fill line. Cover with the lid and freeze for at least 24 hours. This step is non-negotiable—it’s what ensures your Frosty comes out perfectly creamy.
3. Prepare to Spin
When you’re ready to enjoy your Frosty, take the pint out of the freezer. Run the sides and bottom of the pint under hot water for 1–2 minutes to loosen the frozen mixture.
4. Spin It on Light Ice Cream
Insert the pint into your Ninja Creami and spin it on the “Light Ice Cream” setting. If the texture isn’t creamy enough after the first spin, re-spin 1–2 more times.
5. Add the Candy Cane
Use a spoon to create a well in the center of the ice cream if one hasn’t formed naturally. Add most of the crushed candy cane to the well, reserving a little for topping if desired. Spin it on the “Mix-In” setting to distribute the candy cane throughout the Frosty.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Scoop the Frosty into a bowl or eat it straight from the pint. Sprinkle the reserved crushed candy cane on top for extra crunch and a festive finish.
Recipe Notes
- Peppermint Boost: If you want to enhance the peppermint flavor, consider adding ⅛ to ¼ teaspoon of peppermint extract when you mix the base. A little goes a long way, so start small and adjust to your liking.
- Chocolate Variation: While this recipe uses vanilla protein powder for balance, you can swap it for chocolate protein powder for a richer, chocolate-forward version.
- Candy Cane Tips: To easily crush your candy cane, place it in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin or the back of a spoon.
- Adjusting Sweetness: The sweetness level is entirely up to you. Add more stevia or your preferred sweetener if you like a sweeter Frosty.
- Lower Sugar: Use sugar-free hot cocoa mix and candy canes to reduce the overall sugar content.
- Crunchy Add-Ins: Stir in mini chocolate chips, crushed chocolate wafers, or even some cocoa nibs for added texture.
- Creamier Texture: Replace the almond milk with whole milk or add a splash of heavy cream for an extra creamy consistency.
- Festive Topping: Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed candy cane for a holiday-inspired look.
These small changes can make this recipe feel fresh and customized to your taste without adding much effort!
Ninja Creami Peppermint Frosty Protein Ice Cream
Ingredients
Ice Cream Base
- 1 cup 2% milk
- ½ cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk
- 85 g non-fat plain greek yogurt
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (about 31g)
- 1 reduced calorie hot chocolate packet
- 1 tsp stevia or sweetener of choice, to taste
- pinch of salt
Mix-Ins
- 1 candy cane crushed
Instructions
- Add all ingredients listed under "Ice Cream Base" to your Ninja Creami pint and whisk or froth to combine. Alternatively, you can add the ingredients to a blender and blend before pouring the mixture into your pint!
- Put the lid on your pint and freeze for 24 hours on a level surface.
- Run your pint under hot water for 1-2 minutes to thaw it slightly for a smoother result.
- Spin on lite ice cream mode.
- Respin 1-2 times, until the ice cream is smooth and creamy.
- Use a spoon to create a well in the center of the ice cream if one hasn’t formed naturally. Add most of the crushed candy cane to the well, reserving a little for topping if desired.
- Spin it on the mix-in setting to distribute the candy cane throughout the Frosty.
- Sprinkle the reserved crushed candy cane on top and enjoy!
Yes, You Need To Make This!
This Peppermint Frosty combines everything you love about the season into one easy-to-make dessert. It’s festive, creamy, and packed with protein, making it a great way to enjoy a holiday-inspired treat without overindulging. The crushed candy canes add just the right amount of texture and flavor, and the recipe is versatile enough to tweak based on your preferences.
So no matter what you’re in this mood for, this Peppermint Frosty is sure to tick all the boxes!
More Holiday Recipes:
- Ninja Creami Egg Nog Protein Ice Cream
- Peppermint Chocolate Chip Protein Skillet Cookie
- Cranberry Truffle Protein Smoothie
- Frosted Sugar Cookie Overnight Oats
FAQ
Can I use a different protein powder?
Yes! Any protein powder will work here, but keep in mind the flavor and sweetness might vary. Chocolate protein powder is an excellent alternative if you want a deeper cocoa flavor.
What if I don’t have a Ninja Creami?
No problem! Blend the base ingredients until smooth, then freeze the mixture in a shallow container. Once frozen, break it into pieces and blend it in a high-speed blender or food processor until creamy.
How do I make it dairy-free?
Swap the 2% milk for almond milk (or your preferred plant-based milk) and use a dairy-free Greek-style yogurt. Be sure to use a protein powder and hot chocolate packet that are also dairy-free.
What can I use for toppings?
While the crushed candy cane is the star here, you can also get creative with toppings. Try adding mini chocolate chips, a drizzle of chocolate syrup, or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Overall
This Peppermint Frosty is proof that you don’t need a complicated recipe to create something that feels indulgent during the holiday season. With just a few simple ingredients and your Ninja Creami, you can whip up a dessert that’s perfect for cozy winter nights or sharing with friends and family.