Root Beer Float Protein Ice Cream
I hate to be the one to tell a story that no one cares about at the beginning of a recipe, but at the end of the day… IMA TELL IT. So boom, this Root Beer Float Protein Ice Cream tastes identical to getting a root beer float at the movie theatre! And it’s like, okay, yeah, I’m sure all root beer floats everywhere basically taste the same, but I can specifically remember ordering root beer floats at Cinema Cafe when I was younger. So when I had my first bite, sip, taste—whatever—of this recipe, it took me all the way back, and now I could cry!!
So yeah, basically, this recipe tastes exactly like the real thing. You would never, ever know that it’s a high-protein, low-calorie version, and that’s what makes any recipe of this sort a winner. Would you even want to take the time making this if I said you could tell it was a “healthy” version? NO! Exactly. So, like I said, the recipe is a winner. Yaaaaaaaay! Now let’s get into how to make it!
What Makes This Recipe A Winner
1. High Protein: Packed with protein from the vanilla protein powder and milk, this recipe keeps you full and satisfied.
2. Low-Calorie Indulgence: Using 2% milk, sugar-free pudding mix, and diet root beer means you get all the flavor without the extra calories.
3. Versatile Enjoyment: Spoon it, sip it, or mix the soda right into the ice cream base—this recipe lets you enjoy it your way.
4. Fun to Make: The Ninja Creami takes this treat to the next level with its creamy, movie theatre-quality consistency lol.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this high-protein root beer float ice cream, you only need a handful of simple ingredients:
- 360 ml 2% milk: Adds creaminess while keeping the calories in check.
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (31 g): Choose a protein powder that you love the flavor of!
- 14 g sugar-free vanilla pudding mix: Helps create that smooth, thick, ice cream-like texture.
- 1 tsp stevia: For just the right amount of sweetness without the sugar.
- ½ tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the vanilla flavor for that nostalgic root beer float vibe.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the flavors perfectly.
- 1 cup diet or zero-sugar root beer: The fizzy finale to bring it all together.
- Optional toppings: Sugar-free whipped cream and a cherry for that picture-perfect finish.
How to Make Root Beer Float Protein Ice Cream
Step 1: Blend Your Base
In a blender, combine the milk, vanilla protein powder, sugar-free vanilla pudding mix, stevia, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Blend until everything is fully combined and smooth. This step ensures the pudding mix dissolves completely, so you don’t end up with any clumps in your ice cream.
Step 2: Freeze the Base
Pour the blended mixture into your Ninja Creami pint, making sure to leave some room at the top for expansion as it freezes. Secure the lid and place the pint in the freezer for at least 24 hours.
Step 3: Spin the Ice Cream
After 24 hours, take the pint out of the freezer. Run the outside of the pint under hot water for 1–2 minutes to help loosen the edges. Place the pint in your Ninja Creami and spin it on the light ice cream mode.
If the ice cream looks crumbly after the first spin (don’t panic—this is normal!), re-spin it 1–2 more times until it reaches your desired creamy consistency.
Step 4: Add the Root Beer
Once your ice cream is perfectly creamy, pour in 1 cup of diet or zero-sugar root beer. You can gently mix it in for a swirl effect or pour it over the top for a true float experience.
Step 5: Add Toppings (Optional)
Top your float with sugar-free whipped cream and a cherry for the full nostalgic soda fountain vibe.
Tips for Perfect Root Beer Float Protein Ice Cream
1. Choose the Right Protein Powder: The flavor of your protein powder matters. A high-quality vanilla protein powder with a smooth taste will make or break this recipe.
2. Don’t Skip the Pudding Mix: This ingredient is the secret to that luscious, creamy texture.
3. Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer your ice cream sweeter, feel free to add an extra pinch of stevia or your preferred sweetener.
4. Experiment with Root Beer: Diet root beer or zero-sugar versions are both great options, but brands vary in flavor, so pick one you love.
5. Customize the Float: Not a fan of mixing the soda in after? You can blend it with the ice cream base before freezing for a fully incorporated root beer flavor.
How to Enjoy Your High-Protein Root Beer Float
This protein-packed dessert is as versatile as it is delicious. Here are a few ways you can enjoy it:
- Classic Float Style: Pour the root beer over the ice cream and enjoy it with a spoon and straw.
- Mixed-In Flavor: Blend the soda into the base before freezing for a consistent root beer flavor throughout.
- Topped to Perfection: Add whipped cream and a cherry for an Instagram-worthy dessert that’s sure to impress.
Why This Recipe Works
Root beer floats are traditionally made with ice cream and soda, and this version is still made with ice cream and soda LOL. However, the addition of protein powder, pudding mix, and diet soda elevates this version into a high-protein dessert that still delivers on taste and texture. Plus, the Ninja Creami’s ability to create a creamy, scoopable base ensures you won’t miss the traditional ice cream at all.
Root Beer Float Protein Ice Cream
Ingredients
- 1½ cups 2% milk (360 ml)
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (about 31g)
- 14 g sugar-free vanilla pudding mix
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp stevia or sweetener of choice, to taste
- pinch of salt
- 1 cup diet or zero-sugar root beer (240 ml)
Optional Toppings
- sugar-free whipped cream
- maraschino cherry
Instructions
- In a blender, combine the milk, vanilla protein powder, sugar-free vanilla pudding mix, stevia, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Blend until everything is fully combined and smooth.
- Pour the blended mixture into your Ninja Creami pint, secure the lid and place the pint in the freezer for at least 24 hours.
- After 24 hours, take the pint out of the freezer and run it under hot water on all sides for 1–2 minutes.
- Spin it on Light Ice Cream mode.
- Respin it 1–2 times until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Once your ice cream is done, pour in 1 cup of diet or zero-sugar root beer. You can gently mix it in for a swirl effect or pour it over the top for a true float experience.
- Top your float with sugar-free whipped cream and a cherry (optional) and enjoy!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use almond milk or another milk alternative?
Yes, but keep in mind that using almond milk or another non-dairy milk will result in a slightly thinner base compared to 2% milk. If you’re aiming for maximum creaminess, stick with dairy milk.
What other sodas can I use?
Feel free to experiment with other diet sodas like cream soda, cola, or even orange soda for a fun twist on this recipe.
Can I meal prep this recipe?
Absolutely! You can make multiple pints of the base ahead of time and freeze them. When you’re ready to enjoy, just spin a pint and add the root beer.
Final Thoughts
This Root Beer Float Protein Ice Cream is the perfect balance of indulgence and nutrition. It’s a simple recipe with endless possibilities!
With its creamy texture, nostalgic flavors, and high-protein content, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your Ninja Creami rotation.
Let me know how you enjoy it and if you try any fun twists!