Can I make this without an ice cream maker?

Absolutely! The no-churn version is my lazy summer go-to. Just pour your blended mixture into a shallow dish (I use a bread loaf pan), freeze for 30 minutes, then stir vigorously with a fork. Repeat every 30 minutes for 2 hours—it'll be slightly less creamy than churned, but still addictively good. Bonus: You'll burn calories stirring so you can eat more!

Will it taste like cottage cheese?

Not one bit—that's the magic! Once blended smooth, the cottage cheese disappears into creamy perfection while giving that amazing protein boost. I've served this to cottage cheese skeptics who had no clue about the secret ingredient until I told them. The mint and vanilla totally transform it—though I do recommend full-fat for the most neutral flavor. For a similar protein-packed breakfast option, try these cottage cheese pancakes .

How can I make it more minty without extract?

For fresh herb lovers, steep 1/2 cup packed mint leaves in the warmed cream for 30 minutes, then strain before blending. The flavor will be more subtle but wonderfully bright. My favorite combo? Use both methods—a few drops of extract plus fresh mint makes an incredibly complex mint flavor that'll wow anyone.

Is the food coloring necessary?

Not at all! The natural color is a pretty off-white that still looks lovely. If you want that classic mint chip look without artificial dyes, try blending in a handful of spinach—it sounds weird but adds just a hint of green without affecting taste. I promise no one will know (my kids still haven't caught on after three summers!).

Can I use frozen cottage cheese?

Here's my confession—I always keep emergency frozen cottage cheese for sudden ice cream cravings! Thaw it overnight in the fridge, then drain any excess liquid before blending. The texture might be slightly grainier, but a quick blitz in the food processor fixes it right up. Pro tip: Freeze it in 2-cup portions so it's ready when the mood strikes!

Creamy Cottage Cheese Mint Ice Cream You’ll Crave Secret Recipe

Description

Creamy and refreshing cottage cheese mint ice cream with a hint of natural sweetness.

Ingredients

2 cups cottage cheese
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp peppermint extract
2-3 drops green food coloring (optional)
Pinch of salt

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Instructions

Blend cottage cheese in a food processor until smooth.
Add heavy cream, sweetener, vanilla, peppermint extract, and salt. Blend again.
Mix in food coloring if desired.
Pour into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
Transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 4 hours.
Scoop and serve chilled.

Notes

Use full-fat cottage cheese for a creamier texture.
Adjust sweetness to taste.
For a dairy-free version, substitute with almond or coconut milk.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Category: Dessert
Method: Churned
Cuisine: International