Who says you can’t have your holiday favorite year-round? With this Ninja Creami Eggnog Protein Ice Cream recipe, you can enjoy the rich, creamy flavors of eggnog any time you like. Plus, it’s packed with protein, making it a guilt-free treat that’s perfect for post-workout recovery or just satisfying your sweet tooth.
Imagine indulging in a bowl of ice cream that not only tastes like festive eggnog but also helps you hit your protein goals. This recipe is easy to make with the Ninja Creami, a game-changer for homemade ice cream enthusiasts. Ready to dive into a delightful and nutritious dessert experience? Let’s get started!
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 24 hours
- Process Time: 5 minutes
Ninja Creami Eggnog Protein Ice Cream
Ingredients
1 cup unsweetened almond milk 🥛
1 scoop vanilla protein powder 💪
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt 🥄
1/4 cup eggnog (store-bought or homemade) 🥚
2 tablespoons maple syrup 🍁
1 teaspoon vanilla extract 🌿
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 🌰
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 🌟
A pinch of salt 🧂
Directions
- Blend the Base: In a blender, combine the almond milk, vanilla protein powder, Greek yogurt, eggnog, maple syrup, vanilla extract, ground nutmeg, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Chill the Mixture: Pour the blended mixture into a container and refrigerate for at least 24 hours. This step is crucial for the Ninja Creami to create that perfect ice cream texture.
- Process in the Ninja Creami: After 24 hours, transfer the chilled mixture into the Ninja Creami pint container. Place it in the machine and select the “Ice Cream” setting. Let the machine work its magic.
- Check Consistency: Once the cycle is complete, check the consistency. If the ice cream isn’t as creamy as you’d like, select the “Re-spin” option until you achieve the desired texture.
- Serve and Enjoy: Scoop the ice cream into bowls or cones, sprinkle a little extra nutmeg on top for garnish, and enjoy your protein-packed eggnog ice cream!
Recipe Video
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 12g
Flavor Variations to Try
- Chocolate Eggnog: Add 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder to the mix for a chocolaty twist.
- Spiced Delight: Increase the cinnamon and nutmeg for a spicier, more festive flavor.
- Mocha Eggnog: Add a shot of espresso or 1 tablespoon of instant coffee granules to the mixture for a caffeinated kick.
- Coconut Eggnog: Substitute the almond milk with coconut milk for a tropical variation.
Tips for the Perfect Eggnog Protein Ice Cream
- Consistent Temperature: Ensure the mixture is well-chilled before processing to achieve the best texture.
- Protein Powder Choice: Use a high-quality vanilla protein powder for the best flavor and texture.
- Sweetness Adjustments: Taste the mixture before chilling and adjust the sweetness if needed by adding more maple syrup or a sugar substitute.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Ice Cream Too Hard: If your ice cream is too hard after freezing, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
- Not Creamy Enough: Use the “Re-spin” function on the Ninja Creami to improve the texture if it’s not creamy enough after the first cycle.
- Overpowering Flavor: If the nutmeg or cinnamon flavor is too strong, reduce the amounts slightly in your next batch.
Flavor Variations to Try
- Chocolate Eggnog: Add 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder to the mix for a chocolaty twist.
- Spiced Delight: Increase the cinnamon and nutmeg for a spicier, more festive flavor.
- Mocha Eggnog: Add a shot of espresso or 1 tablespoon of instant coffee granules to the mixture for a caffeinated kick.
- Coconut Eggnog: Substitute the almond milk with coconut milk for a tropical variation.
Serving and Storing Your Eggnog Protein Ice Cream
Serve your eggnog protein ice cream in chilled bowls to keep it from melting too quickly. It pairs wonderfully with holiday cookies, a dash of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of extra nutmeg.
For storing, keep the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. It’s best enjoyed within a week to maintain its fresh, creamy texture. When you’re ready to eat, allow the ice cream to soften slightly at room temperature before scooping.