Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

High-Protein Ice Cream Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.8 from 74 reviews
  • Author: Paula
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes (freezing time not considered active cook time)
  • Total Time: 4 hours
  • Yield: 1 serving
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This High-Protein Ice Cream is a creamy, nutritious treat that combines rich heavy cream, protein powder, and tasty mix-ins like banana, almond butter, and chocolate chips. It’s easy to prepare by shaking the ingredients in a jar for a soft, whipped texture and then freezing to your preferred ice cream consistency. Perfect for a high-protein snack or dessert that satisfies sweet cravings while supporting muscle recovery.


Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup cold heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons whole milk
  • 1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk
  • Pinch of kosher salt

Protein and Flavor Enhancers

  • 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
  • 1 small banana, mashed
  • 1 tablespoon almond butter
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons espresso powder
  • 1 scoop chocolate protein powder

Toppings (Optional)

  • 1 tablespoon sliced almonds
  • 2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips


Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a cold small mason or jam jar, add the base ingredients along with your chosen protein powder and flavor enhancers. Securely seal the jar.
  2. Shake to Whip: Vigorously shake the jar for 4 to 5 minutes until the mixture thickens and reaches the consistency of soft whipped cream. This step incorporates air and blends flavors well.
  3. Initial Freeze: Place the jar in the freezer for 2 hours to begin setting the mixture.
  4. Shake Again: Remove the jar, scrape down the sides if needed, and shake vigorously for 1 minute to maintain a creamy texture.
  5. Final Freeze: Return the jar to the freezer for an additional 1 to 2 hours, or longer if desired, until it reaches the consistency of ice cream.
  6. Serve: Before serving, if frozen overnight, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes to soften slightly for easier scooping.

Notes

  • Shaking by hand is essential to achieve the creamy texture without an ice cream maker.
  • You can customize the flavor by mixing either vanilla or chocolate protein powder, or both.
  • The espresso powder adds a subtle coffee flavor that complements chocolate well.
  • Sliced almonds and mini chocolate chips add texture if desired.
  • This recipe yields a single serving, but ingredients can be scaled up accordingly.
  • Letting the ice cream soften a bit before serving enhances scoopability.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 18 g
  • Sodium: 70 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg