These 6 NinjaCREAMi Recipes Are Dietitian Approved

Adding another gadget to your kitchen is a big ask, especially if you are limited on space, but if Internet popularity is any indication, the NinjaCREAMi might be worth it. Its appeal is in its design, which helps you make ultra-creamy frozen treats — and fans are using it to create protein-packed ice creams and low-sugar gelatos. As with all trendy recipes online, some are healthier (and better tasting) than others. We asked dietitians to share their favorite NinjaCREAMi recipes.

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You asked: Is Ninja CREAMi just a blender?

The Ninja CREAMi is a high-powered, user-friendly ice cream maker that can whip up everything from healthy ice cream and gelato to smoothies and milkshakes. What sets it apart from regular blenders and ice cream makers is its unique design. The Ninja CREAMi’s motors, paddle, and varying speeds work together to transform frozen bases into exceptionally creamy, smooth textures. Thanks to the gadget’s design, you can add things like protein powder and cottage cheese to ice cream bases and still end up with satisfying frozen desserts.

Here’s how to use it:

1. Prepare a base: Mix the ingredients to create your desired base. This could be a blend of milk, yogurt, cottage cheese, or protein shakes, plus any sweeteners, flavorings, and other add-ins like fruit or nuts.
2. Freeze the base: Pour the mixture into the Ninja CREAMi’s pint-sized container. Seal it and freeze for at least 24 hours. This step is crucial because the base needs to be fully frozen before you can process it.
3. Process: Place the frozen base in the NinjaCREAMi. Attach the pint to the machine, select the appropriate setting (ice cream, sorbet, or gelato), and press start. The machine spins the frozen base into a creamy dessert.
4. Customize: After the initial spin, you can add mix-ins like chocolate chips, cookie crumbs, or nuts. Simply use the “Mix-In” function to evenly distribute them throughout your dessert.

Once you learn the process, you can play around with different bases, customized ingredients, and toppings.

Can you use a blender instead?

While the Ninja CREAMi is specifically designed to achieve the perfect texture for these treats, some recipes might work in a high-speed blender or another appliance. However, the results may vary in terms of texture and consistency, as the CREAMi’s specialized process of incorporating air into the final product is difficult to replicate with other devices.

Luscious dietitian-approved Ninja CREAMi recipes 

1. Dairy-Free Rich Chocolate Ice Cream 

No collection of Ninja CREAMi recipes would be complete without a classic chocolate ice cream. Indulge in this rich, velvety version, which is dairy free, from dietitian Colleen Wysocki. Simple ingredients like almond milk, cocoa powder, and vanilla come together for a decadent chocolate flavor that’s rich and satisfying.

Try this recipe from Zest Nutrition.

2. Double Chocolate Birthday Cake Protein Ice Cream

This high-protein delight from dietitian Nicole Ibarra is perfect for celebrating any occasion. A dash of sugar-free chocolate pudding mix adds creaminess and sweetness to the mix, which also has milk, some protein shake, and a sprinkle of birthday cake–flavored extract. It packs 38 grams of protein into a sweet, indulgent treat.

Try this recipe from Nicole Ibarra.

3. Protein Ice Cream Base

Lindsay Cohen, a dietitian and diabetes educator, shares her blood sugar–friendly ice cream crafted to satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping blood sugar levels in check. This recipe is ideal for those managing diabetes or anyone seeking a lower-glycemic dessert option. The base is a combination of protein powder, milk, and optional sweetener, and its neutral flavor means you can toss in anything you like — berries, nuts, extracts — or change the protein powder flavor to make a different base. 

Try this recipe from Lindsay Cohen.

4. Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream

Dietitian and recipe developer Mackenzie Burgess created a spin on strawberry cheesecake ice cream that packs 20 grams of protein. With whole milk, cheesecake instant pudding mix, light cream cheese, and no-sugar strawberry jam, it’s a fun and tasty spin on a dessert favorite. 

Try this recipe from Mackenzie Burgess.

5. Chocolate Cottage Cheese Ice Cream

This recipe from dietitian Jamie Nadeau uses trendy cottage cheese, and the ice cream is delicious on its own or with add-ins. It has 17 grams of protein — plus, it’s easy to make a vanilla version if you prefer, thanks to the notes in the recipe.

Try this recipe from The Balanced Nutritionist.

6. High Protein Vanilla Ice Cream

Made with just two simple ingredients, a protein shake and sugar-free vanilla pudding mix, this recipe couldn’t be easier, and it has 21 grams of protein. It’s great for anyone looking to boost their protein intake while enjoying a classic vanilla flavor. You can easily swap out the shake and pudding flavors to create your own customized ice cream.

Try this recipe from The Balanced Nutritionist.

Read next: 10 Mediterranean Diet Dessert Recipes to Tame Your Sweet Tooth