Description

This high-protein ice cream recipe combines the creaminess of traditional ice cream with a nutritious boost from protein powders, banana, and almond butter. Designed to be made at home without an ice cream maker, it uses a simple shake-and-freeze method in a mason jar to create a smooth, satisfying frozen treat that’s perfect for a post-workout snack or a guilt-free dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

Ice Cream Base

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

Flavor and Protein Add-ins

1 scoop vanilla protein powder
1 scoop chocolate protein powder
1 small banana, mashed
1 tablespoon almond butter
1 tablespoon sliced almonds (optional)
2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips
1 1/2 tablespoons espresso powder

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Instructions

Combine Ingredients: In a cold small mason or jam jar, add the cold heavy cream, whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, kosher salt, both protein powders, mashed banana, almond butter, sliced almonds if using, mini chocolate chips, and espresso powder. Seal the jar tightly.
Shake to Thicken: Shake the sealed jar vigorously for 4 to 5 minutes until the mixture thickens and reaches the consistency of soft whipped cream. The shaking helps incorporate air and blend ingredients smoothly.
Freeze the Mixture: Freeze the jar for 2 hours. This initial freeze starts setting the ice cream texture.
Shake After Freezing: Remove the jar from the freezer, scrape down the sides to incorporate any frozen parts, and shake it vigorously for 1 minute to evenly distribute the ingredients and break up ice crystals.
Final Freeze: Return the jar to the freezer and continue freezing for 1 to 2 more hours until the ice cream reaches your desired firmness and texture.
Soften Before Serving: If you have frozen the ice cream overnight, allow it to sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before scooping. This softening step ensures a better texture and flavor for serving.

Notes

The optional sliced almonds add a pleasant crunch; feel free to omit or substitute with other nuts.
For a stronger coffee flavor, adjust the amount of espresso powder according to your taste.
Use cold ingredients at the start to speed up the thickening process during shaking.
This recipe makes a single serving; multiply ingredients proportionally for additional servings.
If you don’t have a mason jar, use any sealable container suitable for freezing and shaking.
Shaking the mixture periodically while freezing helps improve texture by preventing large ice crystals.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American