This High-Protein Pistachio Ice Cream is a creamy, nutty, and delicious frozen treat packed with protein! Made with real pistachios, protein powder, and a smooth, velvety texture, this homemade ice cream is perfect for a healthy dessert or post-workout snack. Unlike store-bought versions, this recipe keeps it high in protein while maintaining the rich pistachio flavor you love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High in Protein – A great way to enjoy ice cream while boosting your protein intake.
- Creamy & Delicious – Smooth, nutty, and rich in flavor without artificial additives.
- Healthier Alternative – Less sugar and more nutrition than traditional ice cream.
- Easy to Make – No ice cream machine needed!
- Customizable – Adjust sweetness, protein content, or add mix-ins.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Unsalted pistachios (raw or roasted)
- Milk of choice (whole milk, almond milk, or oat milk)
- Greek yogurt (or cottage cheese for extra protein)
- Vanilla protein powder (or pistachio-flavored protein powder)
- Honey or maple syrup (for natural sweetness)
- Vanilla extract
- Almond extract (optional, enhances the nutty flavor)
- Pinch of salt
- Green food coloring (optional, for color)
Directions
Step 1: Blend the Base
- Blend Pistachios & Milk – In a blender, blend the pistachios with the milk until smooth.
- Add Remaining Ingredients – Add Greek yogurt, protein powder, honey, vanilla extract, almond extract, and a pinch of salt. Blend until fully combined.
Step 2: Freeze the Mixture
- Pour into a Container – Transfer the mixture to a freezer-safe container.
- Freeze & Stir – Freeze for 1-2 hours, then stir every 30 minutes to prevent ice crystals from forming.
Step 3: Serve & Enjoy
- Scoop & Garnish – Let sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping. Top with chopped pistachios if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Freezing Time: 2-3 hours
- Total Time: About 3 hours
Variations
- Extra Creamy – Use heavy cream or coconut cream for a richer texture.
- Low-Carb/Keto – Swap honey for a sugar-free sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit.
- Chocolate Pistachio – Stir in dark chocolate chips before freezing.
- Vegan Version – Use plant-based protein powder and coconut yogurt.
- Crunchy Texture – Add crushed pistachios or granola for extra bite.
Storage/Reheating
- Freezing: Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
- Softening: Let sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I make this without an ice cream maker?
Yes! Stirring every 30 minutes while freezing helps achieve a smooth texture.
What protein powder works best?
Vanilla or pistachio-flavored protein powder blends best with this recipe.
How do I prevent the ice cream from getting icy?
Using Greek yogurt or a bit of cream helps keep the texture smooth. Stirring during freezing also prevents ice crystals.
Can I use almond or cashew butter instead of whole pistachios?
Yes! Nut butters can add a creamy texture and enhance the flavor.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, if you replace the honey with a keto-friendly sweetener.
Can I use a dairy-free milk alternative?
Yes! Almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk all work well.
How can I increase the protein even more?
Add an extra scoop of protein powder or blend in cottage cheese for more protein.
Can I make this into a milkshake?
Yes! Blend with more milk to create a protein-packed pistachio milkshake.
What toppings go well with this ice cream?
Chopped pistachios, dark chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of honey are great options.
Can I add mix-ins like fruit or caramel?
Absolutely! Try adding swirls of caramel or chopped dried fruit for extra flavor.
Conclusion
This High-Protein Pistachio Ice Cream is a creamy, flavorful, and nutritious way to enjoy your favorite frozen treat while keeping your protein intake high. Whether you’re making it for a healthy dessert or a post-workout snack, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings. Give it a try and enjoy a guilt-free indulgence!
Description
This healthy pistachio ice cream is packed with protein, made without heavy cream, and has a smooth, creamy texture. Perfect for a guilt-free treat that still tastes indulgent!
Step 1: Blend the Base
- Add cottage cheese, almond milk, pistachios, protein powder, honey, vanilla extract, almond extract, and salt into a high-speed blender or food processor.
- Blend until completely smooth and creamy. If needed, add a splash of milk to adjust consistency.
Step 2: Freeze the Mixture
- Pour the mixture into a shallow dish or ice cream container.
- Stir in extra chopped pistachios for texture.
- Cover and freeze for 2-3 hours, stirring every 30 minutes to prevent ice crystals.
Step 3: Serve & Enjoy!
- Let sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping.
- Garnish with crushed pistachios and enjoy your protein-rich frozen treat!
Notes
- Extra Creamy Option: Use full-fat Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese for a richer texture.
- Dairy-Free Version: Swap cottage cheese for coconut yogurt and use plant-based protein powder.
- Sweetener Swap: Replace honey with stevia or monk fruit for a lower-carb version.
- No Ice Cream Maker Needed! Just blend, freeze, and stir occasionally for a smooth texture.