chunky monkey protein ice cream (ninja creami)

Why I Love This Recipe

This Chunky Monkey Protein Ice Cream is one of my all-time favorite healthy treats! It’s not only creamy and delicious but also packed with protein, making it the perfect snack after a workout or a quick treat to satisfy a sweet tooth. The combination of bananas, chocolate chips, and walnuts creates that classic Chunky Monkey flavor, and using the Ninja CREAMi makes it incredibly easy to create a texture that’s smooth and creamy. Plus, it’s customizable to your taste, and you don’t have to feel guilty enjoying this protein-packed dessert!

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 5 Minutes
Freeze Time: 24 Hours
Total Time: 24 Hours 5 Minutes
Servings: 2-3

Ingredients

• 2 ripe bananas
• 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy works, such as almond milk or oat milk)
• 1 tablespoon milk (optional, for smoother consistency)
• 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup chocolate chips or chocolate chunks
• 1/8 cup walnuts, chopped (optional for crunch)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Bananas:
   Peel the bananas and slice them in half. Place the 4 halves upright in the container of your Ninja CREAMi or other ice cream maker, ensuring they are spaced evenly.
2. Mix the Ice Cream Base:
   In a small blender or blender bottle, combine the 1 cup of milk, protein powder, and vanilla extract. Blend until fully combined, making sure the protein powder dissolves completely into the milk.
3. Pour Over the Bananas:
   Pour the milk and protein mixture over the banana halves in the Ninja CREAMi container, ensuring the bananas are completely covered.
4. Freeze for 24 Hours:
   Cover the container and place it in the freezer on a flat surface. Let the mixture freeze for 24 hours for the best results.
5. Blend and Spin:
   After 24 hours, remove the frozen mixture from the freezer and place it in your Ninja CREAMi. Select the ‘light ice cream’ setting. This will blend the mixture into a creamy ice cream-like texture.
6. Add the Mix-ins (If Necessary):
   After the first spin, if the ice cream is still a little crumbly, add 1 tablespoon of milk and press it down in the center. Then, add the chocolate chips and walnuts. Press the mix-ins gently into the center of the ice cream, then put the container back in the Ninja CREAMi and press the ‘respin’ button to blend the mix-ins evenly.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Scoop the ice cream into bowls or cones and enjoy immediately! You can top it with extra chocolate chips, bananas, or other toppings of your choice.

Tips & Tricks

• Banana Ripeness: Make sure your bananas are ripe (with some spots) as they provide natural sweetness. Overripe bananas work best for creamy, sweet ice cream.
• Customize Your Protein Powder: Choose a vanilla protein powder that suits your dietary needs—whey, plant-based, or any other kind will work. Just keep in mind that the flavor of the powder can slightly affect the overall taste.
• Mix-ins: Feel free to get creative with the mix-ins. Besides chocolate chips and walnuts, you can add peanut butter, almond slivers, or berries for extra flavor and texture. Just make sure to add them after the first spin, and then press them into the center for a smooth finish.
• If No Ninja CREAMi: If you don’t have a Ninja CREAMi, you can still make this ice cream by blending it with a regular blender or food processor. It may not be as creamy but will still be delicious. Add the mix-ins after freezing.

Notes

• Storage: Store any leftover Chunky Monkey Protein Ice Cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1-2 weeks. For best texture, allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly.
• Extra Smoothness: If the ice cream is too hard to scoop after freezing, simply let it thaw for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will ensure it’s easier to scoop while still maintaining that creamy consistency.
• Protein Boost: This recipe is high in protein thanks to the protein powder, making it a great option for a post-workout snack or a nutritious treat that will help keep you full longer.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of protein powder?
Yes, you can use any type of protein powder. Vanilla-flavored protein powder works best for this recipe, but you can experiment with other flavors like chocolate or strawberry if you prefer.

2. What if I don’t have a Ninja CREAMi?
No worries! You can still make this ice cream by using a regular blender or food processor. After freezing the mixture, blend it and add the mix-ins. You might need to let it thaw a bit before blending to make it easier to work with.

3. Can I add other mix-ins?
Absolutely! You can add any other mix-ins you like such as peanut butter, shredded coconut, fruit, or granola. Just be sure to add them after the first spin to avoid mixing them in too early.

4. Is this ice cream low in sugar?
Yes, this ice cream is naturally sweetened with bananas and a small amount of sweetener, making it a low-sugar option compared to regular ice cream. You can also add more sweetener if you prefer it sweeter.

This Chunky Monkey Protein Ice Cream is the perfect blend of creamy, sweet, and crunchy—and it’s packed with protein to help fuel your day. Whether you’re craving a post-workout snack, a refreshing treat, or a healthy dessert, this ice cream has you covered