Why I Love This Recipe
This mango protein ice cream is a tropical dream come true! With only three ingredients, it’s incredibly easy to make yet packed with the vibrant flavor of fresh mango. The creamy, luscious texture rivals anything store-bought, but it’s not just about taste—this ice cream is a nutritional powerhouse, boasting 45 grams of protein per batch. It’s the perfect guilt-free treat to cool off on sunny days or refuel after a workout. Plus, it’s customizable, so you can top it with your favorite add-ins like granola, shredded coconut, or even a drizzle of honey for added indulgence.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Freeze Time: 24 hours
Total Time: 1 day, 10 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Servings: 24 oz
Calories per Serving: 356 kcal
Ingredients
- 414 ml vanilla protein shake (e.g., Core Power)
- 160 g mango chunks (approximately 1.75 cups)
- 12 g sugar-free vanilla instant pudding mix (e.g., Simply Delish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
- In your Ninja Creami container, pour the entire bottle of your preferred vanilla protein shake.
- Add the mango chunks and sugar-free vanilla instant pudding mix. Stir or whisk until well combined, ensuring the pudding mix is fully dissolved.
Step 2: Freeze the Mixture
- Place the container in the freezer and let it freeze for at least 24 hours. Make sure it’s sitting level in the freezer to ensure even freezing.
Step 3: Process in the Ninja Creami
- When you’re ready to enjoy, remove the container from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes. This helps soften the mixture slightly for better blending.
- Insert the container into the Ninja Creami machine and select the “Full Light Ice Cream” setting.
Step 4: Adjust the Texture
- Once the cycle is complete, check the consistency. If it’s too firm or crumbly, add a splash of water or milk to the mixture.
- Perform a “Full Respin” cycle to achieve a creamy, smooth texture.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Scoop the mango ice cream into bowls or cones. Top with your favorite add-ins like granola, shredded coconut, or fresh fruit for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips & Tricks
- Choose the Best Mango: Use ripe, juicy mangoes for maximum flavor. Frozen mango chunks work just as well and save prep time.
- Protein Shake Options: Any vanilla-flavored protein shake will work, but choose one with a creamy texture for the best results.
- Freeze Level: Ensure the container is placed on a flat surface in the freezer to avoid uneven freezing.
- Respin for Perfection: If the ice cream isn’t creamy after the first cycle, don’t worry! The respin feature is your best friend for achieving the perfect texture.
- Sweetness Adjustments: If you prefer a sweeter ice cream, consider adding a drizzle of honey or a few drops of liquid stevia before freezing.
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in the Ninja Creami container or an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 week. Let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving again.
- Re-freezing Tip: If the texture becomes too icy after storage, simply run it through the Ninja Creami on the “Respin” setting for a creamy consistency.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh mango instead of frozen mango chunks?
Yes! Fresh mango works perfectly. Simply dice it into small pieces before blending.
2. What if I don’t have a Ninja Creami?
You can use a high-speed blender or food processor instead. Blend the frozen mixture until smooth, then freeze for 1–2 hours to firm up before serving.
3. How can I add more protein?
Boost the protein content by adding a scoop of unflavored or vanilla protein powder to the mixture before freezing.
4. Can I substitute the vanilla pudding mix?
Yes, you can use a different sugar-free pudding flavor, like coconut or cheesecake, for a unique twist.
5. How do I make this dairy-free?
Use a plant-based vanilla protein shake and ensure the pudding mix is dairy-free.
Enjoy this quick, delicious, and protein-packed mango ice cream, perfect for post-workout recovery or a refreshing summer treat
