High-Protein Pistachio Cottage Cheese Ice Cream Recipe

I came across this pistachio cottage cheese ice cream recipe online and, being a big fan of pistachios, cottage cheese, and ice cream, I knew I had to try it.

The combo sounded intriguing—creamy, nutty, and packed with protein. Turns out, it’s exactly as delicious as it sounds. Smooth, refreshing, and just sweet enough, this treat quickly became one of my go-to desserts.

If you’re looking for something cool, wholesome, and a little different, this recipe is calling your name. Let’s get blending.

Why This Ice Cream Is Worth Making

• Creamy
• Protein-packed
• Refreshing
• Easy

Pistachio Cottage Cheese Ice Cream Recipe

Here’s everything needed for the ice cream, listed in order with amounts and descriptions.

Ingredients

Ingredient	Amount	Description
Cottage cheese (4% fat)	3 cups	Forms a creamy, protein-rich base.
Shelled dry-roasted pistachios	1 1/4 cups	Adds nutty, toasty flavor and texture.
Maple syrup	1/2 cup	Sweetens with natural, caramel-like notes.
Vanilla extract	1 tbsp	Infuses warm, aromatic depth.
Almond extract	1/4 tsp	Enhances with a subtle nutty essence.

Optional Add-Ons

• 1 tbsp chopped dark chocolate – Adds melty, rich bursts.
• 1 tsp orange zest – Brings a bright, citrusy note.
• 1 tbsp crushed pistachios – Sprinkles extra crunch on top.

Kitchen Gear Checklist

• High-powered blender – Blends ingredients to a smooth consistency.
• 9×5-inch loaf pan – Freezes ice cream evenly.
• Fine mesh strainer – Drains cottage cheese for a thicker base.
• Spatula – Scrapes blender and mixes nuts.
• Ice cream scoop – Portions perfect scoops.

How to Make Pistachio Cottage Cheese Ice Cream

Step 1: Strain Cottage Cheese

Place 3 cups 4% fat cottage cheese in a fine mesh strainer over a bowl—press gently with a spatula for 2-3 minutes to remove excess whey, ensuring a creamy, thick base. This step prevents a watery ice cream and enhances smoothness. Discard liquid and set cheese aside.

Step 2: Prep Loaf Pan

Set out a 9×5-inch loaf pan or a similar freezer-safe container—line with parchment paper for easier removal, if desired. Ensure the pan is clean and dry to avoid flavor contamination or ice crystals during freezing.

Step 3: Blend Pistachios and Liquids

Add 1 cup shelled dry-roasted pistachios, 1/2 cup maple syrup, 1 tbsp vanilla extract, and 1/4 tsp almond extract to a high-powered blender. Blend on high for 1-2 minutes until creamy and smooth, pausing at 1 minute to scrape sides with a spatula for even blending.

Step 4: Add Cottage Cheese

Add the strained cottage cheese to the blender with the pistachio mixture—blend on high for 2-3 minutes until fully combined and silky, with no visible curds. Scrape sides every 30 seconds to ensure all ingredients are incorporated into a uniform mixture.

Step 5: Check Mixture Smoothness

Scoop a small amount of the mixture—it should be velvety and thick, like soft-serve ice cream. If grainy, blend an additional 30 seconds; if too thick, add 1 tsp milk and blend briefly. The mixture should be smooth with a nutty, sweet aroma.

Step 6: Mix in Chopped Pistachios

Roughly chop the remaining 1/4 cup pistachios into small pieces—fold them into the blended mixture with a spatula, stirring gently 4-5 times for even distribution. This adds a crunchy texture without overpowering the creamy base.

Step 7: Freeze Mixture

Pour the ice cream mixture into the prepared loaf pan—smooth the top with a spatula for an even surface. Cover tightly with plastic wrap pressed against the mixture to prevent ice crystals, then freeze for 8 hours or overnight until firm.

Step 8: Scoop and Serve

Remove the pan from the freezer and let it thaw on the counter for 15-20 minutes to soften slightly for easier scooping. Run an ice cream scoop under hot water, shake off excess, and scoop into bowls—garnish with optional chocolate or pistachios.

Storing & Scooping Tips

Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 weeks—cover with parchment before sealing to prevent ice crystals. Let soften 15 minutes before scooping. Serve as a dessert or high-protein snack with fruit or nuts.

Easy Ingredient Swaps

• Nut Swap – Use almonds or cashews instead of pistachios; toast for flavor.
• Sweetener Twist – Swap maple syrup for honey or agave.

Nutritional Breakdown

Nutrient	Per Serving (6 servings total)
Calories	260 kcal
Fat	14g
Protein	18g
Total Carbs	22g
Fiber	2g
Net Carbs	20g

Note: Values are approximate and vary by brands.

What to Serve It With

• Top with extra chopped pistachios or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
• Serve with sliced peaches or poached pears for a fruity, elegant twist.
• Drizzle with a touch of honey or warm maple syrup for added sweetness.
• Add dark chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips on top.
• Enjoy with a side of crisp biscotti or almond cookies.
• Plate with fresh berries—strawberries, blueberries, or blackberries for color and tang.
• Pair with a shot of espresso or strong black coffee for a grown-up dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not straining cottage cheese and getting icy ice cream – Excess whey leads to a watery, icy texture; a grainy scoop was disappointing—strain thoroughly for creaminess.
2. Under-blending and ending with a gritty texture – Insufficient blending leaves curds or nut chunks; a rough bite was a letdown—blend until completely smooth.
3. Freezing without covering and getting ice crystals – Exposed mixture forms crystals, ruining texture; a frosty batch was frustrating—cover tightly with plastic wrap.

FAQs

Can I use salted pistachios?

Yes, but reduce added salt in recipes or rinse and dry them to control flavor.

Can I make this vegan?

Swap cottage cheese for plant-based yogurt and maple syrup for agave—blend as directed.

What if I don’t have a loaf pan?

Use any freezer-safe container, but shallow ones freeze more evenly; adjust time if deeper.

Final Words

This ice cream isn’t just a dessert, it’s a cool, creamy reward after a long day. Packed with pistachios and protein, it’s got that perfect balance of nutty flavor and smooth texture. Remember to let it soften before scooping (that’s the secret to perfect bites every time).

Serve it up with fresh fruit or a drizzle of honey, or just enjoy it straight from the bowl. When you make it, don’t forget to come back and share your favorite twist. Because really, who doesn’t love a dessert that’s both delicious and guilt-free?