Creamy High-Protein Ice Cream Recipe
Creamy High-Protein Ice Cream Recipe is a medium American recipe that serves 4. 880 calories per serving. Recipe by Animal Based Bae on YouTube.
Prep: 43 min | Cook: 20 min | Total: 1 hr 13 min
Cost: $14.80 total, $3.70 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 cups Raw Cream (grass‑fed, unpasteurized, from Miller's Biofarm)
- 2 cups Cottage Cheese (raw cottage cheese made from raw milk, pint size)
- 4 large Egg Yolks (pastured, corn‑ and soy‑free eggs)
- 0.5 cup Maple Syrup (local Pennsylvania maple syrup)
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (pure vanilla extract)
- 0.5 tsp Celtic Sea Salt (fine sea salt)
- 0.25 tsp Ground Cinnamon (freshly ground)
Instructions
Gather and Measure Ingredients
Measure 2 cups raw cream, 2 cups raw cottage cheese, 4 egg yolks, ½ cup maple syrup, 1 tsp vanilla extract, ½ tsp sea salt, and ¼ tsp ground cinnamon. Separate the egg whites into a small bowl for later use.
Time: PT5M
Combine Base Ingredients
In the stainless steel mixing bowl, whisk together the raw cream, egg yolks, maple syrup, vanilla extract, sea salt, and ground cinnamon until the mixture is smooth and slightly pale.
Time: PT5M
Add Cottage Cheese
Add the 2 cups of cottage cheese to the bowl. Gently whisk just until the cheese is incorporated, leaving a few small curds for texture.
Time: PT3M
Chill the Mixture
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and ensures a smoother churn.
Time: PT30M
Temperature: 4°C
Prepare Ice Cream Maker
Ensure the ice‑cream maker’s freezer bowl has been frozen for at least 24 hours. Assemble the machine according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Time: PT2M
Churn the Ice Cream
Pour the chilled mixture into the ice‑cream maker and churn for about 20 minutes, or until the ice cream reaches a soft‑serve consistency and pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
Time: PT20M
Freeze (Optional for Firm Texture)
Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container, smooth the top, and place in the freezer for 2 hours if you want a scoopable, firm texture.
Time: PT2H
Serve
Scoop the ice cream into bowls, sprinkle a pinch of extra cinnamon if desired, and enjoy immediately.
Time: PT2M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 880
- Protein
- 12 g
- Carbohydrates
- 20 g
- Fat
- 45 g
- Fiber
- 0 g
Dietary info: High‑Protein, Gluten‑Free, Paleo‑Friendly, Keto‑Compatible, Raw‑Dairy (if using raw ingredients)
Allergens: Dairy, Eggs
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Raw Cream: Pasteurized heavy cream
- Instead of Cottage Cheese: Full‑fat store‑bought cottage cheese
- Instead of Egg Yolks: Pasteurized egg yolks
- Instead of Maple Syrup: Honey, Agave nectar
- Instead of Vanilla Extract: Seeds from a vanilla bean
- Instead of Celtic Sea Salt: Kosher salt
- Instead of Ground Cinnamon: Ground nutmeg
Equipment Needed
- Stainless Steel Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Small Bowl (for separating eggs)
- Ice Cream Maker (freezer bowl type) (optional)
- Measuring Cups
- Spatula
- Freezer
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Whisk the base until completely smooth to avoid curdling.
- Ensure the ice‑cream maker bowl is frozen solid before churning.
- Watch for the mixture to pull away from the sides of the bowl – this indicates proper churn.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Add an extra drizzle of maple syrup after churning for extra sweetness without affecting texture.
- A pinch of sea salt right before serving enhances the flavor contrast.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, blend the cottage cheese with the base in a handheld blender before chilling.
Troubleshooting
Ice crystals form and the texture is grainy.
Make sure the ice‑cream maker bowl is fully frozen and chill the base mixture thoroughly before churning.
Cottage cheese curds disappear completely.
Fold the cottage cheese in gently and stop whisking as soon as it is incorporated; over‑mixing breaks down the curds.
The mixture freezes too hard and is difficult to scoop.
Allow the ice cream to sit at room temperature for 5‑10 minutes or stir in a splash of extra cream before serving.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Can be kept frozen for up to 2 months; let soften 10‑15 minutes before scooping.
Room temperature: Do not store at room temperature; ice cream will melt quickly.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the base mixture up to step 3 and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before churning.
- After churning, the ice cream can be frozen in advance; simply let it soften before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of cottage cheese ice cream in American farm cuisine?
Cottage cheese ice cream is a modern twist on traditional farm desserts, combining the tang of fresh cottage cheese with the richness of cream. It reflects a growing interest in high‑protein, low‑sugar treats that showcase locally‑sourced dairy, especially in regions like Pennsylvania where raw milk farming is celebrated.
What are the traditional regional variations of cottage cheese ice cream in the United States?
While cottage cheese ice cream is not a historic regional dish, variations appear in dairy‑rich areas such as the Midwest and the Northeast, often flavored with local honey, maple syrup, or fruit purées. Some farms add berries or nuts to highlight seasonal produce.
How is cottage cheese ice cream traditionally served in Pennsylvania farm households?
Farm families typically serve it as a simple dessert after dinner, scooped into bowls and topped with a drizzle of local maple syrup, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or fresh berries. It’s often enjoyed alongside homemade biscuits or as a refreshing treat on hot summer evenings.
What occasions or celebrations is cottage cheese ice cream associated with in American farm culture?
It’s popular during harvest festivals, Thanksgiving, and holiday gatherings where farms showcase their dairy products. The high‑protein profile also makes it a favorite post‑workout snack for farmhands and athletes alike.
What authentic ingredients are essential for traditional cottage cheese ice cream versus acceptable substitutes?
Authentic recipes use raw cream and raw cottage cheese from grass‑fed cows, local maple syrup, and pastured eggs. Acceptable substitutes include pasteurized heavy cream, store‑bought full‑fat cottage cheese, honey instead of maple syrup, and regular eggs if raw eggs are a concern.
What other American farm‑style dishes pair well with cottage cheese ice cream?
Pair it with warm apple crumble, fresh berry compote, or a slice of homemade cornbread. The tangy creaminess also complements smoked ham or a charcuterie board for a sweet‑savory contrast.
What makes cottage cheese ice cream special or unique in American dessert cuisine?
The inclusion of cottage cheese adds a subtle tang and extra protein, creating a texture that’s both creamy and slightly grainy. This combination sets it apart from traditional butter‑based ice creams and aligns with the farm‑to‑table movement.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making cottage cheese ice cream?
Common errors include over‑mixing the cottage cheese, using a warm ice‑cream maker bowl, and skipping the chilling step. Over‑mixing destroys the curd texture, while a warm bowl prevents proper freezing, leading to icy crystals.
Why does this cottage cheese ice cream recipe use raw cream and raw cottage cheese instead of pasteurized dairy?
Raw dairy retains more natural enzymes and a richer flavor profile, which enhances the creaminess and protein content of the ice cream. The recipe aims to showcase the quality of Miller's Biofarm’s grass‑fed, raw products.
Can I make cottage cheese ice cream ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes. After churning, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze. It will keep for up to two months. For a softer texture, let it sit at room temperature for 10‑15 minutes before scooping.
What does the YouTube channel Animal Based Bae specialize in?
The YouTube channel Animal Based Bae focuses on animal‑based nutrition, showcasing recipes that highlight raw dairy, grass‑fed meats, and high‑protein, low‑carb dishes. Host Lindsay often collaborates with farms and specialty producers to create nutrient‑dense meals.
How does the YouTube channel Animal Based Bae's approach to American farm‑style cooking differ from other cooking channels?
Animal Based Bae emphasizes raw and minimally processed animal products, prioritizing nutrient density and farm‑sourced ingredients. Unlike many channels that use conventional pasteurized dairy, Animal Based Bae highlights the flavor and health benefits of raw milk and raw eggs, often partnering directly with farms like Miller's Biofarm.
Last updated: September 6, 2026
