Orange Creamsicle Cottage Cheese Ice Cream Recipe

I’ve been experimenting with cottage cheese–based ice creams in my Ninja Creami and keep discovering fresh, satisfying flavors. After making vanilla and strawberry versions, this orange creamsicle variation quickly became a favorite. It’s packed with protein, uses straightforward ingredients, and tastes indulgent—no one would guess it’s a healthier treat.

My children are the ultimate taste-testers, and every cottage cheese ice cream I’ve made has been a hit with them.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy — only five simple ingredients and minimal prep.
• Delicious — bright orange creamsicle flavor with creamy vanilla notes.
• Protein-packed — cottage cheese adds richness and boosts protein.

Ingredients

Cottage cheese — provides a silky, creamy base. Whole-milk cottage cheese gives the richest texture, but low-fat works if you prefer.

Milk — 2% works well, but use any milk you have on hand.

Sugar — granulated sugar to sweeten; substitute your preferred sweetener if desired.

Orange zest and orange juice — fresh zest and juice deliver authentic orange flavor.

Vanilla extract — balances the citrus and creates that classic creamsicle profile.

See the recipe card below for exact amounts and full details.

Variations

Other citrus — swap orange for lime, lemon, or grapefruit for a tangy twist.

Boost orange flavor — add ½ teaspoon orange extract for a more intense orange profile.

Different sweeteners — use honey, maple syrup, agave, or a preferred sugar substitute.

More protein — stir in a scoop of vanilla protein powder if you want extra protein.

Use Greek yogurt — substitute Greek yogurt for cottage cheese to reduce fat while keeping protein high.

Step by Step Instructions

Photo 1. Combine cottage cheese, sugar, milk, orange zest, and vanilla in a blender or food processor; blend until smooth.

Photo 2. Add the orange juice and blend until the mixture is uniform and creamy.

Photo 3. Pour the mixture into a Ninja Creami pint container and freeze for 24 hours.

Photo 4. When fully frozen, process the pint in the Ninja Creami using the ice cream setting; the texture may be crumbly at first.

Photo 5. If the ice cream is crumbly, add 2 tablespoons of milk, then run the Re-Spin cycle once or twice until the texture is smooth and creamy.

Photo 6. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Expert Tips

Storage — keep leftovers in the Ninja Creami pint or any airtight, freezer-safe container. To restore creaminess, run the frozen ice cream through the Ninja Creami before serving.

Serving suggestions — enjoy it plain or top with crushed graham crackers for a creamsicle-pie vibe. Other toppings that pair well include chopped cookies, fresh strawberries, or seasonal fruit.

If you don’t have a Ninja Creami — use a conventional ice cream maker with a pre-frozen drum. Pour the mixture into the frozen drum and churn until set.

Recipe FAQs

Other Ice Cream Recipes to Consider

If you try this recipe, please leave a rating and a comment, or tag a photo on Instagram with #greensnchocolate — I’d love to see how yours turns out!