Okay, this might be one of my favorite "I can't believe it's dairy-free" moments. This Ninja Creami vanilla ice cream is creamy, scoopable, loaded with vanilla flavor… and totally plant-based. And bonus? There's protein in every bite, thanks to a little magic from your favorite vanilla protein powder.
If you're like me and you love your kitchen gadgets doing the heavy lifting, this recipe is for you. It's one of those easy prep + blend + freeze situations, and the result is that dreamy soft-serve vibe without needing a drop of dairy. I love serving it with fresh fruit.
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The ingredients
Almond vanilla milk (whole) - This is your base. You want the whole version, not the watered-down light one.
Plant-based cream - Adds richness and that churned texture. I use oat or coconut cream depending on the mood.
Vanilla protein powder - Sweetens naturally and brings in that high-protein bonus.
Vanilla extract or paste - Go for the real deal here, not the artificial stuff. It makes all the difference.
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Ninja Creami Dairy Free Vanilla Ice Cream
Step 1: Add everything to the container
Start by pouring the almond vanilla milk, plant-based cream, vanilla protein powder, and vanilla extract right into your Ninja Creami pint container. No need to dirty a bowl - less cleanup is always a win!
Step 2: Mix it smooth
Grab your hand mixer and give everything a good blend directly in the container. Mix until the texture looks creamy and uniform, with no clumps of powder hiding at the bottom.
Step 3: Freeze it overnight (or longer)
Once it's fully mixed, pop the lid on and place the container flat in your freezer. Let it freeze for at least 24 hours - this step is non-negotiable if you want that perfect Creami texture!
Step 4: Time to spin!
When you're ready to churn, take the pint out of the freezer, secure it into your Ninja Creami machine, and select the "Lite Ice Cream" setting. The machine will break down the frozen base into a silky-soft treat.
Step 5: Re-spin if needed
If it looks dry or crumbly after the first spin (which happens sometimes!), just hit the "Re-spin" button. Most times, that second run gets it just right.
Step 6: Scoop and enjoy
Serve it immediately or dress it up with your favorite toppings - berries, granola, or even a little swirl of nut butter. You earned this scoop.
Tips for Success
- Freeze flat. If your pint freezes at an angle, the blade can't do its magic. Been there, learned that the hard way.
- Re-spin if needed. Don't panic if the first spin isn't perfect. That second run-through changes everything.
- Protein powder matters. Use one you actually like the taste of on its own, because it's going to shine here.
Variations
- Chocolate Vanilla Swirl - Add a teaspoon of cocoa powder and swirl with chocolate syrup post-spin. Boom.
- Berry Bliss - Add ¼ cup of frozen raspberries or blueberries after the first spin, then re-spin.
- No protein version - Just skip the powder and add a little maple syrup to sweeten.
Serving Ideas
- Serve with grilled peaches and toasted almonds for a summer dessert that looks fancy but takes five minutes.
- Use it in a dairy-free affogato! Just pour hot espresso over a scoop. Heaven.
- Sandwich it between two cookies for a high-protein, dairy-free ice cream sandwich.
Storage Tips
- Store directly in the Ninja Creami pint with the lid on.
- If it hardens too much in the freezer, let it sit at room temp for 10 minutes and re-spin before serving.
- Best texture is within 2-3 days of making, but it'll technically keep up to 1 week.
FAQs
Yes, as long as it's a richer plant milk like oat or soy. Just avoid the watery ones.
Only if you use one that tastes chalky. Go with a vanilla powder you already enjoy.
Unfortunately, no. The magic is in the spinning blade. But if you're thinking of getting one… I mean, this recipe is reason enough!
Ninja Creami Dairy Free Vanilla Ice Cream with Protein Powder
Equipment
Ingredients
Method
- Add all ingredients to your Ninja Creami pint container, almond milk, plant-based cream, protein powder, and vanilla.
- Use a hand mixer right in the container to blend everything together until smooth and well combined. Scrape down the sides if needed.
- Secure the lid and place the container in the freezer on a flat surface. Freeze for a full 24 hours, no shortcuts!
- After freezing, place the pint into your Ninja Creami machine. Select the "Lite Ice Cream" cycle and let it spin.
- If the texture looks crumbly, use the "Re-spin" function until it's soft and scoopable.
- Serve right away, or add your favorite toppings like berries, chocolate chips, or a drizzle of almond butter.
Notes
- Re-spin as needed to get the perfect creamy texture.
- You can sweeten it more by adding maple syrup before freezing.
- Freeze time matters, don't skip the full 24 hours.
- Store leftovers in the same pint, and re-spin after thawing slightly.
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