If you’ve been to the freezer section of your grocery store recently, you probably know that several brands offer alternatives to high-protein ice cream. But if you’re looking to save money or recreate your favorite flavor by making protein ice cream at home, TikTok has you covered. Users share their easy protein ice cream recipes that can be prepared in minutes. Now that the subject has attracted over 80 million views on the app, it’s clear the tasty trend is here to stay.
Below, how to get in on the action — plus a dietitian’s take on protein ice cream nutrition.
How to make protein ice cream
The wonderful thing about high protein ice cream is that you can improvise based on your preferences and what you have on hand. Most recipes include a cup or less of your choice of nut milk as a base, along with ice cream, frozen fruit or something else. sweet supplements (including Oreos, whipped cream, pudding mix, even cereal). Obviously, you’ll also add a protein source – TikTokers love adding flavored foods. protein powder, flavored Greek yogurt or powdered peanut butter. (
To make the protein ice cream of your choice, you’ll need a high-powered blender or food processor. The key ingredient that many TikTok creators rely on to give the chilled treat an ice cream-like texture is xanthan gum, a thickening and stabilizing agent commonly found in ice cream traditional, as well as in salad dressings, pastries, syrups, soups, etc. It’s also commonly found in protein powders, so you’ll only need to add about a teaspoon of it to your protein ice cream.
Need inspiration? You’ll find many variations of the dessert on TikTok, including this one from @my.getfit. protein ice cream recipewhich uses 1 scoop of whey protein powder, 1 teaspoon of xanthan gum, 1 teaspoon of sugar-free pudding mix and a zero-calorie sweetener of your choice, 1/2 cup of cashew or almond milk unsweetened of your choice and ice cream.
TikTok user @haileybirch_health opted for a peanut butter banana version, mixing two to three frozen bananas, a scoop of vanilla protein powder, 2 tablespoons of powdered or regular PB and a little almond milk, with the bananas replacing the ice. They also added chocolate chips towards the end of the mixture for a little crunch.
Nutritional Benefits of High Protein Ice Cream
Nothing compares to regular ice cream, but if you want to add a little extra protein to keep you full and support your muscles and bones, rest assured that protein ice cream is an RD-approved method. “What you put in your protein ice cream can make a world of difference from a nutritional standpoint,” says Nicole Lindel, MS, RDN, registered dietitian and Everlywell advise. “Using fruit, protein powder, Greek yogurt, and cow’s milk or nuts makes a delicious, well-balanced snack or meal.”
Eat the right amount of protein Every day is essential to supporting your body’s functioning, notes Lindel. “It is recommended “The average adult has between 0.8 and 1.0 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight,” she notes. “However, it really depends on each individual. Various factors can contribute, such as age, gender, health and level of physical activity. Protein is essential for growth and development. Our bodies need protein from our diet to build and maintain our bones, muscles and skin. »
Lindel recommends adding a little honey with enough fruit for natural sweetness. Additionally, some TikTok commenters have noticed digestive issues from xanthan gum (by consuming it). can lead to abdominal discomfort in some people), but you can omit it or add it to another thickening ingredient. “Chia seeds soaked in water are a great substitute for xanthan gum,” says Lindel. “It’s also a smart addition to protein ice cream, as chia seeds are packed with fiber and a range of essential nutrients.” FYI, if you skip these thickening agents altogether, you might end up with a texture that’s more smoothie than fro-yo.
There you have it: all you need is a blender, a few ingredients and a healthy dose of creativity, and you’re sure to find a frozen, protein-rich combination you’ll love. (Following: 10 TikTok Cooking Hacks That Actually Work)
