Ninja Creami Black Licorice Ice Cream

Have you ever found yourself lost in a wave of nostalgia brought on by a single flavor? For me, that flavor is unmistakably black licorice. The moment I glance at a bag of soft black licorice twists, I’m transported back to the quaint candy store I frequented as a child, filled with jars of goodies and the warm scent of sweet treats. It’s a flavor that evokes memories of summer evenings when the sun dipped low in the sky and we would savor every chewy bite in delight.

If you’re a fan of black licorice, or you’re simply curious about this unique flavor, I’m here to guide you through a deliciously fun journey of making Ninja Creami Black Licorice Ice Cream. You might think that creating homemade ice cream sounds daunting, but let me assure you, this recipe is super simple, stress-free, and totally doable—even if it’s your very first time! Gather your ingredients and let’s dive into this creamy, dreamy treat!

Why I Love This Recipe of Ninja Creami Black Licorice Ice Cream

What I love about this Ninja Creami Black Licorice Ice Cream recipe is that it isn’t just about the explosion of flavor; it’s also about the experience of creating something special in the comfort of your kitchen. The texture is creamy, the flavor is bold, and the entire process is beginner-friendly.

This ice cream is a perfect example of how you can elevate simple ingredients into something extraordinary. With the combination of half and half, cottage cheese, and, of course, those delightful black licorice twists, you create a rich and creamy treat that’s satisfying and unique. Beyond just taste, it brings a sense of nostalgia, making each scoop a walk down memory lane. Plus, it’s a healthier alternative to store-bought ice cream, allowing you to control the ingredients and customize it to your liking.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Ninja Creami Black Licorice Ice Cream

Creating this delightful treat begins with gathering a few key ingredients. Here’s a breakdown to help you understand exactly what you’ll need:

Essentials

1. 1 ¼ cup Half and Half
   This creamy mixture of milk and cream creates that rich, luscious base for our ice cream.

2. 6 Pieces Soft Black Licorice Twist from Trader Joe’s
   The star of the show! These chewy candies infuse a deep, authentic black licorice flavor into the ice cream.

3. ¼ cup Granulated Sugar
   This will sweeten your ice cream, balancing the intense flavor of the licorice.

4. ½ cup Cottage Cheese
   Adding cottage cheese not only increases the creaminess but also boosts the protein content, making this treat a tad healthier.

5. ¼ teaspoon Black Licorice Flavor (LorAnn)
   This concentrated flavoring ensures that your ice cream remains rich in that distinct licorice essence.

Optional Add-Ons

Feel free to experiment with your ice cream! You can:

• Add nuts like pistachios or almonds for an interesting crunch and added nutrition.
• Incorporate a swirl of cream cheese frosting to give it a sweet, tangy flavor contrast.
• Top with crushed black licorice candies before serving for an extra pop of flavor and texture.

Substitutions and Shortcuts

If you don’t have certain ingredients on hand, consider these alternatives:

• Half and Half: If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute with whole milk or a non-dairy alternative like almond milk, though the texture may be slightly less creamy.
• Cottage Cheese: Ricotta can be a good substitute here. It has a similar creamy texture and adds a bit of richness.
• Black Licorice Flavor: If you can’t find LorAnn’s flavor, using an extract of anise or fennel can mimic that licorice taste.

Ninja Creami Black Licorice Ice Cream

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• Author: Rebecca
• Total Time: 1440 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A nostalgic and healthier homemade black licorice ice cream that’s creamy and delicious.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 ¼ cup Half and Half
• 6 Pieces Soft Black Licorice Twist
• ¼ cup Granulated Sugar
• ½ cup Cottage Cheese
• ¼ teaspoon Black Licorice Flavor (LorAnn)

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Instructions

1. Blend all ingredients in a high-powered blender until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into a Ninja pint container and freeze for 24 hours.
3. Use the Ninja CREAMi on the “Ice Cream” setting and re-spin if needed for creamy consistency.
4. Scoop into bowls or cones and enjoy!

Notes

Ensure to blend until completely smooth and allow 24 hours for freezing for the best texture.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Blending and Freezing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 0.5 cup
• Calories: 175
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 70mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: black licorice, ice cream, dessert, homemade, Ninja Creami, healthy dessert

How to Make Ninja Creami Black Licorice Ice Cream Step-by-Step

Creating your Ninja Creami Black Licorice Ice Cream is a delightful journey! Here’s a step-by-step guide to walk you through the process.

1. Blend It All Up
   Start by tossing all the ingredients into a high-powered blender or food processor. Blend until the mixture is super smooth. The key here is to ensure that the black licorice twists are fully incorporated into the creamy base. You want a consistent mixture that has no chunks left for that premium ice cream feel.

2. Freeze
   Once your mixture is silky smooth, pour it into a Ninja pint container. Make sure that the surface is level as you freeze it for 24 hours. This helps the ice cream set evenly, leading to a perfect texture.

3. Spin It Right
   After the mixture has had plenty of time to freeze, it’s time to use your Ninja CREAMi Deluxe. Set it to the “Ice Cream” setting. If the ice cream appears crumbly, don’t worry! Just hit the “Re-Spin” button once or twice until you achieve that creamy consistency. This gadget makes the process efficient, ensuring that your homemade ice cream comes out perfectly every time.

4. Scoop and Enjoy
   Finally, it’s time to stand back and admire your creation. Scoop out that enticing, dark black licorice ice cream into bowls or cones, and enjoy the bold flavor that awaits you!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating ice cream at home can be a bit of a learning curve, but keep these common pitfalls in mind to ensure success:

Skipping the Freezing Step

One of the most crucial steps is allowing your mixture to freeze for a full 24 hours. Rushing this step can result in a slushy texture rather than a creamy, scoopable ice cream.

Not Blending Long Enough

Make sure to thoroughly blend your mixture until super smooth. Any remaining chunks of licorice twists will impede the creamy texture you’re aiming for. Give it a good whirl and don’t be afraid to let the blender work a little longer.

Forgetting to Use the “Re-Spin”

If your ice cream seems too crumbly after the initial spin, be sure to utilize the “Re-Spin” feature on your Ninja CREAMi. This is a lifesaver for achieving that perfect consistency.

Overloading with Flavor

While black licorice is a distinct flavor, be cautious about adding too much of the black licorice extract. Stick to the recipe’s guideline of ¼ teaspoon to avoid overwhelming the palate and maintaining a balance of flavors.

interested in more frozen desserts? I invite you to read the list of 16 Best Iced Coffee Recipes, 15 Kid-friendly Ice Cream ideas, or the Ninja Creami recipes. 

Serving Suggestions for Ninja Creami Black Licorice Ice Cream

Now that you have mastered making your Ninja Creami Black Licorice Ice Cream, let’s explore some fun and creative ways to serve it.

Classic Bowl Serve

Pour your scoops into a cozy bowl and enjoy it as is. The rich flavor makes it a perfect after-dinner treat or an indulgent snack while curled up on the couch.

With Fresh Fruit Compote

Drizzle a homemade fresh fruit compote over your black licorice ice cream. Think berries, cherries, or even a tangy citrus mix. The contrast of the sweet fruit with the bold licorice flavor can be a delightful surprise.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

For a nostalgic twist, use soft cookies to create ice cream sandwiches. The flavors of chocolate or oatmeal cookies can offer a sweet balance to the intense licorice flavor.

Topped with Whipped Cream

For those special occasions or just because, add a dollop of homemade whipped cream on top of your ice cream. You can sprinkle some crushed black licorice candy or chocolate shavings for added texture and flair.

Nutritional Values of Ninja Creami Black Licorice Ice Cream

It’s important to consider the nutritional aspect of the treats we enjoy. Here’s a general breakdown of what you’ll get in a serving of your homemade Ninja Creami Black Licorice Ice Cream.

Calories and Portion Size

A typical serving of this delicious ice cream (about ½ cup) will have approximately 150-200 calories. This makes it a light dessert option in comparison to many store-bought alternatives.

Protein Content

Thanks to the cottage cheese, each serving provides around 5-7 grams of protein, making it a satisfying snack or dessert. It not only fills you up but also supports your body’s needs.

Sugar Levels

With just ¼ cup of granulated sugar, the sweetness is balanced without being overly sugary. This means you enjoy the bold licorice flavor without it feeling cloyingly sweet. You can always adjust the sugar level to suit your taste.

Healthy Fats

With the inclusion of half and half and cottage cheese, this ice cream contains healthy fats that aid in satiety and overall nutrition, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

Conclusion

So there you have it! You’ve learned that making Ninja Creami Black Licorice Ice Cream is easier than it looks and definitely a fun project you can tackle in your own kitchen. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can whip up a dessert that’s not only unique and nostalgic but also healthier than many commercial options.

Remember, this ice cream allows for personal customization, so feel free to experiment with different toppings or mix-ins to make it truly your own. Cozy up, grab your favorite bowl, and enjoy a scoop of this hearty, classic treat that even beginner cooks can master.

Now that you know how to create this tasty treat, don’t hesitate! Go ahead and make your own Ninja Creami Black Licorice Ice Cream today. Trust me; you won’t regret it. Share your experience and any twists you add to the recipe!

FAQs About Ninja Creami Black Licorice Ice Cream