When I first decided to make homemade ice cream, I imagined a picture-perfect summer day, complete with laughter, sun-soaked afternoons, and the delightful taste of creamy goodness on my tongue. Yet, I found myself battling a complex recipe that turned my kitchen into a chaotic scene resembling an ice cream factory gone awry! Fast forward to today, and I’ve stumbled upon an incredibly simple and satisfying way to make my own ice cream using the Ninja Creami. Trust me, if I can make this Ninja Creami Blueberry Cheesecake Ice Cream, you can too. Here’s everything you need to know to make your ice cream-making journey stress-free and downright fun—even if it’s your very first try!
Highlights
Why I Love This Recipe of Ninja Creami Blueberry Cheesecake Ice Cream
What makes this recipe special for me is how it captures the essence of summer nostalgia while offering a healthier twist on a classic dessert. The combination of fresh blueberries and creamy cheesecake flavors transports me right back to those lazy summer days when everything seemed perfect. And what I adore most about this recipe is that it caters to even beginner cooks. You don’t need to have advanced culinary skills to achieve a luxurious ice cream experience at home. Not only is it practical, but it also brings warmth and comfort to moments spent with family and friends, making it a go-to treat for those cozy evenings.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Ninja Creami Blueberry Cheesecake Ice Cream
Let’s dive into the delightful ingredients that make this creamy indulgence a breeze to whip up!
Essentials
- 1½ cups half and half: This rich and creamy base is the secret to getting that luscious texture.
- 1 cup blueberries: Fresh or frozen, these little gems add a burst of flavor and a gorgeous color to your ice cream.
- ¼ cup sweetened condensed milk: Just a touch of sweetness goes a long way to elevate the flavor and creaminess.
- ½ cup cream cheese: Cream cheese is what gives this ice cream that cheesecake richness that’s simply irresistible.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla brings the whole dish together, layering in warmth and depth.
- 2 tablespoons sugar: Just enough to balance the tartness of the blueberries.
Optional Add-Ons
Feel free to elevate this dessert with a few extra ingredients:
- Lemon zest: A teaspoon of lemon zest can brighten the flavors.
- Cinnamon: A sprinkle can add a touch of warmth and complexity.
- Extra blueberries: For topping purposes; who doesn’t love more berries?
Substitutions and Shortcuts
- Non-Dairy Alternatives: Use coconut cream or an unsweetened non-dairy milk for a vegan version.
- Low-Sugar Option: Substitute the sugar with a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol.
- Speedy Mix: If you’re short on time, you can purchase pre-made macerated blueberries!
Ninja Creami Blueberry Cheesecake Ice Cream
- Total Time: 1450 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and satisfying homemade ice cream recipe featuring fresh blueberries and a creamy cheesecake flavor. Perfect for summer nostalgia and cozy evenings.
Ingredients
- 1½ cups half and half
- 1 cup blueberries
- ¼ cup sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup cream cheese
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Optional: 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Optional: Cinnamon for taste
- Optional: Extra blueberries for topping
Instructions
- Start by sprinkling the sugar over the blueberries in a bowl and let them sit for about 10 minutes to macerate.
- Blend the macerated blueberries with half and half, sweetened condensed milk, cream cheese, vanilla extract, and the remaining sugar until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into a Ninja Creami pint container, cover it tightly, and freeze for 24 hours.
- After 24 hours, place the container into the Ninja Creami and select ice cream mode to churn.
- If the texture is crumbly, respin until smooth and creamy.
- Scoop into bowls and enjoy with toppings like fresh blueberries, crushed graham crackers, or honey.
Notes
Macerating the blueberries and blending just until smooth are key steps for the best flavor and texture. Ensure to freeze on a level surface.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1440 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Freezing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 225
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: ice cream, blueberry cheesecake, homemade dessert, summer treat, Ninja Creami
How to Make Ninja Creami Blueberry Cheesecake Ice Cream Step-by-Step
Here, I’ll walk you through the process of creating this creamy indulgence, step by step, to ensure it’s smooth and simple.
Step 1: Macerate
Start by sprinkling the sugar over the blueberries in a bowl. Allow them to sit for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial as it draws out the blueberries’ natural juices, enhancing their flavor for a more vibrant ice cream.
Step 2: Blend
Once the blueberries are relaxed and juicy, take your macerated blueberries and transfer them into a blender or food processor. Add in your half and half, sweetened condensed milk, cream cheese, vanilla extract, and the remaining sugar. Blend everything together until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. It’s as simple as that!
Step 3: Freeze
Pour your delicious blueberry cheesecake mixture into a Ninja Creami pint container. Make sure to cover it tightly to prevent any ice crystals from forming. Place it in your freezer and let it freeze for 24 hours on a level surface. Trust me, the wait will be worth it!
Step 4: Spin
Now for the fun part! After 24 hours, take the container out of the freezer and place it into your Ninja Creami. Select the ice cream mode and let the machine do its magic. The child-like excitement you’ll feel as it churns is indescribable!
Step 5: Respin
If, for any reason, the texture turns out crumbly after the first spin, don’t fret! Just pop the pint back into the Ninja Creami and spin it again until it achieves that perfect creamy consistency.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Now it’s time to scoop that blissful ice cream into bowls! Consider adding some toppings like fresh blueberries, crushed graham crackers, or a drizzle of honey. Sit back, relax, and dig into your creation!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making ice cream at home can be an exciting journey, but there are a few common pitfalls to look out for along the way:
Not Macerating the Blueberries Enough
One of the key steps in this recipe is macerating the blueberries. Skipping or rushing this step can affect the overall flavor of the ice cream. Let the blueberries sit until they are juicy and fragrant!
Over-Processing the Mixture
While blending the mixture, ensure you blend just until smooth. Over-blending can incorporate too much air and impact the creamy texture.
Not Freezing on a Level Surface
To achieve the best results, make sure you freeze your mixture on a flat, stable surface. Uneven freezing can affect the texture, leading to inconsistent results.
Forgetting to Respin
If your ice cream comes out crumbly after the first spin, don’t hesitate to respin. It’s a simple way to salvage your batter and create that divine smooth texture you’re aiming for.
Serving Suggestions for Ninja Creami Blueberry Cheesecake Ice Cream
While this ice cream is delicious on its own, consider these delightful serving suggestions that can take it to the next level:
Fresh Berries
Top your ice cream with fresh blueberries or a mix of seasonal berries. They add a juicy burst and make for an appealing presentation—a feast for your eyes!
Crushed Graham Crackers
To evoke those classic cheesecake flavors further, sprinkle crushed graham crackers on top. Their subtle sweetness and crunch offer a delightful contrast to the creamy ice cream.
Mint Garnish
For a pop of color and a refreshing taste, add a sprig of fresh mint. It’s not just about taste; it’s presentation, too!
A Drizzle of Honey
A light drizzle of honey or maple syrup can add an extra layer of sweetness to your treat that complements the blueberry flavor beautifully.
Nutritional Values of Ninja Creami Blueberry Cheesecake Ice Cream
Understanding the nutritional values of our favorite treats is essential, especially for those of us who are health-conscious. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect in each serving of Ninja Creami Blueberry Cheesecake Ice Cream:
Caloric Content
This ice cream will typically have around 200–250 calories per serving. It’s indulgent but worth it in moderation.
Fats
With cream cheese and half and half, you’ll find healthy fats that provide richness without overwhelming your diet. Expect about 10 grams of fat per serving.
Sugars
The mixed berries and sugar account for around 15 grams of sugar, providing that sweetness without added preservatives.
Protein
You can enjoy about 3–4 grams of protein per serving, courtesy of the cream cheese, helping keep you satisfied longer.
Conclusion
Making Ninja Creami Blueberry Cheesecake Ice Cream is a lot easier than it looks! With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up a cozy, delicious treat that will impress anyone who gets a taste. The best part is that you can customize it to suit your preferences, playing around with flavors and toppings as you please. So, go ahead, tuck into this delightful dessert and let it brighten your day!
And if you loved making this ice cream, I encourage you to try adapting it with other fruits or flavors in the future. There’s a whole world of icy goodness to explore!
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FAQs About Ninja Creami Blueberry Cheesecake Ice Cream
Can I use frozen blueberries for the Ninja Creami Blueberry Cheesecake Ice Cream?
Yes! Frozen blueberries work perfectly and will yield similar delicious results. Just make sure to thaw them briefly before macerating for optimum flavor.
What if I don’t have a Ninja Creami? Can I still make this recipe?
While the Ninja Creami creates a uniquely creamy texture, you can still make ice cream using a traditional ice cream maker. Just follow the same blending process and churn according to your machine’s instructions.
Can I substitute the cream cheese in the Ninja Creami Blueberry Cheesecake Ice Cream?
For a lighter alternative, you could use Greek yogurt. Keep in mind that this will change the flavor and texture a bit but can still be delicious!
How long will this ice cream last in the freezer?
If stored properly in an airtight container, this ice cream can last up to two weeks. However, for the best flavor and texture, try to eat it within a week of making it.
Is there a way to make this Ninja Creami Blueberry Cheesecake Ice Cream dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can use coconut cream instead of half and half, and cashew cream or a dairy-free cream cheese. This way, you can still enjoy a creamy treat without dairy!
