Q1: Can I make Chunky Monkey High-Protein Ice Cream without a Ninja Creami?

A1: Yes — you can still make this recipe without a Ninja Creami. Freeze the blended mixture in a shallow metal or glass pan and stir vigorously every 30–45 minutes as it freezes, breaking up ice crystals until it firms to a scoopable texture. The consistency may be slightly different, but it will still be tasty and high in protein.

Q2: Is Chunky Monkey High-Protein Ice Cream suitable for post-workout recovery?

A2: Chunky Monkey High-Protein Ice Cream can be a convenient post-workout option because it supplies a notable amount of protein from Greek yogurt and protein powder. Pairing it with a small carb source, like a sliced banana or granola, can help replenish glycogen if you’ve had an intense session.

Q3: How long will Chunky Monkey High-Protein Ice Cream keep in the freezer?

A3: Stored in an airtight container, Chunky Monkey High-Protein Ice Cream should keep well for up to 2 weeks with minimal texture change. Beyond that, ice crystals may form and the texture can become dryer. For best results, consume within 7–10 days.

Q4: Can I make Chunky Monkey High-Protein Ice Cream dairy-free?

A4: You can make a dairy-free version by using a thick, unsweetened coconut or almond yogurt and a compatible plant-based protein powder. Texture may vary slightly, so you might need to add a touch more fat (like a teaspoon of coconut oil) for richness and creaminess.

Q5: Will Chunky Monkey High-Protein Ice Cream be high in sugar because of the pudding mix or chocolate?

A5: Not necessarily — the recipe uses a sugar-free banana pudding mix and sugar-free chocolate chips to keep added sugars low. If you use standard pudding mix or sweetened chocolate, the sugar content will increase. Always check labels and choose low-sugar or sugar-free options if you want to keep it low in added sugars.

Chunky Monkey High-Protein Ice Cream

Description

A creamy and nutritious high-protein ice cream made with Greek yogurt and flavored with banana and chocolate, perfect for meal prep or a post-workout treat.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup plain 0% Greek yogurt
1 scoop low-carb vanilla protein powder
2 tablespoons banana-flavored sugar-free pudding mix
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon banana extract
1 1/4 cups water
1/4 cup sugar-free chocolate chips
1/4 teaspoon coconut oil
1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans preferred)
1 small mashed ripe banana (optional)
A pinch of cinnamon (optional)
A tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder (optional)
A tablespoon of nut or seed butter (optional)
A drizzle of sugar-free maple syrup (optional)
Low-carb granola for topping (optional)

Instructions

Combine the base ingredients: In a blender, blend the Greek yogurt, protein powder, pudding mix, vanilla extract, banana extract, and water until smooth.
Freeze the mixture: Pour the mixture into a Ninja Creami pint container and freeze for at least 24 hours.
Process in the Ninja Creami: Remove the frozen pint and process using the ‘Lite Ice Cream’ setting until creamy.
Prepare the chocolate ribbons: Melt sugar-free chocolate chips with coconut oil until smooth.
Add the mix-ins: Pour melted chocolate over the ice cream and sprinkle with chopped nuts, folding gently.
Final texture check and serve: Refreeze for 10–20 minutes if a firmer texture is desired, or serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, use cold liquids and ensure to blend until completely smooth. Avoid overloading with protein powder to maintain creaminess.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Freezing
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 250
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: high-protein ice cream, dessert, meal prep, healthy treat, banana chocolate ice cream