There’s something about homemade ice cream that evokes warmth and joy. I can still remember the summer days from my childhood, where the sun seemed to shine just a little brighter, and the air was filled with the sweet scent of fresh strawberries. We would often gather in the backyard, our cheeks covered in melted ice cream. That delightful moment of savoring a scoop of something cold and creamy, packed with flavors, has always stuck with me.
When I stumbled upon the Ninja Creami Matcha Strawberry Ice Cream recipe, it felt like a nostalgic callback to those simpler times—with a healthy twist. This homemade ice cream is not only delicious; it’s also stress-free and perfect for beginners. You’ll find that it requires minimal effort yet yields a creamy dessert that’s bursting with flavor and health benefits.
Let me assure you, whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying your hand at ice cream making for the first time, this recipe is as approachable as it is delightful. So, let’s dive into creating a swirl of matcha and strawberries that will bring that warm, cozy feeling straight to your kitchen!
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Why I Love This Recipe of Ninja Creami Matcha Strawberry Ice Cream
What draws me to this Ninja Creami Matcha Strawberry Ice Cream recipe is its perfect balance of healthiness and indulgence. Using Japanese matcha powder, known for its antioxidant properties and vibrant green color, adds a nutritious kick to a classic dessert. The creamy base made from half and half, cottage cheese, and sweetened condensed milk makes this recipe not only a treat for the taste buds but also pleasing for the body.
For beginner cooks, this recipe is incredibly forgiving. The ingredients are simple, and the steps are easy to follow. Plus, there’s room for creativity. You can fold in chopped strawberries for that delightful fruity swirl, or blend them right into the mix for a more uniform flavor. The choice is yours! Creating your version of this dish makes the experience even more enjoyable.
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Ninja Creami Matcha Strawberry Ice Cream
- Total Time: 1440 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful and healthy homemade ice cream recipe combining the vibrant flavors of Japanese matcha and fresh strawberries.
Ingredients
- 6 teaspoons Japanese matcha green tea powder
- ¼ cup hot water
- ½ cup cottage cheese
- 1 ½ cups Half and Half
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract
- ½ cup Sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup strawberries
- Chopped fresh mint (optional)
- Chocolate chips (optional)
- Chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Blend the base: Combine half and half, sweetened condensed milk, cottage cheese, matcha powder, and vanilla in a blender until smooth.
- Add strawberries (Optional): Choose to blend in fresh or freeze-dried strawberries or reserve for folding later.
- Freeze the base: Pour the mixture into a Ninja Creami container and freeze for 24 hours.
- Spin the ice cream: After 24 hours, use the Ninja Creami on the Ice Cream function.
- Respin if needed: If the texture is crumbly, add milk and select Respin.
- Mix in strawberries (if not blended earlier): Fold in strawberries for a fruity swirl.
- Serve and enjoy: Scoop into bowls or cones, topped with extra strawberries or matcha powder if desired.
Notes
For best results, use high-quality culinary-grade matcha and freeze the base completely for the right texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Freezing
- Cuisine: Japanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: ice cream, matcha, strawberry, dessert, homemade, healthy
interested in more frozen desserts? I invite you check the list of 16 Best Iced Coffee Recipes, or the Ninja Creami recipes.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Ninja Creami Matcha Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe
Let’s get you equipped with everything you need to whip up this fantastic ice cream at home.
Essentials
- 6 teaspoons Japanese matcha green tea powder: Look for high-quality, culinary-grade matcha for the best flavor and health benefits.
- ¼ cup hot water: This will help dissolve the matcha powder smoothly without clumps.
- ½ cup cottage cheese: It adds creaminess and a boost of protein without being heavy.
- 1 ½ cups Half and Half: This brings richness to your ice cream base.
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract: Choose whichever you prefer for that warm, comforting flavor.
- ½ cup Sweetened condensed milk: This sweetens the base and enhances its creamy texture.
- 1 cup strawberries: You can opt for fresh or freeze-dried strawberries, depending on what you have on hand.
Optional Add-Ons
- Chopped fresh mint: For a refreshing twist and added color.
- Chocolate chips: A sweet addition for those who love chocolate.
- Chopped nuts: Add some crunch for texture!
Substitutions and Shortcuts
- If you don’t have half-and-half, a mixture of whole milk and heavy cream can work as a substitute.
- Instead of cottage cheese, you can use Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor and a healthier profile.
- You can replace the sweetened condensed milk with a dairy-free option if you follow a plant-based diet.
How to Make Ninja Creami Matcha Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe Step-by-Step
Step 1: Blend the Base
Start by grabbing your blender or food processor. Combine the half and half, sweetened condensed milk, cottage cheese, matcha powder, and vanilla bean paste in the blender. Blend the mixture until it is completely smooth and no lumps remain. This step is crucial as it sets the foundation for a creamy ice cream texture.
Step 2: Add Strawberries (Optional)
At this point, you can decide whether to add strawberries directly into your blend or reserve them for folding in later. If you’re looking for a more integrated flavor, toss in a few fresh or freeze-dried strawberries and pulse briefly, just enough to chop them without pureeing. Alternatively, you can keep the strawberries whole to create a lovely swirl once the ice cream has been spun.
Step 3: Freeze the Base
Once your mixture is smooth, pour it into a Ninja Creami pint container making sure to level off the top. It’s essential to freeze it flat for 24 hours to achieve the right consistency for your ice cream.
Step 4: Spin the Ice Cream
After 24 hours have passed, remove the pint from the freezer and take off the lid. Place it in your Ninja Creami and select the Ice Cream function. This machine is a game changer, turning your blended base into a soft serve in just a short time.
Step 5: Respin If Needed
Sometimes the texture might come out a bit crumbly. If that happens, don’t fret! Simply add 1-2 tablespoons of milk (any kind you prefer) and select Respin until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
Step 6: Mix in the Strawberries (If Not Blended Earlier)
If you chose to hold off on adding the strawberries, now is the time to fold them in. You can either use the Mix-In function on your Ninja Creami or stir them in manually for a whimsical fruity swirl that looks as good as it tastes.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Your ice cream is now ready to be enjoyed! You can scoop it straight from the pint or transfer it into a bowl. If you’re feeling indulgent, top with extra strawberries or a sprinkle of matcha powder for an eye-catching garnish. Enjoy immediately or freeze flat again for later use; just remember to respin before serving!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Not Blending Enough
Many people may rush through the blending process. Ensure you blend long enough until your mixture is completely smooth. This step is vital to avoid any clumps, which can affect the creaminess of your final ice cream.
Forgetting to Freeze Properly
Freezing your base for a full 24 hours is key. If you don’t allow enough time for the mixture to freeze flat, you may end up with ice cream that doesn’t spin well in your Ninja Creami. Planning is crucial!
Adding Too Many Mix-Ins Too Early
It can be tempting to add all your mix-ins at once, but timing is everything. If you’ve decided to swirl in strawberries, wait until the ice cream has been spun to do so. This ensures that your beautiful strawberries are still visible and provide that delightful burst of flavor.
Not Adjusting Texture
If you find the texture of your ice cream to be crumbly after spinning, remember there’s no shame in adding a little milk to adjust it. The goal is a perfect creamy treat, so don’t hesitate to tweak it until it’s just right!
Serving Suggestions for Ninja Creami Matcha Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe
With Fresh Fruit Toppings
Top your ice cream with more fresh strawberries or other seasonal fruits like raspberries or blueberries. The tartness of the fruit pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the ice cream, elevating the entire dessert!
On a Waffle Cone
For a more traditional treat, serve your matcha strawberry ice cream in a crispy waffle cone. It adds the perfect crunch and allows for a portable delight that’s perfect for outdoor summer enjoyment.
As a Milkshake
Blend your ice cream with a bit of milk to create a luscious milkshake! Combining flavors can create a refreshing drink that’s perfect for a warm day.
Gourmet Sundae
Get creative and turn your ice cream into a sundae. Add chocolate or caramel sauce, whipped cream, and maybe a sprinkle of chopped nuts. Transforming simple ice cream into a gourmet experience can be as fun as it is delicious!
Nutritional Values of Ninja Creami Matcha Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe
This ice cream is not just delightful, but it also packs a nutritional punch. Here’s a breakdown of the benefits:
Antioxidant-Rich Matcha
Matcha is known for its high levels of antioxidants, which help fight free radicals in the body. This means every scoop of your ice cream is not just tasty, but it may also contribute to your overall health.
Protein from Cottage Cheese
Incorporating cottage cheese not only adds creaminess but ups the protein content. Protein is essential for muscle growth and recovery, making this a nice post-workout treat if you’re watching your fitness.
Fresh Strawberries
Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, fiber, and folate. By adding them to your ice cream, you not only enhance the flavor but also boost its nutritional value, creating a dessert you can feel good about indulging in.
Balanced Indulgence
Considering the ingredients used, this recipe provides a good balance of fat, carbohydrates, and protein. While indulgent, it’s crafted in a way that allows for guilt-free enjoyment. Enjoying dessert doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice health, and that is one of the best parts of creating your own versions at home!
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve just unlocked the magic of making homemade ice cream with this Ninja Creami Matcha Strawberry Ice Cream recipe. It’s easier than it looks, and you’ve learned how to customize it to fit your tastes. Plus, the cozy, classic flavors create a delightful treat that’s perfect for sharing (or keeping all for yourself!).
Now that you’ve taken this step into ice cream making, why not explore other flavor combinations? Consider trying out different fruits, nuts, or even creating a layered dessert with different ice cream flavors. The possibilities are endless!
If you enjoyed this recipe, I’d love for you to share your experience. Did you customize it? How did it turn out?
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FAQs About Ninja Creami Matcha Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe
Can I use any type of matcha powder for this recipe?
For the best flavor and health benefits, it’s recommended to use high-quality, culinary-grade Japanese matcha green tea powder.
Is this Ninja Creami Matcha Strawberry Ice Cream Recipe suitable for kids?
Yes! This ice cream recipe is perfect for children. It’s nutritious and can cater to various tastes (just be cautious of any added nuts or allergens).
How long can I store the ice cream after making it?
Homemade ice cream is best enjoyed fresh, but it can last in the freezer for up to a month. Just remember to let it sit out for a few minutes before scooping for the best texture.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the ice cream?
Absolutely, feel free to adjust the amount of sweetened condensed milk to your liking. You can also substitute it with a sugar alternative if you prefer a lower-sugar option.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! You can swap the half-and-half, cottage cheese, and sweetened condensed milk with dairy-free alternatives, such as almond milk and coconut yogurt, to keep it creamy without the dairy.
