This one’s a total game-changer. It tastes like a real orange creamsicle but it’s packed with protein, super creamy, and way better than any store-bought protein ice cream.
The texture is smooth, not icy, and it’s actually satisfying. Perfect after a workout or just when you want something sweet without the sugar crash.
Why I Love This Recipe
I started making this when I wanted something cold and sweet after workouts but didn’t want a shake or a chalky store-bought protein dessert. This hit the spot. It tastes like dessert, but it’s actually packed with good stuff. Here’s why I keep coming back to it:
- High protein but still creamy like real ice cream
- Low in sugar and no weird aftertaste
- You just mix, freeze, and spin—easy
- Way cheaper than protein ice cream at the store
- It actually fills you up
Servings: 1
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Freeze Time: 24 hours
Spin Time: 2–3 minutes
What You’ll Need
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (about 30g)
- ¾ cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk
- ½ cup orange juice (no pulp)
- 1 tbsp sugar-free vanilla instant pudding mix
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Pro Tips
- Use a protein powder you actually like—the flavor makes a big difference
- Almond milk keeps it light, but you can use any milk
- Let it sit out 10 minutes before spinning if your freezer runs super cold
- If it looks crumbly after the first spin, re-spin once
- Add a splash of almond milk between spins only if it’s dry—not creamy
Tools Needed
- Ninja Creami machine
- Ninja Creami pint container with lid
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
Substitutions and Variations
- Use Fairlife or regular dairy milk if you want it even creamier
- Swap vanilla protein for orange creamsicle flavored protein
- Add a little orange zest for a fresh citrus pop
- Skip the pudding if you want fewer ingredients—it’ll still work, just a little less creamy
Make Ahead Tips
- You can mix the base the day before freezing and keep it in the fridge until ready
- Once frozen and spun, smooth the top and refreeze leftovers to re-spin later
Recipe and Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Base
In a small mixing bowl, add 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (30g), ¾ cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk, ½ cup orange juice (no pulp), 1 tbsp sugar-free vanilla pudding mix, ½ tsp vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whisk everything until completely smooth with no lumps.
Step 2: Pour into Creami Pint
Pour the smooth mixture into a Ninja Creami pint container. Do not go past the max fill line. Snap the lid on tight.
Step 3: Freeze for 24 Hours
Place the sealed pint upright in the freezer. Let it freeze completely solid—24 hours is best.
Step 4: Spin in the Ninja Creami
Take the frozen pint out and let it sit for 5–10 minutes. Load it into the Ninja Creami, lock it in, and press the “Ice Cream” setting.
Step 5: Check Texture and Re-spin If Needed
After spinning, check the texture. If it looks powdery or crumbly, re-spin once. It should be thick, creamy, and scoopable.
Step 6: Serve
Leftovers and Storage
- Smooth out the top with a spoon and freeze again
- Let it thaw 5–10 minutes before re-spinning
- Don’t add liquid unless it looks dry when re-spinning—too much will ruin the texture
Macros Information (per serving, makes 1)
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 10g
- Fat: 6g
- Sugar: 5g
Macros are based on the specific brands used and may vary
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
- Protein powder thickens and adds creaminess once spun
- Sugar-free pudding mix binds everything together and stops it from freezing icy
- Almond milk + OJ keep it light but flavorful
- The Creami shaves and re-spins the ice to mimic churned ice cream without air whipping
Common Mistakes
- Using a lumpy mix: Whisk really well so the protein powder dissolves
- Forgetting the re-spin: It needs it sometimes to get that soft-serve texture
- Adding too much liquid before spinning: It can turn slushy—only add if it’s bone dry
- Overfilling the pint: Always keep under the max fill line
What to Serve With
- A sprinkle of granola for crunch
- A few mandarin orange slices
- Coconut flakes or white chocolate chips on top
- A spoonful of Greek yogurt swirled in after spinning
FAQ
Can I use whey isolate or casein?
Yes! Both work great. Casein is thicker, so it makes it even creamier.
Can I skip the pudding mix?
You can, but the texture might be more icy. It still works if you’re okay with that.
Is it okay to use regular milk instead of almond?
Totally. It’ll be creamier and slightly higher in calories.
Can I double this recipe?
Only one pint at a time. You can mix two separate pints though!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a sweet, cold treat that also helps you hit your protein goals, this one’s it. It’s easy, fast, and doesn’t taste like “diet food” at all. Try it once and you’ll probably want to keep a pint in the freezer all the time. Let me know how yours turns out or what flavor twist you add—I’d love to hear it.
