Ninja Creami Fairlife Protein Ice Cream

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe transforms a ready-to-drink protein shake into an indulgent but guilt-free dessert. It’s high in protein, low in sugar, and customizable based on how rich or light I want it. Whether I’m craving a post-workout treat or a late-night sweet fix, this is a go-to recipe I can always rely on. It’s also incredibly easy—minimal prep, just blend and freeze.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 1/3 bottles of Chocolate Fairlife Protein Shake (use 1 bottle for a smaller portion)

• 1 tablespoon chocolate sugar-free pudding mix (optional for added creaminess)

• 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder

Note:
I like to use Fairlife because it gives the creamiest texture, but any ready-to-drink protein shake works. The pudding mix helps with smoothness, though it’s totally optional. For a richer chocolate flavor, I swap in Dutch-process cocoa powder.

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
I start by whisking together the protein shake, cocoa powder, and pudding mix in a bowl. I mix until it’s smooth and looks like thick chocolate milk. A handheld frother works great to blend it evenly. I usually give it a quick taste to check if it’s sweet enough for me.

Step 2: Freeze the Base
Next, I pour the mixture into my Ninja Creami pint container, making sure it stays below the max fill line. Then I seal it and place it flat in the freezer for at least 24 hours. If the pint isn’t level in the freezer, I’ve noticed the spinning can get messed up later.

Step 3: Spin into Ice Cream
After freezing, I take out the pint and pop it into the outer bowl of my Ninja Creami. I lock the lid and hit the “Lite Ice Cream” button. Once it spins, it might look crumbly—totally normal!

Step 4: Re-spin for Creaminess
When it’s crumbly, I add a tablespoon of milk (any kind I have on hand) and hit “Re-spin.” I repeat until it’s creamy and scoopable. Adding milk at this point helps make it super smooth without changing the flavor much.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 1 serving. It takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus a full 24 hours to freeze completely before churning.

Variations

• Flavor Swaps: I sometimes use vanilla or caramel Fairlife shakes and switch the cocoa powder for flavored pudding mix.

• Add-ins: After the first spin, I fold in mini chocolate chips or crushed cookies before re-spinning.

• Dairy-Free: If I want a dairy-free option, I use a plant-based protein shake and dairy-free milk for re-spinning.

• Sweetness Boost: For a sweeter ice cream, I add a teaspoon of zero-calorie sweetener to the mixture before freezing.

Storage/Reheating

If I don’t eat it all right away, I smooth out the top, seal the pint, and return it to the freezer. It hardens back up, but a quick re-spin (sometimes with a splash of milk) brings it back to creamy perfection. I try to eat it within a week for best texture.

FAQs

What can I use instead of Fairlife protein shake?

I’ve used other protein shakes like Premier Protein or Core Power, but Fairlife gives the best creamy result. Just make sure it’s a ready-to-drink shake, not a powder mix.

Do I need the pudding mix?

Not at all—it’s optional. I find it helps make the ice cream smoother, but it still turns out fine without it.

Can I double the recipe?

No, I keep it to one Ninja Creami pint per batch. Overfilling can mess with freezing and spinning. If I want more, I prep a second pint.

Why is my ice cream crumbly?

That’s normal after the first spin. I always add a tablespoon of milk and re-spin. Sometimes I need to do it twice to get the creamy texture I want.

Can I add mix-ins?

Yes! After the first spin, I dig a hole in the center, add mix-ins like chocolate chips, then run the “Mix-In” function.

Conclusion

This Ninja Creami Fairlife Protein Ice Cream is one of my favorite ways to enjoy a healthy dessert without extra sugar or complicated ingredients. It’s rich, creamy, and totally customizable. Once I freeze the base, I’m just minutes away from a high-protein treat that tastes like the real deal.