Picture this: the cool, refreshing scent of peppermint filling your kitchen as you open your Ninja Creami pint, revealing a swirl of creamy, mint-green ice cream dotted with melty chocolate chips. The first spoonful delivers a luscious, velvety texture that melts perfectly on your tongue, bursting with sweet minty freshness and protein-packed goodness. This Mint Chocolate Chip Protein Ice Cream (Ninja Creami) Recipe is not just a treat for your taste buds but also a celebration of wholesome indulgence, quick to whip up and impossible not to love. Whether it’s a post-workout delight or a guilt-free dessert, you’re about to discover a recipe that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Mint Chocolate Chip Protein Ice Cream (Ninja Creami) Recipe

Ready in 30 minutes: While the base freezes for 24 hours, the prep is delightfully simple and only takes about 5 minutes, perfect for busy days.
Uses simple ingredients: Everything you need is pantry-friendly and easy to find, with room to customize to your taste.

Perfect for beginners: The step-by-step process breaks down ice cream making into an enjoyable, stress-free activity.
Impressive presentation: The gorgeous mint-green color and speckles of chocolate chips make it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Customizable: Swap out protein powders or mix-ins to suit your preferences and dietary needs.

Why This Mint Chocolate Chip Protein Ice Cream (Ninja Creami) Recipe Works

This recipe stands out thanks to a few key elements: the use of full-fat Greek yogurt blends creaminess with protein boost, while the vanilla pudding mix lends body and richness, helping the ice cream hold a luscious texture after freezing. The peppermint extract—not to be confused with mint extract—delivers a bright, refreshing aroma without overpowering sweetness. Finally, freezing the mixture without the lid avoids texture issues, ensuring the Ninja Creami’s blades can spin freely for the perfect creamy finish.

Clear white container filled with a large, smooth batch of mint chocolate chip ice cream, pale green in color with evenly distributed small chocolate chips throughout, topped with a fresh green mint leaf, resting on a white scalloped plate, scattered chocolate chips and fresh mint leaves adorn the white marble surface around it, natural lighting highlighting the creamy texture, professional food magazine hero shot, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient plays a crucial yet simple role in crafting this delicious protein ice cream. Together, they create a balance of creaminess, flavor, and nutrition.

Whole milk (1 1/2 cups): The creamy base that keeps everything smooth and rich.

Vanilla or mint protein powder (1 scoop): Adds protein plus flavor, boosting the healthy factor.
Full-fat Greek yogurt (3 Tbsp.): Contributes tang, creaminess, and extra protein for texture.
Sweetener of choice (1 Tbsp.): Monkfruit, sugar, or any favorite sweetener to balance mint’s bite.

Vanilla pudding mix (1 Tbsp.): Helps create luscious thickness and a velvety mouthfeel.
Peppermint extract (2-4 drops): The star flavor—bright, refreshing, and cooling.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp.): Adds depth and warmth to the minty flavors.

Pinch of salt: Enhances all flavors and balances sweetness.
Green food coloring (2-4 drops): For that iconic minty hue that excites the senses.
Chocolate chips or mint creme Oreos (optional): For irresistible mix-ins that add texture and bursts of flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions & Tips

Whole milk: Substitute with almond, oat, or coconut milk for dairy-free options.

Protein powder: Use your favorite brand or flavor, adjusting peppermint extract accordingly.
Greek yogurt: Swap for dairy-free yogurt alternatives or skip for lower fat content.
Sweetener: Honey, agave, or stevia also work well—adjust to taste.

👨‍🍳 Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Use a milk frother: To whisk ingredients smoothly and avoid clumps—especially protein powder.
Freeze without the lid: It prevents ice buildup on top that can hurt the Ninja Creami blades.
Adjust mintiness carefully: Peppermint extract can be strong, so add drops a little at a time.

Mix-ins go last: Add chocolate chips or cookies after the first spin for best texture.
Store leftovers correctly: Keep ice cream tightly sealed in the freezer to preserve creaminess.

How to Make Mint Chocolate Chip Protein Ice Cream (Ninja Creami) Recipe

Step 1: Combine Your Base Ingredients

Pour the whole milk into your empty Ninja Creami pint, then add the protein powder, Greek yogurt, sweetener, pudding mix, peppermint extract, vanilla extract, pinch of salt, and green food coloring. Use a whisk or a milk frother to blend everything into a silky, vibrant green mixture. If you notice lumps, try mixing the milk and protein powder first before adding other ingredients.

💡 Pro Tip: The milk frother is your secret weapon for a perfectly smooth, lump-free base!

Step 2: Freeze Overnight

Place the filled pint container on a flat surface in your freezer without the lid. Freezing for a full 24 hours will give the ideal solid texture for the Ninja Creami to work its magic on.

💡 Pro Tip: Never freeze with the lid! It prevents an iciness on top that can damage the blades.

Step 3: Prepare Your Outer Bowl

When the freezing is complete, remove the pint from the freezer. Assemble it into the Ninja Creami’s outer bowl and lock the lid securely on top. Position the bowl on the motor base and twist the handle to raise and lock the bowl platform in place.

💡 Pro Tip: Make sure the assembly is tight so the machine operates smoothly.

Step 4: Spin the Ice Cream

Select the “Lite Ice Cream” function and let your Ninja Creami churn its creamy magic. This cycle will aerate and soften the frozen base into heavenly soft-serve style ice cream.

💡 Pro Tip: If the texture feels too icy, run the spin cycle one more time for fluffier results.

Step 5: Add Delicious Mix-Ins

Using a spoon, make a small well (about 1 ½ inches in diameter) in the center of the ice cream. Add your favorite chocolate chips, crushed mint creme Oreos, or any desired mix-ins. Use the Ninja Creami’s “Mix-In” setting once to incorporate them evenly without over-processing.

💡 Pro Tip: This step lets you customize texture and flavor bursts for every bite.

Step 6: Scoop and Enjoy

Remove the finished pint from the machine and serve immediately, topping with extra chips or cookie crumbles if desired. Revel in the cool, minty bliss!

💡 Pro Tip: For a softer texture after storage, allow the ice cream to sit out for a couple of minutes before scooping.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Learn from these common pitfalls:

Freezing with the lid on: Causes a hard hump of ice on top that can damage the Creami blades.

Using mint extract instead of peppermint extract: Mint extract lacks the crisp brightness, resulting in a dull flavor.
Skipping the pudding mix: May result in icier texture and less creamy mouthfeel.
Adding mix-ins too early: Overprocessing can break down textures and make the ice cream gritty.

Not whisking thoroughly: Leads to lumps and uneven freezing.
Ignoring refrigeration time: Cutting freezing short results in watery ice cream that won’t spin well.

Delicious Variations to Try

Once you’ve mastered this Mint Chocolate Chip Protein Ice Cream (Ninja Creami) Recipe:

Double Chocolate Mint

Swap vanilla protein powder for chocolate, and add extra cocoa powder to the mix. Finish with dark chocolate chips for an intense chocolatey treat.

Mint Oreo Crunch

Mix in crushed mint creme Oreos in the final step to add a delightful cookie crunch and nostalgic flair.

Vegan Mint Delight

Use almond or coconut milk, plant-based protein powder, and dairy-free yogurt. Sweeten with maple syrup for a creamy vegan spin.

Matcha Mint Fusion

Add a teaspoon of matcha powder alongside green food coloring, trading the usual mint freshness for a unique earthy complexity.

Protein Peppermint Patties

Fold in chopped homemade or store-bought peppermint patties as your mix-in for a refreshing surprise.

How to Serve Mint Chocolate Chip Protein Ice Cream (Ninja Creami) Recipe

Single white bowl containing a close-up serving of mint chocolate chip ice cream, two scoops adorned with crushed chocolate sandwich cookie pieces and a whole cookie garnished at an angle, showing creamy green ice cream texture with chocolate bits embedded, placed on a white plate with a vintage silver spoon and fresh mint leaves scattered around on a white marble surface, natural soft lighting emphasizing the creamy, inviting texture, intimate plated serving photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh mint leaves, dark chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce add a gourmet touch and enhance flavor.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside warm brownies, crisp waffle cones, or fresh berries for an extra indulgent experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Scoop the ice cream into mini dessert glasses layered with crushed cookies, or serve in a hollowed-out mint chocolate brownie bowl for an eye-catching treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your ice cream in the Ninja Creami pint container or an airtight freezer-safe container, ensuring the lid is on tight to avoid freezer burn.

Freezing

Freeze leftovers flat and stable for up to two weeks. Before serving again, let the pint soften slightly at room temperature for a couple of minutes.

Reheating

Ice cream is best enjoyed cold—simply leave it out a few minutes before scooping for easier handling. Avoid microwaving, which will melt the creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use skim milk instead of whole milk?

Yes, though whole milk helps create a creamier texture. Skim milk will work but may yield a lighter mouthfeel.

What if I don’t have a Ninja Creami?

You can try freezing the mixture in a regular ice cream maker or in a shallow container, stirring every 30 minutes until creamy.

How strong should the peppermint flavor be?

Adjust according to preference, starting with 2 drops and increasing gradually. Peppermint extract is potent, so less can often be more.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use plant-based milk, non-dairy yogurt, and a vegan protein powder for an allergy-friendly variation.

Is it okay to replace pudding mix with something else?

The pudding mix adds creaminess and stability, but if unavailable, you can try gelatin or xanthan gum in small amounts as substitutes.

How long does the ice cream last in the freezer?

For best taste and texture, consume within 1-2 weeks. After that, ice crystals may develop.

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely! Just be sure to freeze in separate pints to maintain proper freezing and spinning in your Ninja Creami.

What’s the best way to add mix-ins?

After the initial spin, create a small hole in the ice cream and add mix-ins, then run the mix-in program to blend them gently.

Final Thoughts

This Mint Chocolate Chip Protein Ice Cream (Ninja Creami) Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to delights, blending the joy of classic mint chip ice cream with the wholesome boost of protein. The creamy texture, vibrant flavor, and ease of preparation make it impossible not to smile with every spoonful. Whether you’re cooling off after a workout or craving a sweet treat that fits your healthy lifestyle, this recipe delivers comfort and satisfaction in every bite.

Have you tried this Mint Chocolate Chip Protein Ice Cream (Ninja Creami) Recipe? I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below. If you loved this recipe, please share it with friends and family. Happy cooking! 🍦