Easy Mint Chocolate Chip Cottage Cheese Ice Cream

5 from 7 votes

Nicole Bonilla

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This mint chocolate chip cottage cheese ice cream is a no-churn, high-protein frozen dessert made by blending cottage cheese until smooth, then freezing it for a creamy texture. No ice cream maker or heavy cream needed.

Cals: 256 | Protein: 10 | Sugar: 23 | Fat: 10 | Fiber: 3 | Diet: Gluten-Free
Mint chocolate chip cottage cheese ice cream in a white bowl.

This mint chocolate chip cottage cheese ice cream solves the problem of wanting classic mint chip flavor without making a full batch of traditional ice cream or using heavy cream. It’s a no-churn, high-protein frozen dessert made by blending cottage cheese until smooth, then freezing it for a creamy, scoopable texture using just a blender and a handful of simple ingredients.

I make this recipe when I want something cold and refreshing that still feels familiar and easy to enjoy. When I was a kid, my mom would take me to Thrifty’s for a scoop of mint chocolate chip ice cream after dance class if I did a good job. Mint chip has had a special place in my heart ever since. Now I can enjoy that nostalgic flavor in a way that actually makes me feel great and still leaves me smiling.

Does chocolate chip mint cottage cheese ice cream taste like regular ice cream?

Yes. When the cottage cheese is fully blended and frozen, the texture becomes smooth and creamy, similar to traditional mint chocolate chip ice cream. The flavor is familiar and refreshing, with a slightly lighter finish than classic versions made with heavy cream. Blending thoroughly is key, which is why I recommend using a high-speed blender or food processor for the best results.

Why This Mint Chocolate Chip Cottage Cheese Ice Cream Works

  • Cottage cheese is fully blended until smooth, creating a creamy base without heavy cream or eggs.
  • Freezing the mixture in a shallow container helps it firm up evenly while staying easy to scoop.
  • Peppermint extract is used in a measured amount, keeping the mint flavor fresh instead of overpowering.
  • Chocolate chips are folded in after blending, so they stay distinct instead of melting into the base.
  • No ice cream maker is required, which keeps the process simple and easy to repeat.
Mint chocolate chip cottage cheese ice cream in a white bowl.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Here is everything you need to make the best-tasting chocolate mint cottage cheese ice cream:

  • Cottage Cheese: Cottage cheese creates the creamy base and adds protein. I recommend full-fat or whole-milk cottage cheese for the smoothest texture. Lower-fat versions work but freeze a bit firmer, so blend well.
  • Maple Syrup
    Maple syrup sweetens the ice cream and helps keep it scoopable once frozen. Honey or agave syrup can be used, but liquid sweeteners work best for texture.
  • Vanilla Extract
    Vanilla softens and rounds out the mint flavor. It’s optional, but the ice cream tastes slightly sharper without it.
  • Peppermint Extract
    Peppermint extract gives the classic mint flavor. Start small and taste as you go, since too much can quickly overpower the ice cream.
  • Chocolate Chips
    Mini chocolate chips, chopped dark chocolate, or shaved chocolate all work well. Fold them in after blending so they stay distinct.
  • Salt
    A small pinch of salt balances the sweetness and brings out the chocolate and mint. You can omit it if needed.
  • Optional: Green Food Coloring
    This is just for color and doesn’t affect flavor or texture.

Easily Adapt This Recipe for Different Diets

This mint chocolate chip cottage cheese ice cream is naturally gluten-free and easy to adjust:

  • Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free as written.
  • Dairy-Free: Use a plain, unsweetened dairy-free yogurt (such as coconut- or cashew-based). The texture will be slightly different, but it still freezes well.
  • Lower Sugar: Reduce the maple syrup slightly or use a liquid sugar-free sweetener to taste.

💡 Pro Tip: If you try a substitution, let us know how it worked for you in the comments.

Mint chocolate chip cottage cheese ice cream in a white bowl.

How to Make My No-Churn Mint Ice Cream with Cottage Cheese and Chocolate Chips Recipe

Here are easy, detailed, step-by-step instructions for the best way to make homemade ice cream with mint flavor and chocolate chips. They’re also repeated in the recipe card at the bottom of this blog post.

Step 1: Blend the Ice Cream Base

Add 1½ cups cottage cheese, ⅓ cup maple syrup, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract, 2 pinches salt, and optional green food coloring to a high-speed blender or food processor. Blend until completely smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. The mixture should look thick and creamy with no visible curds.

Mixing cottage cheese ice cream in a food processor.

Step 2: Transfer and Add Chocolate Chips

Spread the blended mixture into a shallow dish, bowl, or loaf pan. Gently fold in ⅓ cup chocolate chips with a spatula until evenly distributed.

Chopping chocolate chips on a cutting board.
Stirring chocolate into mint cottage cheese ice cream.

Step 3: Freeze Until Firm

Cover and freeze for 2–3 hours, or until the ice cream is set but not rock solid.

Step 4: Rest and Scoop

Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before scooping. Serve as-is or garnish with fresh mint if desired.

Mint chocolate chip cottage cheese ice cream in a white bowl.

My Expert Recipe Tips

  • Blend Until Completely Smooth
    Take the extra minute to blend thoroughly. A fully smooth base is what gives this ice cream its creamy texture once frozen.
  • Use a Shallow Container for Freezing
    Spreading the mixture into a shallow dish helps it freeze evenly and makes it easier to scoop later.
  • Fold In the Chocolate Chips Gently
    Stirring too aggressively can break down the chocolate or cause streaking. Folding keeps the chips evenly distributed and distinct.
  • Let It Rest Before Scooping
    If the ice cream feels too firm straight from the freezer, let it sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes. This softens it just enough for clean scoops.
  • Go Easy on the Peppermint
    Peppermint extract is potent. Starting with the measured amount keeps the flavor fresh instead of overpowering.

Delicious Serving Suggestions

  • Use as a frozen topping for brownies or naturally sweetened desserts.
  • Serve in a bowl or cone once slightly softened for the creamiest texture.
  • Top with extra chocolate chips, cacao nibs, or shaved dark chocolate for added crunch.
  • Pair with fresh berries or sliced strawberries for a refreshing contrast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Freezing: Pour the ice cream in a freezer-safe container. Press a layer of plastic wrap or parchment paper directly onto the surface of the ice cream before sealing the container with its lid. This helps prevent ice crystals from forming.

Thawing: When ready to serve, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before scooping.

Scooping: Use a sturdy ice cream scoop or spoon to scoop the ice cream. Dip the scoop in warm water between scoops for easier serving.

Refreezing: It’s best not to refreeze melted ice cream, as it can become icy and lose its creamy texture. Try to scoop only the amount you plan to serve.

No. You simply mix the ingredients, pour them into a shallow dish, and allow it to freeze for several hours.

Cottage cheese itself is naturally high in protein, so yes, this ice cream is higher in protein than traditional options. 

Yes, the food coloring is optional and can be omitted if you prefer not to use it. It does not affect the flavor!

The ice cream needs at least 2-3 hours to be solid enough to scoop and 4 hours to completely freeze.

Simply set your container of ice cream out on the counter for about 10-15 minutes and will thaw naturally to the perfect consistency. You could also microwave it in short intervals but that tends to make the outer edges melt quicker than the center.

Do you love homemade ice cream? Check out more of my easy and healthier cottage cheese ice cream recipes:

More Healthier Dessert Recipes

Mint chocolate chip cottage cheese ice cream in a white bowl.

Easy Mint Chocolate Chip Cottage Cheese Ice Cream

Gluten-Free
This mint chocolate chip cottage cheese ice cream is a no-churn, high-protein frozen dessert made by blending cottage cheese until smooth, then freezing it for a creamy texture. No ice cream maker or heavy cream needed.
5 from 7 votes
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Servings 4
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • 1-1/2 cups cottage cheese
  • 1/3 cup maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 1/3 cup chocolate chips
  • 2 pinches salt

Instructions
 

  • Add 1½ cups cottage cheese, ⅓ cup maple syrup, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract, 2 pinches salt, and optional green food coloring to a high-speed blender or food processor. Blend until completely smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. The mixture should look thick and creamy with no visible curds.
  • Spread the blended mixture into a shallow dish, bowl, or loaf pan. Gently fold in ⅓ cup chocolate chips with a spatula until evenly distributed.
  • Cover and freeze for 2–3 hours, or until the ice cream is set but not rock solid.
  • Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before scooping. Serve as-is or garnish with fresh mint if desired.

Video

Notes

Cottage Cheese Texture: Blend the cottage cheese until smooth to ensure a creamy ice cream texture. Some small curds are okay and can add a nice texture to the ice cream.
Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of maple syrup or sweetener to taste. You can also use sugar-free or low-calorie sweeteners if preferred.
Peppermint Flavor: Taste the ice cream after adding 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract. You can add more for a stronger mint flavor. But be careful not to add too much or it can taste like toothpaste.

Nutrition

Calories: 256kcalCarbohydrates: 21gProtein: 10gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 13mgSodium: 251mgPotassium: 244mgFiber: 3gSugar: 23gVitamin A: 110IUCalcium: 112mgIron: 1mg
Keyword cottage cheese ice cream, mint chocolate chip, protein dessert
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Important Disclaimer

This recipe is created by a home cook and not a medical professional. Our ingredient philosophy is reviewed by RDNs, but this specific post is not personalized medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider for dietary concerns.

Learn more about our RDN review process here

Looking for more ways to cook and bake with cottage cheese?
Browse all of my cottage cheese recipes, including breakfasts, desserts, sauces, snacks, and savory meals.

Looking for more desserts made without refined sugar?
Browse all of my naturally sweetened dessert recipes, made with maple syrup, honey, fruit, and other simple sweeteners for treats that feel familiar and satisfying.

Nicole Bonilla is the creator of Gentle Tummy, where she develops gluten-free, higher-protein recipes with simple ingredient swaps that support gentle digestion. Every recipe is tested in her own home kitchen and designed to make familiar comfort foods easier to prepare and enjoy.

13 Comments

  1. Thank you for sharing this recipe! I did a substitute on the sweetener with Liquid Stevia, but not as good as using the original ingredients. I didn’t have a blender, so mine came out a little chunky. I want to try this recipe again!

    Reply

  2. I’m going to make this! What green food coloring did you use. I noticed there’re gels, oils, liquids. So I decided to ask you …. Thanks Marilu

    Reply

    1. Hi Marilu, I just used some organic green liquid food coloring I bought at my local grocery store 🙂 I hope you enjoy making it!

      Reply

  5. Yep, did the Toothpaste. I’ll try again when I get more cottage cheese. Maybe it’ll be edible if I freeze it 😆

    Reply

    1. Hi Linda, yes, the mint extract can be strong 🙂 If you get more cottage cheese you can add it plus some more maple syrup to your first batch to dilute the mint extract and save it.

      Reply

  6. Super easy recipe! I used dark chocolate chips and my husband and I loved it! And he’s not usually crazy about cottage cheese.

    Reply

  7. I’m so excited to share this ice cream recipe with you! Chocolate Mint has been my favorite flavor since I was little. I hope you enjoy this healthier sweet treat 🙂

    Reply
5 from 7 votes (1 rating without comment)

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