Pumpkin Cheesecake Protein Ice Cream (Ninja CREAMi)

Introduction

Pumpkin Cheesecake Protein Ice Cream (Ninja CREAMi) delivers the rich, spiced flavors of pumpkin cheesecake in a creamy, high-protein frozen treat. A smooth and velvety base, infused with warm pumpkin spice and real pumpkin puree, churns into a decadent dessert with the help of the Ninja CREAMi. Perfect for satisfying cravings while keeping things nutritious, this ice cream makes every spoonful feel like an autumn indulgence.

I blend the ingredients, filling the kitchen with the comforting aroma of pumpkin spice. As the mixture chills, anticipation builds. Once the Ninja CREAMi works its magic, the result is a thick, creamy ice cream with all the flavors of a classic pumpkin cheesecake. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of sweetness and spice, making it hard to resist another scoop.

The best part? This recipe is easy to customize. I can swirl in crushed graham crackers for added texture, mix in white chocolate chips, or even add a drizzle of caramel for extra indulgence. Pumpkin Cheesecake Protein Ice Cream isn’t just a treat—it’s a way to enjoy the cozy flavors of fall in a cool, refreshing bite.

Perfect for:

  • A high-protein dessert
  • Fall-inspired treats
  • Guilt-free indulgence
  • Post-workout recovery
  • Ninja CREAMi enthusiasts

Why You will Love The Pumpkin Cheesecake Protein Ice Cream (Ninja CREAMi)

You’ll love this Pumpkin Cheesecake Protein Ice Cream because it:

  • Tastes Like Pumpkin Cheesecake in a Frozen Treat – Indulge in the creamy, tangy richness of pumpkin cheesecake in an ice-cold, velvety texture. This dessert satisfies your pumpkin spice cravings while delivering a smooth and luscious bite every time.
  • Made with Simple, Wholesome Ingredients – Crafted with real pumpkin puree, cream cheese, and high-quality protein powder, this ice cream skips unnecessary fillers and artificial ingredients. You get a clean, nutritious treat that tastes just like a classic fall dessert.
  • High in Protein, Lower in Calories – Unlike traditional ice cream, this recipe provides a protein-packed alternative with fewer calories and less sugar. Whether you’re looking for a post-workout recovery snack or a healthier indulgence, this ice cream keeps you satisfied without the guilt.
  • Easy to Make with the Ninja CREAMi – No fancy ice cream maker is required! Simply mix your ingredients, freeze, and let the Ninja CREAMi transform it into a creamy, scoopable texture. It’s a hassle-free way to enjoy homemade ice cream with minimal effort.
  • Brings All the Cozy Fall Flavors – With hints of warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla, this ice cream delivers all the flavors of autumn in every spoonful. It’s like enjoying a slice of pumpkin cheesecake with the comforting spices that make fall desserts so irresistible.

Preparation and Freezing Time

  • Total Time: 12–24 hours (including freezing)
  • Preparation Time: 5 minutes
  • Processing Time: 3–5 minutes
  • Servings: 2
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 180–220
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 20g, Fiber: 3g, Vitamin A: 30% DV

Ingredients

Base Ingredients:

  • ¾ cup unsweetened almond milk (or dairy milk)
  • ½ cup cottage cheese or Greek yogurt
  • ¼ cup pumpkin puree
  • 1 scoop vanilla or cinnamon protein powder
  • 1 tablespoon sugar-free cheesecake pudding mix (or vanilla extract + sweetener)
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or sugar-free sweetener
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • Pinch of salt

Optional Mix-Ins & Toppings:

  • 2 tablespoons crushed graham crackers (for an authentic cheesecake texture)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped pecans
  • A drizzle of caramel or maple syrup
  • Whipped cream for extra indulgence

Ingredient Highlights

  • Pumpkin Puree: Adds real pumpkin flavor and natural creaminess.
  • Cottage Cheese or Greek Yogurt: Enhances the texture while adding protein.
  • Protein Powder: Boosts protein content while keeping it creamy.
  • Cheesecake Pudding Mix: Mimics the tangy richness of cheesecake.
  • Spices: Bring warmth and depth to the ice cream.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Ice Cream Base:

  1. Blend the Ingredients: In a blender, combine almond milk, cottage cheese (or Greek yogurt), pumpkin puree, protein powder, pudding mix, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Blend until completely smooth.
  2. Pour into a CREAMi Pint: Transfer the mixture to a Ninja CREAMi pint container and seal it with the lid.

Freeze and Process:

  1. Freeze the Mixture: Place the pint in the freezer for at least 12 hours, preferably overnight, until it’s completely solid.
  2. Spin in the Ninja CREAMi: Remove the pint from the freezer, install it in the CREAMi machine, and select the Lite Ice Cream or Gelato setting.
  3. Re-spin if Needed: If the texture appears crumbly, add 1–2 tablespoons of almond milk and spin again using the Re-spin function until smooth.

Serve and Enjoy:

  1. Add Mix-Ins (Optional): If using crushed graham crackers or pecans, add them and use the Mix-In setting to fold them into the ice cream.
  2. Scoop and Serve: Enjoy immediately, or store any leftovers in the freezer.

How to Serve the Pumpkin Cheesecake Protein Ice Cream (Ninja CREAMi)

This Pumpkin Cheesecake Protein Ice Cream tastes incredible:

  • With a drizzle of caramel or maple syrup for extra decadence.
  • Topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
  • Layered with crushed graham crackers to mimic a cheesecake crust.
  • Paired with a warm gingerbread cookie for a cozy fall treat.

Additional Tips for Pumpkin Cheesecake Protein Ice Cream (Ninja CREAMi)

  • Use full-fat cottage cheese or Greek yogurt for a creamier texture.
  • Don’t skip the re-spin if the ice cream looks crumbly after the first spin.
  • Freeze leftovers properly by smoothing the surface and covering it tightly.
  • Experiment with flavors by adding a dash of espresso powder or vanilla bean paste.
  • For a dairy-free version, use coconut yogurt instead of cottage cheese.

Recipe Variations for Pumpkin Cheesecake Protein Ice Cream (Ninja CREAMi)

  • Chocolate Pumpkin Ice Cream – Add 1 tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder to the mixture before freezing for a deep, chocolatey twist that pairs perfectly with the warm pumpkin spice flavors. For extra indulgence, stir in chocolate chips or drizzle melted dark chocolate over the finished ice cream.
  • Salted Caramel Version – Swirl in sugar-free caramel sauce and sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top for the perfect sweet-and-salty contrast. To intensify the caramel flavor, mix in a teaspoon of caramel extract before freezing. You can also add crushed caramel candies or a caramel-flavored protein powder for an extra boost.
  • Nut-Free Option – Skip pecans or any nut-based mix-ins and replace them with sunflower seed butter for a smooth, nut-free alternative. Sunflower seeds add a subtle crunch, while the butter provides a creamy, nutty flavor without allergens. You can also try pumpkin seed butter for an autumn-inspired twist.
  • Extra High Protein – Maximize the protein content by using Fairlife ultra-filtered milk instead of almond milk. This adds more protein per serving while keeping the ice cream ultra-creamy. You can also blend in an extra scoop of vanilla or pumpkin-flavored protein powder or mix in Greek yogurt for a thicker, protein-rich base.
  • Maple Pecan Pumpkin Ice Cream – Stir in a teaspoon of maple extract for a natural sweetness and mix in chopped toasted pecans for added crunch. A drizzle of sugar-free maple syrup on top brings even more fall-inspired flavor.
  • Pumpkin Pie Crumble – Crush gluten-free graham crackers or cinnamon-flavored protein cookies and sprinkle them over the finished ice cream for a delicious pie-inspired texture. You can also mix them into the base before freezing for a more even distribution.

Freezing and Storage for Pumpkin Cheesecake Protein Ice Cream (Ninja CREAMi)

  • Freezing: Store in the Ninja CREAMi pint with the lid tightly sealed for up to a week. If re-freezing after serving, re-spin before eating to restore creaminess.
  • Storage Tip: Smooth out the surface before freezing again to prevent ice crystals.

Special Equipment for Pumpkin Cheesecake Protein Ice Cream (Ninja CREAMi)

  • Ninja CREAMi Machine: Essential for creating the best creamy texture.
  • Blender: Ensures a smooth base before freezing.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient portions.

FAQ Section of Pumpkin Cheesecake Protein Ice Cream (Ninja CREAMi)

Can I use a different protein powder?
Yes! Vanilla, cinnamon, or even pumpkin spice protein powders work well.

What if I don’t have pudding mix?
Use ½ teaspoon vanilla extract and an extra teaspoon of sweetener.

Can I make this without a Ninja CREAMi?
Yes! Freeze the mixture in an ice cube tray, then blend the frozen cubes in a high-speed blender with a splash of milk.

How do I make it sweeter without adding sugar?
Use a sugar-free sweetener like monk fruit or stevia.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just divide the mixture into two Ninja CREAMi pints.

Print

Pumpkin Cheesecake Protein Ice Cream (Ninja CREAMi)

  • Author: Alivia
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes processing
  • Total Time: 12 hours or overnight
  • Yield: 2 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients:

  • ¾ cup unsweetened almond milk (or dairy milk)
  • ½ cup cottage cheese or Greek yogurt
  • ¼ cup pumpkin puree
  • 1 scoop vanilla or cinnamon protein powder
  • 1 tablespoon sugar-free cheesecake pudding mix (or vanilla extract + sweetener)
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or sugar-free sweetener
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • Pinch of salt

Optional Mix-Ins & Toppings:

  • 2 tablespoons crushed graham crackers (for an authentic cheesecake texture)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped pecans
  • A drizzle of caramel or maple syrup
  • Whipped cream for extra indulgence

Instructions

Prepare the Ice Cream Base:

  1. Blend the Ingredients: In a blender, combine almond milk, cottage cheese (or Greek yogurt), pumpkin puree, protein powder, pudding mix, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Blend until completely smooth.
  2. Pour into a CREAMi Pint: Transfer the mixture to a Ninja CREAMi pint container and seal it with the lid.

Freeze and Process:

  1. Freeze the Mixture: Place the pint in the freezer for at least 12 hours, preferably overnight, until it’s completely solid.
  2. Spin in the Ninja CREAMi: Remove the pint from the freezer, install it in the CREAMi machine, and select the Lite Ice Cream or Gelato setting.
  3. Re-spin if Needed: If the texture appears crumbly, add 1–2 tablespoons of almond milk and spin again using the Re-spin function until smooth.

Serve and Enjoy:

  1. Add Mix-Ins (Optional): If using crushed graham crackers or pecans, add them and use the Mix-In setting to fold them into the ice cream.
  2. Scoop and Serve: Enjoy immediately, or store any leftovers in the freezer.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 180-220 kcal
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 20g

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Conclusion of Pumpkin Cheesecake Protein Ice Cream (Ninja CREAMi)

Scoop up a bowl of Pumpkin Cheesecake Protein Ice Cream and enjoy a creamy, protein-packed treat that brings the cozy flavors of fall to your dessert game. With its rich pumpkin spice essence, velvety texture, and satisfying sweetness, it’s the perfect guilt-free indulgence after a workout or as a wholesome snack

Customize your ice cream with your favorite mix-ins—crushed graham crackers, chocolate chips, or a swirl of caramel—for extra decadence. Whether you enjoy it straight from the pint or topped with whipped cream, this recipe is sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Churn up a batch today, savor every spoonful, and share the love. Snap a photo of your creamy creation and post it online be sure to tag me—we’ll celebrate your kitchen win together. Enjoy!