The Ninja Creami is a game-changer for homemade frozen desserts, and pairing it with Fairlife milk makes for a treat that’s creamy, high in protein, and lower in sugar. Whether you’re craving classic vanilla, rich chocolate, or creative flavors, this guide will show you how to make delicious, scoopable ice cream with Fairlife and your Ninja Creami—perfect for those who want indulgent desserts with a nutritious twist.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups Fairlife 2% Ultra-Filtered Milk (cold)
- 2 tablespoons instant vanilla pudding mix (regular or sugar-free)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sweetener (sugar, stevia, or monk fruit)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional mix-ins: 2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or berries
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, pour in the cold Fairlife milk.
- Add the instant pudding mix, sweetener, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
- Whisk the mixture vigorously for 1-2 minutes until the pudding mix is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth. It will thicken slightly.
- Pour the base mixture into the Ninja Creami pint container. Make sure not to fill past the max fill line.
- Seal the container with its lid and place it in the freezer on a flat surface. Freeze for at least 24 hours, or until the mixture is fully solid.
- Once frozen, remove the container from the freezer and take off the lid. Insert the pint into the Ninja Creami outer bowl and lock it into the machine according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Select the “Ice Cream” cycle and let the Creami process the base (this usually takes about 2-3 minutes).
- After the cycle, check the texture. If it’s crumbly or powdery, use the “Re-spin” function once or twice until smooth and creamy.
- If you want to add mix-ins (like chocolate chips, nuts, or berries), make a small well in the center of the ice cream, add your mix-ins, and run the “Mix-In” cycle.
- Scoop and serve immediately, or transfer to a freezer-safe container for later enjoyment.
Tips
- Substitute pudding mix: If you prefer not to use instant pudding, try 1 tablespoon of cornstarch for thickening, but the texture may be less creamy.
- Customize sweetness: Adjust the sweetener to taste. Fairlife is less sweet than regular milk, so taste the base before freezing and add more if needed.
- Storage: After spinning, store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Let it sit on the counter for 5-10 minutes to soften before scooping.
- Common mistake: Don’t overfill the pint container, as the mixture expands slightly when frozen and can spill over or affect the Creami’s operation.
Serving Suggestions
- Top with fresh berries, sliced bananas, or a drizzle of sugar-free chocolate syrup for a fun sundae.
- Serve with a sprinkle of granola or chopped nuts to add crunch and extra nutrition.
- Pair with a warm brownie or protein cookie for a balanced, indulgent dessert.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream or a few mini marshmallows for a classic ice cream parlor vibe.
Variations
- Chocolate Ice Cream: Use chocolate Fairlife milk and swap the vanilla pudding for chocolate pudding mix. Add 1 tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder for richer flavor.
- Strawberry Cream: Blend 1/2 cup of fresh or frozen strawberries with the milk before mixing in the pudding and sweetener. Use strawberry pudding mix if available.
- Cookies & Cream: Crush 2-3 chocolate sandwich cookies and add as mix-ins during the “Mix-In” cycle for a classic cookies-and-cream flavor.
- Peanut Butter Swirl: Swirl in 2 tablespoons of creamy peanut butter after spinning, or add as a mix-in for a nutty twist.
- Protein Boost: Add 1 scoop of vanilla or chocolate protein powder to the base for an even higher-protein treat. Add a splash more milk if the mixture becomes too thick.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover Ninja Creami Fairlife ice cream in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to 2 weeks. For best texture, press a piece of parchment directly onto the surface before sealing to prevent ice crystals. When ready to eat, let the container sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to soften, or return the pint to the Ninja Creami and use the “Re-spin” function for a freshly churned texture. Do not microwave the ice cream to thaw, as this can create uneven melting and affect texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use Fairlife skim or whole milk instead of 2%?
Yes, Fairlife’s ultra-filtered milk works well in all fat levels, but using whole milk will yield a creamier, richer ice cream, while skim will be a bit lighter and may need an extra tablespoon of pudding mix or a small splash of heavy cream for best texture. - What if I don’t have instant pudding mix?
If you don’t have instant pudding mix, you can use 1 tablespoon of cornstarch or arrowroot powder to help thicken the base. The pudding mix provides both texture and sweetness, so you may want to increase your sweetener slightly and add an extra dash of vanilla extract for flavor. Note that the final ice cream may be less creamy but still enjoyable. - How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Fairlife is a dairy product, so for a dairy-free version, substitute with a high-protein plant-based milk (like soy or pea milk) and use a dairy-free pudding mix. The Ninja Creami works with most non-dairy milks, but the texture will be slightly different. Consider adding 1-2 tablespoons of coconut cream or cashew butter to boost creaminess. - Why is my ice cream crumbly after spinning?
This is a common issue, especially with lower-fat or high-protein bases. Simply use the “Re-spin” function once or twice. If it remains crumbly, add 1-2 tablespoons of milk (Fairlife or regular) and spin again. This should help achieve a smoother, creamier consistency. - Can I double the recipe?
The Ninja Creami pints have a fixed capacity, so do not overfill. To make more, prepare two separate pints instead of doubling and overfilling a single container. This ensures even freezing and proper mixing. - Is this recipe suitable for people with lactose intolerance?
Fairlife milk is ultra-filtered and contains less lactose than regular milk, making it easier to digest for many people with lactose sensitivity. However, it is not completely lactose-free, so if you have severe lactose intolerance, choose a certified lactose-free milk instead.