Name: Cinnamon Toast Crunch Protein Ice Cream
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1440 min
Total time: 1455 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Fairlife Skim Milk; 1 cup Unsweetened Almond Milk (Can swap for soy or oat milk); 1 scoop Vanilla Protein Powder (Any vanilla-flavored protein powder); 1 box Sugar-Free Vanilla Jello Pudding Mix (Can omit if needed); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Adjust to taste); 2 cups Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cereal (Can substitute with another crunchy cereal)

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You know that cozy feeling when you dive into a bowl of your favorite childhood cereal? Now, imagine transforming that nostalgic joy into a creamy delight you can savor guilt-free. Welcome to the world of Cinnamon Toast Crunch Protein Ice Cream! This protein-packed dessert captures the aromatic sweetness and satisfying crunch of the beloved cereal, allowing you to indulge without compromising your health goals. With just a few simple ingredients and the help of your Ninja Creami, you can whip up a treat that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Not only is this ice cream a quick and easy way to satisfy your sweet tooth, but it’s also a fun twist on traditional ice cream that will impress family and friends. So, are you ready to take your dessert game to the next level? Let’s get started!

Why is this ice cream a must-try?

Nostalgic Flavors: This recipe captures the cozy essence of your favorite childhood cereal with every creamy bite.

Protein-Packed Delight: Packed with nutritious protein, this ice cream satisfies both your sweet cravings and health goals, making it guilt-free.

Simple Ingredients: Featuring basic kitchen staples, it’s a breeze to whip up; you’ll just need your Ninja Creami!

Versatile Option: Feel free to experiment with different cereals or protein powders to customize your treat and keep things exciting.

Family-Friendly: Whether you’re serving up a scoop for yourself or a whole bowl for the family, this ice cream is sure to please everyone!

Quick Indulgence: Enjoy a delicious dessert that saves time with minimal preparation and no lengthy cooking required. For more fun dessert ideas, don’t miss my Coconut Shrimp Thai or Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls!

Cinnamon Toast Crunch Protein Ice Cream Ingredients

For the Ice Cream Base
• Fairlife Skim Milk – The base liquid that provides creaminess while keeping it guilt-free.
• Unsweetened Almond Milk – Adds a lovely nutty flavor; you can swap it for soy or oat milk for a different twist.
• Vanilla Protein Powder – Boosts protein content; feel free to use any vanilla-flavored protein powder you have on hand.
• Sugar-Free Vanilla Jello Pudding Mix – Offers creaminess and stability; can be omitted if you’re in a pinch, but the texture might not be as smooth.
• Ground Cinnamon – Intensifies the cinnamon flavor with a warm kick; adjust according to your taste preference.

For the Crunch Factor
• Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cereal – This is what gives your ice cream that iconic flavor and delightful crunch; substitute with another crunchy cereal if you like.

Get ready to create the most delicious and satisfying Cinnamon Toast Crunch Protein Ice Cream you’ve ever tasted!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Toast Crunch Protein Ice Cream

Step 1: Prepare the Ice Cream Base
In your Ninja Creami pint container, pour in the Fairlife skim milk and unsweetened almond milk. Then, add the vanilla protein powder, sugar-free vanilla Jello pudding mix, and ground cinnamon. Using a whisk or a fork, mix thoroughly until everything is well blended, creating a smooth, creamy base. This step is crucial for achieving the desired texture of your Cinnamon Toast Crunch Protein Ice Cream.

Step 2: Add the Cereal
Gently fold in the Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal into the creamy mixture, making sure the cereal is evenly distributed. Allow the mixture to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This resting time will help the flavors meld beautifully, ensuring a delightful cinnamon taste in every scoop of your ice cream.

Step 3: Freeze the Mixture
Transfer the mixture into the freezer and let it freeze for a full 24 hours until solid. After the waiting period, the mixture should be firm enough to handle, resembling a solid ice cream base. This long freeze is necessary for achieving the perfect scoopable consistency for your Cinnamon Toast Crunch Protein Ice Cream.

Step 4: Prepare for Churning
Once the mixture is completely frozen, run the pint under warm water for about 60 seconds. This process helps to loosen the ice cream from the sides of the container, making it easier to churn. After this, carefully insert the pint into the Ninja Creami. Ensure it’s locked in place to prevent any mishaps during the blending process.

Step 5: Churn the Ice Cream
Turn on your Ninja Creami and select the “Lite Ice Cream” setting. Allow the machine to work its magic, and once it’s complete, stop to check the texture. If your ice cream appears powdery, simply use the “respin” function to achieve a creamier finish. This step ensures that your Cinnamon Toast Crunch Protein Ice Cream is perfectly blended and satisfying.

Step 6: Add More Crunch
For an extra element of fun and texture, take some reserved Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal and mix it into the blended ice cream using the mix-in button on your Ninja Creami. You’ll create delicious, crunchy surprises in every bite of your Cinnamon Toast Crunch Protein Ice Cream, enhancing both flavor and nostalgia as you prepare to serve your delightful creation.

How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Toast Crunch Protein Ice Cream

Fridge: Keep your Cinnamon Toast Crunch Protein Ice Cream in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This way, you can enjoy a quick scoop whenever the craving strikes!

Freezer: Store your ice cream in the freezer for up to 2 weeks for the best texture. Make sure it’s in a well-sealed container to prevent freezer burn and maintain creaminess.

Serving Tips: When ready to indulge, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping. This will help soften it slightly, making it easier to serve.

Reheating: If you find your ice cream too hard, briefly run it under warm water (for about 30 seconds) to soften it before scooping. Enjoy your delightful, guilt-free treat!

Make Ahead Options

These Cinnamon Toast Crunch Protein Ice Creams are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing indulgence! You can prepare the ice cream base (milk, protein powder, pudding mix, cinnamon) up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and refrigerating it. Just hold off on adding the Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal until you’re ready to freeze to prevent it from becoming too soggy. When you’re ready to serve, simply fold in the cereal, freeze the mixture for another 24 hours, then run the pint under warm water before churning. This method ensures a fresh and delicious flavor with the crunch intact, giving you a guilt-free dessert that’s just as delightful as when freshly made!

What to Serve with Cinnamon Toast Crunch Protein Ice Cream

Elevate your dessert experience by pairing this creamy, nostalgic delight with complementary flavors and textures.

Fresh Berries: Sweet and tangy, they cut through the richness of the ice cream, adding a refreshing contrast.
Chocolate Drizzle: A touch of warm chocolate sauce adds luxurious sweetness and balances the cinnamon spice perfectly.
Crispy Waffle Cones: Crunchy waffle cones can bring a delightful textural element, enhancing the overall indulgence of each scoop.
Nut Butter Swirl: A drizzle of almond or peanut butter introduces protein powerhouse flavors that meld beautifully with cinnamon.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream offers a cloud-like softness that complements the ice cream’s creamy consistency.
Iced Coffee: A refreshing chilled coffee pairs wonderfully, balancing the sweetness while enhancing your dessert’s indulgent feel.
Slice of Banana Bread: The moist, spiced flavor of banana bread harmonizes delightfully with cinnamon notes in the ice cream.
Chilled Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits brings freshness and vibrancy to each serving, providing a beautiful contrast to the creamy treat.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel evokes childhood memories, enhancing the dessert’s sweetness while offering a luscious texture.

Tips for the Best Cinnamon Toast Crunch Protein Ice Cream

Right Consistency: Ensure your base ingredients are well-blended before freezing; this helps achieve a creamy texture in your Cinnamon Toast Crunch Protein Ice Cream.
Rest the Mixture: Allow the cereal and ice cream mixture to sit for at least 15 minutes after blending. This step enhances flavor absorption and gives your ice cream a deeper cinnamon taste.
Thorough Freezing: Don’t rush the freezing process! Freeze for a full 24 hours to get that perfect scoopable consistency you desire from your Cinnamon Toast Crunch Protein Ice Cream.
Check the Texture: After churning, if the ice cream looks powdery, utilize the “respin” function of your Ninja Creami. This small adjustment can elevate the creaminess.
Customize Crunchiness: Feel free to adjust the amount of Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal added during mixing or as a topping, ensuring every bite is delightfully crunchy!

Cinnamon Toast Crunch Protein Ice Cream Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine while customizing this delightful ice cream; the possibilities are endless!

Dairy-Free: Swap out both kinds of milk for coconut milk for a rich, dairy-free twist that’s irresistibly creamy.
Chocolate Chip Delight: Add dark chocolate chips for a sweet contrast to the cinnamon flavor, creating a decadent experience in every scoop.
Nutty Flavor: Stir in a tablespoon of almond or peanut butter for a protein boost and a rich, nutty undertone that enhances the overall flavor.
Fruity Twist: Substitute some cereal with freeze-dried strawberries or bananas for a burst of fruitiness alongside that nostalgic crunch.
Sugary Sweet: Drizzle a teaspoon of maple syrup or honey before serving for a touch of natural sweetness that complements the flavors beautifully.
Heat It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon for a surprising kick that tantalizes your taste buds with warmth.
Flavor Combo: Consider mixing in a spoonful of Cookie Butter Cinnamon spread for a luscious, spiced caramel essence.
More Crunch: Combine the base with other crunchy cereals, such as granola or Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls, for a new texture adventure.

With these variations, each time you recreate this ice cream, it can feel like a brand-new treat!

Cinnamon Toast Crunch Protein Ice Cream Recipe FAQs

What kind of milk should I use for the ice cream base?
Absolutely! For the creamiest texture, I recommend using Fairlife Skim Milk as it provides a great balance of creaminess and hydration. However, you can substitute it with other low-fat milks like 2% or skim cow’s milk, or even non-dairy options like soy or oat milk for a delicious twist.

How long can I store the Cinnamon Toast Crunch Protein Ice Cream?
Store your ice cream in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. To maintain its creamy texture, it’s essential to make sure the container is sealed well to avoid freezer burn.

Can I freeze this protein ice cream for longer?
Yes! You can freeze your Cinnamon Toast Crunch Protein Ice Cream for up to 3 months for best quality. To do this, ensure it is in a well-sealed, airtight container and label it with the date. When you’re ready to enjoy, just let it sit out for a few minutes to soften.

What if my ice cream turns out powdery after churning?
No worries! If your ice cream has a powdery texture after using your Ninja Creami, just employ the “respin” function. This will give it an extra whirl and help achieve that smooth, creamy consistency you’re looking for. Consistency is key, so don’t hesitate to repeat this process if needed!

Can I use this recipe for my dog?
While your pup might be tempted by the smell, it’s best to avoid letting dogs indulge in this treat due to the almond milk and protein powder, which could upset their tummy. If you want to share a frozen treat, consider making a dog-safe version without sugar, artificial flavors, or additives!

Is there a gluten-free option for the cereal?
Absolutely! If you need a gluten-free option, you can substitute the Cinnamon Toast Crunch with gluten-free crunchy cereals or even use gluten-free granola. This keeps your Cinnamon Toast Crunch Protein Ice Cream deliciously indulgent while also accommodating dietary needs!