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2-Ingredient Protein Ice Cream Recipe (35g protein!)

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2 ingredient protein ice cream in a ninja creami cup with an ice cream scoop.

The protein craze has totally taken over. And I’ll admit, I’ve been fully indoctrinated. But when it comes to protein desserts, the one thing that’s lacking is a truly healthy high-protein ice cream. They’re all made with a zillion ingredients and additives, and for some reason most still don’t even resemble ice cream. That is, until I developed this 2-ingredient protein ice cream recipe. Just milk and protein powder – that’s it! Frozen, then churned in a Ninja Creami for a seriously delicious high-protein frozen treat. It’s also totally easy to customize with your favorite flavors and mix-ins. Next time I plan on mixing in some of my 4-ingredient protein brownie chunks for even more protein – YUM!

Why You’ll Love This Protein Ice Cream

  • Only 2 ingredients.
  • High-protein – 35 grams of protein, to be exact!
  • Healthy, low-calorie option – only 300 calories for the whole pint.
  • Creamy, soft, and tastes like classic vanilla ice cream. Best enjoyed on top of my single serve protein cookie skillet!
  • Super easy and quick to make with a Ninja Creami!
  • Perfect for post-workout recovery or a healthy, high-protein dessert.
2 ingredient protein ice cream just churned in a ninja creami container.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

  • Different flavors: Use chocolate, strawberry, or any flavored protein powder
  • Dairy-free: Swap cow’s milk for almond, oat, or coconut milk
  • Mix-ins: Add dark chocolate chips, berries, or crushed cookies after spinning
  • Lower sugar: Use an unsweetened protein powder

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this in an ice cream maker?

Yes! You can make this protein ice cream in a standard ice cream maker by following the same ingredient ratios and churning according to your machine’s instructions until thick and creamy.

How much protein does this protein ice cream contain?

One serving contains 35 grams of protein and about 300 calories.

Can I make a different ice cream flavor?

Absolutely! Use any flavored protein powder—chocolate, cookies & cream, or strawberry all work perfectly.

What kind of protein powder did you use?

I used Be Well By Kelly Vanilla Protein Powder, purchased on Amazon, but any vanilla or unflavored protein powder works.

2 ingredient protein ice cream in a ninja creami cup with an ice cream scoop.
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2-Ingredient Protein Ice Cream Recipe (35g protein!)

This 2-ingredient protein ice cream is a creamy, high-protein treat with just milk and protein powder! Each serving contains 35 grams of protein and only 300 calories, making it perfect for a post-workout snack or healthy dessert. Super easy to make in a Ninja Creami, this healthy ice cream tastes just like classic vanilla ice cream!
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 serving

Equipment

  • 1 Ninja Creami

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups milk I used whole milk
  • 1 scoop/serving protein powder

Instructions

  • Add both ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth, or add both ingredients to the Ninja Creami container and blend them together with a milk frother.
  • Freeze the ice cream mixture for 24 hours, then remove it from the freezer and let it thaw slightly for about 10 minutes.
  • Place the container into your Ninja Creami and spin it on the light ice cream mode. Then, respin it two more times or until it’s thick but super creamy. Enjoy right away or transfer to a container and freeze for later on!

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 300kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 35g | Fat: 2g | Sugar: 5g
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Dairy-Free

6-Ingredient Healthy Snickers

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overhead image of healthy snickers bars on a table with flaky salt on top.

With a sweet tooth like mine, it’s no surprise I love a candy bar! And I’ve certainly made it my mission to make healthier versions of all of my favorites. It started with healthy twix bars, then healthy butterfingers, healthy peanut butter cups, date caramels, and now healthy snickers! These homemade candy bars are made with just 6 simple ingredients, lightly sweetened with maple syrup, and shockingly easy to make. They’re perfect to store in the fridge or freezer whenever your sweet cravings strike (which… if you’re anything like me, they strike daily)!

the inside of a healthy snickers bar.

What Makes This Recipe Healthy?

  • Naturally sweetened with maple syrup
  • Made with nutrient-dense almond flour
  • No refined sugar
  • Gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan
  • Healthier fats from nuts and coconut oil
  • Homemade alternative to processed candy

These bars give you the same layered texture and flavor as a traditional snickers, but with better ingredients!

a close up bite shot of a healthy snickers bar.

Why You’ll Love These Healthy Snickers

These healthy snickers bars have everything you want in a dessert: sweet, salty, crunchy, and chocolatey layers that taste nostalgic but are made with better-for-you ingredients! They’re surprisingly easy to make, require no complicated baking skills, and are perfect for prepping ahead so you always have a sweet treat in the fridge or freezer. With just 6 simple ingredients, they deliver the classic candy bar experience while being gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and healthier than store-bought versions!

Storage Tips

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months. These bars taste amazing straight from the fridge or slightly thawed from frozen!

overhead image of healthy snickers bars on a table with flaky salt on top.
5 from 4 votes

6-Ingredient Healthy Snickers

These healthy Snickers bars are a homemade twist on the classic candy, made with just 6 simple ingredients! They’re gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and layered with shortbread, caramel, peanuts, and chocolate. Perfect for a healthier dessert, these homemade healthy snickers are easy to make and totally delicious!
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 29 minutes
Total Time: 49 minutes
Servings: 16 servings

Equipment

  • 1 large bowl
  • 1 9×9-inch baking pan
  • 1 small saucepan

Ingredients

For the shortbread layer:

  • 2 cups almond flour
  • 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract optional

For the caramel layer:

  • 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter unsweetened (cashew butter or almond butter work too!)
  • 1/4 cup coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract optional

For the filling:

  • 1/2 cup roasted peanuts

For the chocolate layer:

  • 1 cup chocolate chips
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil
  • flaky salt for topping (optional)

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  • Add all shortbread ingredients to a large bowl and mix to combine. Then, transfer the crust to your prepared baking pan and press the crust down into an even layer over the base of the pan. Bake for 10minutes or until lightly golden brown around the edges. Leave the shortbread to cool for at least 10 minutes before adding the caramel.
  • Make the caramel layer by adding all caramel ingredients to a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Whisk the mixture together, and continue whisking as it heats up and starts to gently bubble.After 2 minutes, remove the caramel from the heat and pour over the cooled shortbread crust, then evenly sprinkle the peanuts over the caramel.
  • Transfer the baking pan to the fridge to allow the caramel to set for at least 30 minutes and up to one hour. Once the caramel is completely set and firm to the touch, make the chocolate layer.
  • To make the chocolate layer, melt together the chocolate chips and coconut oil in either the microwave or over a double boiler until completely smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel and gently spread into an even layer.
  • Transfer the pan back to the fridge to set one last time for about 30 minutes or until the chocolate has hardened. Remove the snickers bars from the fridge, then remove them from the pan and cut into 16 “full size”bars or 32 “mini” bars.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 340kcal | Carbohydrates: 19g | Protein: 6.5g | Fat: 28g | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 10g
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Desserts

5-Ingredient Healthy Cheesecake

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5 ingredient healthy cheesecake slice on a plate with whipped cream and a strawberry on top.

If I’m completely honest, I’ve never been much of a cheesecake fan. When it comes to dessert, I prefer either my 4-ingredient protein brownies or healthy banana bread mug cake. However, my husband loves cheesecake. And in the spirit of it being the month of “love” (or whatever) I thought I’d make a little something just for him. Well, let me tell ya – this healthy cheesecake turned out SO good, I ate half of it. Now I don’t know what that says about me, or the kind of wife I am… but what I do know is that his cheesecake is DELICIOUS! And lucky for me/anyone who tries it, it’s also the easiest cheesecake you’ll ever make. So make this for your significant other, a friend, family member, or literally just yourself – I won’t judge!

5 ingredient healthy cheesecake slice on a plate with a fork.

What Makes This Cheesecake Healthy?

  • Made with protein-rich Greek yogurt
  • Naturally sweetened with maple syrup
  • NO refined sugar
  • Gluten-free
  • High protein dessert (10g+ per slice!)
  • Minimal ingredients, no crust required

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of cream cheese should I use?

Full-fat cream cheese gives the richest texture, but reduced-fat cream cheese also works well. Use block-style cream cheese, not whipped.

Can I use a sugar-free sweetener?

Yes. Any liquid sugar-free sweetener can be used in place of maple syrup. Adjust to taste depending on sweetness level.

How do I store this healthy cheesecake?

Store slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze individual slices for up to 2 months and thaw in the fridge overnight.

Can I add a healthy cheesecake crust to this recipe?

Yes! You can absolutely add a crust if you prefer a more traditional cheesecake. A simple crust made from crushed graham crackers (or gluten-free graham crackers) mixed with melted butter works great – just press it into the pan and bake for 8–10 minutes before adding the filling. Let the crust cool slightly, then pour in the cheesecake batter and bake as directed.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • Blend until completely smooth for the creamiest texture!
  • Don’t overbake – the center should still have a slight jiggle.
  • Chill the cheesecake fully before slicing for nice and clean slices.
  • Add fresh berries or a drizzle of nut butter before serving – YUM!
  • For extra vanilla flavor, use vanilla bean paste.
5 ingredient healthy cheesecake slice on a plate with whipped cream and a strawberry on top.
5 from 2 votes

5-Ingredient Healthy Cheesecake

This healthy cheesecake is creamy, high in protein, and made with just 5 simple ingredients! It’s gluten-free, refined sugar-free, and each slice contains over 10 grams of protein. Perfect for a lighter dessert, this easy cheesecake delivers classic flavor with better-for-you ingredients!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Equipment

  • 1 food processor or high speed blender
  • 1 8-inch springform pan

Ingredients

  • 2 cups plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 cup cream cheese
  • 4 eggs
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup or any liquid sweetener
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line the bottom of a 8-inch springform pan or baking dish with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides.
  • Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until completely smooth.
  • Pour the mixture into the pan, then bake for 45-50 minutes or until the cheesecake is just set in the middle.
  • Remove the pan from the oven and let the cheesecake cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then transfer it to the fridge to set for at least 2 hours. Remove the cheesecake from the fridge, then slice and serve!

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 230kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 17g | Sugar: 6g
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30 Minutes or Less

4-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cornflake Bars

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overhead image of peanut butter cornflake bars with a bite taken out.

Peanut butter + chocolate is the ultimate flavor combo if ya ask me. I really can’t get enough of it! I made my frozen banana and peanut butter bites all summer, and my healthy strawberry peanut butter cups were one of the most popular recipes I’ve ever shared. So when I was thinking up this recipe for a peanut butter and chocolate bar, loaded with cornflakes for extra crunch – I knew it’d be a huge hit! I actually tested this peanut butter cornflake bars recipe right before my family came over a few weeks ago, so they all got to be the first to try it and gave it raves reviews. After that, I wasted no time getting this recipe ready to share with you all! I just know you’ll love these crunchy, peanut butter-y, and extra chocolatey cornflake bars as much as they did!

peanut butter cornflake bars cut into squares with flaky sea salt on top.

Why You’ll Love These Peanut Butter Cornflake Bars

  • Simple & no-bake: Only four base ingredients and no oven – ideal for quick treats or busy days. They’re naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and ready in no time at all!
  • Crunchy + chewy texture: Cornflakes give a satisfying crunch, peanut butter binds it all together, and the chocolate layer adds richness – a classic combo that hits sweet and salty just right!
  • Flexible & allergy-friendly: It’s easy to swap ingredients – use sunflower butter or almond butter instead of peanut butter, or gluten-free cornflakes – and still get delicious bars that work for vegan, dairy-free, or gluten-free diets.

How to Store These Bars

Once assembled and chilled until firm, store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge – they’ll stay good for up to 1 week. For longer storage, you can freeze individual bars for up to 2–3 months; just thaw for a few minutes before serving for best texture.

overhead image of peanut butter cornflake bars.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • Use gluten-free cornflakes like these ones, if you’re avoiding gluten – always double-check cereal packaging!
  • Press the cornflake-peanut butter mixture firmly into the pan so bars hold together well after chilling.
  • Melt chocolate gently (microwave or double-boiler), and pour while warm for a smooth top that sets evenly.
  • For extra crunch or festive flair: sprinkle sea salt, chopped nuts, or crushed candy over the chocolate before it sets!
overhead image of peanut butter cornflake bars with a bite taken out.
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4-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cornflake Bars

These 4-ingredient peanut butter cornflake bars are the ultimate no-bake treat – crunchy, chocolatey, and ready in minutes! Made with simple pantry staples, they’re naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and even vegan. These peanut butter cornflake bars are delicious as an easy sweet snack or holiday treat!
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Servings: 16 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter unsweetened
  • 1/2 cup maple syrup or honey
  • 3 1/2 cups cornflakes

For the chocolate layer:

  • 1 cup chocolate chips
  • 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter unsweetened

Instructions

  • Mix together the peanut butter and maple syrup in a large bowl, then add in the cornflake and mix again until the cornflakes are coated in the peanut butter mixture.
  • Transfer the cornflake mixture to a 9×9-inch pan lined with parchment paper, and gently press it down into an even layer.
  • Make the chocolate layer by melting together the chocolate chips and peanut butter in either the microwave or over a double boiler until completely smooth and combined.
  • Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the cornflakes and smooth it into an even layer. Transfer the pan to the fridge for set for about 1 hour, then remove from the fridge and cut into squares.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 230kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 14g | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 11g
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30 Minutes or Less

Healthy Gluten-Free Zucchini Brownies

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Every summer my dad grows the most incredible garden, and every summer he has a massive amount of zucchini! So while I love using his homegrown blueberries in my blueberry muddy buddies (don’t knock it ’til ya try it!) and strawberries in my gluten-free strawberry shortcake, I needed to figure out a way to use up the giant zucchinis he sends me home with every time I visit. A few summers ago I started making gluten-free zucchini bread, which is totally delicious, but this year I was craving BROWNIES!

My criteria for these healthy zucchini brownies was they had to be rich, fudgy, and just as delicious as any other brownie despite the hidden veggies. They also needed to be easy to make – one bowl, just a few ingredients, and simple steps. After a few tests this spring, I finally nailed the PERFECT healthy zucchini brownies recipe that’s totally gluten-free, dairy-free, and even refined sugar-free! So if you’re drowning in zucchini like I am, or just looking for a healthier dessert recipe this summer, you gotta give these brownies a try. Trust me, everyone (even my toddler!) loves ’em!

one healthy zucchini brownie stacked on top of another.

Why You’ll Love These Healthy Zucchini Brownies

  • Secretly mighty: Shredded zucchini brings irresistible moisture and a veggie boost – no one will guess!
  • One-bowl wonder: Mix, bake, and enjoy with minimal cleanup and zero fuss.
  • Healthier indulgence: Naturally sweetened, gluten-free, dairy-free, and packed with wholesome fat and fiber!

What Makes This Recipe Healthy

  • Hidden nutrition: Loads of zucchini add moisture, plus essential vitamins and nutrients.
  • Smarter sweeteners: Maple syrup replaces refined sugars, offering a lower glycemic profile!
  • Gluten-free: Use oat flour or a high-quality gluten-free blend for a naturally inclusive dessert.
3 healthy gluten-free zucchini brownies staked on top of each other.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use almond flour instead of oat flour?
    Yes! Almond flour works beautifully, though the texture may change slightly.
  • How do I store these brownies?
    Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 3–4 days, or refrigerate for up to one week.
  • Can I make this recipe vegan?
    Absolutely! Swap the egg with a flax egg (1 Tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 Tbsp water) and use dairy-free chocolate chips.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • Dry it right: Wrap shredded zucchini in a towel to remove excess moisture – this keeps the brownies from turning out mushy.
  • Oven finesse: The brownies are best pulled when the edges are set and the center still jiggles slightly. They’ll continue to set as they cool.
  • Flavor fun: Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top or stir in chopped walnuts for a textured twist.
5 from 1 vote

Healthy Gluten-Free Zucchini Brownies

These healthy gluten-free zucchini brownies are rich, fudgy, and secretly packed with shredded zucchini for a boost of hidden veggies! Naturally sweetened with maple syrup and made in just one bowl, they’re a deliciously easy dessert that’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and refined sugar-free.
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 16 servings

Equipment

  • 1 large bowl
  • 1 9×9-inch baking pan

Ingredients

  • 2 cups shredded zucchini
  • 1/2 cup maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup olive oil or any vegetable oil
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup oat flour or all purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line an 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  • Wrap the zucchini in a dish cloth and squeeze to release as much excess moisture from the zucchini as possible, then transfer the shredded zucchini to a large bowl.
  • Add in the maple syrup, olive oil, large egg, and vanilla extract, then mix until everything is fully combined.
  • Next, add in the oat flour or all purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and baking soda. Mix again until the dry ingredients are fully incorporated into the brownie batter.
  • Fold the chocolate chips into the batter, then transfer the batter to your prepared baking pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the brownies are just set in the middle them remove from the oven and let cool completely before slicing into squares.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 120kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 2.5g | Fat: 6g | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 9g
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