If you’re on the hunt for a refreshingly cool, protein-packed treat that feels like a little love affair between dessert and health, then the Mint-To-Be Protein Shake (Ninja Creami) Recipe is exactly what you need in your kitchen repertoire. This delightful shake combines the invigorating flavor of mint with creamy Greek yogurt and the perfect hint of sweetness, all transformed into an indulgent frozen delight thanks to the Ninja Creami. It’s not just a shake; it’s an experience that turns simple ingredients into a vibrant, guilt-free pleasure you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Mint-To-Be Protein Shake (Ninja Creami) Recipe lies in how straightforward and wholesome the ingredients are, each chosen to enhance the final texture, flavor, and nutritional profile. From the creamy tang of skyr or Greek yogurt to the refreshing pop of mint extract, every component plays a starring role in this culinary love story.
- 240 ml (1 cup) 2% milk, divided: Provides the creamy base and helps activate the gelatin for a smooth texture.
- 6 g gelatin: Adds structure and a dreamy silky mouthfeel to the shake once frozen.
- 35 ml (2 tbsp) maple syrup: Natural sweetness that balances mint’s freshness perfectly.
- 113 g (½ cup) full-fat plain skyr or Greek yogurt: Brings richness, creaminess, and protein-packed goodness.
- 34 g (1 scoop) vanilla protein powder: Boosts protein content without overpowering the minty flavor.
- ¼ tsp mint extract (not peppermint): The star flavor that gives this shake its cool, fresh essence.
- Pinch of kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Green food coloring (optional): Adds a fun, vibrant color that makes the shake visually irresistible.
- Optional toppings: whipped cream, sprinkles: For that extra touch of indulgence and personality.
How to Make Mint-To-Be Protein Shake (Ninja Creami) Recipe
Step 1: Warm Milk and Dissolve Gelatin
Start by gently warming half of the milk in a small saucepan—take your time here to avoid scorching. As the milk warms, whisk in the gelatin until it’s completely dissolved. This step ensures that when frozen, your shake will have a luxuriously smooth texture that’s not icy or grainy.
Step 2: Combine All Ingredients
Pour the now gelatin-infused milk into your Ninja Creami pint container. Add the remaining milk, maple syrup, Greek yogurt, vanilla protein powder, mint extract, a pinch of kosher salt, and a few drops of green food coloring if you’re using it. These add-ins bring together the rich flavors and that classic mint-green hue that’s just so inviting.
Step 3: Blend Until Smooth
Now, blend everything together until the mixture is silky smooth, with no clumps of yogurt or gelatin. This smooth base is crucial for achieving that perfect creamy shake consistency after freezing.
Step 4: Freeze for 24 Hours
Pop your sealed pint container into the freezer and let it chill for a full 24 hours. This overnight rest transforms your shake into a frozen treat, setting the stage for the magic of the Ninja Creami to work its wonders.
Step 5: Process with Ninja Creami
After freezing, attach your pint to the Ninja Creami and select the “Lite Ice Cream” function. This setting is ideal for delicately processing your shake into a creamy, scoopable consistency without losing any of its velvety charm.
Step 6: Refine Texture if Needed
If your shake ends up a bit crumbly, don’t worry. Simply add a splash of milk and run it through the “Lite Ice Cream” function again. This extra step perfects the texture, leaving you with a luscious creamy shake ready to enjoy.
Step 7: Add Toppings and Serve
Top your shake with a swirl of whipped cream and a sprinkle of colorful sprinkles if you like, adding that festive vibe and extra indulgence. Serve immediately to enjoy the ultimate fresh, minty flavor and creamy texture that defines this Mint-To-Be Protein Shake (Ninja Creami) Recipe.
How to Serve Mint-To-Be Protein Shake (Ninja Creami) Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Mint-To-Be Protein Shake (Ninja Creami) Recipe even further, consider garnishing with fluffy whipped cream and fun sprinkles for a pop of color and texture contrast. Fresh mint leaves can also add a beautiful natural touch and amplify the minty aroma.
Side Dishes
Pair this protein-packed shake with a light, refreshing fruit salad or crunchy granola for a balanced snack or light meal. These sides complement the cool mint flavor, making your treat even more satisfying and nutritionally rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your shake in a frosted glass to keep it extra cold longer, or layer it with crushed dark chocolate or cookie crumbs for a textured twist. For a festive look, add a tiny paper umbrella or a striped straw to evoke a fun, café-style vibe right at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in the Ninja Creami pint container with a tight lid to prevent freezer burn. Keep it frozen until ready to enjoy, and give it a quick re-spin in the Ninja Creami for that fresh shake feel.
Freezing
The Mint-To-Be Protein Shake (Ninja Creami) Recipe freezes beautifully for up to a week. Make sure to seal the container tightly to lock in freshness and prevent odor transfer from other freezer items.
Reheating
This shake is best enjoyed frozen or slightly softened by a brief sit-out at room temperature for 5–10 minutes to make scooping easier. Avoid microwaving or heating as it will alter the texture and diminish the refreshing mint flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of milk?
Absolutely! While 2% milk provides a nice balance of creaminess and lightness, you can use almond milk, oat milk, or any milk alternative. Just keep in mind that it might slightly change the texture and flavor.
What is the difference between mint extract and peppermint extract?
Mint extract offers a milder, subtler flavor profile perfect for desserts, whereas peppermint extract is more intense and cooling. Using mint extract in this recipe gives the shake its signature gentle yet fresh mint taste.
Can I skip the gelatin?
The gelatin is key for creating that creamy, gelato-like texture in this recipe. Without it, the shake may turn icy or watery when frozen, so it’s best not to omit it.
How do I make it vegan?
To make a vegan version, swap the dairy milk and yogurt for plant-based alternatives and use agar-agar instead of gelatin. The texture may vary slightly, but it can still be delicious and minty.
Is this a good post-workout shake?
Definitely! With Greek yogurt, protein powder, and a touch of sweetness, this shake offers a refreshing and satisfying post-workout boost that replenishes muscles and satisfies your sweet tooth at the same time.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Mint-To-Be Protein Shake (Ninja Creami) Recipe—it’s a wonderful blend of health, indulgence, and flavor that feels like a little gift to yourself every time you make it. Whether you need a cool pick-me-up or a protein-packed dessert, give this shake a whirl, and I promise it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes.
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Mint-To-Be Protein Shake (Ninja Creami) Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (excluding gelatin warming)
- Total Time: 24 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Mint-To-Be Protein Shake is a refreshing and creamy treat made with yogurt, vanilla protein powder, and a hint of mint. Utilizing the Ninja Creami, it transforms into a smooth, ice cream-like shake that’s perfect for a healthy dessert or post-workout boost, combining the flavors of mint and vanilla with a subtle sweetness from maple syrup.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 240 ml (1 cup) 2% milk, divided + more for blending
- 6 g gelatin
- 35 ml (2 tbsp) maple syrup
- 113 g (½ cup) full-fat plain skyr or Greek yogurt
- 34 g (1 scoop) vanilla protein powder
- ¼ tsp mint extract (not peppermint)
- Pinch of kosher salt
- Green food coloring (optional)
Optional Toppings
- Whipped cream
- Sprinkles
Instructions
- Warm Milk and Dissolve Gelatin: In a small saucepan, gently warm half of the 2% milk without boiling, then whisk in the gelatin until it is fully dissolved to ensure a smooth base without lumps.
- Combine Ingredients in Ninja Creami Container: Pour the warm gelatin mixture into a Ninja Creami pint container. Add the remaining milk, maple syrup, yogurt, vanilla protein powder, mint extract, kosher salt, and green food coloring if desired.
- Blend Until Smooth: Use a blender or mix thoroughly in the container to blend all the ingredients until the mixture is completely smooth and uniform in texture.
- Freeze the Mixture: Freeze the sealed Ninja Creami pint container for 24 hours to allow the mixture to solidify properly before processing.
- Process in Ninja Creami: After freezing, insert the pint into the Ninja Creami and process using the “Lite Ice Cream” function to achieve a creamy shake consistency.
- Adjust Texture if Needed: If the texture is crumbly, add a small splash of milk and re-spin the mixture until it becomes smooth and creamy.
- Add Toppings and Serve: Top with whipped cream and sprinkles if desired, then serve immediately for a refreshing, protein-packed mint shake experience.
Notes
- Use mint extract, not peppermint extract, to avoid overpowering the flavor.
- Full-fat plain yogurt like skyr or Greek yogurt provides the best creamy texture.
- Green food coloring is optional and purely for visual appeal.
- Freezing for a full 24 hours ensures perfect consistency when processed.
- If you don’t have a Ninja Creami, this recipe can be adapted by freezing and blending in a high-speed blender, but texture may vary.
