RecipeWW Recipes

WW-Friendly High-Protein Chocolate Ice Cream

Updated on 4 min read
image 98 Recipe, WW Recipes

Creamy • Low-Point • No Ice Cream Machine Needed

Servings: 2–4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Freeze Time: 2–3 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Dietary Badges: High-Protein, Low-Sugar, Gluten-Free, Weight-Loss Friendly

image 98 Recipe, WW Recipes

Ingredients

Ice Cream Base

  • 1½ cups nonfat plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
  • 2 scoops low-carb, low-calorie chocolate protein powder
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 tablespoons powdered erythritol or another zero-calorie sweetener
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Optional Add-Ins (adjust points if used)

  • Sugar-free chocolate chips
  • 1 tablespoon chopped nuts (approx 2 SmartPoints; use sparingly)
  • ½ teaspoon espresso powder

Instructions

  1. Blend the Base
    In a blender, combine Greek yogurt, almond milk, protein powder, cocoa powder, sweetener, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy, with no lumps.
  2. Adjust Texture
    Taste the mixture and adjust sweetness if needed. If too thick, add 1–2 tablespoons of almond milk to reach a thick milkshake consistency.
  3. Freeze
    Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container and cover tightly. Freeze for 2–3 hours. Optional: stir every 45 minutes for a creamier texture.
  4. Serve
    Allow ice cream to sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before scooping. Enjoy plain or with protein-friendly toppings.

Tips for WW-Friendly Success

  • Use nonfat Greek yogurt to keep the dessert low in points while maintaining a creamy texture.
  • Select a protein powder with minimal calories and carbs, such as whey isolate or plant-based powders.
  • Sweeten with zero-calorie options like erythritol or stevia to avoid extra points.
  • Limit add-ins like nuts or sugar-free chocolate chips to stay within point limits.

Flavor & Texture Boosters Without Adding Points

  • Stir in ½ teaspoon espresso powder to enhance chocolate richness naturally.
  • Add extra vanilla extract for a more decadent flavor.
  • Mix in 1 additional tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder for a deeper chocolate taste.

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

  • Greek Yogurt: Skyr or blended cottage cheese can be substituted for a similarly creamy, high-protein base.
  • Protein Powder: Choose low-sugar whey, plant-based, or collagen protein powder. Adjust SmartPoints per your brand.
  • Almond Milk: Any unsweetened plant-based milk can be used (soy, cashew, or oat).
  • Sweetener: Monk fruit, stevia blends, or powdered erythritol all work well.

Equipment Alternatives:

  • No ice cream machine is required; a blender and freezer-safe container are sufficient.
  • If stirring during freezing, use a spatula to mix gently every 45 minutes for a smoother texture.

Serving Suggestions & Variations

Flavor Variations:

  • Chocolate Peanut Butter: swirl in 2 tablespoons of natural peanut butter before freezing.
  • Mocha Chocolate: add ½ teaspoon of espresso or instant coffee powder.
  • Crunchy Chocolate: fold in cacao nibs or chopped nuts.

Dietary Adaptations:

  • Vegan-Friendly: use plant-based yogurt and protein powder.
  • Gluten-Free: naturally GF if using certified GF protein powder and cocoa.

Presentation Tips:

  • Serve in small bowls or cones for a portion-controlled dessert.
  • Top with berries, a sprinkle of cocoa powder, or a few sugar-free chocolate chips for visual appeal.

Storage & Make-Ahead

  • Freezer: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
  • Best Texture: Enjoy within 3–4 days for optimal creaminess.
  • Make-Ahead: Ice cream can be prepared in advance and stored frozen until ready to serve.

Nutrition Per Serving (Approximate)

  • Calories: 170–190
  • Protein: 22–26 g
  • Fat: 4–6 g
  • Carbs: 5–7 g
  • Sugar: <2 g
  • WW SmartPoints: 2–3

Dietary Highlights: High-protein, low-sugar, gluten-free, weight-loss friendly

Allergens: Contains dairy; optional nuts in add-ins

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use regular yogurt instead of nonfat Greek yogurt?
A: Yes, but the texture will be slightly less thick and creamy. Fat content will increase SmartPoints.

Q: Can I freeze overnight?
A: Yes, but let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before scooping for a softer texture.

Q: Can I add other flavors?
A: Yes, try peanut butter swirls, coffee, or cacao nibs for variety. Adjust points as needed.

Q: What if my ice cream is icy?
A: Stir every 45 minutes while freezing or add a bit more yogurt or cottage cheese to improve creaminess.

Personal Notes

I created this high-protein chocolate ice cream as a guilt-free treat for Weight Watchers. It’s creamy, rich, and surprisingly indulgent while staying low in points. Over multiple tests, stirring during freezing made the texture scoopable and smooth—no ice cream machine required.

Whether you’re craving chocolate after a workout or need a quick dessert that won’t derail your plan, this ice cream fits the bill.

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