Simple Ninja Creami Cookies and Cream Kefir Ice Cream

Indulge in Homemade Bliss: The Ultimate Cookies and Cream Kefir Ice Cream for Your Ninja Creami

Craving the refreshing deliciousness of **cookies and cream ice cream**? Forget the mundane store-bought tubs and prepare for a truly extraordinary treat! This revolutionary recipe introduces a secret ingredient – **kefir** 🤫 – and leverages the innovative power of the Ninja Creami (whether you have the classic model or the fantastic Swirl!) to create the most **unbelievably smooth, rich, and flavorful homemade ice cream** you’ve ever had the pleasure of tasting. With a minimal **20 minutes of active prep work**, you’re on your way to frozen dessert perfection.

Cookies and cream ice cream made with Lifeway kefir in a Ninja Creami Swirl.

For months, I found myself on the fence, contemplating the investment in a Ninja Creami. As a dedicated ice cream enthusiast, the promise of homemade, perfectly textured frozen desserts was incredibly enticing. Finally, the day arrived, and my kitchen welcomed the new Ninja Creami Swirl. This exciting development was made even better by my friends at Lifeway Foods, who sponsored this unique kefir ice cream recipe. It was a perfect opportunity to put the new machine to the test!

Immediately after its arrival, I reached out to my wonderful Instagram community, asking what dream ice cream flavors they’d love to see brought to life. The response was overwhelming, and one request stood out as a clear favorite: **cookies and cream**! It’s a timeless classic, and I knew combining it with the unique properties of kefir in the Ninja Creami would yield something truly special.

Let me tell you, getting the Creami has been an absolute game-changer for my homemade ice cream creations! The results are simply astounding. If you’ve seen my blueberry lemon cheesecake ice cream, you already know the kind of incredible creaminess this machine can achieve. While my trusty KitchenAid ice cream maker served me well for years (it’s what I used for my peach kefir ice cream, which is also fantastic!), the Ninja Creami offers undeniable advantages. It’s significantly **faster** and, crucially for my small apartment freezer, **takes up less space**. This means I’ll be churning out delicious frozen treats much more frequently!

I adore finishing my dinner with a scoop of ice cream, and this Cookies and Cream Kefir Ice Cream has become a delightful and **healthier option**. Its creation is incredibly straightforward, and the kefir infuses a subtle tang that beautifully complements the sweetness of the cookies. Each bite is a harmonious blend of creamy, sweet, and tangy, leaving you craving more 😋. This recipe is not just about making ice cream; it’s about elevating a classic to a new level of deliciousness and providing a wholesome twist.

What is Kefir and Why Use it in Ice Cream?

If you’re not yet acquainted with kefir, allow me to introduce you to this remarkable ingredient. Kefir is a fermented milk drink, often described as a thinner, tangier version of yogurt. What makes it truly special is its abundance of **beneficial probiotics**, which are fantastic for gut health. Another significant advantage is that it’s **mostly lactose-free**, making it a more accessible option for many who are sensitive to dairy.

When incorporated into ice cream, kefir works its magic in several ways. It imparts an **amazing creaminess** that rivals traditional full-fat ice cream, yet often with less fat. Furthermore, it adds a **pleasant, subtle tang** that elevates the overall flavor profile, cutting through the sweetness and adding a layer of complexity that is truly addictive. Finding kefir is also incredibly easy, as it’s readily available in the dairy section of most major grocery stores!

Beyond ice cream, kefir is a versatile kitchen staple. It serves as an excellent **buttermilk substitute** in various baked goods, adding moisture and tenderness. You absolutely must try it in these fluffy kefir pancakes and rich chocolate muffins! I personally integrate it into my daily routine, often using it in my protein fruit smoothie for a quick and nutritious lunch. For consistency and quality, Lifeway is my preferred kefir brand. They offer a diverse range of flavors, and I appreciate that they are a local business based right here around Chicago!

🌟 Fun Fact: Turn Your Smoothies into Ice Cream!

Did you know? My popular banana berry protein smoothie can also be transformed into a delectable frozen dessert with your Ninja Creami! Just pour the smoothie mixture into a Creami pint, freeze it, and process it on the “Lite Ice Cream” or “Smoothie Bowl” setting. The result is a smooth, guilt-free, and incredibly delicious protein-packed ice cream!

Essential Ingredients for Your Creamy Kefir Dream

Creating this irresistible cookies and cream kefir ice cream requires just a few key ingredients. Each plays a vital role in achieving that perfect balance of creamy texture, tangy flavor, and classic sweetness:

  • Lifeway Organic Plain Kefir: This is our star ingredient! It not only provides a wonderful boost of probiotics but also significantly reduces the lactose content compared to traditional ice cream. The natural tanginess of the kefir adds an incredible depth of flavor. You can confidently use either low-fat or whole-fat varieties; both yield fantastic results.
  • Milk: A touch of milk helps to mellow out the kefir’s tang, ensuring a balanced and universally appealing flavor. I highly recommend using 2% or whole milk for optimal creaminess and texture. Skim milk might make the final product a little icier.
  • Vanilla Extract: While optional, a dash of high-quality vanilla extract introduces a warm, comforting aroma and enhances the overall sweetness, creating a more complex and familiar ice cream base.
  • Honey: This natural sweetener is crucial for balancing the inherent tang of the kefir. The amount is flexible – adjust it to your personal preference for sweetness. You can also explore alternatives like maple syrup or agave.
  • Oreo Cookies: The iconic crunchy chocolate cookies are a must for that beloved cookies and cream flavor and texture! Don’t be shy about crushing them to your desired size, from fine crumbs to chunky pieces for extra bite.

For precise quantities and detailed measurements, please refer to the comprehensive recipe card located below.

Mastering Your Creami Creation: Tips & Variations

Achieving the perfect homemade ice cream with your Ninja Creami is simple, but a few expert tips and creative variations can elevate your experience:

  • Customizing Sweetness: My personal preference leans towards a lightly sweet ice cream, which is why I typically use just a few tablespoons of honey. However, sweetness is subjective! Feel absolutely free to add more or less honey to align with your taste buds. For alternative sweeteners, maple syrup, agave nectar, or date syrup are excellent substitutes that will impart their own subtle flavor notes.
  • Beyond Oreos: Creative Mix-Ins: While Oreos are the undeniable classic for cookies and cream, the world of mix-ins is vast and exciting! Don’t hesitate to experiment. Consider crushed graham crackers, chocolate chip cookies, or even pieces of edible chocolate chip cookie dough for a textural delight. A swirl of rich fudge or caramel sauce, or even a handful of mini chocolate chips, would also be divine additions after the initial spin.
  • Preventing Iciness for Ultimate Smoothness: Sometimes, especially if your freezer is extra cold, the base mixture can freeze solid, leading to icy pockets when processed. To combat this and ensure maximum creaminess, gently run the sides of your Creami pint under warm water for 1-2 minutes *before* removing the lid and placing it into the outer bowl. This slight thawing helps prevent icy buildup and promotes a smoother texture.
  • Storage & Re-Spinning Leftovers: Any leftover cookies and cream kefir ice cream can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer. For the absolute best texture, however, it’s best enjoyed immediately after churning. If you find your stored ice cream has become too hard or icy, don’t despair! Simply pop it back into the Ninja Creami and give it another “Re-Spin” cycle. This will bring it back to that wonderfully creamy consistency.
  • Achieving the Perfect Freeze: The initial freeze is crucial. Ensure your liquid base is frozen solid and level in the pint. If it’s not completely solid or has a dome in the middle, the blade may struggle, leading to an uneven or crumbly result on the first spin. Aim for a minimum of 8 hours, but overnight is often best.
  • Temperature Matters: Processing your pint straight from a very cold freezer might result in a more crumbly texture initially. Letting it sit on the counter for 5-10 minutes before processing can sometimes help achieve a creamier first spin, reducing the need for multiple re-spins.

Please note: This recipe has been developed and tested with the specific ingredients and variations mentioned. If you choose to replace or add any other ingredients, we kindly ask you to share your results in the comments below! Your feedback helps our community of home chefs!

Understanding Your Ninja Creami: A Quick Guide to Its Components

The Ninja Creami, while incredibly powerful, comes with several distinct parts designed for seamless operation. To ensure you navigate the instructions with ease and confidence, I’ve provided a labeled photo to help you identify each component. Rest assured, all parts of the Ninja Creami are intuitively designed, making them straightforward to use, simple to clean, and easy to assemble for every batch of your delicious homemade ice cream.

A photo with Ninja Creami Swirl parts labeled.

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Cookies and Cream Kefir Ice Cream with a Ninja Creami

Creating this gourmet-quality ice cream at home is surprisingly simple. Follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying a delicious, creamy treat in no time!

Pouring honey into a cup of kefir, milk, and vanilla extract.

Step 1: Mix the Base Ingredients

In a container that can be tightly sealed (like a BlenderBottle or a jar with a lid), combine the kefir, milk, vanilla extract (if using), and honey. Seal the container and shake it vigorously for at least 30-60 seconds until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined and the honey has dissolved completely. This ensures an even flavor throughout your ice cream.

Pouring kefir ice cream mixture into a Ninja Creami pint.

Step 2: Freeze the Base Mixture

Carefully pour the mixed liquid into a Ninja Creami pint. Ensure the liquid is level in the pint to allow for proper spinning later. Place the lid securely on top of the pint. Transfer the sealed pint to your freezer and allow it to freeze solid for a minimum of 8 hours. For optimal results and a perfectly firm base, freezing overnight is often recommended. This solid freeze is critical for the Creami to achieve its signature smooth texture.

A frozen pint of ice cream mixture in Ninja Creami containers.

Step 3: Begin Churning (“Ice Cream” Cycle)

Once your pint is thoroughly frozen, remove its lid. Insert the frozen pint into the larger outer bowl. Ensure the outer bowl’s lid, with the paddle (or Creamerizer™ Paddle) securely attached, is then locked onto the outer bowl. Place the assembled outer bowl onto the Ninja Creami base, engaging the handle until it clicks into place. Select the “Ice Cream” setting to begin the initial churning process. This cycle typically takes about 4 minutes.

A Ninja Creami ice cream maker with the Ice Cream and Re-Spin settings circled.

Step 4: Achieve Perfect Creaminess (Re-Spin if Needed)

After the initial “Ice Cream” cycle, remove the outer bowl’s lid and observe the texture. It’s perfectly normal for the ice cream to appear crumbly or like “shaved ice” at this stage, especially with lower-fat bases like kefir. If it’s not yet smooth and creamy, place the lid back on and run it through the “Re-Spin” setting. You may need to perform one or two “Re-Spin” cycles until your ice cream achieves that desired, luscious, and mostly creamy consistency. This step is key to unlocking the Creami’s full potential.

Crushed Oreo cookies in a Ninja Creami pint of kefir vanilla ice cream.

Step 5: Incorporate Your Crunchy Mix-Ins (“Mix-In” Cycle)

Once your kefir ice cream has reached a lovely creamy consistency, it’s time for the delicious Oreos! Crush your Oreo cookies to your preferred size – some like fine crumbs, others prefer larger chunks. Add the crushed Oreos directly into the creamy ice cream in the pint. I recommend giving it a good stir with a spoon and scraping down the sides to ensure even distribution. Re-secure the outer bowl’s lid with the paddle attached, and then select the “Mix-In” setting. This cycle will perfectly integrate the cookies into your ice cream. You might need to give it another quick stir and “Mix-In” one more time if you desire a more thorough distribution.

Important Note for Regular Ninja Creami Users:

If you are using the original or regular Ninja Creami model, you can stop here and immediately enjoy your perfectly creamy and delicious cookies & cream kefir ice cream! Your frozen treat is ready to be scooped and savored. If you own the advanced Ninja Creami Swirl model, please continue to the next step to experience its unique soft-serve dispensing feature.

Cookies and cream kefir ice cream in a Ninja Creami Swirl container.

Step 6: Prepare for the Swirl (Ninja Creami Swirl Only)

For those with the Ninja Creami Swirl, this is where the magic continues! Carefully remove the pint from the outer bowl. Attach the specialized Dispense Lid firmly onto the pint. Next, place the entire pint, with its new lid, into the designated Swirl part of your machine. Twist the pint’s bottom to the “open” position, preparing it for dispensing. Don’t forget to slide the drip tray into place at the bottom to catch any rogue drips and keep your counter clean!

Kefir cookies and cream ice cream coming out of the Ninja Creami Swirl dispenser.

Step 7: Swirl and Serve!

Now for the most satisfying part! Position your favorite cup, bowl, or ice cream cone directly under the swirl opening. With a gentle yet firm motion, pull down on the lever. Watch as perfectly swirled, soft-serve cookies and cream kefir ice cream dispenses directly into your chosen vessel. Enjoy your freshly made, creamy, and delightful homemade ice cream immediately!

Frequently Asked Questions About Ninja Creami Kefir Ice Cream

Can I use a different ice cream base for this recipe?

Absolutely! While kefir provides a unique tang and probiotic benefits, you can certainly adjust the base. If you prefer less of the characteristic kefir tang, try swapping the amounts of kefir and milk (e.g., more milk, less kefir). If you don’t have kefir on hand, you can opt for an all-milk base. In this scenario, I strongly recommend using whole milk, as lower-fat or alternative milks (like almond or oat milk) tend to result in a less creamy, more icy final product due to their lower fat content.

Do I have to use a Ninja Creami for this particular recipe?

This recipe was specifically developed and tested for optimal results using a Ninja Creami (either the regular or Swirl model), which excels at transforming frozen bases into incredibly smooth ice cream. I have not tested this exact formulation with traditional churn ice cream makers or other frozen dessert machines. The Creami’s unique blade and process are key to the texture achieved here. If you decide to try it with a different ice cream maker, please let us know how it turned out in the comments section!

Is the Ninja Creami truly worth the investment?

As someone who deliberated for months due to my indecisiveness and frugal nature, I can now confidently and enthusiastically say: **yes, it is absolutely worth it!** My initial skepticism quickly vanished after my first batch. I am continually impressed by how incredibly simple and remarkably quick it is to prepare restaurant-quality ice cream and other frozen treats. Furthermore, the individual parts are very easy to disassemble and clean, which is a huge bonus. If you’re an ice cream lover who enjoys customizing flavors and textures, the Ninja Creami will quickly become one of your favorite kitchen appliances.

Can I use flavored kefir for this recipe?

Yes, you absolutely can! Using a flavored kefir (like vanilla, strawberry, or even a berry blend) can add an interesting twist to your cookies and cream ice cream. Just be mindful of the added sugar in flavored kefirs, and adjust the amount of honey accordingly to prevent it from becoming overly sweet. Vanilla kefir, for example, would seamlessly enhance this recipe.

What if my ice cream is still icy after re-spinning?

If your ice cream remains icy or powdery even after a couple of re-spins, a common trick is to add 1-2 tablespoons of additional liquid (milk or kefir works well) to the pint. Create a small well in the center of the frozen base before adding the liquid. Then, perform another “Re-Spin” cycle. This added liquid can help re-emulsify the mixture and break down ice crystals, leading to a creamier texture.

How do I clean my Ninja Creami parts?

Cleaning the Ninja Creami is quite simple. All removable parts – the pint, outer bowl, outer bowl lid, and paddle – are top-rack dishwasher safe. Alternatively, you can hand wash them with warm, soapy water. Ensure all residue is removed, especially from the paddle’s nooks and crannies. The main unit can be wiped down with a damp cloth.

Cookies and cream kefir ice cream in a cup with a spoon.

Explore More Frozen Delights

If you loved this Ninja Creami creation, you’ll be thrilled to discover more exciting ice cream recipes. Expand your frozen dessert repertoire with these other fan favorites:

  • 5-Ingredient Blueberry Lemon Cheesecake Ice Cream (Ninja Creami Recipe)















  • Easy Homemade Peach Kefir Ice Cream (3 Ingredients)















  • Chocolate Malted Crunch Ice Cream















  • Lavender Honey Ice Cream















Kayla Burton from Broken Oven Baking Company holding a phone.

Did you try this recipe?

We absolutely love hearing from you! If you gave this delicious recipe a try, please let us know what you thought by **leaving a comment below** and **sharing your beautiful creations on Instagram, Facebook, & Pinterest!** Don’t forget to tag us so we can see your amazing results!

Thank you for baking with us!
-Kayla

📖 Recipe

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Easy Cookies and Cream Kefir Ice Cream


Kayla Burton

Whip up delicious cookies and cream ice cream in no time with a Ninja Creami! This recipe is super creamy with a slight tang from kefir!















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Prep Time

20
minutes


Cook Time

0
minutes


Freeze Time

8
hours


Total Time

8
hours


20
minutes



Course
Dessert
Cuisine
American

Servings

2
servings
Calories

191
kcal

Equipment


  • Ninja Creami
    Swirl or regular Creami




Kayla’s Top Tip
Weigh dry ingredients in grams (g) with a food scale for best results!

Ingredients

 




  • 1
    cup



    Lifeway Organic Plain Kefir

    lowfat or whole




  • ½
    cup


    milk
    2% or whole




  • ¼
    teaspoon


    vanilla extract
    optional




  • 2-4
    tablespoons


    honey
    more/less depending on your preferred sweetness




  • 6
    whole


    Oreo cookies
    crushed; add more if you prefer extra cookie flavor/texture

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

 

Day 1: Prep the ice cream mixture

  • Mix together the kefir, milk, vanilla extract, and honey really well. I add everything to my BlenderBottle and shake until combined.
    1 cup Lifeway Organic Plain Kefir,
    ½ cup milk,
    ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract,
    2-4 tablespoons honey
  • Pour the mixture into the Ninja Creami pint, seal it with the lid, and freeze for at least 8 hours.

Day 2: Make the ice cream


  • Optional but recommended: run the sides of the sealed Creami pint under hot water for 1-2 minutes. This is to prevent icy build-up in the ice cream.
  • Remove the pint’s lid and then place the pint into the outer bowl. Secure the outer bowl’s lid with the paddle attached.
  • Run the ice cream through the Ninja Creami’s “Ice Cream” setting (~4 minutes).
  • Remove the lid to check the ice cream’s texture.


    If it looks more like shaved ice than ice cream, place the lid back on and run it through the Ninja Creami’s “Re-Spin” setting.


  • Once it looks like creamy ice cream, crush the Oreos into the ice cream (I like to give it a good mix with a spoon), secure the lid, and run it through the “Mix-In” setting.
    6 whole Oreo cookies
  • If you’re using the
    regular Ninja Creami, stop here and enjoy!

    If you have the
    Ninja Creami Swirl, remove the pint from the outer bowl and attach the swirl lid. Continue with the next steps.

  • Secure the pint into the Ninja Creami Swirl dispenser, twist the bottom to “Open”, and place the drip tray on the bottom.
  • Hold a cup, bowl, or ice cream cone under the dispenser and pull the lever down to swirl out the ice cream!

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Notes


Kefir: This recipe is sponsored by my friends at Lifeway Foods, but all opinions are my own. You can use either low-fat or whole milk kefir for delicious results. If you prefer a less pronounced tang in your ice cream, feel free to adjust the ratio by using slightly less kefir and a bit more milk.

Calories:
191
kcal


Carbohydrates:
28
g


Protein:
6
g


Fat:
6
g


Saturated Fat:
4
g


Polyunsaturated Fat:
0.2
g


Monounsaturated Fat:
1
g


Cholesterol:
22
mg


Sodium:
98
mg


Potassium:
110
mg


Fiber:
0.1
g


Sugar:
27
g


Vitamin A:
345
IU


Vitamin C:
0.1
mg


Calcium:
227
mg


Iron:
0.5
mg

The provided nutritional information is an estimate per serving. Accuracy is not guaranteed.





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