The Ninja Creami has taken over college dorms and TikTok feeds for good reason. It lets you turn simple ingredients into deliciously creamy ice cream, smoothie bowls, and protein-packed treats. But if you’re sticking to just the base recipe, you’re missing out the real magic happens when you add mix-ins.
Here’s your ultimate guide to the best mix-ins for Ninja Creami ice cream, plus tips on when to add them, how to improve texture, the best sweeteners, and even what not to add.
Why Mix-Ins Matter in Ninja Creami Recipes
More Texture, More Flavor
Plain vanilla or chocolate is fine, but once you start adding crunchy bits, fruity swirls, or gooey surprises, the whole game changes. Mix-ins take your Ninja Creami creations from basic to gourmet.
Personalize Every Pint
Whether you love cookies, candy, protein bars, or fruit, mix-ins let you customize every pint exactly the way you want.
Boost Nutrition or Fun
Want more protein? Add granola or a protein bar. Want more fun? Crushed Oreos or fudge swirls will do the trick. Your Ninja Creami can be as clean or as indulgent as you like.
When and How to Add Mix-Ins
- Add them after the first spin. Once your base is frozen and has been run through the “Lite Ice Cream” or “Smoothie Bowl” cycle, scoop a small hole in the center and add your mix-ins.
- Use the Mix-In function. This ensures the mix-ins are blended evenly without over-processing.
- Chop larger items. Candy bars, protein bars, and cookies should be cut into small pieces for better distribution.
25 Best Mix-Ins for Ninja Creami Ice Cream
- Crushed Oreos
- Chopped Peanut Butter Cups
- Protein Granola
- Chocolate Chips
- Mini Marshmallows
- Graham Cracker Crumbs
- Fruit Jam or Jelly Swirls
- Fudge or Caramel Sauce
- Nut Butters
- Toasted Coconut Flakes
- Cereal Crumbs
- Brownie Bites
- Edible Cookie Dough Chunks
- Crushed Pretzels
- Fresh Fruit Pieces
- White Chocolate Chunks
- Pineapple Tidbits
- Dark Chocolate Covered Almonds (crushed)
- Pumpkin Purée Swirl
- Strawberry Preserves
- Cinnamon Sugar Mix
- Crushed Biscoff Cookies
- Peanut Butter Protein Balls (cut up)
- Crushed Peppermint Candies
- Mini M&Ms
Low-Calorie Mix-Ins You Can Try
If you’re watching calories or macros, these mix-ins are flavor-packed without being heavy:
- Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Chopped apple or pear
- Sugar-free chocolate chips
- Protein puffs or rice crisps
- Powdered peanut butter (mixed with water)
High-Protein Mix-In Ideas
Level up your post-gym pint:
- Collagen powder (mix in after first spin)
- Greek yogurt chunks (frozen)
- Cut-up protein bars
- Chia seeds or flaxseeds
- High-protein cereal or granola
FAQ: Ninja Creami Tips
How to make Ninja Creami ice cream creamier?
Let your pint thaw for 5–10 minutes before spinning. Use high-protein milk like Fairlife or add 1 tbsp of sugar-free pudding mix for extra creaminess. Spinning it twice also helps.
What is the best sweetener for Ninja Creami?
Monk fruit, erythritol, and stevia are the best sweeteners for creamy, low-calorie results. Sugar-free syrups or blends like Allulose also work well and don’t freeze as hard as sugar.
How to get perfect Ninja Creami texture?
Blend your base ingredients thoroughly before freezing. Avoid large chunks pre-spin, and make sure to level the surface for even processing. Let the pint sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before spinning.
What not to put in Ninja Creami?
Hard candies – They can damage the blade
Large frozen fruit chunks – Too big to blend evenly
Sticky caramels – May gum up the machine
Whole nuts – Use crushed or chopped instead
Non-edible items or anything with wrappers – Just don’t
Final Thoughts: Mix-Ins Make the Pint
Your Ninja Creami is already amazing—but these mix-ins take it to another level. Whether you’re after texture, sweetness, or extra nutrition, there’s something here for every craving.
Want base recipes to try with your mix-ins? Don’t miss our full Ninja Creami Recipes guide!