Let’s walk through this incredibly simple blending and freezing process:

1. Combine Ingredients:

• In the container of your blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, fresh orange juice, orange zest, and honey (or maple syrup). Add optional vanilla extract here if using.

2. Blend Until Smooth:

• Secure the lid and blend on high speed until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Ensure no cottage cheese curds remain for the best texture. Scrape down the sides as needed. This might take 1-2 minutes.

3. Initial Freeze:

• Pour the smooth orange mixture into a shallow, freezer-safe dish and spread evenly.
• Place the dish in the freezer, uncovered, for 1-2 hours, until the edges are frozen solid and the center is starting to firm up but is still somewhat soft/slushy.

4. Stir During Freezing (Key for Texture):

• Remove the dish from the freezer. Use a sturdy spoon or spatula to vigorously stir the mixture, breaking up the frozen parts and incorporating them into the softer center. This manual “churning” helps minimize large ice crystals.
• Return the dish to the freezer. Repeat this stirring process every 30 minutes for the next 1-2 hours, or until the mixture becomes uniformly frozen and difficult to stir easily.

5. Final Freeze:

• Once mostly firm, cover the container tightly (with a lid or plastic wrap pressed onto the surface).
• Freeze for at least another 1-2 hours, or until completely firm.

6. Serve:

• Remove the Orange Cottage Cheese Ice Cream from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes (or slightly longer) to soften for easier scooping.
• Scoop into bowls and garnish with fresh berries or mint leaves before serving.

A refreshing, healthy treat made effortlessly!