Quick Description
This Cottage Cheese Protein Dessert is the perfect creamy, high-protein treat that’s both satisfying and easy to digest. Blended cottage cheese, vanilla protein powder, and a touch of sweet syrup create a smooth, yogurt-like consistency, while fresh strawberries or blueberries add a burst of flavor. It’s a quick and delicious dessert that’s light, nutritious, and ready in just 10 minutes!
Servings & Timing
Serves: 1
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Chill Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: ~15 minutes
Ingredients List
- ½ cup cottage cheese
- ½ scoop vanilla protein powder
- 1 tsp sugar-free vanilla syrup
- 1 tbsp Fairlife milk (or milk of choice)
- 1 tbsp finely chopped strawberries or blueberries (optional for mix-ins)
Instructions
1. Blend the Base
- In a blender, combine cottage cheese, vanilla protein powder, sugar-free vanilla syrup, and Fairlife milk.
- Blend until completely smooth and creamy, resembling a thick yogurt-like texture.
2. Add the Fruit
- Gently fold in the finely chopped strawberries or blueberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed without losing their shape.
3. Chill
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to allow it to thicken into a creamy dessert.
4. Serve
- Serve chilled, and enjoy your creamy, lightly sweet, high-protein treat!
Nutrition (approx.)
- Calories: 150–180
- Protein: 20–25g
- Carbs: 10–12g
- Fat: 4–5g
- Sugar: 3–6g (from fruit and syrup)
Benefits
- High-Protein: Cottage cheese + protein powder provide a great protein boost to fuel your day.
- Light & Creamy: The texture is smooth like yogurt but thicker and more filling.
- Customizable: Add any fruit or flavoring to match your tastes.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, making it a perfect snack or dessert option.
- Low-Sugar: Sweetened with sugar-free syrup for a naturally sweet flavor without the added sugars.
Additional Notes
- Milk Options: Use any milk of your choice, but Fairlife milk adds extra protein and creaminess.
- Texture Tip: The dessert thickens as it chills, so give it the full 10 minutes for best results.
- Sweetener Options: You can use other sugar-free syrups or a touch of stevia if you prefer a sweeter taste.
- Fruit Tip: Fresh, finely chopped berries work best; you can also use other fruits like raspberries or kiwi.
Dietary Info
- High-Protein: Yes
- Low-Sugar: Yes
- Gluten-Free: Yes
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free protein powder and non-dairy milk
Brief Introduction
This Cottage Cheese Protein Dessert is a quick, creamy treat that delivers high-quality protein with a light, sweet flavor. Whether you’re looking for a snack, post-workout refuel, or healthy dessert, it’s easy to make and a delicious way to curb your cravings without the sugar crash. Plus, it’s customizable with your favorite mix-ins!
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
- Blend the base: Combine cottage cheese, protein powder, syrup, and milk until smooth.
- Add fruit: Gently fold in chopped strawberries or blueberries.
- Chill: Refrigerate for 10 minutes.
- Serve: Enjoy your creamy, protein-packed dessert!
Ingredient Details & Substitutions
- Cottage Cheese: Full-fat cottage cheese provides the richest texture, but low-fat works well too.
- Protein Powder: Vanilla protein powder is ideal for flavor, but you can use unflavored protein powder for a more neutral taste.
- Milk: Use any milk you prefer — dairy, almond milk, or oat milk are all great options.
- Fruit: Fresh strawberries or blueberries are best, but any small chopped fruit can be used.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
Chocolate-Covered Berry Protein Dessert
Add 1 tsp cocoa powder to the base and top with fresh raspberries or blackberries for a chocolatey twist.
Tropical Protein Dessert
Use chopped mango, pineapple, and coconut flakes for a tropical flavor.
Coffee Protein Dessert
Add a small amount of instant coffee or espresso powder to the mixture for a coffee-flavored treat.
Serving Ideas
- Enjoy as a quick breakfast or snack.
- Serve as a dessert after lunch or dinner for a healthy sweet treat.
- Add a sprinkle of chia seeds or granola for added crunch and nutrients.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Make-Ahead: Make it ahead and refrigerate for a few hours to enjoy chilled throughout the day.
FAQs
Can I make this dessert without protein powder?
Yes — you can omit the protein powder for a lower-protein option, but it will reduce the creaminess and nutritional value.
Can I use frozen fruit?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid to avoid making the dessert watery.
Why does the dessert thicken after chilling?
The cottage cheese and protein powder absorb the liquid, creating a thicker, creamier texture when chilled.
Optional Personal Story
I came up with this Cottage Cheese Protein Dessert when I wanted something quick and satisfying after my workout, but I didn’t want to compromise on flavor or texture. The first time I made it, my kids loved it, and now it’s a staple in our house. It’s the perfect balance of indulgent and nutritious!