When it comes to desserts, we often reach for sweet treats loaded with sugar and calories. But what if you could have your cake and eat it too – without sacrificing flavor or nutrition? Enter cottage cheese, a versatile ingredient that can be used to create a variety of creamy and delicious desserts. With its high protein content and tangy taste, cottage cheese is the perfect base for a range of sweet treats that will satisfy your cravings while keeping you full.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility of cottage cheese in desserts. From classic cheesecakes to creative ice creams and smoothies, these creamy concoctions are sure to impress friends and family alike. So, let’s dive into the world of cottage cheese desserts and discover new ways to indulge in sweet treats without sacrificing your diet goals.
Cottage Cheese Cheesecake with Berry Compote
A creamy cheesecake infused with the natural sweetness of cottage cheese, paired with a luscious berry compote.
Ingredients:
For the cheesecake:
– 16 oz cottage cheese
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the berry compote:
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix cottage cheese and sugar until smooth.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Press graham cracker crumbs into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
5. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Allow cheesecake to cool completely on wire rack.
For the berry compote:
1. In a small saucepan, combine berries, sugar, and lemon juice.
2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat; cook for 5-7 minutes or until berries have released their juices and mixture has thickened slightly.
3. Serve chilled cheesecake with warm berry compote spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (cheesecake), 5-7 minutes (berry compote)
Lemon Blueberry Cottage Cheese Parfait
Brighten up your day with this refreshing and healthy dessert! A creamy cottage cheese base is layered with sweet blueberries, tangy lemon curd, and crunchy granola for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh blueberries
– 1/4 cup lemon curd (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons granola
– Zest of 1 lemon, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
2. Spoon half of the cheese mixture into a parfait glass or tall clear cup.
3. Top with blueberries.
4. Drizzle with lemon curd.
5. Sprinkle granola over the curd.
6. Repeat the layers: cheese mixture, blueberries, lemon curd, and granola.
7. Garnish with lemon zest.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep) + no cooking required!
Enjoy your Lemon Blueberry Cottage Cheese Parfait!
Strawberry Cottage Cheese Ice Cream
A sweet and creamy dessert that combines the freshness of strawberries with the tanginess of cottage cheese, this ice cream is a unique treat for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup sliced strawberries
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cottage cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.
2. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Fold into the cottage cheese mixture until well combined.
3. Fold in sliced strawberries.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once frozen, scoop and serve.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (including churning time)
Cottage Cheese and Honey Pancakes
Start your day with a sweet and satisfying breakfast by whipping up these fluffy Cottage Cheese and Honey Pancakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Fresh fruit or syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cottage cheese, oats, and honey. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the egg, baking powder, and salt to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add the melted butter to the mixture, stirring until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the skillet.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with fresh fruit or syrup, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20 minutes for 8-10 pancakes.
Chocolate Cottage Cheese Mousse
Elevate your dessert game with this decadent and light-as-air mousse, featuring the creamy richness of cottage cheese and the deep flavor of dark chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 ounces high-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cottage cheese, heavy cream, and sugar. Blend until smooth and creamy.
2. Add cocoa powder and blend until well combined.
3. Melt the chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth. Allow to cool slightly.
4. Fold the melted chocolate into the cottage cheese mixture until fully incorporated.
5. Stir in vanilla extract.
6. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None needed, as this is a chilled dessert.
Enjoy your rich and creamy Chocolate Cottage Cheese Mousse!
Peach Cottage Cheese Smoothie Bowl
Start your day with a refreshing and nutritious peach cottage cheese smoothie bowl that combines the creaminess of cottage cheese with the sweetness of peaches.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe peach, diced
– 1/2 cup cottage cheese
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Toppings: sliced almonds, shredded coconut, and fresh mint leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine peach, cottage cheese, honey, Greek yogurt, vanilla extract, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Pour into a bowl and top with desired toppings (if using).
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Raspberry Cottage Cheese Tart
Raspberry Cottage Cheese Tart Recipe
Treat your taste buds to a sweet and tangy dessert with this Raspberry Cottage Cheese Tart! A unique combination of creamy cottage cheese, fresh raspberries, and flaky pastry crust makes for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups cottage cheese
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine cottage cheese, sugar, flour, and salt. Stir until smooth.
3. Add melted butter, beaten egg, and vanilla extract to the cottage cheese mixture. Mix well.
4. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Spoon the cottage cheese mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Arrange fresh raspberries over the cottage cheese mixture.
6. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling and press edges to seal.
7. Brush the top with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) and cut a few slits in the top to allow steam to escape.
8. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Cottage Cheese Banana Bread
Moist and flavorful, this cottage cheese banana bread is a delightful treat for breakfast or snack time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, cottage cheese, sugar, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and sprinkle with chopped nuts if desired.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Vanilla Cottage Cheese Panna Cotta
A creamy and light dessert perfect for warm weather, this Vanilla Cottage Cheese Panna Cotta combines the best of both worlds – the richness of cottage cheese and the sweetness of vanilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 tsp kosher salt
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cottage cheese, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy.
2. Pour the mixture into small individual serving cups or ramekins.
3. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the panna cotta to set.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of sugar or a few fresh berries if desired.
Cooking Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Cottage Cheese Apple Cinnamon Rolls
Start your day with a sweet and satisfying breakfast treat that combines the creaminess of cottage cheese with the warmth of cinnamon and the crunch of apples. These soft and fluffy rolls are perfect for a weekend brunch or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 large apple, peeled and chopped (about 1 cup)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cottage cheese, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until smooth.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, yeast, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the cottage cheese mixture and mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Fold in chopped apple.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Cut into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly.
7. Place rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch space between each roll.
8. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Pineapple Cottage Cheese Pudding
A sweet and refreshing dessert that combines the creamy texture of cottage cheese with the tropical flavor of pineapple.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup crushed pineapple
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cottage cheese and sugar until smooth.
2. Add the heavy cream and whisk until well combined.
3. Fold in the crushed pineapple and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with additional pineapple if desired.
Cooking Time: None (chilling only)
Cottage Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies
Cottage Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
A twist on classic chocolate chip cookies, these treats combine the creaminess of cottage cheese with the richness of dark chocolate chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cottage cheese, butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until combined.
5. Stir in dark chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden around edges.
Yield: 24 cookies
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Blueberry Cottage Cheese Muffins
Brighten up your morning with these delightful Blueberry Cottage Cheese Muffins! The tangy creaminess of cottage cheese pairs perfectly with sweet blueberries, making for a scrumptious breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, cottage cheese, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture; stir until just combined.
5. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Cottage Cheese Carrot Cake
A moist and flavorful carrot cake recipe that uses cottage cheese instead of butter or oil, making it a healthier alternative.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup grated carrots
– 1/2 cup cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine cottage cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth.
4. Add grated carrots and chopped walnuts (if using) to the cottage cheese mixture. Mix well.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cherry Almond Cottage Cheese Bars
These sweet and tangy bars combine the creaminess of cottage cheese with the natural sweetness of cherries and the crunch of almonds, making them a perfect snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) container of cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine cottage cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
3. Fold in chopped cherries and sliced almonds.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth out the top.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Pie
A creamy and refreshing twist on traditional pumpkin pie, this recipe uses cottage cheese to add a tangy flavor and silky texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 2 large eggs
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a blender, combine cottage cheese, pumpkin puree, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Blend until smooth.
3. Beat in the eggs until well combined.
4. Roll out the pie crust and fill with the cottage cheese mixture.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Strawberry Cottage Cheese Crepes
Sweet and tangy crepes filled with a creamy strawberry cottage cheese mixture, perfect for a delightful breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1 1/2 cups milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons butter, melted
– 8 ounces cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 ripe strawberries, diced
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, eggs, milk, and salt.
2. Add the melted butter and whisk until smooth.
3. Heat a small non-stick skillet over medium heat.
4. Pour in about 1/4 cup of batter and tilt to evenly coat the bottom.
5. Cook for 2 minutes or until edges start to curl.
6. Flip and cook for another minute.
7. In a separate bowl, mix together cottage cheese, sugar, and diced strawberries.
8. Fill crepes with the strawberry mixture and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (includes cooking time for crepe batter)
Cottage Cheese Coconut Macaroons
A twist on traditional macaroons, these chewy treats combine the creamy richness of cottage cheese with the tropical flavor of coconut.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup (100g) unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites, at room temperature
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (170°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine cottage cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites and salt until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold the coconut into the egg mixture until well combined.
5. Add the cottage cheese mixture to the coconut mixture and fold until a dough forms.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of space between each macaroon.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until firm to the touch.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Peanut Butter Cottage Cheese Fudge
Peanut Butter Cottage Cheese Fudge Recipe
A creamy and dreamy treat that combines the richness of peanut butter with the tanginess of cottage cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup (100g) creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream, whipped
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cottage cheese and peanut butter until smooth.
2. Add sugar, corn syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Pour mixture into a lined or greased 8-inch square baking dish.
4. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to set.
5. Just before serving, top with whipped heavy cream.
Cooking Time: None! This fudge is chilled to perfection in the refrigerator.
Cottage Cheese Pear Crisp
This refreshing dessert combines the creaminess of cottage cheese with the natural sweetness of pears, topped with a crunchy oat and brown sugar crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cottage cheese
– 2 ripe pears, diced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cottage cheese, sugar, and honey until well combined.
3. Add diced pears to the bowl and stir gently to combine.
4. Transfer the pear-cottage cheese mixture to a 9×6-inch baking dish.
5. In a small bowl, mix together oats and brown sugar.
6. Sprinkle the oat mixture evenly over the top of the pear mixture.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy and delicious desserts with these 20 cottage cheese recipes! From classic cheesecakes and tarts to unique treats like strawberry ice cream and peanut butter fudge, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at making a lemon blueberry parfait, or go bold with a chocolate mousse. You’ll also find sweet breakfast treats like honey pancakes and banana bread, as well as healthier options like smoothie bowls and pear crisps. Whether you’re a dessert lover or just looking for some inspiration, these creamy cottage cheese recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
