Recipe Name: Easy Cottage Cheese Cookie Dough
Total Time: 10 minutes
Active Time: 10 minutes
Intensity: Super Easy – No cooking required!
Servings: 2 generous servings (or 4 smaller portions)
Lasts: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Description:
Craving cookie dough but want a guilt-free, protein-packed treat that’s actually safe to eat? This Easy Cottage Cheese Cookie Dough is your dream come true! By blending creamy, mild cottage cheese into a smooth base, we create a miraculously authentic cookie dough texture and flavor without any raw eggs or flour. It’s a satisfying snack or dessert that’s ready in just 10 minutes, offering a fantastic balance of protein and healthy fats to keep you full and energized. Say hello to your new favorite healthy indulgence!
Ingredients:
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1 cup (225g) full-fat or low-fat cottage cheese (see note)
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3 tablespoons (45g) smooth, drippy almond butter (or peanut butter)
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2-3 tablespoons (30-45ml) pure maple syrup, or to taste
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1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
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¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
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3-4 tablespoons (20-28g) almond flour
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2-3 tablespoons (14-21g) oat flour (see note for substitution)
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¼ cup (40g) mini dark chocolate chips (ensure dairy-free if needed)
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For serving (optional): A pinch of flaky sea salt, additional chocolate chips for pressing on top.
Equipment Needed:
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A high-powered blender or food processor.
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A rubber spatula.
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A small mixing bowl.
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Measuring spoons and cups.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Create the Creamy Base (Time: 3 minutes)
In your blender or food processor, combine the 1 cup cottage cheese, 3 tablespoons almond butter, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and ¼ teaspoon sea salt. Blend on high for 60-90 seconds, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed, until the mixture is completely smooth and silky, with no visible curds from the cottage cheese. This step is crucial for the perfect dough texture!
Step 2: Achieve the Perfect Dough Consistency (Time: 2 minutes)
Transfer the smooth, creamy mixture to a small mixing bowl. Begin by adding 3 tablespoons of almond flour and 2 tablespoons of oat flour. Using your spatula, fold until just combined. The mixture will be quite sticky at this point. Assess the consistency—you want a soft, slightly sticky dough that holds together when pressed. If it’s too wet, add the remaining almond and oat flour, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired texture. Remember, different cottage cheese brands have varying moisture levels, so adjust flour as needed.
Step 3: Fold & Finalize (Time: 2 minutes)
Once you have the perfect doughy consistency, gently fold in the ¼ cup mini chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Serve & Store (Time: 3 minutes)
For the best flavor and texture, let the dough chill in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes. This allows the flours to fully hydrate and the flavors to meld. You can enjoy it straight from the bowl, form it into dough balls, or press it into a small dish. For a gourmet touch, press a few extra chocolate chips on top and finish with a tiny sprinkle of flaky sea salt right before serving.
Pro-Tips for Success:
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Cottage Cheese Note: Full-fat cottage cheese yields the richest, creamiest result, but low-fat works perfectly well. For a dairy-free version, try a soft, plain almond milk ricotta-style cheese.
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Flour Power: No oat flour? Simply pulse rolled oats in a clean blender until a fine powder forms. You can also use all almond flour, but the oat flour adds a classic cookie flavor.
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Sweetness Adjustment: Start with 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, then taste after mixing. Add the third tablespoon if you prefer a sweeter dough.
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Mix-Ins Galore: Get creative! Swap chocolate chips for raisins, chopped nuts, or even a tablespoon of sprinkles for a “funfetti” version.
Nutritional Information (Per 1/2 Recipe – One Large Serving):
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Calories: ~380 kcal
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Total Fat: 25g
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Saturated Fat: 6g
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Cholesterol: 10mg
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Sodium: 480mg
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Total Carbohydrates: 28g
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Dietary Fiber: 4g
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Total Sugars: 18g (Includes 10g Added Sugars from maple syrup/chips)
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Protein: 18g
Nutritional Highlights:
This recipe transforms a classic indulgent craving into a nourishing option. With approximately 18 grams of protein per serving from the cottage cheese and nut butter, it helps promote satiety and muscle repair. The healthy fats from the almond butter support sustained energy, while the fiber from the almond and oat flour aids digestion. Compared to traditional raw cookie dough, this version provides substantial nutritional value, making it a smart choice for a post-workout snack, a balanced afternoon treat, or a healthier dessert option. As with all foods, enjoy as part of a varied and balanced diet.
Enjoy your delicious, high-protein, no-bake cookie dough straight from the spoon!