Creamy Fruit and Cottage Cheese Slice Dessert
This Creamy Fruit and Cottage Cheese Slice Dessert is a light, refreshing, and nutrient-packed treat, perfect for warm days or as a guilt-free indulgence. With layers of creamy goodness and fresh fruits, it’s both visually stunning and deliciously satisfying.
Ingredients
- Cottage Cheese: 400 g
- Milk, Sour Cream, or Yogurt: 200 g (choose based on preferred creaminess)
- Sugar (or Substitute): 100 g (e.g., stevia or honey)
- Gelatin: 15 g (approx. 1.5 tablespoons)
- Water: 90 g (to dissolve gelatin)
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
- Mixed Fresh Fruits or Berries: 500 g (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, peaches)
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Gelatin
- Combine 15 g gelatin with 90 g cold water in a small bowl. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to bloom.
- Heat the bloomed gelatin gently in the microwave or on a stovetop over low heat until fully dissolved. Avoid boiling.
- Set aside to cool slightly while preparing the remaining ingredients.
Step 2: Blend the Cottage Cheese Mixture
- Place 400 g cottage cheese in a blender or food processor for a smooth texture. For a chunkier texture, leave it as is.
- Add 200 g milk, sour cream, or yogurt, 100 g sugar (or sweetener), and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Blend or whisk until well combined and smooth.
Step 3: Incorporate the Gelatin
- Slowly pour the cooled, liquid gelatin into the cottage cheese mixture while stirring continuously.
- Mix thoroughly to ensure the gelatin is evenly distributed, which is crucial for proper setting.
Step 4: Prepare the Fruits
- Wash 500 g of mixed fresh fruits or berries thoroughly.
- Slice larger fruits (e.g., strawberries, peaches) into bite-sized pieces.
Step 5: Assemble the Dessert
- Line a 23×11 cm loaf pan or rectangular mold with plastic wrap or parchment paper.
- Pour half of the cottage cheese mixture into the mold, spreading it evenly.
- Add half of the fruits over the first layer, ensuring even distribution.
- Pour the remaining cottage cheese mixture on top and finish with the remaining fruits.
- Gently press the fruits into the mixture to partially submerge them.
Step 6: Refrigerate and Set
- Cover the mold with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 4-6 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Ensure the dessert is firm to the touch before slicing.
Step 7: Serve
- Remove the dessert from the mold using the plastic wrap lining.
- Slice into portions with a sharp knife.
- Garnish with fresh fruit or a drizzle of honey, if desired, and serve chilled.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 8 Slices)
- Calories: 190 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Fat: 8 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugars: 14 g
- Sodium: 90 mg
Tips for Success
- Gelatin Tips: Ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved and slightly cooled before mixing with the cream to prevent clumping.
- Customization: Swap out fruits based on seasonality or preference. Mangoes, kiwis, or cherries are excellent alternatives.
- Smoother Texture: Blend the cottage cheese thoroughly for a silky finish, or leave it slightly chunky for more texture.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with a cup of herbal tea or light coffee for an elegant treat.
This dessert is a versatile, crowd-pleasing option that combines the creamy richness of cottage cheese with the natural sweetness of fresh fruits. Whether served at a family gathering or as a midweek indulgence, it’s sure to impress! 🍇✨