Ingredients:

• 160 grams of chocolate (dark or milk, based on your preference)
• 30 grams of vegetable oil
• 400 grams of cottage cheese
• 40 grams of soft butter
• 50 grams of powdered sugar
• Vanilla sugar, to taste (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Melt the Chocolate

1. Break the Chocolate: Begin by breaking the 160 grams of chocolate into small pieces. This will help the chocolate melt more evenly.
2. Melt the Chocolate with Oil: Place the chocolate pieces in a heatproof bowl and add 30 grams of vegetable oil. The oil will help make the chocolate smoother and more manageable when it hardens.
3. Use a Double Boiler or Microwave:
   • If using a double boiler, place the bowl over a pot of simmering water and stir until the chocolate and oil have fully melted and formed a smooth mixture.
   • If using a microwave, heat the mixture in short intervals (about 20-30 seconds), stirring after each interval until completely melted.
4. Cool the Chocolate: After melting, let the chocolate cool slightly so it’s easier to work with but still pourable. You can place the bowl in the freezer for about 10 minutes to speed up the process.

Step 2: Prepare the Cottage Cheese Filling

5. Mix the Cottage Cheese and Butter: In a large bowl, combine 400 grams of cottage cheese with 40 grams of soft butter. The butter will help give the filling a creamy texture.
6. Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla: Add 50 grams of powdered sugar to the cottage cheese mixture for sweetness. If you prefer a little extra flavor, add a small amount of vanilla sugar. Mix well until the mixture is smooth and well combined. You can use a hand mixer or food processor to ensure a creamy consistency.

Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate-Covered Bars

7. Line a Tray or Mold: Take a small tray or mold and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
8. Apply the First Chocolate Layer:
   • Pour a thin layer of the melted chocolate into the tray or mold, spreading it evenly to cover the bottom.
   • Place the tray in the freezer for about 10 minutes to allow the chocolate to set before adding the filling.
9. Add the Cottage Cheese Filling:
   • Once the chocolate has set, spread the cottage cheese mixture evenly over the chocolate layer. Make sure to smooth the top for a uniform appearance.
10. Apply the Final Chocolate Layer:

• Pour the remaining melted chocolate over the top of the cottage cheese layer, ensuring it covers the entire surface. Use a spatula to smooth the chocolate if needed.

11. Refrigerate the Bars: Place the tray in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours to allow the bars to firm up and for the chocolate to harden fully.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

12. Cut the Bars: Once the bars have set in the refrigerator, remove the tray and carefully lift the parchment paper to take out the whole bar. Use a sharp knife to cut the bar into individual pieces.
13. Serve and Enjoy: The chocolate-covered cottage cheese bars are now ready to serve! Enjoy them as a chilled dessert or snack. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.

Cooking Tips:

• Consistency of Cottage Cheese: If you prefer a smoother filling, blend the cottage cheese in a food processor until completely smooth before mixing with the butter and powdered sugar.
• Chocolate Options: You can use milk chocolate for a sweeter taste or dark chocolate for a richer flavor. White chocolate can also be used for a unique twist.
• Optional Add-ins: For added flavor and texture, consider mixing in finely chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even coconut flakes into the cottage cheese filling.
• Freezing for Longer Storage: If you want to store these bars for an extended period, they freeze well. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the freezer. Just let them thaw in the fridge before eating.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate):

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Sugar: 15g
• Fiber: 2g

FAQs:

1. Can I make this recipe without butter in the filling? Yes, you can skip the butter if you prefer a lighter filling, but the butter adds creaminess and richness to the texture.
2. Can I use other types of chocolate? Absolutely! You can use any chocolate you prefer—dark, milk, or even white chocolate for a sweeter, creamier version.
3. What’s the best way to store these bars? Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
4. Can I use a sweetener instead of powdered sugar? Yes, you can use alternative sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or a low-calorie sweetener, but make sure they’re well incorporated into the filling.
5. How can I ensure the chocolate coating doesn’t crack? Adding vegetable oil to the chocolate helps prevent cracking, but if you’re still having issues, let the bars sit at room temperature for a few minutes before cutting them.

Conclusion:

This recipe for Chocolate-Covered Cottage Cheese Bars is a simple yet indulgent treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. The creamy cottage cheese filling, coated with smooth chocolate, creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether enjoyed as a snack or a light dessert, these bars are easy to prepare and delicious to eat. Customize the filling with your favorite add-ins and experiment with different types of chocolate for a unique twist. Give this recipe a try, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your household!