Creamy Fruit and Cottage Cheese Slice Dessert

This Creamy Fruit and Cottage Cheese Slice Dessert is a delightful no-bake treat that combines creamy cottage cheese, yogurt (or milk), and the natural sweetness of fresh fruit or berries. Set with gelatin, this dessert is light, refreshing, and perfect for serving at a summer gathering, a festive party, or simply as a healthy dessert option. The smooth texture of the cottage cheese mixture contrasts beautifully with the vibrant and juicy fruits, making this dessert not only tasty but also visually stunning. With minimal effort, you can create a dessert that looks elegant and tastes delicious.

This dessert is also versatile; you can adjust the sweetness to your liking and use any seasonal fruits or berries that you have on hand. The final result is a creamy, fruity, and sliceable dessert that melts in your mouth.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 400 g cottage cheese
  • 200 g milk, sour cream, or yogurt (your choice based on preferred creaminess)
  • 100 g sugar (or a sugar substitute like stevia or honey)
  • 15 g gelatin (about 1.5 tablespoons)
  • 90 g water (to dissolve gelatin)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 500 g mixed fresh fruits or berries (strawberries, blueberries, peaches, etc.)

Steps to Make Creamy Fruit and Cottage Cheese Slice Dessert:

Step 1: Prepare the Gelatin Start by preparing the gelatin, which will give the dessert its firm, sliceable texture. In a small bowl, combine 15 grams of gelatin with 90 grams of cold water. Stir the mixture and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes to bloom. This allows the gelatin to absorb the water and swell.

Once the gelatin has bloomed, gently heat it in a microwave or over a stovetop on low heat until it dissolves completely. Be sure not to boil the gelatin, as this can affect its setting ability. Stir well, and set the gelatin aside to cool slightly while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Blend the Cottage Cheese Mixture In a large mixing bowl, add 400 grams of cottage cheese. For a smoother texture, you can blend the cottage cheese in a food processor or blender until it’s creamy. If you prefer a slightly more textured dessert, you can leave the cottage cheese as is.

Next, add 200 grams of your choice of milk, sour cream, or yogurt to the cottage cheese. Each option offers a different level of creaminess—milk will result in a lighter texture, sour cream gives a tangy richness, and yogurt adds a smooth, velvety finish. Add 100 grams of sugar (or your preferred sweetener) and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Blend or whisk the mixture until everything is well combined and smooth.

Step 3: Incorporate the Gelatin Once the gelatin has cooled slightly but is still liquid, slowly pour it into the cottage cheese mixture while continuously stirring. Make sure the gelatin is well distributed throughout the mixture to ensure even setting. Stir gently but thoroughly to incorporate the gelatin fully.

Step 4: Prepare the Fruits Choose 500 grams of fresh fruits or berries for the dessert. You can use a combination of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, peaches, or any other fruits you prefer. Wash the fruits thoroughly, and if necessary, cut larger fruits (like peaches or strawberries) into bite-sized pieces.

Step 5: Assemble the Dessert Take a 23×11 cm loaf pan or rectangular mold and line it with plastic wrap or parchment paper to make it easier to remove the dessert later. Pour half of the cottage cheese mixture into the prepared mold, spreading it out evenly.

Next, add half of the prepared fruits or berries, distributing them evenly over the cottage cheese layer. Pour the remaining cottage cheese mixture over the fruits, and top it with the rest of the fruits.

Gently press the fruits into the mixture so that they are partially submerged. This will ensure that the fruits are evenly distributed throughout the dessert once it sets.

Step 6: Refrigerate and Set Cover the mold with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4-6 hours, or until the dessert is fully set and firm to the touch. For best results, let the dessert chill overnight to ensure that it holds its shape when sliced.

Step 7: Serve Once the dessert has fully set, remove it from the refrigerator. Carefully lift the dessert out of the mold using the plastic wrap lining. Place it on a cutting board, and use a sharp knife to slice it into portions.

Serve the slices on individual plates, and if desired, garnish with additional fresh fruit or a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness. This dessert pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, based on 8 servings):

  • Calories: 190 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Fat: 8g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 14g
  • Sodium: 90mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use other dairy products instead of cottage cheese? Yes! You can substitute the cottage cheese with ricotta or mascarpone cheese for a different flavor and texture. Ricotta will be lighter and creamier, while mascarpone adds a richer, more indulgent taste.

2. Can I use frozen fruits instead of fresh fruits? Yes, frozen fruits can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding them to the dessert. Frozen fruits may release more moisture, which can affect the texture of the dessert.

3. Can I make this dessert sugar-free? Absolutely! You can replace the sugar with a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol to make this dessert sugar-free. If using honey, be sure to adjust the amount depending on your sweetness preference.

Tips for Making the Best Creamy Fruit and Cottage Cheese Slice Dessert:

  • Blend for a Smooth Texture: For a smoother and creamier dessert, blend the cottage cheese thoroughly. If you prefer a more rustic texture, you can leave some cottage cheese chunks in the mixture.
  • Use High-Quality Gelatin: To ensure the dessert sets properly, use high-quality, unflavored gelatin. Be careful not to overheat the gelatin when dissolving it, as boiling it may prevent it from setting correctly.
  • Choose Fresh, Ripe Fruits: The natural sweetness of ripe fruits will enhance the overall flavor of the dessert. Berries, peaches, and tropical fruits like mango or kiwi work wonderfully in this recipe.
  • Let It Chill Properly: Patience is key with this dessert. Make sure to let it chill for at least 4-6 hours (or overnight) to allow it to fully set. This will make slicing and serving much easier.

Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dessert will hold its shape well and can be enjoyed as a chilled treat over several days. Be sure to keep it covered to prevent the fruit from drying out.

This dessert is not suitable for freezing, as the gelatin and fresh fruit may lose their texture when thawed.

Conclusion: This Creamy Fruit and Cottage Cheese Slice Dessert is a refreshing, healthy, and elegant option that’s perfect for any occasion. Its light and creamy texture, combined with the natural sweetness of fruits, makes it a crowd-pleaser. The versatility of the recipe allows you to use your favorite fruits and adjust the sweetness to your liking, making it a go-to dessert for anyone who enjoys simple yet delicious treats. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a light dessert to enjoy at home, this recipe is sure to impress!

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