This simple yet delightful dessert transforms humble cottage cheese into a rich and creamy indulgence. With the addition of crunchy nuts, chewy dried fruits, and a hint of vanilla, this no-bake dessert is sure to impress. The unique presentation of serving it straight from a bottle adds a creative twist to this treat. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s the perfect combination of creamy, nutty, and sweet.
Ingredients
- 12.5 oz (350 g) cottage cheese
- 3.5 oz (100 g) sour cream
- 0.7 oz (20 g) instant gelatin
- 2.5 oz (70 g) honey
- ¼ tsp vanillin
- 1.8 oz (50 g) fried hazelnuts
- 3.5 oz (100 g) fried walnuts
- 1.5 oz (40 g) peeled pistachios
- 3.5 oz (100 g) dried apricots
- 3.5 oz (100 g) dates
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Mixing the Base
In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese, sour cream, and honey. Using a blender, blend the ingredients until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. The honey adds a subtle sweetness that balances out the tanginess of the cottage cheese and sour cream.
Next, dissolve the instant gelatin. You can do this by microwaving the gelatin with a small amount of water for about 15–20 seconds, stirring until it is fully dissolved. Slowly pour the dissolved gelatin into the cottage cheese mixture while blending to ensure even distribution. This step creates the perfect base for your dessert, giving it a firm yet creamy texture.
Step 2: Adding Flavor
To elevate the flavor, add a dash of vanillin to the mixture. This adds a touch of sweetness and a fragrant aroma that complements the richness of the cottage cheese and the nuttiness of the other ingredients. Make sure to mix thoroughly to distribute the flavor evenly throughout the dessert.
Step 3: Incorporating the Nuts
Now, it’s time to add some texture and crunch. Roughly chop the fried hazelnuts, walnuts, and pistachios, and fold them into the creamy mixture. These nuts bring a delightful crunch and nutty depth to the dessert, enhancing its richness and complexity. The combination of different nuts adds a variety of textures and flavors—hazelnuts for their bold flavor, walnuts for their slight bitterness, and pistachios for a hint of sweetness.
Step 4: Adding Fruity Delight
For a burst of natural sweetness and chewy texture, chop the dried apricots and dates into small pieces. Add them to the mixture, stirring until they are evenly distributed. The dried fruits not only add a layer of sweetness but also complement the creaminess of the base with their chewy texture. The tangy apricots and caramel-like dates blend beautifully with the creamy, nutty filling.
Step 5: Bottling the Dessert
To give the dessert a fun and unique presentation, transfer the mixture into a plastic bottle. First, cut off the neck of the bottle to make it easier to fill. Pour the mixture into the bottle, gently shaking it to remove any air pockets and ensure an even filling. This method makes it easy to store the dessert and slice it once chilled.
Step 6: Chilling Time
Cover the top of the bottle with cling film and place it in the refrigerator for at least 5 hours, or overnight if possible. This chilling time is crucial as it allows the gelatin to set and the flavors to meld together, resulting in a firm, sliceable, and indulgent dessert.
Step 7: Serving Suggestions
When it’s time to serve, remove the cling film and carefully slice the bottle away to reveal the set dessert. Slice it into rounds or wedges for an elegant presentation. For added flair, garnish with extra chopped nuts, dried fruits, or a drizzle of honey. This dessert pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.
Nutritional Benefits
This cottage cheese dessert is not only delicious but also offers a wealth of nutritional benefits. Cottage cheese is a great source of protein and calcium, essential for maintaining healthy bones and muscles. Nuts like hazelnuts, walnuts, and pistachios provide healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants, promoting heart health and brain function. The dried apricots and dates add natural sweetness without the need for refined sugar, while also providing fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Notes
- Nuts: Feel free to swap out the hazelnuts, walnuts, or pistachios for your favorite nuts, like almonds or cashews, depending on your taste or what you have on hand.
- Fruit: You can also customize the dried fruit in this dessert by adding raisins, cranberries, or figs for a different flavor profile.
- Gelatin: Make sure to dissolve the gelatin completely before adding it to the mixture to avoid any lumps. You can also experiment with flavored gelatin for a twist.
Nutrition Information
Serving Size: 8 portions
Calories per Serving: 250 kcal
Total Fat: 15 g
Saturated Fat: 3 g
Cholesterol: 25 mg
Sodium: 80 mg
Total Carbohydrates: 25 g
Dietary Fiber: 3 g
Sugars: 18 g
Protein: 7 g
This delightful dessert is a great way to turn ordinary cottage cheese into something extraordinary. The combination of creamy, nutty, and fruity flavors with the unique presentation makes this dessert both delicious and visually appealing. Perfect for family gatherings, special occasions, or just as a tasty treat to enjoy at home, this cottage cheese dessert is sure to impress!
