Nutty Cottage Cheese Dessert Log

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Nutty Cottage Cheese Dessert Log

A creamy, nutty, and naturally sweet dessert packed with protein, healthy fats, and chewy fruits. Perfect for a wholesome treat or snack.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 4–6 hours (overnight recommended)
Yield: 8–10 servings

Ingredients

For the Base:

  • 12.5 oz (350 g) cottage cheese, smooth or small-curd

  • 3.5 oz (100 g) sour cream (or Greek yogurt for extra protein)

  • 2.5 oz (70 g) honey (adjust to taste)

  • 1/4 tsp vanillin powder or 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

  • 0.7 oz (20 g) instant gelatin

  • 3–4 tbsp water (to bloom the gelatin)

For the Mix-ins:

  • 1.8 oz (50 g) hazelnuts, toasted

  • 3.5 oz (100 g) walnuts, toasted

  • 1.5 oz (45 g) peeled pistachios

  • 3.5 oz (100 g) dried apricots, chopped

  • 3.5 oz (100 g) dates, pitted and chopped

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fruit and Nuts

  1. Chop the dried apricots and dates into small, bite-sized pieces.

  2. Toast the nuts if they are raw:

    • Place nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat.

    • Stir frequently for 3–5 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.

  3. Combine all nuts and dried fruits in a bowl and set aside.

2. Bloom the Gelatin

  1. Place the instant gelatin in a small heat-proof bowl with 3–4 tablespoons of water.

  2. Let it sit for 5 minutes to absorb water and soften.

  3. Melt the gelatin gently:

    • Microwave for 10–15 seconds or use a double boiler.

    • Stir until liquid and clear. Avoid boiling, which reduces gelatin’s setting ability.

3. Make the Smooth Base

  1. In a large mixing bowl or blender, combine cottage cheese, sour cream, honey, and vanillin/vanilla extract.

  2. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. Use a whisk if doing by hand, ensuring no large curds remain.

  3. Gradually pour in the melted gelatin while blending or whisking continuously. Mix until fully incorporated.

4. Fold in Nuts and Fruits

  1. Add the toasted nuts and chopped dried fruits to the cheese mixture.

  2. Gently fold with a spatula until evenly distributed.

5. Mold the Dessert Log

Option 1: Using a Plastic Bottle

  1. Take a clean, empty plastic water or soda bottle and carefully cut off the top.

  2. Pour the mixture into the bottle.

  3. Tap firmly on the counter to remove air bubbles and settle the mixture.

Option 2: Using a Loaf Pan

  1. Line a standard loaf pan with plastic wrap, leaving enough overhang on the sides.

  2. Pour the mixture into the pan and tap gently to remove air pockets.

6. Chill Until Firm

  1. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4–6 hours (overnight is best) until fully set.

7. Serve

  1. For the bottle: Carefully cut the plastic down the side and peel it away.

  2. For the loaf pan: Lift the dessert out using the overhanging plastic wrap.

  3. Slice into thick rounds using a sharp knife. Serve chilled.

Tips for Best Results

  • Use smooth cottage cheese for a creamier texture; small-curd works too but may be slightly chunkier.

  • Adjust honey depending on desired sweetness. You can replace part of it with maple syrup or date syrup.

  • For extra flavor, lightly toast the dried fruits in a dry skillet for 1–2 minutes.

  • Garnish slices with extra chopped nuts or a drizzle of honey before serving.

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