Craving a classic Italian dessert without the heaviness? This Easy Cottage Cheese Tiramisu is the perfect solution! By swapping traditional mascarpone with creamy cottage cheese, you get a dessert that’s lighter, packed with protein, and irresistibly creamy.
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Whether you’re preparing a treat for brunch, a family gathering, or a simple weeknight indulgence, this dessert is sure to impress. Rich coffee flavor, smooth cottage cheese filling, and delicate cocoa dusting create a dessert experience that’s both satisfying and wholesome.
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Ingredients
For the Coffee Mixture
- 1 ½ cups strong brewed coffee or espresso
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
For the Cottage Cheese Base
- 16 oz low-fat cottage cheese (2%)
- 4 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Egg Yolk Mixture
- 2 large egg yolks
- 2 tbsp sugar
For Assembly
- 24–30 ladyfinger cookies (depending on size)
- 2 cups heavy cream (cold)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Coffee Mixture
- In a medium bowl, combine brewed coffee, sugar, and vanilla.
- Stir until sugar dissolves completely.
- Pour into a shallow dish and let it cool to room temperature.
Step 2: Process the Cottage Cheese
- Place cottage cheese in a food processor and blend until smooth.
- Add sugar and vanilla extract; process again until creamy.
- Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the egg yolk mixture.
Step 3: Set Up a Double Boiler
- Fill a saucepan with water, ensuring the bowl used for the egg yolks does not touch the water.
- Bring water to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Cook the Egg Yolk Mixture
- In the double boiler, whisk egg yolks and sugar constantly for about 10 minutes.
- Cook until the mixture is pale, thick, and smooth.
- Remove from heat and continue whisking for a few minutes to slightly cool.
Step 5: Combine Egg Yolks with Cottage Cheese
- Add the cooled egg yolk mixture to the chilled cottage cheese in the food processor.
- Blend until fully combined and creamy.
Step 6: Whip the Cream
- In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold whipped cream into the cottage cheese mixture for a light, airy texture.
Step 7: Assemble the Tiramisu
- Quickly dip ladyfingers into the cooled coffee mixture.
- Layer soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of your serving dish.
- Spread half of the cottage cheese mixture over the ladyfingers.
- Repeat with another layer of soaked ladyfingers and remaining filling.
- Smooth the top and dust generously with unsweetened cocoa powder.
Step 8: Chill
- Refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours to let flavors meld.
- Serve chilled, optionally garnished with shaved chocolate or fresh berries.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use cold heavy cream for the best whipping results.
- Do not soak ladyfingers for too long—they should be moist, not soggy.
- For richer flavor, add 1–2 tbsp coffee liqueur to the coffee mixture.
- Sift cocoa powder for an even, elegant dusting.
- Make ahead: Prepare a day in advance—the flavors improve overnight.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High-protein alternative to traditional tiramisu.
- Low-fat and lighter without sacrificing flavor.
- Quick and simple to assemble for busy schedules.
- Perfect for brunch, dinner parties, or a guilt-free treat.
- Elegant enough to impress guests yet easy enough for beginners.
Substitutions & Variations
Ingredient Swaps
- Cottage cheese → Mascarpone (classic) for a richer dessert.
- Ladyfingers → Sponge cake or pound cake for a softer texture.
- Coffee → Decaf or mocha mix for caffeine-free options.
Flavor Variations
- Add a layer of chocolate ganache for extra indulgence.
- Mix cinnamon or nutmeg into the filling for a warm spice twist.
- Top with toasted almonds or hazelnuts for crunch.
Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Guide
Make-Ahead
- Prepare up to 24 hours in advance—flavors develop beautifully in the fridge.
Storage
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap; refrigerate for 3–4 days.
Freezing
- Not recommended for best texture, as whipped cream may separate.
Serving Ideas
- Dust with extra cocoa powder or espresso powder.
- Add chocolate shavings or berries for a fancy presentation.
- Serve alongside a cup of coffee or dessert wine.
Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
(Estimates based on 8 servings; may vary by brand and ingredient.)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fat-free cottage cheese?
Yes, but the dessert may be slightly less creamy.
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Can I make it without eggs?
Yes! Replace the egg yolk mixture with additional whipped cream for a safer, no-egg version.
How long can it stay in the fridge?
Up to 4 days in a covered container.
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Can I add liqueur?
Absolutely! Coffee liqueur, amaretto, or Kahlua enhance flavor.
Are there vegan options?
Yes! Use plant-based cream and vegan ladyfingers, and replace eggs with a vegan custard alternative.
This Easy Cottage Cheese Tiramisu is a lighter, protein-packed twist on the Italian classic. Creamy, coffee-kissed, and lightly sweet, it’s perfect for anyone seeking a healthier dessert option without compromising flavor. Make it for special occasions, weeknight indulgence, or as a make-ahead treat it’s guaranteed to satisfy every sweet tooth.
Easy Cottage Cheese Tiramisu Recipe | High-Protein, Guilt-Free Dessert
Try this Easy Cottage Cheese Tiramisu for a creamy, protein-packed dessert. No baking required—layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, smooth cottage cheese filling, and cocoa make the perfect guilt-free treat.
Ingredients
For the Coffee Mixture
- 1 ½ cups strong brewed coffee or espresso
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
For the Cottage Cheese Base
- 16 oz low-fat cottage cheese (2%)
- 4 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Egg Yolk Mixture
- 2 large egg yolks
- 2 tbsp sugar
For Assembly
- 24-30 ladyfinger cookies (depending on size)
- 2 cups heavy cream (cold)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Coffee Mixture
- In a medium bowl, combine brewed coffee, sugar, and vanilla.
- Stir until sugar dissolves completely.
- Pour into a shallow dish and let it cool to room temperature.
Step 2: Process the Cottage Cheese
- Place cottage cheese in a food processor and blend until smooth.
- Add sugar and vanilla extract; process again until creamy.
- Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the egg yolk mixture.
Step 3: Set Up a Double Boiler
- Fill a saucepan with water, ensuring the bowl used for the egg yolks does not touch the water.
- Bring water to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Cook the Egg Yolk Mixture
- In the double boiler, whisk egg yolks and sugar constantly for about 10 minutes.
- Cook until the mixture is pale, thick, and smooth.
- Remove from heat and continue whisking for a few minutes to slightly cool.
Step 5: Combine Egg Yolks with Cottage Cheese
- Add the cooled egg yolk mixture to the chilled cottage cheese in the food processor.
- Blend until fully combined and creamy.
Step 6: Whip the Cream
- In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold whipped cream into the cottage cheese mixture for a light, airy texture.
Step 7: Assemble the Tiramisu
- Quickly dip ladyfingers into the cooled coffee mixture.
- Layer soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of your serving dish.
- Spread half of the cottage cheese mixture over the ladyfingers.
- Repeat with another layer of soaked ladyfingers and remaining filling.
- Smooth the top and dust generously with unsweetened cocoa powder.
Step 8: Chill
- Refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours to let flavors meld.
- Serve chilled, optionally garnished with shaved chocolate or fresh berries.
Notes
- Chill at least 2–3 hours for the best texture.
- Use fresh eggs and high-quality coffee for superior flavor.
- Optional garnishes: chocolate shavings, berries, or nuts.
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