This fun treat combines creamy cottage cheese and smooth peanut butter to create a delightful twist on the classic Snickers. It’s great for a quick snack!
The best part? You get to enjoy the sweet chocolate flavor while sneaking in some protein. Easy to make, and it’s perfect for those sweet cravings without the guilt!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: This is the star of the dessert! Choose full-fat for a creamier texture. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try silken tofu blended until smooth. It won’t have the same tang but will still create a great base.
Peanut Butter: Natural peanut butter is my go-to for the best flavor; it offers a richer taste. If you have nut allergies, sunflower seed butter or almond butter work well as substitutes for that nutty flavor.
Honey or Maple Syrup: These sweeteners bring in some natural sweetness. You can use agave nectar or date syrup if preferred. Adjust based on your taste—you might want less if you’re using sweeter chocolate!
Chocolate Chips: Dark chocolate adds depth, but feel free to use milk chocolate for a sweeter taste or even a sugar-free chocolate if you’re watching your sugar intake. White chocolate is also a fun option for a different flavor twist!
What’s the Best Way to Get a Smooth Filling?
Getting a smooth filling is crucial for this dessert’s success. When blending the cottage cheese mixture, these steps can help:
- Use a high-powered blender or food processor for a creamy texture. Blend until no lumps remain.
- Scrape down the sides of the blender periodically to ensure everything is mixed well.
- If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash of milk (dairy or non-dairy) to help it blend smoothly.
Don’t rush; blend longer if needed for that silky finish! Enjoy your treat with friends or family; it’s sure to impress.
Cottage Cheese And Peanut Butter Snickers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Filling:
- 1 ½ cups cottage cheese
- ½ cup natural peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 tbsp honey or maple syrup (adjust for sweetness)
For The Crust:
- 1 cup crushed graham crackers or digestive biscuits
- 2 tbsp melted butter
For The Chocolate Topping:
- 1 cup dark or milk chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp heavy cream or coconut cream (to melt with chocolate)
For The Garnish:
- ¼ cup chopped roasted peanuts
- 2 tbsp caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade, for drizzling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and at least 1 hour in the refrigerator for the filling to set, followed by an additional 30 minutes to let the chocolate firm. In total, you are looking at around 2 hours for this delightful dessert, including chilling time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
Start by mixing the crushed graham crackers and melted butter in a bowl until everything is combined very well. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your small square or rectangular serving dishes—or you can use a small pan if you’d like. After you press it down firmly, pop it into the refrigerator while you work on the filling!
2. Make the Cottage Cheese Filling:
Next, grab your blender or food processor! Add the cottage cheese, peanut butter, vanilla extract, and honey or maple syrup into the bowl. Blend until everything is super smooth and creamy. You want that perfect texture, so feel free to stop and scrape the sides to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly mixed!
3. Assemble the Filling:
Now, take that delicious cottage cheese and peanut butter mixture and pour it over the chilled crust you made earlier. Spread it out evenly with a spatula so it fills all the corners. Place the whole thing back into the refrigerator and let it set for at least 1 hour. This helps everything firm up beautifully!
4. Prepare the Chocolate Topping:
While the filling sets, it’s time to make the chocolate topping! In a heatproof bowl, melt the chocolate chips together with the heavy cream. You can do this over a double boiler or in the microwave at 30-second intervals—just remember to stir in between until smooth. This creates a luscious, velvety topping!
5. Add the Chocolate Layer:
Once your filling is set and the chocolate is smooth, carefully pour the melted chocolate over the top of the cottage cheese mixture. Spread it out evenly, covering the entire surface with that rich chocolate goodness.
6. Garnish:
Sprinkle the chopped roasted peanuts over the top of the chocolate layer for that extra crunch. Then, drizzle the caramel sauce over everything for that ooey-gooey finishing touch!
7. Chill and Serve:
Return your creation to the refrigerator for another 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to firm up nicely. After that, it’s ready to enjoy! Serve chilled and savor each creamy, chocolatey, peanut buttery bite of your Cottage Cheese and Peanut Butter Snickers dessert!
This delicious recipe provides a layered, creamy, and delightfully sweet treat that mimics the flavors of a Snickers bar, featuring creamy cottage cheese, rich peanut butter, crunchy nuts, smooth chocolate, and a drizzle of caramel. Enjoy!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cottage Cheese?
Absolutely! Low-fat cottage cheese can be used in place of full-fat. Keep in mind that it may be slightly less creamy, but the flavor will still be great. Just blend it thoroughly to achieve a smooth texture.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make this dessert vegan, substitute dairy cottage cheese with silken tofu or vegan cream cheese, and use maple syrup as a sweetener. Replace the chocolate chips with dairy-free chocolate and use coconut oil instead of heavy cream.
What Should I Do If the Filling Is Lumpy?
If your filling is lumpy after blending, simply blend it again until smooth. If it’s too thick, you can add a splash of milk or a nut milk to help achieve a creamier consistency.
How Long Do Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to cover the top well to keep it fresh. Enjoy your dessert again later!
