with a creamy quark filling tastes delicious. The biscuit cake with dates and nuts does not need to be baked and is easy to prepare.
Please review recipe:
Dates are sweet, flavorful fruits that grows on date palm trees. They are most often found dried and packaged. Dates are high in dietary fiber, several vitamins and minerals, phytosterols, carotenoids, and polyphenols. Research has shown dates have beneficial medicinal properties stemming from antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities.
Dates are nutritious foods high in natural sugars, making them an excellent natural sweetener. If you watch your sugar intake, you may want to consume dates in moderation. A 200-calorie (72g) serving of Medjool dates contain 11% of your daily recommended potassium, 48 grams sugar, and 4.8 grams fiber.
Health Benefits of Dates
- High in potassium
- High in fiber
- Contains several B vitamins
- Has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
- Good source of folate, copper, vitamin A, and iron
- May help relieve constipation and intestinal disorders
Yesterday afternoon I went on the hunt for a healthy snack. I wanted something sweet, but with a little protein so I wouldn’t be too much of a snack monster the rest of the day.
And topped it with cottage cheese. Delicious and super easy!
I’ve been trying to go to sleep early this week so Ben and I haven’t been eating dinner together. So when he suggested a last minute date night I figured it was a good idea.
We walked to a local sushi place that we’d never tried before and it happened to be Happy Hour! Appetizers and drinks were super cheap!! I started with a salad and miso soup.
Since they were such a deal we decided to try appetizers we hadn’t had before – octopus balls. Yes, you read that right, but they were just balls filled with a piece of octopus.
And jalapeño poppers – it was basically avocado stuffed with cottage cheese and fried. Very healthy.
Ben suggested Yogurtland for dessert (it’s right next door). I was actually against it, but I am only human so I caved.
This morning I woke up at 4:45a for boot camp. I’m really dragging today. After camp I headed home to eat before my run. It was still dark at 6:40a! C’mon sun, get it together
Question: What’s your afternoon snack today?
I’m out of those crackers now and need another jam and cottage cheese vehicle.
by Liz Thomson
April 15, 2022
This post may contain affiliate links.
Cottage cheese is a delicious, healthy ingredient that can be incorporated into everything from breakfast to dinner! If you’re looking for some new ways to eat cottage cheese, this list has you covered. These ideas can be a great way to use up a bit of leftover cottage cheese but I also have ideas for making this humble cheese the star of the show!
What is cottage cheese?
Cottage cheese is made from cow’s milk. Instead of pressing it to make cheese curd, it’s drained, retaining the whey and keeping the curds loose. It has a mild, milky flavor and a slightly soupy texture. Some people find the texture of cottage cheese to be off-putting but there are plenty of ways you can use it where texture won’t be an issue. For example, blending cottage cheese into a smoothie can be a great way to get the health benefits of cottage cheese while disguising the texture.
Is cottage cheese healthy?
Cottage Cheese is a great way to add more protein to your favorite breakfast recipes.
Cottage cheese makes this smoothie taste rich and creamy while adding protein to the mix!
Apple pie overnight oats are a tasty, high-protein recipe to start your day! Cottage cheese adds protein while providing a creamy texture.
Cottage Cheese Egg Muffins are loaded up with eggs, veggies, and cottage cheese for a low-carb and protein-packed breakfast. Serve them right away or freeze them for later to enjoy the ultimate on-the-go healthy breakfast.
These cottage cheese pancakes are a great way to make delicious high protein, low fat pancakes.
The whipped cottage cheese is so creamy and smooth, it feels like an indulgent treat. It’s like an easier version of a smoothie bowl!
This healthy keto blueberry smoothie has a secret ingredient: cottage cheese! Your family won’t be able to guess why this smoothie is so rich creamy, and delicious!
Appetizers
Spice up your cottage cheese into a homemade dip.
This cottage cheese tzatziki is a fun twist on the traditional version, and has so much flavour from herbs and garlic. Easy to make, it’s a tasty appetizer or side dish everyone will love, and is vegetarian and gluten free.
This roasted garlic white bean dip has a secret ingredient: cottage cheese! It lends a super creamy texture and healthy protein boost to each bite.
This Taco Dip is made without cream cheese, instead It’s made with creamy cottage cheese and a Mexican cheese blend. I also add a packet of taco seasoning and veggies so it is packed with taco flavor while still being super rich and creamy.
This cottage cheese snack is made with Everything but the Bagel Seasoning, green onion, salt and pepper, and makes the perfect pairing with crackers for a light, high protein lunch.
Dinner Recipes
Classic dinner recipes using cottage cheese instead of ricotta.
Zesty green soup is packed with nutrients and flavour. Citrusy lemon and nutty parmesan contrast with the earthy taste of pureed spinach and kale. The soup is thickened with blended low-fat cottage cheese, which provides a healthy and high-protein alternative to cream.
This easy Baked Eggplant Parmesan is a lightened-up version of the original fried Italian casserole and is perfect for both weeknight dinners or date night!
These creamy pesto spaghetti squash noodles are a healthier, lower carb way to enjoy the decadence and comfort of creamy pasta.
What grows together, goes together. Cheese Stuffed Zucchini Boats with Chanterelle Mushrooms is a celebration of how delicious fresh summer foods can be!
These Healthy Vegetarian Spinach Rolls are easy to make and perfect for meal prep. They’re savory, filling, and have just a touch of spice for a delicious meal you can eat on the go.
Dessert Recipe
Not only can you add cottage cheese to everyday recipes, it’s great for desserts too.
The creamy, cheesy filling mimics a traditional blintz, but instead of making and rolling crepes, the batter is baked over the filling. The fresh blueberry sauce on top brings additional flavor and visual appeal.
This post may contain affiliate links. (Disclaimer here) And if you think you’ve seen this post somewhere before it may have been on my other site TheWingedFork.com
The great part about cooking with cottage cheese is that it’s versatile in how it’s used. You can add it to main meals or side dishes, cottage cheese desserts, or even as a simple snack during the day.
Think outside the box on how to use cottage cheese in your daily menu planning for dinner, and you’re sure to be shocked by the results.
The more ways that you can add cottage cheese to your daily consumption, the more that you’re going to want to try other ways to use it.
It’s time to treat your tastebuds and check out all the easy cottage cheese recipes below! You can easily meal plan for the month and try something new and unique.
Cottage Cheese Omelet Muffins
These protein packed cottage cheese and egg muffins can be made with any vegetables, cheese, and meat you like and pack in over 10 grams of protein. Plus they are freezer friendly.
View this Recipe
Easy Paneer Stir Fry (Indian Cottage Cheese Dish)
This Cottage Cheese Stir Fry is a simple Indian side dish that is quite filling too! Add in a few veggies and you have a healthy side dish perfect for meals or snacks!
Oat Flour Pancakes
Oat Flour Pancakes made in 15 minutes for a healthy breakfast that is gluten-free and wholesome. These protein pancakes are fluffy and moist!
Zucchini Roll Ups
Zucchini Roll Ups are a healthy way to pretend you’re eating stuffed shells. They are basically made with the same stuffing except with way less calories.
Paneer Masala Recipe
Restaurant style Paneer Masala recipe is easy to make, delicious, creamy, flavorful curry made with tomatoes, cashews, spices and paneer.
Cottage Cheese Lasagna
Everyone will love this creamy, cheesy, meaty Cottage Cheese Lasagna. It’s the ultimate comfort food for a winter night.
Palak Paneer Recipe
Learn my secret tricks to make lip smackingly good restaurant style Palak Paneer. My method is super easy, quick and very delicious!
Cottage cheese tzatziki
This cottage cheese tzatziki is a fun twist on yoghurt-based tzatziki. A flavourful appetizer or party food, perfect with crudites or breads.
Tandoori Paneer Naan Pizza
Tandoori paneer naan pizza is Indian-flavors-inspired fusion pizza made using naan and marinated paneer, veggies, cheese, and yogurt sauce.
Easy Paneer Appetizer – Indian Cottage Cheese Starter
My mom’s paneer appetizer is easy to make and tastes delicious! This soft and milky paneer starter can be served as a snack, or as a side dish for lunch or dinner too.
Cottage Cheese Quiche
Cottage cheese quiche is low fat and low calorie. Use leeks and peas or switch in other veggies. Healthy and delicious, easy to make.
Recipe for Onion Dip
This recipe for onion dip gets its inspiration from Tastee Inn & Out in Lincoln, NE. Its perfect for Deep Fried onion chips and regular chips!
Cottage Cheese Pancakes
Cottage cheese pancakes are quick and easy protein pancakes. Naturally gluten free, they are light and fluffy. An ideal healthy breakfast.
Creamy Mushroom Pasta with Crispy Sage
Creamy mushroom pasta combines delicious caramelized mushrooms with protein-packed cheese and balsamic vinegar, creating modern comfort food.
Malai Kofta (Paneer Dumplings in Sauce)
Malai kofta is a vegetarian delight made of paneer and potato balls in a rich tomato gravy. Smooth, creamy, and oh so delicious!
Cottage Cheese Waffles
Healthy and delicious Cottage Cheese Waffles are packed with protein and are made in just 2 simple steps using 5 simple ingredients. These waffles are a great alternative to traditional waffles, and are completely family-friendly.
No Boil Lasagna Recipe With Cottage Cheese
This no boil lasagna recipe with cottage cheese is one of the handful of recipes I have in my kitchen repertoire that will make The Hubs go weak in the knees. If you are one of those who will only eat traditional lasagna with ricotta cheese, go ahead and give this lasagna supreme a try anyway.
Paneer Korma
Paneer Korma is a creamy curry made with Indian cottage cheese, coconut milk and spices. This classic gluten-free paneer curry goes well with naan bread or any flavoured rice.
Cottage Cheese Crescent Roll Recipe
This Cottage Cheese Crescent Rolls recipes takes only six ingredients that bake up golden brown outside and tender inside with a drizzle of almond icing.
Paneer Tacos – Indian Mexican Fusion Recipe
Paneer Tacos with fajita vegetables are beautiful and delicious IndoMexican fusion Tacos. Dazzle your guests with these delicious street style desi tacos.
Kalakand With Cottage Cheese
Kalakand, with cottage cheese turns out as good as the one with paneer.
Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is an easy hearty casserole that is both budget-friendly and easy to make and a great way to feed a family or a crowd!
Creamy Bacon Dip
My Creamy Bacon Dip will not disappoint. It is rich in flavor despite being low fat & low carb. Serve with veggies for a guilt free appetizer or side.
Instant Pot Egg Bites (GF, LC, Keto)
This Instant Pot Egg Bites recipe is the perfect meal prep solution! You’ll love how easy it is to make these deliciously light and fluffy egg bites.
High Protein Breakfast Frittata
Need an easy breakfast to fuel your day? This High Protein Breakfast Frittata is it. It’s filled with protein and vegetables for a well-rounded meal!
A Greek-Style Feta Cheese Appetizer
Tiropita is a Greek-style feta cheese filled appetizer made with pastry. In this Americanized recipe, puff pastry ensures it easy to make!
Best Ever Leftover Turkey Cannelloni
Put those roast turkey leftovers to use with this recipe for making a delicious batch of leftover turkey cannelloni.
Best cottage cheese pancakes! Made with oatmeal and cottage cheese, this low carb recipe makes pancakes that are light and fluffy, gluten free, and they taste just like French toast!
Which of these easy savory cottage cheese dishes are you going to make first?
This homemade cottage cheese recipe is so easy to make and takes only three ingredients. Check out the video, too!
Why Make Your Own Cottage Cheese?
I started making homemade cottage cheese after reading the ingredient list on a carton from the grocery store. Things like “lactose, salt, guar gum, mono and diglycerides, xanthan gum, and carob bean gum.” Why so complicated? Homemade cottage cheese takes just three ordinary kitchen ingredients: milk, vinegar, and salt. It’s also a fantastic way to use extra milk before it goes bad.
You don’t need cheesemaking experience to make homemade cottage cheese. The name itself implies as much: it’s a simple, fresh cheese so easy to make that even a cottager can make it. Or so suggests “Miss Leslie” in the July 1831 edition of Godey’s Lady’s Book, the first reference to “cottage cheese.”
Ready to make cottage cheese on your own? Grab a gallon of milk, some white vinegar, and your salt shaker, then let’s get started!
Cottage Cheese Serving Ideas
Homemade cottage cheese is, of course, delicious on its own or topped with fruit. Or go savory by stirring in chopped tomatoes and red onions, then seasoning it with cracked black pepper. Turn it into a dip with a little homemade Ranch dressing mix, or use it in place of ricotta when making lasagne. Any way you use it, homemade cottage cheese is delicious!
Storage
If you use milk that’s about to turn sour, you’ll want to eat your homemade cottage cheese the same day. Otherwise, keep cottage cheese refrigerated in an air-tight container and eat within a week. If you store it upside down, so the lid is on the bottom, it will form a “seal” that keeps it fresh a little longer. Some people report it stays good as long as a week. Signs that cottage cheese has gone bad include a sour odor and discoloration. Do not consume cottage cheese that has gone bad.
What to Do with the Whey?
Resting and cooling:
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cheesecloth (or clean kitchen towel)
- NOT ultra-high temperature processed or “long life”
- (optional, see step 7)
- Pour milk into a large, heavy-bottomed pot. Heat slowly to 190°F/88°C stirring regularly so the milk doesn’t burn on the bottom of the pot.
- Remove from heat, pour in vinegar and stir a few times. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, line a colander with a clean piece of doubled cheesecloth or a tea towel. Place the colander over another bowl to catch any liquid (whey) that drips out.
- Spoon the solids from the pot into the lined colander. Let drain for 30 minutes.
- Gather the ends of the cloth tightly together and form a cloth-wrapped ball of cheese. Holding this in one hand, run cold water over the ball, kneading and squeezing it with your other hand until the entire ball of cheese is cool.
- Dump the cheese out of the cloth into a bowl and use a spoon to break it into small curds. Stir in salt to taste.
- For creamy cottage cheese, stir in the heavy cream 2 tablespoons at a time until it reaches the desired consistency. Check taste and add more salt if needed.
- Chill for at least 1 hour then stir before serving.
Data is calculated by a software program that does not take into account the extraction of whey protein from the milk. Calories are roughly equal to the same in commercially prepared whole milk cottage cheese. (100 cal. per 1/2 cup serving.)
FAQs about Making Homemade Cottage Cheese
Do I Need to Use Raw Milk? The US FDA bans the interstate sale or transport of raw milk, and most states have similar laws, so I figured store-bought was the only option. Then one year, a friend who knows I’m into making things from scratch gave me this book on cheesemaking. That’s when I learned you could make pretty much any cheese from storebought milk, as long as it hasn’t been through the ultra-high temperature (UHT) process that’s known as “long-life milk” in the U.K.
Can I Use Organic Milk? Unfortunately, most organic milk sold in the U.S. has been through ultra-high temperature (UHT) treatment which makes it unsuitable for cheesemaking, including use in making homemade cottage cheese.
Can I Use Skim or Non-fat Cow’s Milk? This cottage cheese recipe recommends whole pasteurized, homogenized cow milk, but you can use 1%, 2%, skim, or non-fat cow milk if you like. The lower the fat content of your milk, the dryer your cottage cheese curds will taste. You can overcome that by stirring in cream at the end, as suggested in the recipe card. Or, if you prefer to make non-fat cottage cheese, skip the cream.
Can I use Goat Milk? I have not personally made cottage cheese using goat milk, but readers have said it works well.
Can I use nut milk or plant milk? You can make vegan cottage cheese by substituting soy milk for cow’s milk in this recipe. Other forms of plant or nut milk don’t work as well for this particular recipe.
Can I use canned milk to make cottage cheese? Or powdered milk? You can’t make cottage cheese from canned, evaporated, or powdered milk because the processing involved has changed the milk’s proteins.
Can I use lactose-free milk to make cottage cheese? Or lower-carb milk? Neither lactose-free milk nor “low carb” milk work to make cottage cheese. Both of these forms of milk have been through treatments that change the milk too much for it to form curds.
Why are my curds small? There are many reasons why your homemade cottage cheese curds may come out small or grainy. The most common reason is not reaching the appropriate temperature. To make cottage cheese without rennet, the milk needs to reach 190°F, which is just below boiling. (See the video for a visual cue of what milk looks like at that point.) Other things that can cause small curds include not draining it long enough, not rinsing it thoroughly, or not squeezing the ball well enough when shaping it.
Can I use a different kind of vinegar? Or lemon juice? Making cottage cheese at home requires some form of acidic ingredient. This recipe calls for white vinegar, but you can also use apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. Note, however, that the flavor may change as a result so you might need to add less salt or even a pinch of sugar at the end.
Can I skip the salt? Absolutely. The salt in homemade cottage cheese is just there for flavor. If you prefer, you can skip it or use a salt alternative.
Can I skip the cream? The cream gets added to homemade cottage cheese in step 7 solely for flavor. If you prefer a low-fat cottage cheese made from non-fat or skim milk, you may want to reserve a few spoonfuls of whey to add at the end so it’s not dry. Alternatively, you can stir in a few spoons of buttermilk, coconut milk, or even your favorite coffee creamer.
Can I add flavors? Yes, you can add flavors to your homemade cottage cheese recipe. Some people like to add chives or other fresh herbs. Others like sweat cottage cheese and add pineapple, strawberries, or blueberries. You can even add sugar or maple syrup. To make flavored cottage cheese, stir in your additives in Step 7 when you stir in the cream.
Isn’t this ricotta? No. In Italian, the word “ricotta” means re-cooked. True ricotta cheese is made starting with whey, which is a byproduct of cheesemaking, and then it is re-cooked, usually with an additional acidic ingredient. If you want to make ricotta, it’s essentially the same process but you’ll use 2 gallons of whey. (Adding milk is optional.) Or visit here for a good ricotta recipe to get you started.
Instructions
- Put the quark, softened butter, powdered sugar and vanilla sugar in a bowl.
- Use a hand blender to mix everything together to form a quark cream.
- In a food processor, grind the dates, walnuts, biscuits and cocoa powder to a sticky biscuit mass.
- Lay out the biscuit mass on cling film, pressing the mass down firmly with wet hands.
- Spread the cream on top and roll up into a roll.
- Put the biscuit cake in the fridge overnight.
Top the biscuit cake
- The biscuit cake from the Detach the foil, trim the edges straight.
- For the chocolate icing, melt the white chocolate and stir in a little oil.
- Cookie cake with chocolate icing as desired and top with chocolate shavings.
Ingredients
- 360 g quark
- 70 g butter, soft
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 p. Vanillin sugar
- 300 g dates
- 100 g roasted walnuts
- 100 g biscuits
- 1 tbsp cocoa
- 1 tbsp water
- 40 g white chocolate
- 1 tsp oil
- Chocolate shavings, after at will
How to Use Dates
Dates are useful for adding sweetness to sweet or savory dishes. They also are versatile and can be purposed in several ways. Below are some creative ways to use dates and quick recipe ideas to try.
Energy balls are convenient, nutritious, energy-dense snacks typically packed with nuts, spices, dried fruit, and other add-ins like coconut, chocolate, and seeds.
Date Energy Balls
Combine 6 Medjool dates with 1/2 cup of nut or seed butter of choice, 1/3 cup quick cooking oats (uncooked), 1/4 cup protein powder (optional), 2 tablespoons of flax or chia seeds, 3 tablespoons of honey (or maple syrup), 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/8 teaspoon salt, 2 tablespoons of hot water in a blender or food processor. Roll into 16 small balls and place on a plate in the fridge to set, about 10 minutes
Nutrition per serving: 102 calories, total fat 4.6g, saturated fat 0.8g, sodium 59mg, carbohydrates 14g, fiber 1.6g, sugar 9.8g, protein 3.5g.
Dates can be processed in a few ways to create a natural sweetener that you can add to foods. Date caramel sauce is a plant-based version of caramel you can add to the top of desserts while date paste is useful for adding to baked goods.
Date Caramel Sauce
Soak 15 large, pitted Medjool dates in boiling water for 10 minutes, then drain and add to a blender. Blend dates with 1/4 cup maple syrup, 1 tablespoon refined coconut oil, and 1 cup almond milk, adding 1/4 cup at a time (may need more or less, depending on desired consistency). Store in an airtight jar for up to 10 days. Makes about eight servings of 1/4 cup each.
Nutrition per serving: 173 calories, total fat 2.1g, saturated fat 1.4g, sodium 2.9mg, carbohydrates 42g, fiber 3.1g, sugar 37g, protein 0.9g.
Dates are perfect for stuffing. Once pitted, they have a natural pocket just waiting to be filled with sweet or savory fillings. Try goat cheese or cream cheese along with chopped nuts for a savory option or stuff them with almond butter for a sweeter treat.
Almond Butter Stuffed Dates
Fill pitted dates with almond butter and enjoy! Each date will hold approximately 1 tablespoon of almond butter.
Nutrition per serving: 165 calories, total fat 8.9g, saturated fat 0.7g, sodium 1.4mg, carbohydrates 21g, fiber 3.3g, sugar 17g, protein 3.8g.
Adding dates to smoothies creates thickness and a natural earthy sweetness. Their flavor combines well with bananas, oranges, nut butter, milk, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Get creative and develop a flavor combo that features all of your favorites.
Date Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie
Blend 1 cup of almond milk, 5 dates, 2 bananas (frozen pieces if desired), 2 tablespoons of peanut butter, and 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder (optional). Add ice if desired. Serves two people.
Nutrition per serving: 437 calories, total fat 9.9g, saturated fat 1.9g, sodium 104mg, carbohydrates 77g, fiber 8.8g, sugar 55g, protein 19g.
Chopped dates add sweetness and complexity along with a chewier texture to roasted vegetables. They work well with Brussels sprouts, broccoli, asparagus, carrots, and more. Try adding creamy goat or feta cheese, chopped nuts, and herbs to your dish to round out the flavors.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Dates
Combine 6 cups of cleaned, halved Brussels sprouts with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/8 teaspoon cayenne, and roast in a 450 degree Fahrenheit oven for 20 minutes.
Remove from oven and sprinkle with 1/3 cup chopped pecans and 1/3 cup chopped Medjool dates. Return to oven for 10 minutes. Serve with crumbled goat cheese and chopped parsley, if desired. Serves six.
Nutrition per serving: 157 calories, total fat 9.3g, saturated fat 1g, sodium 216mg, carbohydrates 18g, fiber 4.9g, sugar 10g, protein 3.8g.
Muffins and Sweet Breads
Adding chopped dates to muffins and sweetbreads adds sweetness and chewiness to your baked goods along with depth of flavor. They are especially tasty with apples, ginger, carrots, molasses, cinnamon, and similar taste profiles.
Date Carrot Muffins
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup quick cooking oats, 1 cup flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 2 teaspoon cinnamon. Toss in 1/2 cup chopped dates, 1 cup grated carrots.
In another bowl combine 1 beaten egg, 1/4 cup melted butter, 1 cup milk, and 2 teaspoon vanilla extract. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and combine. Fill muffin tins with mixture and bake for 25 mins at 400 degree Fahrenheit oven. Makes 12.
Nutrition per serving: 167 calories, total fat 5.2g, saturated fat 2.9g, sodium 246mg, carbohydrates 27g, fiber 2g, sugar 13g, protein 3.5g
A Word From Verywell
Dates are a versatile and delicious food that is packed with natural sugars, fiber, a plethora of vitamins and minerals, and plant compounds that provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
Creative ways to eat dates include adding them to baked goods, roasted vegetables, smoothies, and stuffing them with cheese or nut butter. Try the above recipes or experiment with dates by utilizing them in various ways to create new dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Dates are most often eaten raw. They are typically dried and packaged to purchase in grocery stores.
- Do you peel dates before eating?You do not need to peel dates before eating them. However, they do need to be pitted if the pit is still inside the date.
- What are the side effects of dates?Dates do not have any side effects per se. That said, they can help relieve constipation or make your bowel movements softer.
That could also be interesting
- Hand blender
- Food processor
- Bowl
- Kitchen spatula
- Kitchen brush