High-Protein Cottage Cheese Date Cheesecake (4 Ingredients)

Clean Plates Project
Apr 26
4 min read

Updated: Apr 29

Looking for a healthy dessert that satisfies your sweet tooth without the guilt? Try this delicious and nutritious cottage cheese cheesecake! Made with simple, wholesome ingredients like cottage cheese, dates, vanilla extract, and graham cracker crumbs, this cheesecake offers a delightful way to indulge while staying true to your health goals.

Loaded with protein, cottage cheese is an excellent choice for those mindful of their diet. A one-cup serving contains about 28 grams of protein, helping you feel full longer. Dates add a natural sweetness to the recipe, so you avoid refined sugars. Plus, the easy preparation makes this cheesecake a fantastic treat for both busy weeknights and special occasions.

Why Cottage Cheese?

Cottage cheese has become a go-to for health-conscious individuals and fitness enthusiasts. With about 25 grams of protein and only 220 calories in one cup, it's an ideal ingredient for increasing your protein intake without piling on the calories.

Using cottage cheese in desserts adds creaminess while keeping the dish lower in fat. Its subtle tanginess perfectly balances the sweetness of dates, creating a cheesecake that feels indulgent without the added guilt.

Benefits of Dates as a Sweetener

Dates are not only naturally sweet but also pack a nutritional punch. They are rich in dietary fiber, which helps digestion and keeps you feeling full. Just three Medjool dates contain about 1.6 grams of fiber and provide essential vitamins and minerals, including potassium, magnesium, and vitamin B6.

One of the standout features of dates is their high antioxidant content. Consuming these fruits regularly may help protect your cells from oxidative damage, contributing to overall health.

Ingredients:

Crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
Filling:
- 2 cups full-fat cottage cheese
- 1 cup pitted Medjool dates (about 10–12 dates)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Ingredient Breakdown

Crust: Graham Cracker Goodness

The crust of this cheesecake is made with graham cracker crumbs, providing a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. Grahams can be a source of carbohydrates needed for quick energy, making them an excellent base for this dessert.

Filling: Creamy and Wholesome

The filling consists of full-fat cottage cheese blended with pitted Medjool dates and a touch of vanilla extract. Make sure to blend the cottage cheese thoroughly for a smooth consistency that captures the essence of traditional cheesecake—all while slashing calories and fat.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Dates

Start by soaking your pitted dates in warm water for about 10 minutes (buy pitted or remove seed yourself - make sure they haven't gone bad by checking the center!) This softens them, making blending easier. Drain well and set aside.

Making the Filling

Combine the soaked dates, cottage cheese, and vanilla extract in a high-speed blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy, which is crucial for a delicious cheesecake. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure everything is well blended.

Assembling the Cheesecake

Press graham cracker crumbs evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form your crust (add grass-fed butter to graham cracker crumbs for a more legit "cheesecake crust"). Pour the creamy cottage cheese and date filling over the crust, smoothing the top with a spatula to create an even surface.

Chilling Time

Cover your cheesecake and refrigerate for 30 minutes to an hour. Overnight will allow the cheesecake to set more, resulting in an even better texture (usually I can't wait).

Serving It Up

Once set, carefully remove the cheesecake from the pan, slice into portions, and serve chilled. Enjoy it plain or add fresh fruits or a drizzle of honey for extra flair!

Tips for a Perfect Cheesecake

Texture Matters: For the best result, ensure that the cottage cheese is blended until smooth. No one wants a lumpy cheesecake!
Adjusting Sweetness: If you like it sweeter, feel free to increase the number of dates based on your taste preference. Finding the right balance will enhance the overall flavor.
Experiment with Toppings: Fresh berries or a sprinkle of nuts can elevate this dessert. They add flavor and make it visually appealing.

Close-up view of a creamy cottage cheese cheesecake topped with fresh berries.

A Guilt-Free Delight

This Healthy Cottage Cheese Cheesecake Sweetened with Dates is perfect for anyone seeking a dessert that doesn’t compromise on taste or nutrition. Combining creamy cottage cheese with the natural sweetness of dates, this cheesecake is both delicious and nutritious.

Whether you're hosting a gathering or treating yourself, this cheesecake is sure to impress. Feel free to get creative with toppings to add your personal touch.

So, roll up your sleeves and give this wholesome cheesecake a try! You'll satisfy your cravings while feeling great about what you're eating. Enjoy!

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