Cottage Cheese Peanut Bark

Cottage cheese bark is a fun chilled snack that comes together quickly with only a handful of ingredients I love how it blends creamy tangy and sweet flavors with different textures for a high protein treat that feels almost like dessert This recipe is also endlessly customizable so you can tweak it to fit your cravings or pantry supplies

My family asked for this after school every day when I first made it I could not believe how quickly it disappeared

Ingredients

• Cottage cheese: Choose full fat for a creamier result Look for containers without added thickeners for pure flavor
• Honey: Adds natural sweetness Try wildflower or clover honey for extra floral notes
• Smooth peanut butter: The classic nutty swirl Creamy texture works best for mixing and spreading
• Raspberry jam: Brings vivid fruitiness and sweetness Use seedless for a smoother finish or choose your favorite berry jam
• Granola: Adds crunch and a wholesome finish Go for granola with large clusters for best texture and check ingredient labels for toasted oats and nuts

Step-by-Step Instructions

Blend Cottage Cheese and Honey:

Combine cottage cheese and honey in a food processor or blender Run until mixture is completely smooth and creamy which takes about two minutes Scrape down the sides often so everything incorporates well

Melt Peanut Butter:

Transfer peanut butter to a small microwave safe bowl Heat in brief ten second bursts and stir each time so it turns pourable and warm

Spread and Swirl:

Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper Spread the blended cottage cheese mixture evenly over the pan using a spatula Drizzle alternating thin lines of melted peanut butter and jam on top Take a toothpick or the back of a fork and gently swirl through the surface to create a marbled pattern

Add Granola and Freeze:

Sprinkle granola evenly over the entire surface pressing down lightly so clusters stick Slide the baking sheet into your freezer and chill until completely solid at least two hours or overnight for easy cutting

Slice or Break:

Lift the parchment to remove the frozen bark from the pan Use a sharp knife to cut into squares or just break into rough pieces Serve right away for the best texture

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I am always amazed by how a little swirl of jam brings both color and a punch of bright flavor My kids love picking raspberry or occasionally swapping in blueberry when they want to mix things up

Storage Tips

Store the bark pieces in a zip top freezer bag or airtight container Always keep them frozen since the cottage cheese base will soften at room temperature If you notice frost building up just scrape it off before serving

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap peanut butter for cashew almond or sunflower seed butter if you need a peanut free option Any thick jam or preserves will work so try strawberry or blackberry for a twist Use homemade granola or your favorite store brand

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Serving Suggestions

Pair two or three pieces with berries or sliced banana for a protein packed breakfast Stack the bark in a bowl at summer parties or serve as a cool after school snack for kids If you want a fancier touch top with a little shaved chocolate before freezing

Cultural and Historical Context

Cottage cheese is a classic dairy staple used in chilled treats and snacks for generations This frozen bark puts a playful spin on the cottage cheese craze that has swept social media by turning a health food favorite into a dessert inspired treat that nods to traditional yogurt parfaits

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, low-fat cottage cheese will work, though the texture may be slightly less creamy.

→ What other nut butters can replace peanut butter?

Almond or cashew butter make excellent substitutes, adding their own unique flavor profiles.

→ How long does cottage cheese bark keep in the freezer?

Stored in an airtight container, it will keep for up to 2 weeks without losing texture or taste.

→ Can store-bought granola be used?

Absolutely, any favorite granola will add crunch. Homemade blends can also provide a personal touch.

→ What’s the best way to cut the bark?

Once set, use a sharp knife or simply break into pieces by hand for a rustic finish.

→ Can I use other fruit jams?

Yes, strawberry, blueberry, or apricot preserves also complement the creamy base beautifully.