Cottage cheese pudding is your new favorite shortcut to a healthy, chocolatey treat. Creamy, rich, and made with just three ingredients, this naturally sweetened dessert comes together in under 5 min. It’s gluten free, packed with protein, and tastes like something far more indulgent than it actually is.
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Cottage Cheese Pudding – A Healthy Twist on Classic Comfort
How a Late-Night Craving Led to My Cottage Cheese Pudding Obsession
Some of the best recipes happen by accident. This cottage cheese pudding started as a midnight snack idea when I was craving something creamy and chocolatey but didn’t want to sabotage my clean eating goals. I had cocoa powder, cottage cheese, and a bottle of honey on the counter. One min in the blender, and suddenly I was eating the smoothest, most chocolatey pudding I’d ever made—without a single ounce of guilt.
This high protein cottage cheese dessert has earned a permanent spot in our fridge. It’s made with real ingredients, tastes amazing, and takes less than five minutes from start to spoon. If you’re already in love with our 3-ingredient cottage cheese cheesecake or cottage cheese chocolate mousse, this pudding is right up your alley.
Why cottage cheese pudding belongs in your fridge
Not only is this cottage cheese pudding smooth and creamy, but it also checks every box: it’s gluten free, low in sugar, and naturally rich in protein. That’s why it’s one of my favorite healthy desserts to make in a pinch. With just 2 cups of cottage cheese, ¼ cup cocoa powder, and 2 tablespoons honey, you get a dessert that’s as nourishing as it is satisfying.
This isn’t just a quick fix—it’s a satisfying, protein-packed treat that curbs chocolate cravings, keeps you full, and stays fresh in the fridge for days. For a flavor twist, try adding cinnamon, vanilla, or a spoonful of peanut butter. You can even prep a few jars ahead of time alongside our cottage cheese banana pudding for a protein-packed week of treats.
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High Protein Cottage Cheese Pudding Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
This cottage cheese pudding is a smooth, protein-rich dessert made with only three ingredients: cottage cheese, cocoa powder, and honey. It’s naturally sweetened, gluten-free, and blends up in minutes for a chocolatey treat that’s both healthy and indulgent.
Ingredients
2 cups cottage cheese
¼ cup cocoa powder
2 Tbsp honey (or more to taste)
Instructions
1. Add cottage cheese, cocoa powder, and honey to a blender.
2. Blend until completely smooth, scraping down the sides if needed.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness if desired.
4. Spoon into jars or bowls.
5. Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
Use full-fat cottage cheese for best results.
If using regular cottage cheese, blend until creamy.
Top with cinnamon, banana, or whipped cream for extra flavor.
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Blender
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
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How to Make Cottage Cheese Pudding Step by Step
Just 3 ingredients for rich, chocolate cottage cheese pudding
You only need a few real-food staples to whip up this cottage cheese pudding. The ingredients are clean, simple, and deliver the perfect balance of creaminess, sweetness, and chocolate flavor.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups cottage cheese (preferably full-fat for the creamiest texture)
- ¼ cup cocoa powder (unsweetened for a deep, dark chocolate taste)
- 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup if preferred)
This is a high protein, naturally sweetened dessert that doesn’t rely on powders or additives. The cottage cheese creates a velvety base, cocoa powder adds deep chocolate flavor, and honey ties it all together with natural sweetness.
For those who enjoy our cottage cheese chocolate pudding, this version is even simpler—and just as satisfying.
Blend, chill, and serve—it’s that easy
Making this cottage cheese pudding couldn’t be easier. Just place all three ingredients in a blender or food processor and blend until completely smooth. You’re looking for a thick, silky texture—no curds or graininess. If it feels too thick, add 1–2 tablespoons of milk or water to adjust the consistency.
Once blended, spoon the pudding into small jars or bowls and refrigerate for at least 30 min. Chilling helps the flavors deepen and gives the cottage cheese time to fully set into a creamy, spoonable treat.
Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon, some sliced banana, or a dollop of whipped cream if you’re feeling fancy. This recipe pairs perfectly with our cottage cheese muffins for a wholesome, protein-packed snack lineup.
Why Cottage Cheese Works in Pudding Recipes
The science behind creamy cottage cheese pudding
What makes cottage cheese pudding so smooth and satisfying? It all comes down to structure. Cottage cheese is high in casein, a slow-digesting protein that gives it a naturally rich, creamy texture when blended. This makes it an ideal base for no-cook desserts like puddings, mousses, and cheesecakes.
When whipped or blended, cottage cheese transforms from a curdy dairy into a silky, spoonable mixture that mimics traditional pudding without any cream, eggs, or starches. It’s packed with nutrients—especially protein and calcium—and is lower in fat and sugar than most dessert bases.
This cottage cheese pudding stands out with its creamy texture and smooth finish—all from just three real, wholesome ingredients. No weird aftertaste. No refined sweeteners. Just a wholesome, chocolate-forward pudding you’ll crave again and again.
Why healthy desserts don’t have to be boring
Many people think “healthy desserts” are dry, chalky, or overly complicated. But cottage cheese pudding proves the opposite. This dessert is rich, flavorful, and flexible—without being loaded with sugar or flour. You can adjust the flavor by mixing in a little vanilla, adding citrus zest, or folding in chia seeds for texture.
Plus, since cottage cheese is high in protein, this pudding keeps you full longer than traditional options. That’s why it makes a great snack between meals, a light post-dinner treat, or even a bedtime bite. (No wonder bodybuilders swear by cottage cheese before bed!)
Add your favorite toppings—berries, cacao nibs, or a drizzle of maple syrup—and you’ve got a deeply satisfying pudding that won’t spike your blood sugar or derail your nutrition.
And if you love recipes that combine comfort with clean ingredients, our cottage cheese banana pudding or cottage cheese brownies deliver the same feel-good energy.
Tips, Flavor Variations & Common Mistakes About cottage cheese pudding
Pro tips for perfect cottage cheese pudding every time
To get the smoothest cottage cheese pudding, start with full-fat or whipped cottage cheese. It blends more easily and delivers a thick, creamy result. If you’re using standard cottage cheese, toss it in the blender for 60 seconds until completely smooth—no lumps allowed.
Sweetness is flexible. Start with 2 tablespoons of honey, but feel free to adjust to taste. You can substitute maple syrup or even mashed banana if you prefer natural fruit sweetness. Want a boost? Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a dash of cinnamon to deepen the flavor.
Be sure to chill the pudding for at least 30 min, this helps it firm up and allows the flavors to fully develop. It’s even better the next day—just like our fan-favorite cottage cheese chocolate mousse.
Easy flavor ideas and what not to do
This cottage cheese pudding is incredibly easy to customize. You can blend in dark chocolate chips, peanut or almond butter, or a scoop of chocolate-flavored protein powder for an extra boost. For a fruity version, fold in puréed berries or swirl in a spoon of jam.
But don’t go overboard—too many additions can throw off the smooth texture. Always blend your base first, then fold in extras gently. Avoid using low-fat or watery cottage cheese, which can leave your pudding thin or gritty.
Stick with the basics, and you’ll enjoy a flawless, protein-packed, healthy dessert that’s as tasty as it is nourishing. For other smart, indulgent ideas, check out our cottage cheese chocolate cake or cottage cheese chocolate pudding—both are naturally sweet and high in protein.
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Cottage Cheese Pudding – Frequently Asked Questions
Why make cottage cheese pudding?
This cottage cheese pudding is a simple, healthy dessert that’s rich in protein, gluten free, and naturally sweetened. It’s perfect for those who want a guilt-free treat that’s also satisfying and easy to prep.
Do I need protein powder for this pudding?
Not at all! The beauty of this cottage cheese pudding is that it’s already packed with natural protein from the cottage cheese itself. However, you can add a scoop of chocolate or vanilla protein powder if you want to increase the protein per serving.
How should I store cottage cheese pudding?
Store your cottage cheese pudding in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 4 days.. Be sure to give it a quick stir before serving if it separates slightly.
What’s the shelf life of cottage cheese pudding?
When properly stored in the fridge, this cottage cheese pudding stays fresh for 3–4 days, with the best texture and flavor enjoyed within the first 48 hours.
Can I substitute cottage cheese with other ingredients?
Yes! If you don’t have cottage cheese, you can try full-fat Greek yogurt, ricotta, or even silken tofu for a dairy-free twist. Just note that the flavor and texture will change slightly, so adjust your sweetener to taste.
What desserts can be made from cottage cheese?
Beyond this pudding, you can make cottage cheese banana pudding, cottage cheese mousse, or cottage cheese brownies. All are delicious and naturally high in protein.
Why do bodybuilders eat cottage cheese before bed?
Cottage cheese is rich in casein, a slow-digesting protein that helps support muscle repair and recovery while you sleep. That’s why this cottage cheese pudding makes a great post-dinner snack—it fuels your body while satisfying your sweet tooth.
What can I mix into cottage cheese pudding?
Add variety with toppings like cinnamon, chopped nuts, peanut butter, or banana slices. For extra texture and flavor, stir in a splash of vanilla and top with dark chocolate shavings or a sprinkle of chia seeds. It’s one of the most easy to customize high protein desserts you’ll ever make.
Why You’ll Love This Cottage Cheese Pudding
Cottage cheese pudding is more than just a clever kitchen hack—it’s a smart, satisfying healthy dessert that comes together in minutes. With only three whole food ingredients, this creamy, chocolate-flavored treat proves that simple can be both delicious and nutritious.
Whether you’re looking for a quick post-workout protein boost, a kid-friendly snack, or a naturally sweet way to end the day, this cottage cheese pudding checks every box. It’s rich in nutrients, incredibly flexible, and surprisingly indulgent for something made without refined sugar, cream, or flour.
Store it in the fridge for the week or serve it immediately for instant gratification. However you enjoy it, it’s a recipe that supports your goals without compromising taste. And if you loved this, you’ll definitely want to try our strawberry cottage cheese ice cream and Cottage Cheese Tiramisu next—they’re just as creamy, just as quick, and just as rewarding.