If you’re a fan of cheesecake but looking for something lighter and just as creamy, Cottage Cheese Cheesecake is the recipe you’ve been waiting for. This twist on the classic dessert is velvety smooth, with a rich, tangy flavor from the cottage cheese that balances out the sweetness perfectly. The crust adds a little crunch, while the filling melts in your mouth with every bite. It’s a guilt-free treat that feels indulgent, but you can feel good about eating it!
Why You’ll Love Cottage Cheese Cheesecake
This cheesecake isn’t just another dessert; it’s a game-changer. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or just craving a slice of something sweet, this one checks all the boxes. Here’s why you’re going to love it:
Versatile: You can top this cheesecake with just about anything — fresh berries, a drizzle of chocolate, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon. The possibilities are endless!
Budget-Friendly: With simple ingredients like cottage cheese and a few pantry staples, this cheesecake is both affordable and delicious.
Quick and Easy: Compared to traditional cheesecakes, this one is much easier to make and doesn’t require a water bath or long hours of baking.
Customizable: You can adjust the sweetness to your liking or add different flavorings, like vanilla extract or citrus zest, to make it your own.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you have a sweet tooth or are looking for something more subtle, this cheesecake will please everyone. The texture is creamy, and the flavor is light — it’s the perfect balance of rich and refreshing.
Ingredients in Cottage Cheese Cheesecake
Get ready to create a dessert that’s just as indulgent as it is light. Here’s what you’ll need:
Cottage Cheese: The secret ingredient that makes this cheesecake creamy and gives it a unique, smooth texture. Use full-fat cottage cheese for the best result.
Cream Cheese: This gives the cheesecake a rich and creamy texture, adding depth to the flavor.
Sugar: Sweeten the filling just enough to balance the tanginess from the cottage cheese. You can use white sugar or try honey for a more natural option.
Eggs: Eggs help set the cheesecake and provide that smooth, custard-like filling.
Vanilla Extract: For a warm, fragrant flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy base.
Butter: Melted butter is used for the crust, bringing a rich and buttery flavor to balance the cheesecake filling.
Graham Cracker Crumbs: A classic base for cheesecake, offering that perfect crunchy contrast to the creamy filling.
Flour: A small amount of flour helps set the cheesecake and keep it firm without being too heavy.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Now that you have all the ingredients, it’s time to bring this cheesecake to life:
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking and a perfectly set cheesecake.
Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until it holds together when pressed. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan. This forms your crust and gives the cheesecake that irresistible crunch.
Make the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese, cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to blend everything until smooth and creamy. If you want a super-smooth texture, you can blend the mixture in a food processor.
Assemble the Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake filling into the prepared crust. Smooth the top with a spatula, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
Bake: Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. The cheesecake will continue to firm up as it cools.
Cool the Cheesecake: Once the cheesecake is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best results.
Serve and Enjoy: Once chilled, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving platter. Top with fresh berries, a drizzle of fruit sauce, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Slice, serve, and enjoy the creamy goodness!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 250
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 5 hours
How to Serve Cottage Cheese Cheesecake
Cottage Cheese Cheesecake is delicious on its own, but here are a few ways to make it even more special:
- Top it with fresh seasonal berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of color and freshness.
- Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce or caramel for a sweet finishing touch.
- Serve it alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy dessert experience.
- For an extra twist, try adding lemon or orange zest to the filling for a citrusy lift.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- If you like a denser crust, you can double the amount of graham cracker crumbs and butter for a thicker base.
- You can substitute the graham cracker crumbs with crushed cookies, such as digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers, for a different flavor.
- Make sure to allow the cheesecake to cool completely before refrigerating; this helps set the filling properly.
- For a smoother texture, blend the cottage cheese in a food processor before mixing it with the cream cheese and sugar.
- If you don’t have a springform pan, a regular cake pan will work, but be sure to line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
FAQ’s
1. Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cottage cheese, but the texture might not be as creamy as with full-fat cottage cheese.
2. Can I use a store-bought crust instead of making my own?
Absolutely! A pre-made graham cracker crust will save you time and still deliver great results.
3. How long will this cheesecake keep in the fridge?
This cheesecake will last for about 3-4 days in the fridge, so you can enjoy it over several days.
4. Can I freeze Cottage Cheese Cheesecake?
Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing.
5. Can I add chocolate to the cheesecake filling?
You can definitely add melted chocolate or cocoa powder to the filling for a chocolate-flavored twist.
6. Is it necessary to use cream cheese?
Yes, cream cheese adds the rich, creamy texture that balances the tanginess of the cottage cheese. It’s an important ingredient.
7. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or any other gluten-free cookie crumbs for the crust.
8. Can I add fruit to the filling?
Yes, you can fold in some chopped fresh fruit like berries or even swirl in fruit puree for a unique twist.
9. How do I know when the cheesecake is done?
The cheesecake is done when the center is set but still a little jiggly. It will firm up as it cools.
10. Can I use a different sweetener instead of sugar?
Yes, you can substitute sugar with honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute of your choice.
Conclusion
Cottage Cheese Cheesecake is a lighter, yet just as creamy, alternative to the classic cheesecake. With a smooth filling and crunchy graham cracker crust, it’s the perfect dessert for any occasion. Plus, it’s so easy to make, you’ll want to whip it up again and again. Enjoy a slice (or two) and savor the creamy, tangy goodness!
Print
Cottage Cheese Cheesecake
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cottage Cheese Cheesecake offers a lighter, healthier twist on the classic dessert, using cottage cheese to create a creamy, rich filling that’s both indulgent and lower in fat.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups cottage cheese
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 2 tablespoons sugar (for the crust)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons sugar. Press mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- In a blender or food processor, blend cottage cheese until smooth. Add cream cheese, sour cream, sugar, vanilla extract, eggs, flour, and salt. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy.
- Pour the cheesecake filling into the prepared crust and smooth the top.
- Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until the center is just set and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour. Then, remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, before serving. Garnish with fruit or whipped cream if desired.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use full-fat cottage cheese and cream cheese.
- Top with fresh berries or a fruit compote for added sweetness.
- Ensure the cheesecake is completely cooled before refrigerating to prevent cracking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 90mg