These Cottage Cheese Chocolate Peanut Butter Bowls are one of those desserts (or snacks!) that make you feel like you’re eating something super indulgent — but they’re actually packed with protein and good stuff.
It’s creamy, chocolatey, peanut-buttery goodness that comes together fast.
You don’t need fancy skills or ingredients, and it hits that sweet tooth just right.
Why I Love This Recipe
I started making these bowls on days when I craved dessert but didn’t want something super heavy. The first time I tried blending cottage cheese, I was shocked — it turns so smooth and creamy! Now, it’s one of my favorite quick treats.
- No bake, no mess, no stress
- High in protein, low in sugar
- Ready in 10 minutes
- Totally customizable
It’s now part of my weekly routine — especially when I want something sweet after dinner without a sugar crash.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup cottage cheese (full fat or low fat)
- 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter (plus more for drizzling)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons milk of choice (to thin, if needed)
- 1 tablespoon mini chocolate chips (for topping)
- Optional: pinch of salt
Pro Tips
- Use full-fat cottage cheese for the creamiest texture.
- Blend until super smooth — it should look like pudding!
- Adjust sweetness to taste — add a little more maple syrup if you like it sweeter.
- Let it chill in the fridge for 5-10 minutes before eating for best texture.
- Store leftover sauce and toppings separately so it doesn’t get soggy.
Tools Needed
- High-speed blender or food processor
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small bowl for serving
- Rubber spatula
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap peanut butter for almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter
- Use honey or agave instead of maple syrup
- Add a scoop of protein powder for even more protein
- Top with fresh berries, granola, or chopped nuts
- Use dark cocoa powder for a richer flavor
Make Ahead Tips
You can blend the base (cottage cheese + peanut butter + cocoa + maple + vanilla) up to 2 days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Add toppings right before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Blend the Base
Add 1 cup cottage cheese, 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, 2 tablespoons cocoa powder, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to a high-speed blender or food processor. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, add 1–2 tablespoons of milk and blend again.
Step 2: Transfer to Bowl
Scoop the blended mixture into a small bowl using a rubber spatula. Smooth the top with the back of a spoon.
Step 3: Add Toppings
Sprinkle 1 tablespoon mini chocolate chips over the top and drizzle with a little extra peanut butter (warm it slightly if needed so it pours easily).
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Grab a spoon and dig in! Best eaten cold.
Servings and Time
- Makes: 1 large serving or 2 small servings
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: None
Macros (per serving — if split into 2)
- Calories: ~220
- Protein: 15g
- Carbs: 12g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 7g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Blending cottage cheese breaks down the curds and creates a smooth, pudding-like texture. Its high protein content adds creaminess without needing cream. Cocoa powder adds rich flavor, while peanut butter brings fat to balance the tang of cottage cheese. Maple syrup sweetens and softens the overall flavor. The result: a dessert-like bowl that’s secretly good for you.
Common Mistakes
- Not blending long enough – It needs time to get smooth!
- Using chunky or dry peanut butter – Makes the texture too thick
- Skipping the sweetener – Cocoa and cottage cheese are both tangy/bitter on their own
- Not tasting and adjusting – Everyone’s sweetness preference is different
What to Serve With
- A handful of fresh berries on the side
- A hot cup of coffee or chai latte
- Toasted sourdough or banana bread for dipping
- Granola or crushed graham crackers on top
FAQ
Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Store the blended base in the fridge up to 2 days, but add toppings fresh.
Can I freeze it?
You can, but it may get grainy. Best eaten fresh or chilled from the fridge.
Is it super cheesy?
Not at all. Once blended, the cottage cheese loses its tang and just tastes creamy.
Can I make it without peanut butter?
Yes — try almond butter, cashew butter, or even tahini!
What kind of cottage cheese works best?
Full-fat or 2% gives the best creamy result. Low-fat works but is a bit thinner.