🍨 No-Bake Tropical Cottage Cheese Coconut Pudding
Description:
This no-bake tropical pudding blends creamy cottage cheese, juicy pineapple, and sweet coconut into a refreshing, protein-rich dessert or snack. It’s naturally sweetened, light on the stomach, and perfect for warm days or post-workout recovery. No cooking, no fuss—just chill and enjoy the island vibes!
🥘 Ingredients:
- 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat, based on preference)
- ½ cup canned pineapple chunks (drained) or fresh chopped pineapple
- ¼ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 2–3 tablespoons coconut milk or any milk of choice
- 1–2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional, to taste)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional toppings:
- Toasted coconut flakes
- Fresh mango or banana slices
- Chia seeds or crushed nuts
- A dollop of Greek yogurt or whipped coconut cream
👩🍳 Instructions:
- Blend the base:
In a blender or food processor, combine cottage cheese, pineapple, shredded coconut, coconut milk, sweetener, vanilla, and salt. - Blend until smooth:
Process until creamy and smooth (about 30–60 seconds). Adjust milk for desired consistency. - Chill:
Pour into serving bowls or jars. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm slightly and meld flavors. - Serve and garnish:
Top with fresh fruit, extra coconut, or nuts before serving for added texture and tropical flair.
📝 Notes:
- Use full-fat cottage cheese for extra creaminess, or low-fat for a lighter option.
- For a thicker pudding, use less liquid or stir in chia seeds before chilling.
- Don’t over-blend if you prefer some texture.
- Fresh or frozen pineapple both work great; canned is convenient but choose unsweetened if possible.
💡 Tips:
- Want extra protein? Add a scoop of unflavored or vanilla protein powder.
- For a vegan version, use dairy-free cottage cheese or silken tofu and swap in maple syrup.
- Serve in small jars for cute, portion-controlled snacks or picnic-ready treats.
- Add a dash of lime juice or zest for a citrusy brightness!
🍽️ Servings:
Makes 2–3 servings
(Recipe can be doubled or tripled easily for meal prep or guests.)
⚡ Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Approximate):
- Calories: 170–200
- Protein: 12–15g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbs: 12–15g
- Sugar: 8–10g (with honey/maple syrup)
- Fiber: 2g
Varies slightly based on sweetener and milk used.
✅ Benefits:
- High-protein + low-sugar snack or dessert
- Naturally gluten-free and can be made vegetarian or vegan
- Great for gut health thanks to cottage cheese and potential probiotics
- Keeps you full and energized without heavy calories
- Perfect for meal prep—stays fresh 2–3 days in the fridge
❓ Q&A
Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese?
A: Yes! It will have a tangier taste and creamier texture. Great swap for personal preference.
Q: Can I freeze this pudding?
A: Not recommended—freezing may change the texture and cause separation. Best enjoyed fresh or chilled.
Q: Is this kid-friendly?
A: Absolutely! Kids love the tropical sweetness, and it’s a healthy alternative to sugary desserts.
Q: Can I add oats to make it more filling?
A: Yes—try adding 2 tbsp of quick oats or chia seeds and let it sit overnight like overnight oats.
Q: How long can I store this in the fridge?
A: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Add toppings right before eating for freshness.