Creamy Chocolate Peanut Butter Pudding
This creamy chocolate peanut butter 'pudding' is a guilt-free, high-protein dessert that comes together in just 5 minutes. Blending cottage cheese creates an incredibly smooth, rich texture that satisfies sweet cravings while providing a significant protein boost.
For 2 servings
Gather all ingredients. For the smoothest texture, ensure your cottage cheese is at room temperature or slightly warmed, if possible, though cold works too.
Add the cottage cheese, cocoa powder, peanut butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt to a high-speed blender or food processor.
Pour in 2 tablespoons of milk. Start blending on low, gradually increasing speed. If the mixture is too thick to blend smoothly, add the remaining milk one tablespoon at a time until it reaches a thick, pourable consistency.
Continue blending for 1-2 minutes, scraping down the sides of the blender with a spatula as needed, until the mixture is completely smooth and no cottage cheese curds are visible.
Taste the pudding and add your preferred sweetener (maple syrup, honey, or stevia) if desired. Blend for another 15-30 seconds to incorporate the sweetener.
Pour the pudding into serving dishes or small jars. For the best texture and flavor, cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, to allow it to firm up slightly.
Before serving, top with mini chocolate chips, fresh berries, a drizzle of extra peanut butter, or a sprinkle of chopped nuts, if desired. Enjoy immediately.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use full-fat cottage cheese for the richest, creamiest texture. Low-fat or non-fat versions will work but may result in a slightly less decadent pudding.
- 2A high-speed blender is key for achieving a truly smooth, curd-free consistency. If using a standard blender, you might need to blend longer and scrape the sides more frequently.
- 3Adjust the amount of milk based on your desired thickness. For a thicker, scoopable pudding, use less milk; for a thinner, pourable consistency, use more.
- 4Don't skip the chilling step! It allows the flavors to meld and the pudding to set, resulting in a much more satisfying dessert experience.
Adapt it for your goals.
Nut Butter Swap
Substitute almond butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter for peanut butter to change the flavor profile or accommodate allergies.
Flavor BoostsFlavor Boosts
Add a shot of espresso powder for a mocha twist, a few drops of peppermint extract for mint chocolate, or a pinch of cinnamon for warmth.
Topping ExtravaganzaTopping Extravaganza
Beyond chocolate chips and berries, try shredded coconut, chopped nuts, granola, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Protein
Cottage cheese is an excellent source of casein protein, which is slow-digesting and helps promote satiety and muscle repair.
Rich in Calcium
Dairy-based cottage cheese provides a significant amount of calcium, essential for strong bones and teeth.
Antioxidant Boost
Unsweetened cocoa powder is packed with antioxidants, particularly flavonoids, which can help combat oxidative stress in the body.
Frequently asked questions
While Greek yogurt can provide a similar protein boost, it has a tangier flavor and a different texture. It will work, but the final 'pudding' will be more tart and less like traditional pudding. You might need to adjust the sweetener accordingly.
