Oh my goodness, do I have a delightful recipe to share with you today! These Strawberry Crunch Cottage Cheese Ice Cream Bars are not just delicious; they’re a guilt-free treat that reminds me of my childhood summers spent devouring ice cream from the local parlor. I love how these bars can mix nostalgia with a touch of health—who knew cottage cheese could be so creamy and divine in a sweet dessert?
I remember the first time I experimented with adding cottage cheese into ice cream; I was skeptical, but when I took that first bite of smooth, strawberry goodness, it was pure bliss. The crunch from the cookies takes it to the next level, making it the perfect summer dessert. Trust me, you won’t even realize you’re enjoying something that’s actually good for you!
What’s in Strawberry Crunch Cottage Cheese Ice Cream Bars?
Let’s break down the ingredients, shall we? Each one brings its own magic to these bars:
Cottage Cheese: This is the star of our show! It provides a creamy base while adding protein. I prefer using low-fat cottage cheese, but feel free to go full-fat if you want extra creaminess.
Greek Yogurt: I love using plain Greek yogurt here for its tangy flavor and rich consistency. Plus, it’s another source of protein—what a win!
Honey or Maple Syrup: You can’t go wrong with either sweetener! I usually go for honey, but maple syrup gives a lovely caramel flavor, especially if you’re feeling adventurous.
Vanilla Extract: Just a splash adds a warm, sweet aroma that brightens up the entire dish. Honestly, who doesn’t love vanilla?
Fresh Strawberries: Nothing beats the taste of fresh strawberries! They add that luscious fruity flavor and vibrant color. Remember to hull and slice them for the perfect consistency.
Strawberry Shortcake Cookies or Golden Oreos: These crunchy treats create the base and topping for our bars. I like the strawberry shortcake for a fun, fruity vibe, but oreos are always a classic!
Unsweetened Shredded Coconut (optional): I think coconut adds a lovely texture, but you can definitely skip it if you’re not a fan!
Melted Butter: This helps to bind our crumbly mixture together for a solid base.
Pinch of Salt: Never underestimate the power of salt in desserts—just a pinch enhances all those sweet flavors.
Is Strawberry Crunch Cottage Cheese Ice Cream Bars Good for You?
Absolutely! These bars are a fantastic alternative to traditional ice cream.
Cottage Cheese: Packed with protein and calcium, it’s much healthier than your average ice cream base. This means you’ll feel fuller for longer!
Greek Yogurt: Another protein powerhouse, plus it provides probiotics for a happy gut.
Strawberries: High in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, strawberries are a delicious way to boost your fruit intake.
Just keep in mind that while these bars are healthier than traditional ice cream, they still contain honey or maple syrup for sweetness, so moderation is key. But hey, it’s a refreshing treat you can feel good about!
Ingredients List
– 2 cups cottage cheese
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (plain)
– 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup strawberry shortcake cookies or golden Oreos, crushed
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut (optional)
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– Pinch of salt
**Servings:** Makes about 12 bars.
How to Make Strawberry Crunch Cottage Cheese Ice Cream Bars?
1. **Prepare the Base:** In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed cookies (and shredded coconut if you’re adding it) with melted butter and a pinch of salt. Mix until it’s crumbly. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a parchment-lined square baking dish to form the crust. Pop it in the freezer while you whip up the filling.
2. **Make the Filling:** Grab your blender or food processor! Toss in the cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and fresh strawberries. Blend until smooth and creamy! Give it a little taste and add more sweetness if needed.
3. **Assemble the Bars:** Retrieve your crust from the freezer and pour the strawberry filling over it, spreading it evenly.
4. **Add Crunch Topping:** Sprinkle the remaining crushed strawberry shortcake cookies on top of the filling. Gently press down to help them stick.
5. **Freeze:** Cover your baking dish with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 4-6 hours until it’s completely firm.
6. **Serve:** When you’re ready to indulge, take the bars out of the freezer and let them sit for a few minutes to soften up. Cut into bars and enjoy!
7. **Store:** Any leftovers (if there are any, ha!) can be wrapped individually and stored in the freezer for easy snacking later.
Sweet Tips and Variations
– Want to mix things up? Try adding some banana or other seasonal fruits into the filling. Just be careful not to overload it; a little goes a long way!
– If you’re feeling extra fancy, drizzle some chocolate on top after slicing for an indulgent treat.
– These bars are perfect for warm weather gatherings. Slice them up before your guests arrive for an easy, delightful dessert.
I sincerely hope you give these Strawberry Crunch Cottage Cheese Ice Cream Bars a try! They’re not just a treat; they are a little reminder of how wholesome indulgence can be fun and satisfying. Let me know how you like them or if you’ve put your twist on it—happy cooking!
