Light. Creamy. So simple.
You’re gonna love this one. These Cottage Cheese Tiramisu Cups are a no-bake dream—fluffy, rich, and way healthier than the classic.
You don’t need to turn on the oven or fuss with eggs.
We’re blending creamy cottage cheese until it’s silky-smooth, layering it with strong coffee-soaked ladyfingers, and finishing with a dusting of cocoa powder.
It’s super easy, and the flavor? Chef’s kiss.
🍴 Why I Love This Recipe
I first made this when I was craving tiramisu but didn’t want to deal with raw eggs or heavy cream. Blending cottage cheese was a total game-changer. It’s now my go-to when I want something sweet but still on the lighter side.
- No baking
- High-protein & lower-fat than regular tiramisu
- Takes less than 20 minutes to make
- Super satisfying and feels fancy
- Great make-ahead dessert for guests
🍽️ Servings + Time
- Servings: 4 cups
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: Optional, but best after 2 hours in the fridge
🔬 Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Blending cottage cheese breaks down the curds, turning it into a creamy, mousse-like texture. When combined with a bit of maple syrup and vanilla, it mimics mascarpone beautifully—without all the fat. Coffee-soaked ladyfingers soften quickly, giving that melt-in-your-mouth effect.
🍳 What You’ll Need
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups cottage cheese (full-fat for best texture)
- 3 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups brewed espresso or strong coffee, cooled
- 12 ladyfingers (savoiardi)
- 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- Optional: dark chocolate shavings or cocoa nibs for topping
Tools:
- Blender or food processor
- 4 small glass cups or jars
- Shallow bowl (for dipping ladyfingers)
- Spoon
- Fine mesh sieve (for cocoa powder)
💡 Pro Tips
- Blend the cottage cheese fully—no lumps! It should look like whipped cream.
- Dip ladyfingers super quick—1-2 seconds max—so they don’t fall apart.
- Chill the dessert cups for at least 2 hours for best texture.
- Use clear cups or jars so you can show off those pretty layers.
- Want extra coffee flavor? Drizzle a bit more on top before serving.
🧰 Tools Required
- Blender or food processor
- Small clear jars or dessert cups
- Spoon
- Fine mesh sieve
- Small bowl for coffee
🔄 Substitutions & Variations
- Swap maple syrup for honey or agave
- Use low-fat cottage cheese, but blend longer for creaminess
- Add a splash of coffee liqueur for an adult version
- Try coconut whipped cream for a dairy-free layer
- Use chocolate protein powder in the cheese mix for a protein boost
🕒 Make Ahead Tips
These are perfect made a day ahead. Just cover and chill in the fridge. Dust with cocoa powder right before serving.
👩🍳 How to Make It
Step 1: Blend the Cottage Cheese Mixture
Instructions:
In a blender or food processor, add cottage cheese, maple syrup, and vanilla. Blend on high until completely smooth—like thick whipped cream. Scrape the sides if needed.
Step 2: Dip Ladyfingers in Coffee
Instructions:
Pour the coffee into a shallow bowl. Quickly dip each ladyfinger for 1–2 seconds on each side—don’t soak too long!
Step 3: Layer It Up
Instructions:
In your jar or cup, place half a dipped ladyfinger at the bottom. Spoon in 2 tbsp of the cottage cheese mixture. Repeat until you have at least two layers. Finish with a smooth layer of cheese mixture on top.
Step 4: Add Cocoa Powder on Top
Instructions:
Use a fine mesh sieve to dust cocoa powder evenly over the top layer.
Step 5: Chill (Optional but Recommended)
Instructions:
Pop the jars in the fridge for at least 2 hours so the flavors can meld and the ladyfingers soften just right.
🧊 Leftovers & Storage
Cover with plastic wrap or lids and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Not freezer-friendly (the texture gets weird).
🍽️ What to Serve With
- Fresh berries or berry compote
- A strong espresso or cold brew
- A little biscotti or almond cookie on the side
- Mint sprigs for garnish
⚠️ Common Mistakes
- Over-soaking the ladyfingers – they’ll fall apart
- Not blending the cottage cheese enough – the texture will be grainy
- Using warm coffee – it makes the dessert soggy and can melt the cheese layer
- Skipping the chill time – it really helps the flavors develop
❓ FAQ
Can I use ricotta instead of cottage cheese?
Yes, but blend it well. Ricotta is grainier, so it needs extra time to smooth out.
What’s the best cottage cheese to use?
Full-fat gives the creamiest texture and best flavor.
Is it sweet enough without sugar?
Maple syrup gives it a nice mellow sweetness, but you can always add a bit more to taste.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yep! Just use gluten-free ladyfingers or sponge cookies.
🥗 Meal Plan Ideas
Day Plan:
- Breakfast: Greek yogurt bowl with berries
- Lunch: Chicken salad with olive oil vinaigrette
- Dinner: Pasta primavera
- Dessert: Cottage Cheese Tiramisu Cup
Snack Pairing: Iced coffee + tiramisu cup = best afternoon break
🧁 Final Thoughts
This recipe’s one of those magical little things that feel fancy but are secretly super simple. You’ll feel like you just made something from a cute café in Italy. I’d love to hear how yours turned out—or if you tried any fun twists! Drop a comment below with your thoughts or questions. Let’s talk tiramisu ✨
