If you’re on the lookout for low calorie parfait recipes that are both delicious and satisfying, this cottage cheese berry parfait is just what you need. Perfect for breakfast, snack time, or even dessert, it combines creamy cottage cheese with vibrant berries to create a delightful treat. These parfaits are not only visually appealing but also packed with protein, making them a fantastic choice for a healthy berry parfait idea.
This easy low calorie parfait is a great option for anyone wanting to indulge without the guilt. It’s a simple yet elegant way to enjoy a cottage cheese and berries recipe that can be whipped up in minutes. Whether you’re enjoying it as a low calorie dessert recipe or a nutritious breakfast parfait, you’ll love how refreshing and tasty it is.
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A Healthy Cottage Cheese and Berry Parfait Recipe
These parfaits are a protein-packed berry parfait that combines creamy cottage cheese with your choice of fresh berries. Not only do they look beautiful in a glass, but they also deliver a burst of flavor and nutrition, making them a perfect low calorie snack idea or a light dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Granola or nuts for topping (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: In a bowl, mix the cottage cheese with honey or maple syrup and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Layer the Parfait: In a glass or bowl, add a layer of the cottage cheese mixture, followed by a layer of mixed berries. Repeat the layering until all ingredients are used.
- Top and Serve: Finish with a sprinkle of granola or nuts if desired, and garnish with fresh mint leaves. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to an hour before enjoying.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 2 parfaits
- Calories: 150kcal
- Fat: 5g
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
Recommended Amazon Products for Making Cottage Cheese Recipes
Here’s a curated list of tools to make your cooking experience easier and more efficient.
1. Mixing Bowl Set
- Why You Need It: A set of nesting mixing bowls with non-slip bases makes it easy to prep ingredients without spills.
SaleBestseller No. 1
Umite Chef Mixing Bowls with Airtight Lids Set, 8PCS Stainless Steel…
- 3GRATER ATTACHMENTS: This bowl set comes with 3 different grater attachments (slicing/grating/shredding) just shred or slice right into the bowl! without making a mess and eliminating the need for a cutting board to clean. 4qt had a removable lid inside the main lid, for adding contents or pairing it with your blender without removing the entire lid to prevent splash. For each cook enthusiast, this is a must in a kitchen! All necessary tools for cutting are very handy, easy to keep things clean around you
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2. Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Why You Need It: Accurate measurements are key to perfectly fluffy muffins.
Bestseller No. 1
Measuring Cups and Spoons Set of 20, 7 Stainless Steel Nesting…
- PERFECT DESIGNED TO LAST A LIFETIME: Our measuring cups and spoons are all made out of one piece of metal so the handles will never bend or break off. We upgraded the material to rust resistant & durable 18/0 stainless steel and thickened the cup body to avoid cracking, easy to clean and dishwasher safe.
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3. Shredded Cheese Grater
- Why You Need It: Grating cheese fresh at home ensures better flavor and texture.
SaleBestseller No. 1
Cambom Rotary Cheese Grater Hand Crank Cheese Shredder for Fresh…
- Three Blades: Coarse shredding blade, fine shredding blade with different diameter ; One slicing blades; A pound of cheese is only 30 seconds, avoid contact between fingers and blades
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4. Storage Containers
- Why You Need It: Keep your muffins fresh for meal prepping or snacking later.
SaleBestseller No. 1
JoyJolt JoyFul 24pc(12 Airtight, Freezer Safe Food Storage Containers and 12 Lids), Pantry Kitchen Storage Containers, Glass Meal Prep Container for Lunch, Glass Storage Containers with Lids
- Glass Food Storage Containers for Everything! Aside from the obvious fact that JoyFul by JoyJolt glass meal prep containers are healthier for you and your food, you can also go from freezer to oven without breaking, with a variety of shapes and sizes to fit your purpose. What a JoyFul Idea!
- 12 Airtight Food Storage Containers With Lids: Includes Four Rectangle Containers 35oz (8x6in), 21oz (6.75x5in), 12oz (two 4.2×5.5in). 4 Square Containers 27oz (6in), 17.5oz (5.2in), 11oz (two 4.3in). 4 Round Containers 32oz (6.75in). 21oz (5.9in), 13.5oz (two 5.2in). Height ranges from 1.75-2.3 inches.
- All Temp Food Containers: Made from Borosilicate Glass (aka, space shuttle glass), your containers are robust and love extremes! They’re Dishwasher Safe, Oven Safe to 1040DegF and Microwave Safe containers (*NOT THE LIDS). Both lids and containers are fridge safe and Freezer Safe to minus 104DegF
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Tips and Recipe Enhancements for Refreshing Low-Calorie Cottage Cheese and Berry Parfaits
1. Ingredient Swaps
- Cottage Cheese Alternative: Use Greek yogurt for a smoother texture and slightly tangier taste.
- Berries Substitute: Swap berries with diced mango, peaches, or kiwi for a tropical twist.
- Sweetener Options: Use stevia, honey, or maple syrup to adjust sweetness naturally.
- Nut-Free Version: Skip nuts and add sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for crunch.
2. Add-Ins for Extra Nutrition
- Seeds: Add chia seeds or flaxseeds for added fiber and omega-3s.
- Granola: Use a low-sugar granola for added crunch and texture.
- Nuts & Nut Butters: Try slivered almonds, walnuts, or a drizzle of almond or peanut butter.
- Superfoods: Sprinkle cacao nibs, hemp hearts, or goji berries for a nutrient boost.
3. Flavor Enhancements
- Vanilla Extract: Add a splash of vanilla extract for added sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Cinnamon or Nutmeg: Sprinkle ground cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth and spice.
- Citrus Zest: Grate lemon or orange zest over the parfait for brightness.
4. Texture Boosters
- Crispy Toppings: Add crushed whole-grain cereal, coconut flakes, or crispy rice for extra crunch.
- Frozen Berries: Use partially thawed berries for a cool, refreshing twist.
- Whipped Cottage Cheese: Blend the cottage cheese until smooth for a velvety texture.
5. Creative Serving Ideas
- Mini Parfait Cups: Use small cups for party servings or dessert platters.
- Layering Ideas: Alternate berries, cottage cheese, and granola for a beautiful layered presentation.
- Parfait Jars: Prepare the parfaits in mason jars for easy grab-and-go snacks or breakfasts.
6. Sweetness Adjustments
- Fruit-Based Sweeteners: Add unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas for extra sweetness without added sugar.
- Low-Sugar Jam: Layer in a thin spread of low-sugar jam or fruit compote.
