This fun treat combines creamy cottage cheese and nutty peanut butter to create a delightful snack! Think of it as a protein-packed version of your favorite candy bar.
It’s super easy to whip up, and you can feel good about enjoying it. I love adding a sprinkle of chocolate chips on top to make it extra special—who can resist a little chocolate? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: You can choose low-fat or full-fat based on what you prefer. If you’re not a fan of cottage cheese, Greek yogurt can be a good substitute for a similar creamy texture and extra protein.
Peanut Butter: Natural peanut butter gives a better flavor. If you’re allergic, almond or sunflower seed butter works great too. Crunchy peanut butter adds a nice texture!
Honey or Maple Syrup: Both are sweeteners, but if you’re vegan, use maple syrup. Agave syrup is another alternative if you want to try something different.
Graham Crackers: If you can’t find graham crackers, digestive biscuits or even crushed cookies like Oreos can be tasty alternatives for the base!
Dark Chocolate: You can use milk chocolate if you like it sweeter. Just keep in mind that dark chocolate gives a richer flavor. You can also try carob chips for a unique twist.
How Do You Get the Perfect Layer of Chocolate?
Melting chocolate can be tricky! To achieve a smooth layer, here’s what to do:
- Start by using a microwave-safe bowl. Heat chocolate in short bursts of 20 seconds, stirring in between. This prevents burning.
- Add a tablespoon of coconut oil. It helps to smoothen the chocolate and makes it easier to pour.
- Once melted and glossy, pour it gently over your caramel-peanut layer. Use a spatula to spread evenly, so every bite has chocolate goodness!
Remember to let it chill well to set properly—you’ll love how it holds together when you take a slice!
Cottage Cheese And Peanut Butter Snickers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base:
- 1 cup cottage cheese (low-fat or full-fat, based on preference)
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup crushed graham crackers or digestive biscuits (for the base)
- 2 tbsp melted butter (to bind the base)
For the Caramel Layer:
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts (to mix in and sprinkle on top)
For the Chocolate Layer:
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
- 1 tbsp coconut oil (to help melt chocolate smoothly)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dessert will take about 30 minutes to prepare, followed by at least 1 hour of chilling in the fridge to set. Perfect for a quick treat that will impress your friends and family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
In a medium bowl, mix the crushed graham crackers with melted butter until the mixture looks like wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of square or round serving glasses, or use a baking dish to create an even base layer. Put it in the refrigerator to chill and set while you prepare the next layers.
2. Prepare the Cottage Cheese Layer:
In a blender or food processor, add the cottage cheese, peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Blend everything until it’s smooth and creamy. Once it’s well-combined, spoon this mixture evenly over the chilled base layer. Pop it back into the refrigerator to firm up for about 20 minutes.
3. Add the Crunchy Caramel Peanut Layer:
After the cottage cheese layer has set a bit, spread a generous layer of caramel sauce on top. Sprinkle the chopped roasted peanuts evenly over the caramel layer to give it that classic Snickers crunch. Return it to the fridge for another 15-20 minutes.
4. Prepare the Chocolate Topping:
To melt the chocolate, place the dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl or use a double boiler. Add the coconut oil. Microwave in short bursts (about 20 seconds at a time), stirring often until the mixture is nice and smooth.
5. Assemble the Final Layer:
Carefully pour the melted chocolate over the caramel-peanut layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Immediately sprinkle more chopped peanuts on top as a garnish—this adds an extra crunch and boosts the flavor!
6. Chill and Serve:
Now, refrigerate the whole dessert for at least 1 hour or until it is fully set. If you used a baking dish, cut it into bars for easy serving, or if you used glasses, serve directly. Enjoy your creamy, crunchy, peanut-buttery, chocolaty Cottage Cheese And Peanut Butter Snickers treats!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cottage Cheese?
Absolutely! Low-fat cottage cheese is a great option if you’re looking to reduce fat content while still getting that creamy texture. Just keep in mind that it may be slightly less rich than full-fat cottage cheese.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, use a plant-based cottage cheese alternative or silken tofu for a similar texture. Substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar and use vegan chocolate chips for the topping. Enjoy your plant-based treat!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the layers in advance and just assemble everything when you’re ready to serve. After making it, refrigerate for up to 2 days. Just keep in mind the chocolate topping is best added right before serving to maintain its shine and texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’ve cut it into bars, layer parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature!