1. Prepare the Base:
Crush 80g of cookies into fine crumbs.
Mix the cookie crumbs with 50g of soft butter until well combined.
Press the mixture into the bottom of your serving dishes to form the base. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Strawberries:
Wash 4-5 strawberries.
Cut the strawberries into thin slices and set aside for decoration.
3. Prepare the Gelatin:
Pour 15g of gelatin into 70ml of cold water and let it stand until it swells.
Once swollen, heat the gelatin in the microwave for a few seconds until it dissolves completely.
4. Prepare the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine 100g of cottage cheese and 50ml of condensed milk. Mix until smooth.
Gradually add the heated gelatin to the cottage cheese mixture, stirring constantly to combine.
5. Assemble the Dessert:
Pour the cottage cheese mixture over the cookie base in your serving dishes.
Decorate the top with the thinly sliced strawberries.
6. Chill:
Refrigerate the desserts for 1-2 hours until set.
Enjoy your quick and delicious strawberry delight!
Recipe Overview
This Strawberry Delight is a quick and easy dessert that can be made in just 10 minutes, without the need for an oven, eggs, or cream. It’s a perfect treat for those who crave something sweet and refreshing but want to keep the preparation simple and fuss-free. This dessert combines a crunchy cookie base, a creamy cottage cheese filling, and fresh strawberries for a delightful finish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 10 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy days or last-minute dessert needs.
No Baking Required: Ideal for hot days when you don’t want to turn on the oven.
Healthy Ingredients: Made with cottage cheese and fresh strawberries, this dessert is a healthier option compared to traditional cream-based desserts.
Light and Refreshing: The combination of strawberries and cottage cheese provides a light and refreshing taste that’s perfect for summer.
Versatile: You can easily adapt this recipe with different fruits or cookie bases to suit your preferences.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
Strawberries:
Rich in Vitamin C: Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin C, which supports the immune system and skin health.
Antioxidants: They contain antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and protect against chronic diseases.
Fiber: Strawberries provide dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.
Cottage Cheese:
High in Protein: Cottage cheese is a great source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
Low in Fat: Compared to other dairy products, cottage cheese is relatively low in fat while still providing a creamy texture.
Calcium: It’s also a good source of calcium, which is important for bone health.
Gelatin:
Protein: Gelatin is made from collagen and is a good source of protein.
Gut Health: It can aid in digestion and support gut health by restoring the lining of the stomach.
Cooking Tips
Cookie Base: For a finer texture, use a food processor to crush the cookies into crumbs. You can also use a rolling pin to crush them in a ziplock bag.
Gelatin Preparation: Ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved before adding it to the cottage cheese mixture to avoid lumps.
Even Mixing: Gradually add the gelatin to the cottage cheese mixture while stirring continuously to ensure even distribution.
Customization Ideas
Flavor Variations:
Different Fruits: Substitute strawberries with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or mangoes.
Flavor Extracts: Add a few drops of vanilla or almond extract to the cottage cheese mixture for extra flavor.
Base Alternatives:
Different Cookies: Use graham crackers, digestive biscuits, or any of your favorite cookies as the base.
Nut Base: For a gluten-free option, use ground nuts mixed with butter as the base.
Toppings:
Nuts: Sprinkle chopped nuts like almonds or pistachios on top for added crunch.
Chocolate: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top for a decadent touch.
Serving Suggestions
Individual Portions: Prepare the dessert in small jars or cups for individual servings, perfect for parties or gatherings.
Family-Style: Make it in a larger dish and serve slices for a family-style dessert.
Garnish: Garnish with mint leaves for a fresh and colorful presentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of cheese? Yes, you can use ricotta cheese or mascarpone as alternatives to cottage cheese for a different texture and flavor.
How do I store the dessert? Store the dessert in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Cover it well to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge.
What if I don’t have gelatin? You can use agar-agar as a vegetarian substitute for gelatin. Follow the package instructions for the equivalent amount.
Can I make this dessert dairy-free? Yes, you can use dairy-free cookies, plant-based butter, and substitute cottage cheese with a dairy-free alternative like almond or soy-based cream cheese.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Delight is a fantastic, quick dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, doesn’t require any baking, and uses simple, wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a light and refreshing treat or a healthy dessert option, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful dessert with your loved ones!