Cottage Cheese, Banana, and Cookie No-Bake Dessert

Cottage Cheese, Banana, and Cookie No-Bake Dessert
This Cottage Cheese, Banana, and Cookie No-Bake Dessert is a delicious and refreshing treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With layers of crunchy cookies, creamy cottage cheese, sweet bananas, and rich chocolate, this dessert has a delightful balance of textures and flavors. The combination of cottage cheese and sour cream adds a smooth, tangy richness, while the cookies and walnuts provide a satisfying crunch. Since it’s a no-bake dessert, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy days or when you need a quick dessert that doesn’t require an oven.

Ideal for family gatherings or as a sweet snack, this dessert will quickly become a favorite. Its layered structure makes it look elegant, yet it’s simple enough for anyone to make.

Full Recipe:
Ingredients
Cottage cheese: 400 g
Sour cream: 5 tablespoons
Condensed milk: 150 g
Bananas: 2, sliced
Cookies: 200 g (any type, such as digestive or tea biscuits)
Cream: 250 g (heavy whipping cream)
Condensed milk: 100 g (for the second layer)
Chocolate: 90 g (for melting)
Walnuts: 70 g, chopped
Instructions (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Layer
Crush the cookies: Using a food processor, crush 200 g of cookies until they resemble coarse crumbs. If you don’t have a food processor, place the cookies in a resealable bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
Press the cookie base: Spread the crushed cookies evenly at the bottom of a springform pan or individual serving cups. Press down firmly to create a solid base. You can use the back of a spoon to help with this step. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Cottage Cheese Mixture
Mix the cottage cheese and sour cream: In a large bowl, combine 400 g of cottage cheese and 5 tablespoons of sour cream. Using a hand mixer or food processor, blend the mixture until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can leave some bits of cottage cheese unblended.
Add the condensed milk: Pour 150 g of condensed milk into the cottage cheese mixture and blend again until fully incorporated. The condensed milk adds sweetness and smoothness to the creamy layer.
Step 3: Slice the Bananas and Prepare the Layers
Slice the bananas: Peel and slice 2 bananas into thin rounds. These will be layered between the creamy cottage cheese mixture and the cookie base.
Layer the bananas: Place a layer of banana slices evenly over the cookie base in the pan or cups. Make sure the bananas cover the entire surface for an even flavor distribution.
Step 4: Whip the Cream
Whip the heavy cream: In a separate bowl, whip 250 g of heavy cream until soft peaks form. This will add lightness to the dessert.
Fold in condensed milk: Gently fold 100 g of condensed milk into the whipped cream until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as you want the cream to remain fluffy.
Step 5: Melt the Chocolate
Melt the chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler, melt 90 g of chocolate. Heat it in intervals if using a microwave to avoid burning. Once melted, stir until smooth.
Add melted chocolate to the cream mixture: Pour the melted chocolate into the whipped cream and condensed milk mixture, stirring gently to incorporate the chocolate evenly. This will create a rich, chocolatey cream layer.
Step 6: Assemble the Dessert
Spread the cottage cheese mixture: Over the layer of bananas, spread the creamy cottage cheese and sour cream mixture evenly using a spatula. Make sure it completely covers the bananas.
Top with chocolate cream: Gently spoon the chocolate-cream mixture on top of the cottage cheese layer, spreading it out evenly.
Sprinkle chopped walnuts: Finish by sprinkling 70 g of chopped walnuts over the top for added crunch and flavor.
Step 7: Chill and Set
Chill the dessert: Cover the pan or cups with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dessert for at least 3-4 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the layers to firm up and the flavors to meld together.
Step 8: Serve
Slice and serve: Once the dessert has set, slice it into portions if using a large pan or serve individually from cups. Garnish with extra walnuts or a drizzle of melted chocolate if desired.
Enjoy: Serve cold and enjoy the rich, creamy, and layered flavors of this delightful no-bake dessert!
Cooking Tips
Make ahead: This dessert is perfect for making ahead of time, as it needs to chill for several hours or overnight. It’s great for preparing in advance for parties or special occasions.
Cookie alternatives: You can use any type of cookie for the base—digestive biscuits, graham crackers, or even chocolate chip cookies work well. If using sweeter cookies, you may want to reduce the amount of condensed milk in the recipe.
Fruit substitutions: While bananas add a lovely creamy texture, you can easily substitute them with strawberries, blueberries, or any other fruit that complements the creamy layers.
Chocolate options: Dark chocolate is recommended for a rich, balanced flavor, but you can also use milk chocolate for a sweeter taste or white chocolate for a milder flavor.
Add a crunch: If you want an extra layer of crunch, add a layer of chopped nuts between the cookie base and bananas.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Based on 8 Servings)
Calories: 420 kcal
Protein: 10 g
Carbohydrates: 48 g
Fat: 22 g
Saturated Fat: 13 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 34 g
Sodium: 250 mg
Calcium: 15% DV
Iron: 8% DV
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use low-fat cottage cheese or cream?
Yes, you can use low-fat versions of cottage cheese or cream if you want to reduce the calorie and fat content. However, keep in mind that the texture might not be as rich and creamy.
This dessert can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just ensure it is covered well to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge.
How long can I store this dessert?
Can I make this dessert vegan?
Yes! You can substitute the dairy products with plant-based alternatives like vegan cottage cheese, coconut cream, and dairy-free chocolate. You can also use plant-based cookies for the base.
What other nuts can I use?
Besides walnuts, you can use almonds, pecans, or even hazelnuts for a different flavor profile.
Can I freeze this dessert?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the bananas and cottage cheese might change. It’s best enjoyed fresh after chilling in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
This Cottage Cheese, Banana, and Cookie No-Bake Dessert is a perfect combination of creamy, sweet, and crunchy textures that will leave you wanting more. Its simplicity and no-bake preparation make it an excellent choice for those who want a delicious, hassle-free dessert. With layers of cottage cheese, bananas, and a rich chocolate-cream topping, this dessert is sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it as a weeknight treat, it’s a dessert that’s guaranteed to impress.