This Creamy Nutty Fruit Gelatin Dessert combines creamy cottage cheese and yogurt with dried fruits and nuts, resulting in a refreshing, wholesome, and lightly sweetened dessert. Packed with nutrients and rich in textures, it’s perfect for a snack or a light dessert, providing a healthy dose of protein, fiber, and natural flavors.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes

Ingredients

• • Dried Cranberries: 40g (1/4 cup)

• • Dried Apricots: 100g (2/3 cup)
  • Dried Plums: 130g (3/4 cup)
  • Water for Soaking: enough to cover fruits (about 200ml or 1 cup)

• • Water for Gelatin: 100ml (1/3 cup)
  • Instant Gelatin: 20g (2 tablespoons)
  • Walnuts: 150g (1 cup)

• • Pine Nuts: 50g (1/3 cup)
  • Almonds: 50g (1/3 cup)
  • Cashews: 50g (1/3 cup)

• • Cottage Cheese: 350g (1 1/2 cups)
  • Natural Yogurt: 150g (2/3 cup)
  • Powdered Sugar: to taste (optional)

Directions

1. 1. Prepare the Dried Fruits
      • Place cranberries, apricots, and plums in a bowl. Cover with cold water and let soak for 15-20 minutes to remove preservatives and bring out their flavors. Drain and pat dry.
   2. Prepare the Gelatin
      • • In a small bowl, mix instant gelatin with 100ml of water. Let it sit for a few minutes to swell, then melt the gelatin gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until fully dissolved.
   3. Prepare the Nutty Mixture
      • Add the walnuts, pine nuts, almonds, and cashews to a large mixing bowl. Roughly chop them for smaller pieces if desired.

1. 1. Blend the Cottage Cheese and Yogurt
      • In a blender, blend cottage cheese and yogurt until smooth. Add powdered sugar if you prefer a sweeter dessert.
      • • Take a small portion of the cottage cheese mixture and mix it with the melted gelatin. Fold this back into the main mixture to ensure even distribution.
        • Incorporate Gelatin
   2. Combine All Ingredients
      • Add the soaked fruits and chopped nuts to the cottage cheese mixture. Mix until everything is well combined.

1. 1. Prepare the Mold
      • Use an empty juice or milk carton, line it with cling film for easy removal.
   2. Fill and Set
      • • Pour the mixture into the prepared mold, smooth the top, and cover with additional cling film. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
   3. Serve
      • Once set, slice and enjoy as a nutritious, creamy dessert or snack.

Serving Suggestions

• • Serve cold with a drizzle of honey
  • Top with fresh berries for a burst of flavor
  • Pair with a scoop of Greek yogurt on the side

• Garnish with mint leaves for a refreshing finish
• Serve with a sprinkle of additional chopped nuts

Cooking Tips

• • Soak Dried Fruits: Soaking makes the fruit softer and enhances flavors.

• • Use Cold Water for Gelatin: Cold water prevents the gelatin from clumping.
  • Sweeten to Taste: Adjust the sweetness with powdered sugar if desired.
  • Chop Nuts as Needed: For easier mixing and smoother texture, chop larger nuts.

• Refrigerate Thoroughly: Let the dessert chill fully to achieve a firm texture.

Nutritional Benefits

• • Protein-Rich: Cottage cheese and nuts provide a protein boost
  • High in Fiber: Dried fruits add fiber for digestive health

• • Healthy Fats: Nuts contribute beneficial fats, supporting heart health
  • Antioxidants: Dried fruits provide antioxidants to combat oxidative stress
  • Calcium Source: Cottage cheese and yogurt offer calcium for bone health

Dietary Information

• • Vegetarian: This recipe is vegetarian-friendly
  • Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free
  • Low-Sugar Option: Skip or reduce powdered sugar for a lower-sugar version

• Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute cottage cheese and yogurt with dairy-free options
• Nut-Free Option: Replace nuts with seeds (e.g., pumpkin or sunflower)

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

• • Calories: ~300 kcal

• • Protein: 9g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fat: 18g

• Fiber: 4g

Storage

• • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
  • Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 1 month; thaw in the refrigerator before serving

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• • Refreshing and Creamy: The yogurt and cottage cheese create a light, creamy texture.
  • Naturally Sweetened: The dried fruits add sweetness without added sugars.
  • Protein-Packed: Perfect as a post-workout snack or light meal

• Easy Preparation: Simple steps with readily available ingredients
• Customizable: Adjust sweetness, nuts, and fruit to match your preferences

Conclusion

This Creamy Nutty Fruit Gelatin Dessert is a versatile and refreshing treat packed with natural sweetness and nutrient-dense ingredients. The blend of dried fruits, nuts, and creamy cottage cheese provides a balanced and satisfying dessert perfect for any time of day. This dessert will become a go-to recipe for a healthy, quick, and enjoyable snack!