This cozy recipe is my take on a lighter, protein-forward classic that still feels like dessert. I love serving this when the family wants something familiar but a little more nourishing. This version swaps mascarpone for a cottage cheese and Greek yogurt blend so you get a creamy texture and a protein boost. Right away you can see why {focus keyword} makes sense for busy cooks who want dessert that doubles as a satisfying snack.
I often assemble this the night before a casual Sunday brunch. The kids love dunking the ladyfingers in coffee and the adults appreciate the cocoa finish. The recipe is forgiving, quick to layer, and feels special without needing a lot of hands-on time, which is why I keep it in my regular rotation of make-ahead sweets. {focus keyword} is woven through the steps and tips below so you can make it confidently, even if this is your first tiramisu-style dessert.
Meta description: Cozy, protein-packed tiramisu that’s quick to assemble, family-friendly, and make-ahead ready, using cottage cheese and Greek yogurt for extra protein.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is perfect when you want a dessert that satisfies sweet cravings and supports a protein-rich eating plan. It’s great for brunches, potlucks, or a lighter after-dinner treat. The texture is creamy and familiar, but the cottage cheese and Greek yogurt add staying power so people feel fuller longer. It is an easy way to introduce cottage cheese into desserts, without losing the classic tiramisu vibe.
"This cake disappeared in minutes at our family gathering, definitely a keeper," says a happy home baker.
One neat benefit of this version is how adaptable it is. Use a keto-friendly ladyfinger alternative, swap sweeteners to suit your dietary needs, or make individual cups for portion control. If you want to prep ahead, this dessert improves after a couple of hours in the fridge because the layers settle and the flavors meld. I’ll share practical notes below so your results are reliably delicious.
How to Make Protein-Packed Tiramisu
This is a simple layered dessert built from a smooth, protein-rich cream and coffee-soaked ladyfingers. Start by blending the cottage cheese and Greek yogurt with sweetener and vanilla until silky. The cream will remain slightly tangy, which balances the coffee and cocoa.
Next, the assembly is straightforward, there is no baking required. Dip each ladyfinger quickly in cooled coffee so they absorb just enough to be tender but not soggy. Layer them in a dish, spread the cottage cheese mixture on top, and repeat. Finish with a generous dusting of cocoa and optional dark chocolate shavings. A short chill in the fridge helps the layers set and gives you that classic texture. Throughout the process keep ingredients chilled and work with gentle hands for the best appearance.
Ingredients
What you’ll need
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup sweetener, such as erythritol or stevia (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup brewed coffee, cooled
- 1 package ladyfinger cookies, or a keto-friendly alternative
- Cocoa powder for dusting
- Dark chocolate shavings, optional
Notes and substitutions
- For a smoother cream, blend cottage cheese in a food processor or high-speed blender before folding in Greek yogurt. This is helpful if you prefer no curds in your cream.
- Use a flavored coffee for a twist, such as a mild vanilla roast, but keep it cool before dipping.
- Swap the sweetener for powdered sugar or honey if not following a low-carb plan, start with less and taste.
- For a dairy-free option, try a plant-based yogurt and a suitable cream alternative, though texture will vary.
- If you need extra protein, stir in a neutral-flavored protein powder, but add a splash of milk if the mixture becomes too thick.
Directions
- In a mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, sweetener, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Dip ladyfinger cookies in cooled coffee and layer them in a serving dish.
- Spread a layer of the cottage cheese mixture on top of the cookies.
- Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with the cottage cheese mixture on top.
- Dust the top with cocoa powder and add chocolate shavings if desired.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
How to Serve Protein-Packed Tiramisu
Serve chilled, scooped into slices or spooned into small dessert dishes for family portions. A dusting of cocoa just before serving gives a fresh finish. For a family breakfast twist, offer this alongside espresso or a warm milk drink, and pair with fresh berries for a bright contrast.
For gatherings, make single-serve portions in mason jars or small glasses so guests can help themselves. Kids tend to enjoy the layers and the slight crunch of soaked ladyfingers, so you can make a kid-friendly version by using decaffeinated coffee or a coffee substitute like strong brewed rooibos tea.
How to Store
Refrigerator: Keep leftovers covered in an airtight container or wrapped tightly with plastic wrap for up to 3 days. The texture will soften over time as the ladyfingers continue to absorb moisture, so plan to enjoy within a few days for the best experience.
Freezer: It is possible to freeze tiramisu, but the texture may change slightly. Freeze in an airtight container for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Re-chill briefly if it becomes too soft on thawing.
Safety notes: Keep this dessert refrigerated as it contains dairy. Discard if it has been at room temperature for more than two hours. When serving at parties, place it on ice or return leftovers to the fridge promptly.
Tips to Make
Use a blender for a silky cream: If you do not like cottage cheese curds, pulse the cottage cheese first for a smoother texture, then blend with yogurt and sweetener.
Taste as you go: Adjust the sweetener and vanilla to your liking. Cottage cheese can be tangy, so a touch more sweetener may be welcome.
Keep coffee cool: Hot coffee will dissolve ladyfingers too quickly. Cool your coffee to room temperature, or chill briefly before dipping.
Dip quickly: A quick dip is all you need. Aim for a second or two per side depending on cookie density, so the ladyfingers soften without falling apart.
Make it ahead: Assemble the tiramisu the night before. Chilling for at least two hours is essential, but overnight is ideal for flavor melding.
Use proper layering: Spread the cream evenly to avoid dry pockets. A spatula or the back of a spoon works well.
Variations
Chocolate lover’s swap: Mix a tablespoon of cocoa into the cream for a mocha vibe. Add extra chocolate shavings on top.
Fruit twist: Add a layer of sliced strawberries or raspberries between layers for a bright, seasonal contrast.
Higher protein: Stir in a scoop of unflavored or vanilla protein powder to the cream, adding a tablespoon of milk if needed for spreadability.
Keto-friendly: Use keto ladyfingers or a low-carb biscuit and erythritol as the sweetener.
Individual cups: Layer in small jars for grab-and-go portions or portion control at family events.
Seasonal ideas: For fall, stir a little pumpkin puree and warming spices into the cream. For winter, a touch of orange zest brightens the cocoa top.
FAQs
Q: Can I use low-fat cottage cheese and yogurt?
A: Yes, low-fat versions work well. The texture may be slightly lighter, but the overall result remains creamy and delicious.
Q: How long does this tiramisu last in the fridge?
A: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It is best within the first 48 hours for texture and flavor.
Q: Can I make this without coffee?
A: Yes, substitute decaffeinated coffee or a brewed tea like rooibos. You can also use a coffee-flavored syrup for a non-caffeinated option.
Q: Is this safe for kids?
A: Yes, use decaf coffee or a coffee substitute if serving to children. The dairy ingredients are fine for kids unless they have specific dietary restrictions.
Q: Can I use store-bought mascarpone instead of cottage cheese?
A: You can, but that changes the protein content and texture. Mascarpone will be richer and less tangy. If you want more protein, stick with cottage cheese and Greek yogurt.
Q: What if my ladyfingers get soggy?
A: That usually means they were dipped too long. Use a quick dip and layer immediately. If you end up with soggy cookies, adding an extra layer of cream can help balance texture.
For More Recipe Inspiration
If you like cottage cheese in desserts, try this cottage cheese chocolate mousse for a creamy treat: https://quickcakerecipes.com/cottage-cheese-chocolate-mousse/
For more protein-forward baking ideas, check out these protein muffins that are great for breakfasts or snacks: https://quickcakerecipes.com/protein-muffins/
Conclusion
If you want more high-protein takes on classic desserts, I found inspiration from other creators, including this rich take on a chocolate tiramisu at Protein Tiramisu – Amee’s Savory Dish and a functional nutrition version at High Protein Tiramisu | Nourished With Tish. These recipes offer different approaches and ideas you can adapt for your family.
Protein-Packed Tiramisu
Ingredients
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, sweetener, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Dip ladyfinger cookies in the cooled coffee and layer them in a serving dish.
- Spread a layer of the cottage cheese mixture on top of the cookies.
- Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with the cottage cheese mixture on top.
- Dust the top with cocoa powder and add chocolate shavings if desired.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.