This Sugar-Free Energy Dessert is a delightful combination of nutrient-dense ingredients that come together in a chewy, creamy treat. The sweetness from the dried fruits perfectly complements the nutty crunch of walnuts, peanuts, and pumpkin seeds. The yogurt and cottage cheese offer a smooth, protein-packed base that ties everything together. Each bite delivers a natural energy boost without the need for added sugars, making this a wholesome, guilt-free dessert or snack. It’s not only satisfying but also filled with antioxidants, healthy fats, and proteins to keep you feeling energized throughout the day.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup assorted dried fruits (dried cranberries, apricots, plums, raisins)
- 2 tablespoons fast-dissolving gelatin
- 1/2 cup walnuts
- 1/2 cup peanuts
- 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1 1/2 cups cottage cheese
- 1/3 cup yogurt (unsweetened, plain)
Instructions:
- Prepare the dried fruits: Start by finely chopping the assorted dried fruits. If they seem too tough or dry, soak them in warm water for 5-10 minutes to soften them, then drain them well. The cranberries, apricots, plums, and raisins bring natural sweetness and a soft texture, while also providing fiber and antioxidants.
- Process the nuts and seeds: Place the walnuts, peanuts, and pumpkin seeds in a food processor and pulse until they are roughly chopped. You want a mix of textures here – some small pieces for crunch and some larger chunks to bite into. These add healthy fats and protein, keeping you full and energized.
- Prepare the gelatin: In a small bowl, mix the fast-dissolving gelatin with 1/4 cup of warm water. Stir well until the gelatin is fully dissolved. Let it sit for about 2 minutes to ensure it is smooth and lump-free. This step is essential to provide structure to the dessert without using refined sugars.
- Mix the base ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese and yogurt. Stir them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Cottage cheese provides a good amount of protein, while yogurt adds tanginess and creaminess to the base.
- Add the fruits, nuts, and seeds: Gently fold the chopped dried fruits, processed nuts, and seeds into the cottage cheese and yogurt mixture. Make sure all the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. These ingredients provide a burst of flavor, nutrition, and texture.
- Incorporate the gelatin: Gradually pour the dissolved gelatin into the mixture while stirring continuously. Ensure that the gelatin is well incorporated so that the dessert sets properly. The gelatin binds the ingredients together, forming a soft, chewy texture without the need for additional sweeteners.
- Set the dessert: Pour the mixture into a lightly greased or lined 8×8 inch dish. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure an even layer. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the dessert is firm and set.
- Serve and enjoy: Once the dessert has set, cut it into squares or bars. You can store the dessert in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. It’s an excellent grab-and-go snack or post-workout treat.
