Gooey Cottage Cheese Blondies

Ingredients

• 1 cup cottage cheese (full fat preferred)
• 0.5 cup creamy almond butter (or peanut butter)
• 0.33 cup maple syrup
• 1 egg (large)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 0.25 cup almond flour
• 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (approx. 30g)
• 0.5 tsp baking powder
• 0.25 tsp salt
• 0.5 cup chocolate chips (dairy-free if desired)

Steps

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

2. 2

   In a high-speed blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, almond butter, maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract.

3. 3

   Blend the mixture until it is completely smooth and creamy, ensuring no cottage cheese curds remain.

4. 4

   Add the almond flour, vanilla protein powder, baking powder, and salt to the blender. Pulse or blend on low just until the dry ingredients are incorporated.

5. 5

   Fold in most of the chocolate chips by hand, reserving a small handful for the top.

6. 6

   Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.

7. 7

   Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips over the top of the batter.

8. 8

   Bake for 28-32 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set but still slightly soft.

9. 9

   Remove from the oven and allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan for at least 20 minutes before slicing. This is crucial for them to set properly.

Notes

For the best texture, use a smooth, drippy almond butter. If your protein powder is very absorbent, you may need to add a tablespoon of milk to the batter. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Nutrition per serving

• dessert
• high-protein
• gluten-free
• baked
• blondies
• cottage cheese
• healthy treats