Easy Cottage Cheese Tiramisu Without Eggs

This Easy Cottage Cheese Tiramisu is a lighter, protein-packed spin on the beloved Italian classic. With layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and a creamy, whipped cottage cheese filling, it offers all the indulgent flavor of traditional tiramisu — without the need for mascarpone or heavy cream.

Perfect for those who want a healthier dessert without sacrificing richness, this version uses blended cottage cheese to create a smooth, velvety texture. It’s ideal for meal prep, family dinners, or guilt-free indulgence. Best of all? No baking required.

Whether you’re looking to boost your protein intake or simply craving a refreshing, easy dessert, this cottage cheese tiramisu checks every box.

Ingredients Overview

This recipe keeps things simple but clever, using everyday ingredients to replicate tiramisu’s luxurious texture and layered flavor.

Creamy Filling

• Cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat): The base of the creamy layer — once blended, it becomes smooth and custard-like with a tang similar to mascarpone.

• Greek yogurt or whipped topping: Adds silkiness and helps balance the slight tang of cottage cheese.

• Powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling while keeping the texture soft and spreadable.

• Vanilla extract: Brings depth and warmth to the cream mixture.

Texture Tip: Use small-curd or whipped cottage cheese for easier blending, or strain large-curd versions before processing.

Espresso Soak

• Strong brewed coffee or espresso: Traditional tiramisu flavor — bold and slightly bitter to balance the sweetness.

• Coffee liqueur or rum (optional): Adds depth and a slight boozy note.

• Cocoa powder: For dusting the layers and topping, adding bitterness and contrast.

Ladyfingers

• Savoiardi (Italian ladyfingers): Crisp and dry, they soften perfectly when dipped in coffee.

• Alternative: Use sponge cake slices or vanilla wafers in a pinch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This no-bake tiramisu comes together quickly — and even faster with a food processor or blender.

1. Blend the Cottage Cheese Mixture

In a food processor or high-powered blender, combine:

• 2 cups cottage cheese

• ¾ cup Greek yogurt or whipped topping

• ¼–⅓ cup powdered sugar (to taste)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Blend until completely smooth — this may take 1–2 minutes. Scrape down sides and process again if needed.

Optional: Fold in 1–2 tablespoons of whipped topping for extra fluffiness.

2. Prepare the Coffee Dip

In a shallow bowl, combine:

• 1 cup strong brewed coffee or espresso, cooled

• 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur or dark rum (optional)

Set aside for dipping ladyfingers.

3. Assemble the Tiramisu

Use a loaf pan, 8×8 baking dish, or small trifle cups for individual servings.

Layer 1: Quickly dip ladyfingers (1–2 seconds each side) into the coffee mixture and lay them in a single layer across the bottom of your dish.

Layer 2: Spread half the cottage cheese filling over the soaked ladyfingers. Smooth with a spatula.

Dust lightly with unsweetened cocoa powder using a fine sieve.

Repeat with another layer of dipped ladyfingers and remaining filling.

Dust the top with a generous layer of cocoa powder. Optional: Add shaved dark chocolate for texture.

4. Chill and Set

Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to let the flavors meld and the cookies soften.

Slice or scoop and serve chilled.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Helpful Tips

• Don’t oversoak the ladyfingers — a quick dip is all they need.

• Chill overnight for best flavor and texture.

• Blend the cottage cheese well for a mascarpone-like smoothness.

Flavor Variations

• Berry Tiramisu: Add a layer of fresh raspberries or strawberries between cream layers.

• Cocoa-Free Version: Replace cocoa with cinnamon for a warm twist.

• Matcha Tiramisu: Replace espresso with matcha green tea and skip the cocoa powder.

Substitutions

• Dairy-Free: Use plant-based cottage cheese, coconut yogurt, and dairy-free cookies.

• Low-Sugar: Use stevia or monk fruit sweetener in place of powdered sugar.

• Gluten-Free: Choose certified gluten-free ladyfingers or sponge cake.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

This lighter tiramisu is elegant enough for dinner parties yet simple enough for weeknight treats. Ideal pairings include:

• A cup of espresso or cappuccino

• Fresh berries on the side

• Dark chocolate curls or a dusting of cinnamon for extra flair

Perfect For:

• Weeknight desserts

• Holiday meals with lighter fare

• High-protein meal prep snacks

• Brunch spreads or afternoon tea

Its balance of richness and brightness makes it a hit year-round.

Nutritional & Health Notes

This version of tiramisu offers a healthier twist with:

• High protein from cottage cheese and Greek yogurt

• Lower fat than mascarpone-based tiramisu

• Natural sweetness with minimal added sugar

For even more health benefits:

• Use reduced-fat dairy

• Add collagen or protein powder to the filling

• Stick to small portions — it’s rich, even when lighter

Each serving offers about 10–12g of protein and less sugar than traditional tiramisu, making it suitable for balanced diets.

FAQs

Q1: Will cottage cheese make the tiramisu grainy?

A1: Not if blended well. Use a food processor or high-speed blender until completely smooth. Straining large-curd cottage cheese before blending can help, too.

Q2: Can I make this tiramisu ahead?

A2: Absolutely. It’s best made a day ahead so the flavors meld and the texture sets perfectly.

Q3: Can I freeze cottage cheese tiramisu?

A3: It freezes well! Wrap tightly and freeze up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Q4: What can I use instead of ladyfingers?

A4: Sponge cake, pound cake slices, or even vanilla wafers work. Just adjust the soaking time as needed.

Q5: Can I make it sugar-free?

A5: Yes — use a sugar-free sweetener like stevia or erythritol. Taste as you go to balance sweetness.

Q6: How long does it keep in the fridge?

A6: Up to 4 days, covered tightly. The texture softens over time, but the flavor remains delicious.

Q7: Is this kid-friendly?

A7: Yes — just skip the coffee liqueur. You can also replace espresso with decaf or chocolate milk for a fun twist.

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