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30 Minutes or Less

3-Ingredient Cottage Cheese Pizza Crust

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overhead image of cottage cheese pizza crust with sauce and cheese on top.

The cottage cheese craze finally got to me! It started a few months ago with my 5-ingredient cottage cheese cookie dough which shocked me (and many of you!) with just how GOOD it is. Now we’ve moved onto a savory cottage cheese recipe, in the form of pizza! This cottage cheese pizza crust is just as light and crisp as your favorite pizza crust, but packs in a bonus 20 grams (!!!) of protein per serving. It’s also made with just 3 simple ingredients. Homemade pizza dough has truly never been easier (or healthier)!

a slice of cottage cheese pizza crust being lifted up.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This 3-ingredient cottage cheese pizza crust is soft, slightly chewy, and packs in extra protein with every slice. Made with just cottage cheese, flour, and baking powder, it’s a simple and satisfying base for your favorite pizza toppings. Whether you’re using a pizza oven or a standard oven, this recipe comes together fast and can be made gluten-free too!

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of cottage cheese works best in this recipe?
Use full-fat or low-fat cottage cheese for best results—both blend smoothly and add richness. Make sure to blend it well until completely smooth for the ideal dough texture. I’ve used both the good culture cottage cheese and organic valley cottage cheese to make this pizza, and both turned out great!

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese?
Greek yogurt can work in a pinch, but the dough will be slightly more wet and may need additional flour. For best results and structure, stick with cottage cheese.

overhead image of cottage cheese pizza crust ingredients - baking powder, gluten-free all purpose flour, and cottage cheese.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • Blend it smooth: Don’t skip blending the cottage cheese. It ensures your dough is cohesive and easier to work with.
  • Grease that surface: Whether using a pizza stone or parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly greasing helps the crust crisp up and prevents sticking.
  • Get creative: Top with your favorite sauces, veggies, or even extra protein like grilled chicken or turkey pepperoni for a balanced meal.
  • Make it gluten-free: Use a high-quality gluten-free 1:1 flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free without compromising texture.
overhead image of cottage cheese pizza crust with sauce and cheese on top.
5 from 3 votes

3-Ingredient Cottage Cheese Pizza Crust

This cottage cheese pizza crust is a higher-protein, healthier alternative to traditional pizza dough! With only three simple ingredients and the option to make it gluten-free, it's the perfect customizable base for your favorite homemade pizza. Whether you're after a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal, this recipe has everything you need to land in your weekly rotation!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Servings: 2 servings

Equipment

  • 1 food processor or high speed blender
  • 1 large bowl
  • 1 large baking sheet

Ingredients

For the cottage cheese pizza crust:

  • 1 cup cottage cheese
  • 1 cup all purpose flour (I used gluten-free all purpose flour)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder

For topping:

  • 1/4 cup pizza sauce
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese
  • Whatever toppings you'd like!

Instructions

If using a standard oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 450° Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, then lightly grease the top of the parchment paper with oil.
  • Add the cottage cheese to a blender or food processor and blend until completely smooth.
  • Mix together the all purpose flour and baking powder in a large bowl, then add in the cottage cheese and mix (you might need to use your hands) until it comes together into a ball of dough.
    Cottage-Cheese-Pizza-Crust-Step-2
  • Transfer the dough to your prepared baking sheet and press/roll it into a 12-inch circle.
    Cottage-Cheese-Pizza-Crust-Step-3
  • Place the pizza crust in the oven and par-bake for 10-12 minutes, then remove it from the oven and add your toppings.
    Cottage-Cheese-Pizza-Crust-Step-4
  • Turn the oven to high broil then pop the pizza back into the oven for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.
    Cottage-Cheese-Pizza-Crust-Step-5

If using a pizza oven:

  • Preheat your pizza oven to New York-style (635°Fahrenheit).
  • Add the cottage cheese to a blender or food processor and blend until completely smooth.
  • Mix together the all purpose flour and baking powder in a large bowl, then add in the cottage cheese and mix (you might need to use your hands) until it comes together into a ball of dough.
  • Lightly grease your pizza stone with oil, then transfer the dough to the stone and press/roll it into a 12-inch circle.
  • Place the pizza crust into the oven and par-bake for 6 minutes, then remove it from the oven and add your toppings.
  • Place the pizza oven on broil, then pop the pizza back into the oven for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Notes

Nutrition info does not include pizza sauce, cheese, or toppings.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 300kcal | Carbohydrates: 50g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 3g | Sugar: 2g
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30 Minutes or Less

The BEST Protein Cookies (one-bowl!)

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overhead image of a protein cookie cut in half.

My single serve protein cookie recipe went viral, and one of the most frequently asked questions was “how can I make a whole batch of these?!” So, here ya have it – a big batch protein cookies recipe, with just 6 simple ingredients! These cookies are gluten-free, dairy-free, and easily made vegan (just like the last recipe) but totally indulgent and delicious. Throw this recipe into your weekly meal prep as an easy protein snack or protein-packed dessert!

close up image of a protein cookie with a bite taken out.

Why You’ll Love These Protein Cookies

These cookies are everything you could want in a protein-packed treat – rich, soft, chewy, and naturally sweetened. They’re made with protein powder, creamy peanut butter, and your choice of oat flour or almond flour for a nutritious, allergy-friendly alternative to traditional cookies. Plus, there’s no refined sugar, and they’re so easy to customize – add chocolate chips, skip them, or toss in chopped nuts or dried fruit!

  • Made with just 6 ingredients!
  • Ready in under 20 minutes.
  • Naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and refined sugar-free.
  • High in protein and perfect for a healthy snack or dessert!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use almond flour instead of oat flour?
Yes! Almond flour works beautifully in this recipe and gives the cookies a rich, buttery flavor and tender texture. If you’re looking for nut-free, stick with oat flour.

What kind of protein powder did you use?
I used the Be Well By Kelly Vanilla Grass-Fed Beef Protein Powder, which is non-dairy and great for baking. You can use your favorite protein powder – just make sure it’s unsweetened or mildly sweetened for best results.

Can I make these protein cookies sugar-free?
Absolutely! Swap out the maple syrup for a sugar-free alternative like monk fruit syrup or a few drops of liquid stevia. Just note that texture and sweetness may vary slightly depending on your swap.

overhead image of protein cookies on a table.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • For best texture, make sure your peanut butter is smooth and runny – not thick or dry.
  • Don’t over-bake! The cookies firm up as they cool, so remove them once they’re lightly golden at the edges.
  • Add-ins like chia seeds, flaxseed, or chopped nuts can boost nutrition even further.

Storing and Freezing Tips

Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to 1 week. They also freeze beautifully – just pop them in a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months. Let them thaw at room temp or warm slightly before enjoying.

More Protein-Packed Recipes You’ll Love

overhead image of a protein cookie cut in half.
5 from 3 votes

The BEST Protein Cookies (one-bowl!)

Soft, chewy, and loaded with protein, these best ever protein cookies are made with just 6 simple ingredients you likely already have at home! They come together in under 20 minutes, are totally gluten-free, dairy-free, and packed with wholesome fuel to satisfy your sweet tooth and power your day!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 17 minutes
Servings: 8 cookies

Equipment

  • 1 large baking sheet
  • 1 large bowl

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups oat flour or almond flour
  • 1/3 cup non-dairy milk
  • 1/2 cup vanilla or unflavored protein powder
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter unsweetened
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup or your preferred liquid sweetener
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips optional

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.
  • Add all ingredients except chocolate chips to a large bowl and mix until fully combined. Then, fold in the chocolate chips, if using.
  • Scoop 2-tablespoon sized balls of cookie dough onto the cookie sheet, spacing each cookie a few inches apart. Once all cookies are scooped, gently press the top of each cookie to slightly flatten it.
  • Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cookies are lightly golden brown around the edges then remove from the oven and let cool before serving or storing.

Notes

Nutrition info includes the chocolate chips.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cookie | Calories: 250kcal | Carbohydrates: 23g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 13g | Sugar: 10g
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30 Minutes or Less

Cottage Cheese Cookie Dough

By
overhead image of cottage cheese cookie dough in a small dish.

Honestly, before this recipe – I did NOT like cottage cheese. And trust me, I really wanted to love it. It’s a great source of protein, nutrients, calcium, etc. but I just could not see past the texture. Which is why in the first step of this healthy cottage cheese cookie dough recipe we blend the cottage cheese with maple syrup until it’s completely smooth. What you’re left with is a silky smooth, ultra creamy, high-protein cookie dough that tastes nothing like cottage cheese! All that to say, if you’re like me and convinced you don’t like cottage cheese… you might want to give this recipe a try, I’m sure it’ll change your mind. 😉

And for more cookie dough recipes, you have to try my 4-Ingredient Healthy Cookie Dough Bark, Cookie Dough Protein Balls, and Cookie Dough Frozen Yogurt Bites next!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • High-Protein & Satisfying: Packed with protein from cottage cheese and protein powder, this treat keeps you full and energized.​
  • Quick & Easy: No baking required – just blend, mix, and enjoy!​
  • Wholesome Ingredients: Made with simple, nutritious ingredients for a healthier treat.​
overhead image of chocolate chip cottage cheese cookie dough in a dish with a spoon.

What Makes This Cottage Cheese Cookie Dough Healthy?

This recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional cookie dough, thanks to its high protein content and use of natural sweeteners. Cottage cheese provides a creamy texture and a good source of protein, while maple syrup offers a natural sweetness without refined sugars. Almond flour adds healthy fats and fiber, making this treat both delicious and nourishing.​

Recipe Substitutions

  • Almond Flour: Swap with oat flour or coconut flour for a nut-free or different flavor profile.​
  • Maple Syrup: Use honey or agave nectar as alternative natural sweeteners.​
  • Chocolate Chips: Replace with cacao nibs or dairy-free chocolate chips to suit your dietary needs!​
cottage cheese cookie dough in a small cup with a spoon.

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

  • Nut-Free: Use oat flour instead of almond flour and ensure chocolate chips are nut-free.​
  • Dairy-Free: Opt for a plant-based yogurt instead of cottage cheese and use dairy-free chocolate chips.​
  • Keto-Friendly: Use sugar-free maple syrup alternatives and low-carb chocolate chips, and consider coconut flour as a low-carb flour option!
overhead image of cottage cheese cookie dough in a small dish.
5 from 6 votes

5-Ingredient Cottage Cheese Cookie Dough

This cottage cheese cookie dough recipe is a high-protein, no-bake treat made with just six wholesome ingredients! Blending cottage cheese with maple syrup and vanilla creates a creamy base, which is then combined with almond flour, vanilla protein powder, and chocolate chips for a delicious, edible cookie dough. It's an easy, healthy snack that's perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while keeping your health on track!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Equipment

  • 1 small bowl

Ingredients

  • 1 cup cottage cheese
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract optional
  • 1 cup almond flour
  • 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Instructions

  • Add the cottage cheese, maple syrup, and vanilla extract to a blender or food processor and blend until completely smooth.
  • Transfer the cottage cheese mixture to a bowl and mix in the almond flour and vanilla protein powder, then fold in the chocolate chips.
  • Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 260kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 12.5g | Fat: 15g | Sugar: 14g
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Dairy-Free

4 Ingredient Date Caramels

By
date caramels on a plate with flaky sea salt on top.

I LOVE dates. I almost always have a bag on-hand. They’re perfect for stuffing with peanut butter, like in my 4-ingredient healthy snickers, or blending with oats to make healthy cookie dough date bites. Or… if you’re like my husband, dates are delicious all on their own!

Dates are the main ingredient in these 4 ingredient date caramels. They’re softened with a little hot water, then blended with almond butter and coconut oil to make a lusciousssss healthy date caramel. And because everything tastes better dipped in chocolate (ok ok, MOST things taste better dipped in chocolate), each date caramel is dunked in melted chocolate, then placed in the freezer until firm. The end result is a perfectly sweet and healthier chocolate-covered caramel candy. YUM!

overhead image of date caramels lined up with flaky sea salt on top.

What You’ll Need to Make This Recipe

  • Medjool Dates: The star ingredient! Medjool dates are naturally sweet and sticky, making them the perfect base for these caramels. If your dates are a bit dry, soaking them in hot water helps soften them up for easy blending. Here’s a link to the medjool dates I purchase on Amazon!
  • Creamy Almond Butter: Adds creaminess and a subtle nutty flavor to the caramels. You can substitute with any nut or seed butter like peanut butter or sunflower seed butter to make the recipe nut-free.
  • Coconut Oil: This helps bind the ingredients together and adds a touch of richness. Use refined coconut oil to avoid any coconut flavor, especially if you want the dates’ natural sweetness to shine through.
  • Chocolate Chips or Bar: Choose a high-quality dark chocolate for a rich coating. If you’re keeping this treat refined sugar-free, look for a chocolate that’s sweetened with coconut sugar or another natural sweetener. The coconut oil added to the chocolate helps it melt smoothly and gives the caramels a beautiful glossy finish.

How to Make Date Caramels

  1. Soak the Dates: Start by soaking the dates in hot water for about 10 minutes to soften them, making them easier to blend.
  2. Blend: After soaking, drain the dates and add them to a food processor along with the almond butter and melted coconut oil. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  3. Shape & Freeze: Spread the date mixture into a parchment-lined loaf pan and freeze for 2-3 hours until firm.
  4. Cut into Squares: Once firm, remove from the freezer and cut into 12 small squares.
  5. Dip in Chocolate: Melt the chocolate with a bit of coconut oil, then dip each caramel square into the chocolate until fully coated. Place the coated caramels on a parchment-lined plate and refrigerate until the chocolate is set.
close up image of a date caramel candy with a bite taken out.

Make Them Nut-Free

If you’re catering to a nut-free crowd, simply swap out the almond butter for sunflower seed butter. The consistency and flavor are just as delicious, making this treat accessible for those with nut allergies!

Tips and Tricks

  • Use Fresh Dates: Fresh, soft dates blend more easily and give you a smoother caramel. If your dates are dry, don’t skip the soaking step.
  • Don’t Overheat the Chocolate: When melting the chocolate, keep the heat low to prevent burning. A double boiler works well, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
  • Storage: These caramels keep best in the fridge or freezer, so you can always have a batch on hand for when the craving hits. They taste great straight from the freezer too!

These caramels are a healthier take on the classic candy, with no need for a candy thermometer or complicated techniques. Perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!

date caramels on a plate with flaky sea salt on top.
4.50 from 6 votes

4 Ingredient Date Caramels

If you’re looking for a vegan, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free treat that’s perfect for gifting or snacking, these 4-ingredient date caramels are your answer! They’re rich, chewy, and coated in decadent chocolate—ideal for satisfying your sweet tooth while sticking to your dietary needs. Plus, they’re easy to make and great for parties!
Print Pin Rate

Ingredients

For the date caramel:

  • 1 cup packed medjool dates, pitted
  • 2 tablespoons creamy almond butter, or any nut/seed butter
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted

For the chocolate coating:

  • 1 cup chocolate chips, or an 8-ounce chocolate bar
  • 2 teaspoons coconut oil, melted

Instructions

  • Soak the dates in a bowl of very hot water for 10 minutes.
  • Once dates are very soft, drain them from the water and transfer the soaked dates to a food processor or high-speed blender. Add the almond butter and coconut oil to the dates, and pulse until completely smooth.
  • Transfer the date caramel to a 9×5-inch loaf pan lined with parchment paper, then place the pan in the freezer for 2-3 hours, or until date caramel is firm to the touch.
  • Remove the loaf pan from the freezer, and lift the date caramel out of the pan. Place the date caramel on a cutting board and slice into 12 small squares.
  • Melt the chocolate chips and 2 teaspoons coconut oil in a heat-safe bowl in either the microwave or over a double boiler on the stove. Once chocolate is completely smooth and melted, dip each caramel square in the chocolate to fully coat. Carefully lift the caramel out of the chocolate and transfer to a parchment-lined plate.
  • Repeat the dipping process with all caramels, then transfer to the fridge for 1 hour or until chocolate has hardened and is completely set. Once set, enjoy your chocolate covered date caramels, or keep stored in the fridge to enjoy later on!

Notes

  • These date caramels are best stored in the fridge or freezer! If left at room temperature, the chocolate will melt.
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