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3-Ingredient Cottage Cheese Ice Cream (High-Protein & Easy!)

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overhead image of cottage cheese ice cream being scooped with an ice cream scoop.

Quick stats: 15g protein per serving · 3 ingredients · No ice cream maker needed · Ready in 6 hours

If you’ve been on TikTok or Instagram lately, you’ve probably seen cottage cheese ice cream everywhere — and for good reason. This 3-ingredient cottage cheese ice cream is creamy, naturally sweet, packed with protein, and shockingly easy to make. No churning, no ice cream maker, no fancy equipment. Just a blender, a container, and your freezer. If you’re already a fan of my cottage cheese cookie dough, you already know how magical this ingredient can be in a sweet recipe.

I’ve been making this on repeat all summer, and it has completely replaced my store-bought ice cream habit. With 15 grams of protein per serving, it satisfies my sweet tooth and keeps me full — which is honestly the dream. Whether you’re following a high-protein diet, trying to eat a little healthier, or just craving something cold and delicious, this recipe is for you. (And if you’re on a high-protein kick, you’ll also want to bookmark my 4-ingredient protein brownies and 3-ingredient protein cookies — they’re just as easy and just as good.)

Why You’ll Love This Cottage Cheese Ice Cream

  • Only 3 ingredients. Cottage cheese, mixed berries, and a touch of honey or maple syrup. That’s it. No hidden ingredients, no weird additives — just real food!
  • Seriously high in protein. With 15 grams of protein per serving, this ice cream works as hard as you do. It’s the ultimate healthy treat that actually keeps you satisfied.
  • Incredibly easy to make. Toss everything in a blender, pour it into a container, and let the freezer do the work. Prep time is under 5 minutes — I promise!
  • No ice cream maker required! No special equipment needed whatsoever. A blender and a freezer-safe container are all you need.
  • Healthy and wholesome. Made with real ingredients and naturally sweetened, this ice cream is low in added sugar and free from the artificial stuff you find in most store-bought pints.
  • Perfect for satisfying cravings. This isn’t a sad “diet food” situation. It’s genuinely creamy, sweet, and delicious — and it really does taste like ice cream.
three scoop of cottage cheese ice cream in a bowl with a spoon.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much protein does one serving of cottage cheese ice cream contain?

This recipe makes approximately 4 servings, and each serving contains about 15 grams of protein — almost entirely from the cottage cheese. For reference, a serving of traditional ice cream typically has just 3–4 grams of protein. That’s a pretty incredible upgrade for something that tastes this good!

Can I make this added sugar-free?

Absolutely! If you want to skip the added sugar entirely, you have a couple of options. First, you can simply leave out the honey or maple syrup — the natural sweetness from the berries may be enough for you, especially if you’re using ripe, sweet fruit. Alternatively, you can sweeten with a few pitted Medjool dates blended right into the mixture for a completely natural, whole-food sweetener with zero added sugar.

How long does this stay good in the freezer for?

Stored in an airtight container, this cottage cheese ice cream keeps well in the freezer for up to 1 month. For the absolute best texture and flavor, try to enjoy it within the first week or two. Since cottage cheese is high in water content, the ice cream can get a bit icier over time. Just a heads up: every time you pull it out and let it thaw, then refreeze it, the texture can become a little more crystallized, so try to avoid too many thaw-refreeze cycles.

Flavor Variations

The beauty of this recipe is how endlessly customizable it is. Once you’ve nailed the base, the flavor possibilities are truly unlimited! Here are some of my favorites:

🍓 Strawberry Cheesecake Swap the mixed berries for 1 cup of fresh or frozen strawberries and add ½ teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. The vanilla plays up the natural tang of the cottage cheese, making it taste incredibly close to strawberry cheesecake.

🍫 Chocolate Berry Add 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder to the blender along with your mixed berries. The result is a rich, fudgy chocolate-berry ice cream that feels indulgent but is still packed with protein.

🥜 Peanut Butter & Honey Skip the berries and blend in 2–3 tablespoons of natural peanut butter along with your honey. Stir in a handful of chocolate chips before freezing. This one is wildly addictive.

🍋 Lemon Blueberry Use 1 cup of blueberries (fresh or frozen), swap the honey for maple syrup, and add the zest of one lemon and a tablespoon of lemon juice. Bright, refreshing, and absolutely delicious.

🍑 Peach Mango Replace the mixed berries with ½ cup frozen peaches and ½ cup frozen mango chunks. The tropical sweetness of the mango pairs perfectly with the creamy cottage cheese base.

🍪 Cookies & Cream Skip the berries and blend the cottage cheese with maple syrup and a splash of vanilla. Once the mixture is in your container, stir in crushed chocolate sandwich cookies before freezing. A total crowd-pleaser.

Tips for the Creamiest Cottage Cheese Ice Cream

  • Use full-fat cottage cheese. I know I said it already, but it’s worth repeating — full-fat is non-negotiable if you want creamy (not icy) results.
  • Blend until completely smooth. Don’t rush this step. Blend on high until there are zero lumps or curds remaining. The smoother the base, the creamier the final texture.
  • Let it thaw properly before scooping. Pulling it straight from the freezer will make it rock solid. Give it a full 10 minutes (sometimes more!) on the counter before attempting to scoop.
  • Store it right. Press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the ice cream before sealing your container. This helps prevent ice crystals from forming on top.
  • Try it in a Ninja Creami. If you have one, this recipe works amazingly well in the Ninja Creami. Freeze the blended mixture overnight, then run it through the Creami for an ultra-creamy, soft-serve-like texture.

Made this recipe? I’d love to see it! Tag me on Instagram @samdoesherbest or TikTok @samdoesherbest — I repost my favorites! And if you loved it, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating below. It means the world and helps other readers find this recipe!

overhead image of cottage cheese ice cream being scooped with an ice cream scoop.
5 from 2 votes

3-Ingredient Cottage Cheese Ice Cream

This 3-ingredient cottage cheese ice cream is creamy, naturally sweet, and packed with 15 grams of protein per serving. No ice cream maker needed — just a blender and your freezer. It's the easiest, healthiest way to satisfy an ice cream craving!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Freeze Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Equipment

  • 1 blender or food processor
  • 1 freezer-safe airtight container

Ingredients

  • 2 cups whole milk cottage cheese
  • 1 cup mixed berries fresh or frozen
  • 3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup

Instructions

  • Add the cottage cheese, mixed berries, and honey (or maple syrup) to a blender. Blend until completely smooth and creamy with no lumps remaining.
  • Pour the mixture into a large freezer-safe container and spread evenly. Transfer to the freezer for at least 6 hours, or until frozen solid.
  • When ready to serve, remove from the freezer and let sit at room temperature for at least 10 minutes, or until soft enough to scoop. Scoop into bowls and enjoy!

Notes

  • Use full-fat cottage cheese for the creamiest texture. Low-fat versions are more watery and can result in an icy consistency.
  • Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 month. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface before sealing to prevent ice crystals.
  • Let thaw for at least 10 minutes before scooping — it freezes very solid!
  • Ninja Creami tip: Freeze the blended mixture overnight, then run through the Creami for an ultra-creamy, soft-serve texture.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 180kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 4g | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 18g
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Dinner

EASY Burrito Bowl Casserole

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overhead image of burrito bowl casserole with cheese and avocado on top.

The last think I have the energy for most nights is making a healthy and delicious dinner for my family. Which is exactly why I have super easy, minimal effort recipes like this burrito bowl casserole, 3-ingredient cottage cheese pizza crust, and 30-minute hunan chicken stir fry in my weekly dinner rotation. Less thought, effort, and prep means more time actually enjoying evenings with my little ones! And knowing that this recipe is packed with plenty of protein, veggie, and fibers makes me feel like I’m absolutely crushing it as a Mom. So if you’re also exhausted by just the thought of making a healthy, homemade meal for your family – give this flavorful casserole a try. Trust me when I tell you, your whole family will LOVE it!

Why You’ll Love This Burrito Bowl Casserole

  • Easy, minimal effort: everything comes together in one dish with simple ingredients and very little prep!
  • Packed with flavor: loaded with taco-seasoned beef, beans, rice, and melty cheese for that classic burrito taste.
  • Healthy and balanced: high in protein, fiber, and veggies to keep you full and satisfied!
  • Naturally gluten-free: made with wholesome, gluten-free ingredients.
  • Easily dairy-free: just skip the cheese or use your favorite dairy-free alternative.
  • Perfect for meal prep: great for leftovers and reheats beautifully.
  • Family-friendly: a crowd-pleasing dinner even my toddler loves!
close up image of a spoon in burrito bowl casserole.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

  • Swap the protein: Use ground turkey, ground chicken, or even plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.
  • Make it vegan/vegetarian: Skip the meat and double the beans or add lentils for a plant-based, protein-rich version.
  • Change the grains: Substitute white rice with brown rice (add extra cooking time and liquid), or try quinoa for added protein and texture.
  • Use salsa instead of tomatoes: A cup of your favorite salsa adds even more flavor and spice with no extra effort!
  • Add extra veggies: Stir in zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms to boost the veggie and fiber content even more!
  • Top it your way: Serve with avocado, fresh cilantro, green onions, or a squeeze of lime for that classic burrito bowl feel.
  • Make it low-carb: Swap the rice for cauliflower rice (reduce liquid and baking time slightly).
overhead image of burrito bowl casserole with cheese and avocado on top.
No ratings yet

EASY Burrito Bowl Casserole

This easy burrito casserole is a healthy, flavor-packed dinner made with seasoned ground beef, rice, beans, and veggies – all baked in one dish! It’s high in protein, naturally gluten-free, and perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, this burrito bowl casserole is a satisfying, family-friendly meal everyone will love!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Equipment

  • 1 large skillet
  • 1 9×14-inch baking dish

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion diced
  • 1 green bell pepper diced
  • 2 pounds lean ground beef
  • salt to taste
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 3/4 cup water
  • 1 cup rice
  • 1 (15-ounce) can black beans drained and rinsed
  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can fire roasted diced tomatoes or 1 cup salsa
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth or water
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 375° Fahrenheit.
  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add in the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté the onions and peppers until soft, about 5 minutes.
  • Add in the ground beef and salt, then break up the beef and cook until it’s no longer pink.
  • Reduce the heat to low, add in the taco seasoning and water, and simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce has thickened.
  • Transfer the beef mixture to a large 9×14-inch baking dish. Add the rice, black beans, frozen corn, fire roasted diced tomatoes, and chicken broth or water to the baking dish and stir to combine everything.
  • Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes, or until the rice is cooked. Then, remove the foil, sprinkle cheese over the top of the casserole, and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Remove the casserole from the oven, let it cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 380kcal | Carbohydrates: 26g | Protein: 26g | Fat: 20g | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 2g
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Dairy-Free

6-Ingredient Healthy Snickers

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overhead image of healthy snickers bars on a table with flaky salt on top.

With a sweet tooth like mine, it’s no surprise I love a candy bar! And I’ve certainly made it my mission to make healthier versions of all of my favorites. It started with healthy twix bars, then healthy butterfingers, healthy peanut butter cups, date caramels, and now healthy snickers! These homemade candy bars are made with just 6 simple ingredients, lightly sweetened with maple syrup, and shockingly easy to make. They’re perfect to store in the fridge or freezer whenever your sweet cravings strike (which… if you’re anything like me, they strike daily)!

the inside of a healthy snickers bar.

What Makes This Recipe Healthy?

  • Naturally sweetened with maple syrup
  • Made with nutrient-dense almond flour
  • No refined sugar
  • Gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan
  • Healthier fats from nuts and coconut oil
  • Homemade alternative to processed candy

These bars give you the same layered texture and flavor as a traditional snickers, but with better ingredients!

a close up bite shot of a healthy snickers bar.

Why You’ll Love These Healthy Snickers

These healthy snickers bars have everything you want in a dessert: sweet, salty, crunchy, and chocolatey layers that taste nostalgic but are made with better-for-you ingredients! They’re surprisingly easy to make, require no complicated baking skills, and are perfect for prepping ahead so you always have a sweet treat in the fridge or freezer. With just 6 simple ingredients, they deliver the classic candy bar experience while being gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and healthier than store-bought versions!

Storage Tips

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months. These bars taste amazing straight from the fridge or slightly thawed from frozen!

overhead image of healthy snickers bars on a table with flaky salt on top.
5 from 4 votes

6-Ingredient Healthy Snickers

These healthy Snickers bars are a homemade twist on the classic candy, made with just 6 simple ingredients! They’re gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and layered with shortbread, caramel, peanuts, and chocolate. Perfect for a healthier dessert, these homemade healthy snickers are easy to make and totally delicious!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 29 minutes
Total Time: 49 minutes
Servings: 16 servings

Equipment

  • 1 large bowl
  • 1 9×9-inch baking pan
  • 1 small saucepan

Ingredients

For the shortbread layer:

  • 2 cups almond flour
  • 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract optional

For the caramel layer:

  • 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter unsweetened (cashew butter or almond butter work too!)
  • 1/4 cup coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract optional

For the filling:

  • 1/2 cup roasted peanuts

For the chocolate layer:

  • 1 cup chocolate chips
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil
  • flaky salt for topping (optional)

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  • Add all shortbread ingredients to a large bowl and mix to combine. Then, transfer the crust to your prepared baking pan and press the crust down into an even layer over the base of the pan. Bake for 10minutes or until lightly golden brown around the edges. Leave the shortbread to cool for at least 10 minutes before adding the caramel.
  • Make the caramel layer by adding all caramel ingredients to a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Whisk the mixture together, and continue whisking as it heats up and starts to gently bubble.After 2 minutes, remove the caramel from the heat and pour over the cooled shortbread crust, then evenly sprinkle the peanuts over the caramel.
  • Transfer the baking pan to the fridge to allow the caramel to set for at least 30 minutes and up to one hour. Once the caramel is completely set and firm to the touch, make the chocolate layer.
  • To make the chocolate layer, melt together the chocolate chips and coconut oil in either the microwave or over a double boiler until completely smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel and gently spread into an even layer.
  • Transfer the pan back to the fridge to set one last time for about 30 minutes or until the chocolate has hardened. Remove the snickers bars from the fridge, then remove them from the pan and cut into 16 “full size”bars or 32 “mini” bars.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 340kcal | Carbohydrates: 19g | Protein: 6.5g | Fat: 28g | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 10g
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Desserts

5-Ingredient Healthy Cheesecake

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5 ingredient healthy cheesecake slice on a plate with whipped cream and a strawberry on top.

If I’m completely honest, I’ve never been much of a cheesecake fan. When it comes to dessert, I prefer either my 4-ingredient protein brownies or healthy banana bread mug cake. However, my husband loves cheesecake. And in the spirit of it being the month of “love” (or whatever) I thought I’d make a little something just for him. Well, let me tell ya – this healthy cheesecake turned out SO good, I ate half of it. Now I don’t know what that says about me, or the kind of wife I am… but what I do know is that his cheesecake is DELICIOUS! And lucky for me/anyone who tries it, it’s also the easiest cheesecake you’ll ever make. So make this for your significant other, a friend, family member, or literally just yourself – I won’t judge!

5 ingredient healthy cheesecake slice on a plate with a fork.

What Makes This Cheesecake Healthy?

  • Made with protein-rich Greek yogurt
  • Naturally sweetened with maple syrup
  • NO refined sugar
  • Gluten-free
  • High protein dessert (10g+ per slice!)
  • Minimal ingredients, no crust required

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of cream cheese should I use?

Full-fat cream cheese gives the richest texture, but reduced-fat cream cheese also works well. Use block-style cream cheese, not whipped.

Can I use a sugar-free sweetener?

Yes. Any liquid sugar-free sweetener can be used in place of maple syrup. Adjust to taste depending on sweetness level.

How do I store this healthy cheesecake?

Store slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze individual slices for up to 2 months and thaw in the fridge overnight.

Can I add a healthy cheesecake crust to this recipe?

Yes! You can absolutely add a crust if you prefer a more traditional cheesecake. A simple crust made from crushed graham crackers (or gluten-free graham crackers) mixed with melted butter works great – just press it into the pan and bake for 8–10 minutes before adding the filling. Let the crust cool slightly, then pour in the cheesecake batter and bake as directed.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • Blend until completely smooth for the creamiest texture!
  • Don’t overbake – the center should still have a slight jiggle.
  • Chill the cheesecake fully before slicing for nice and clean slices.
  • Add fresh berries or a drizzle of nut butter before serving – YUM!
  • For extra vanilla flavor, use vanilla bean paste.
5 ingredient healthy cheesecake slice on a plate with whipped cream and a strawberry on top.
5 from 2 votes

5-Ingredient Healthy Cheesecake

This healthy cheesecake is creamy, high in protein, and made with just 5 simple ingredients! It’s gluten-free, refined sugar-free, and each slice contains over 10 grams of protein. Perfect for a lighter dessert, this easy cheesecake delivers classic flavor with better-for-you ingredients!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Equipment

  • 1 food processor or high speed blender
  • 1 8-inch springform pan

Ingredients

  • 2 cups plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 cup cream cheese
  • 4 eggs
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup or any liquid sweetener
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line the bottom of a 8-inch springform pan or baking dish with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides.
  • Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until completely smooth.
  • Pour the mixture into the pan, then bake for 45-50 minutes or until the cheesecake is just set in the middle.
  • Remove the pan from the oven and let the cheesecake cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then transfer it to the fridge to set for at least 2 hours. Remove the cheesecake from the fridge, then slice and serve!

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 230kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 17g | Sugar: 6g
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30 Minutes or Less

4-Ingredient Protein Brownies (gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free!)

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overhead image of 4 ingredient protein brownies with mini chocolate chips on top.

It’s no secret I love a protein-packed sweet treat! My favorites lately have been my single serve protein cookie skillet and 3-ingredient protein cookies – but recently, I’ve had a real craving for brownies. But most nights, I don’t have the time (or let’s face it, the energy) to whip up a long and complicated brownie recipe. So that’s exactly why I created this 4-ingredient protein brownies recipe! They’re rich, fudgy, just as delicious as regular brownies, but packed with protein, and made with just 4 simple ingredients. Make a batch today and enjoy a quick protein-packed sweet treat all week long!

Why You’ll Love These Protein Brownies

  • 10 grams of protein per brownie!
  • Made with just 4 simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
  • Gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and added sugar-free.
  • Quick and super easy to make!
  • Soft, fudgy, and chocolatey – like classic brownies, but healthier.

These brownies are perfect for a post-workout snack, dessert, or anytime treat!

the inside of a fudgy protein brownie.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much protein does each brownie have?

Each brownie contains 10 grams of protein, depending on your protein powder brand and portion size.

How do I store these protein brownies?

These 4-ingredient protein brownies can be stored in an airtight container. At room temperature, they’ll stay fresh for 1–2 days. In the refrigerator, they last up to 5 days, and for longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2 months – just thaw or warm slightly before eating.

What kind of protein powder did you use?

I used Aloha plant-based chocolate protein powder, but any chocolate protein powder works! Whey, vegan, or collagen-based protein powders all work well in this recipe.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

  • Nut-free: Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter.
  • Banana-free: Use unsweetened applesauce or pumpkin puree for a banana-free option.
  • Extra chocolatey: Fold in a few chocolate chips.
  • Lower sugar: Use unsweetened cocoa powder only and skip the chocolate chips on top!
overhead image of 4 ingredient protein brownies with mini chocolate chips on top.
No ratings yet

4-Ingredient Protein Brownies

These 4-ingredient protein brownies are fudgy, chocolatey, and packed with 10 grams of protein per serving! They’re gluten-free, dairy-free, added sugar-free, and super easy to make with just a few simple ingredients. Perfect for a healthy dessert or post-workout snack!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Equipment

  • 1 medium bowl
  • 1 9×4-inch loaf pan

Ingredients

  • 3 overripe bananas about 1 1/2 cups when mashed
  • 1/2 cup peanut butter or any nut/seed butter
  • 1/4 cup chocolate protein powder
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line a 9×4-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, then grease the inside of the pan with oil or butter.
  • Mash the banana in a large bowl until mostly smooth, then add in the peanut butter, chocolate protein powder, and cocoa powder. Mix everything together until fully combined.
  • Transfer the brownie batter to your prepared baking pan and top it with chocolate chips (if using), then bake for 18-20 minutes or until the brownies are just set in the middle.
  • Remove the pan from the oven and let the brownies cool completely before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 175kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 8g | Fiber: 3.5g | Sugar: 9g
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