Tag

strawberry

Browsing
30 Minutes or Less

Cottage Cheese Smoothie (35g protein!)

By
cottage cheese smoothie with a strawberry on the side.

It’s true! You really can add cottage cheese to almost everything. My personal favorite way to use cottage cheese is in a recipe where you won’t even taste it. Because if I’m being completely honest, I actually don’t like cottage cheese. Which is why in any recipe I use cottage cheese, like this cottage cheese cookie dough or this cottage cheese pizza crust, I can guarantee you won’t taste the cottage cheese at all! It simply adds hidden protein and nutrients, and in this smoothie specifically – makes it ultra thick, creamy, and ultimately SO delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Cottage Cheese Smoothie

  • Over 35 grams of protein in one smoothie!
  • Perfect for a healthy breakfast, post-workout meal, or filling snack.
  • Thick, creamy, and delicious – no grainy texture.
  • You can’t taste the cottage cheese at all!
  • Naturally sweetened with fruit.
  • Quick and easy to make in under 5 minutes.

This smoothie is ideal if you’re trying to increase protein intake without relying solely on Greek yogurt or protein shakes.

overhead image of cottage cheese smoothie with a straw and strawberry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you taste the cottage cheese?

Nope! Once blended, cottage cheese becomes ultra-smooth and creamy. It has a very mild flavor, so the banana, berries, and protein powder completely mask it. Even cottage-cheese skeptics will love this smoothie!

What kind of protein powder did you use?

I used a vanilla protein powder (this link gets you 20% off the protein powder I use and love!), but any vanilla or unsweetened protein powder works well. Even collagen powder would taste great and blend seamlessly into this smoothie.

How much protein does this smoothie have?

This smoothie contains over 35 grams of protein, depending on the brand of cottage cheese, milk, and protein powder you use. Even without protein powder, it’s still packed with protein thanks to the cottage cheese.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

  • No protein powder: Skip it – the smoothie is still high in protein!
  • Different fruit: Swap strawberries for blueberries, raspberries, or mango.
  • Extra thickness: Add ice or more frozen fruit.
  • More nutrients: Blend in spinach or chia seeds for a nutrient boost!
cottage cheese smoothie with a strawberry on the side.
No ratings yet

Cottage Cheese Smoothie (35g protein!)

This cottage cheese smoothie is thick, creamy, and packed with over 35 grams of protein, making it a perfect healthy breakfast or high-protein snack! You can’t taste the cottage cheese at all – it blends smoothly with frozen fruit for a delicious, naturally sweet flavor. Made with simple ingredients, this protein smoothie is quick, filling, and ideal for busy mornings or post-workout fuel!
Print Pin Rate
Servings: 1 serving

Equipment

  • 1 blender

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup cottage cheese
  • 1/2 frozen banana
  • 4-5 frozen strawberries or 1/2 cup frozen berries
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 1 scoop (or 1 serving) protein powder optional for extra protein!

Instructions

  • Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth, then pour into a glass and enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1smoothie | Calories: 350kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 37g | Fat: 9g | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 20g
View Post
By
30 Minutes or Less

Healthy Strawberry Peanut Butter Chocolate Bark

By
overhead image of pieces of healthy strawberry peanut butter chocolate bark on parchment paper.

Strawberry season is my FAVE! Not only are these little red fruits totally sweet and utterly delicious, but they’re a sign of warmer weather to come. And that just makes me the happiest! I kicked off strawberry season strong this year with my 6-ingredient gluten-free strawberry shortcake, then kept the party going with healthy strawberry peanut butter cups. And you better believe that as soon as I’m no longer pregnant, I’ll be shaking myself up a skinny strawberry margarita – SO delicious and refreshing!

But the strawberry recipes don’t end there! This strawberry peanut butter chocolate bark is my take on a TikTok recipe that went viral last summer. It’s easy, healthier, perfectly sweet, and made with just 3 simple ingredients. This is also one of those recipes I recommend keeping a batch of in your freezer at all times.. ya know, in case of an emergency. And the amazing thing about this no-bake strawberry bark is you can make it during strawberry season and keep it frozen for months! Well, if it lasts that long. 😉

Why You’ll LOVE This Strawberry Peanut Butter Chocolate Bark

  • Made with just 3 simple ingredients.
  • A no-bake recipe that comes together in minutes!
  • Naturally vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free.
  • Low in sugar with wholesome ingredients.
  • Perfect for a make-ahead freezer treat or healthy snack!
three pieces of healthy strawberry peanut butter chocolate bark on top of each other.

What Makes This Recipe Healthy

  • No added refined sugar – this recipe uses the natural sweetness of strawberries instead of relying on a bunch of sugar to sweeten it!
  • Healthy fats from peanut butter, but feel free to use any nut or seed butter you prefer.
  • Whole food ingredients only – no additives, preservatives, or just plain weird ingredients.
  • Vegan and dairy-free when using plant-based chocolate chips!
healthy strawberry peanut butter chocolate bark on parchment paper.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • For extra crunch, sprinkle chopped almonds or puffed quinoa on top before freezing.
  • Want it sweeter? Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup over the strawberries before the peanut butter!
  • Use a silicone spatula to spread the chocolate smoothly and avoid lifting the layers underneath.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. I can’t guarantee it’ll last that long though!
overhead image of pieces of healthy strawberry peanut butter chocolate bark on parchment paper.
No ratings yet

3-Ingredient Healthy Strawberry Peanut Butter Chocolate Bark

This healthy strawberry peanut butter chocolate bark is made with just 3 simple ingredients and takes only minutes to prep! It's a delicious no-bake treat that's vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and low in sugar. Perfect for a freezer-friendly snack or healthy dessert everyone will love!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Chilling Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Equipment

  • 1 baking sheet

Ingredients

  • 10 large strawberries thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup peanut butter
  • 1 cup melted chocolate chips

Instructions

  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, then arrange the strawberry slices on the parchment paper in rows to form a large rectangle.
  • Spread the peanut butter on top of the strawberries in an even layer, then pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter. Gently spread the chocolate to form an even layer on top of the peanut butter.
  • Transfer the strawberry bark to the freezer for about 30 minutes or until the chocolate had hardened, then cut the bark into individual pieces and either enjoy right away or store in the freezer for later!

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 200kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 15g | Sugar: 7g
View Post
By
Desserts

6-Ingredient Gluten Free Strawberry Shortcake

By
gluten-free strawberry shortcake on a table with whipped cream and fresh strawberries on top.

It’s finally strawberry season and I’m SO excited to celebrate with this incredible gluten-free strawberry shortcake recipe! There’s just something about this warm spring air (after a VERY long winter) that makes me wanna whip out all the fresh fruit recipes I can think up. I kicked berry season off a couple weeks ago with my 5-ingredient triple berry crisp, then kept the party going with my new healthy strawberry peanut butter cups. And now – this absolutely flawless gluten-free strawberry cake! It’s a light and tender cake topped with a single-ingredient homemade whipped cream and ultra sweet strawberries. This is another one of those gluten-free cake recipes everyone (and I mean everyone) will LOVE!

a slice of gluten-free strawberry shortcake on a plate with whipped cream and strawberries on top.

Why You’ll Love This Gluten-Free Strawberry Shortcake

  • It’s made with just 6 easy-to-find, wholesome ingredients.
  • Fluffy, soft, and sweet with the perfect balance of fresh fruit and homemade whipped cream!
  • Naturally gluten-free, with easy swaps to make it dairy-free or even keto-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I store this gluten-free strawberry shortcake?
Store any leftover cake separately from the whipped cream and strawberries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Once topped, store in the fridge for up to 1 day for best texture.

Can I use a different kind of fruit?
Absolutely! Try blueberries, raspberries, peaches, or a mix of berries depending on the season.

What can I substitute for almond flour?
If you need a nut-free option, try oat flour. Note that texture and flavor may vary slightly.

gluten free strawberry shortcake on a table with whipped cream and strawberries on top.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • Be sure to beat the eggs and sugar until they’re superrrr airy and fluffy – this gives the cake its light, sponge-like texture.
  • Let the cake cool completely before adding the whipped cream to prevent it from melting!
  • Make the whipped cream just before serving for the fluffiest, creamiest texture.

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

  • Make it Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream or your favorite non-dairy whipped topping in place of heavy whipping cream.
  • Make it Keto: Replace the sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener like monk fruit or erythritol.
the inside cut of gluten free strawberry shortcake.

What Makes This the BEST Gluten-Free Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

This gluten-free strawberry shortcake is soft, simple, and super impressive. It’s a breeze to whip up in under an hour and delivers the perfect combination of sweet cake, whipped cream, and fresh fruit – no one will ever believe it’s gluten-free! Whether you’re hosting brunch or celebrating something special, this shortcake has your back.

gluten-free strawberry shortcake on a table with whipped cream and fresh strawberries on top.
5 from 1 vote

6-Ingredient Gluten Free Strawberry Shortcake

This gluten-free strawberry shortcake is the easy, light, and summery dessert you’ll want to make again and again! With just 6 simple ingredients, it’s fluffy, naturally gluten-free, and topped with a generous layer of whipped cream and sweet, juicy strawberries. It's perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any warm-weather gathering, this shortcake is a no-fuss, totally delicious crowd-pleaser!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Equipment

  • 2 large bowls
  • 1 small bowl

Ingredients

  • 4 large eggs at room temperature
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 1/2 cups almond flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder

For the whipped cream:

  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream

For the strawberries

  • 1 cup fresh strawberries sliced
  • 1 tablespoon sugar

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and grease a 6-inch cake pan.
  • Beat together the eggs and sugar with a hand or stand mixer on high speed until pale and thick, about 5 minutes.
  • Add in the almond flour and baking powder. Beat for another 30 seconds to one minute, until batter is just combined.
  • Transfer the batter to your prepared cake pan. Bake the cake 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted down the center of the cake comes out clean.
  • Remove cake from the pan and transfer it to a wire cooling rack to cool. While the cake cools, add the sliced strawberries and a tablespoon of sugar to a bowl, and stir until the strawberries are coated in sugar. Set the strawberries aside while you make the whipped cream.
  • Pour the heavy whipping cream into a large bowl and use a hand or stand mixer to beat the cream until it’s super light and fluffy and stiff peaks have formed (about 5 minutes).
  • Once the cake has completely cooled, top it with the homemade whipped cream then the strawberries. This cake is best served immediately!

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 200kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 16g | Sugar: 6g
View Post
By
30 Minutes or Less

Healthy Strawberry Peanut Butter Cups

By
a healthy strawberry peanut butter cup with a bite taken out.

I went on a sort of healthier candy spree last fall with my healthy snickers recipe, 4 ingredient date caramels, and healthy homemade butterfingers. All of which are delicious, but I was missing one of the most popular (and one of my personal faves) candies – peanut butter cups! And honestly, had I known making your own homemade healthy peanut butter cups was this easy, I’d have been making them for yearssss. Just chocolate (I used dark, but use whatever you prefer!), peanut butter, almond flour, coconut oil, and just a touch of maple syrup is all you’ll need for this super easy and no-bake dessert recipe!

healthy strawberry peanut butter cups on a sheet of parchment paper.

Why You’ll Love These Healthy Strawberry Peanut Butter Cups

  • Made with just 5 wholesome ingredients, these peanut butter cups are easy, no-bake, and naturally gluten-free and dairy-free.
  • The creamy peanut butter filling paired with rich dark chocolate and a touch of strawberry makes them a perfectly indulgent yet nourishing treat.
  • Customizable to suit your dietary needs – refined sugar-free, nut-free, or vegan – without compromising flavor.

What Makes This Recipe Healthy?

Unlike traditional peanut butter cups loaded with refined sugars and additives, this recipe uses natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey. The inclusion of almond flour adds a dose of healthy fats and fiber, while the use of dark chocolate chips provides antioxidants. By choosing unsweetened peanut butter, you control the sweetness and ensure a treat that’s both delicious and nourishing!

close up image of a healthy strawberry peanut butter cup with a bite taken out.

Can I Use a Different Sweetener?

Absolutely! If you prefer a different natural sweetener, options like agave nectar or coconut sugar work well in this recipe. Keep in mind that the sweetness level may vary, so adjust to taste. For a sugar-free version, consider using a monk fruit sweetener or stevia, but be sure to check the conversion rates as they differ from traditional sweeteners.​

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

  • Make it Nut-Free: Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter and almond flour with oat flour to eliminate nuts while maintaining texture and flavor.​
  • Make it Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free chocolate chips to ensure the entire recipe remains free from dairy products.​
  • Make it Refined Sugar-Free: Opt for dark chocolate chips sweetened with coconut sugar or stevia, and use maple syrup or honey as your sweetener of choice.​
a healthy strawberry peanut butter cup with a bite taken out.
5 from 1 vote

Healthy Strawberry Peanut Butter Cups

These healthy strawberry peanut butter cups are a delicious, no-bake treat made with just 5 simple ingredients. Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, they’re perfect for a quick snack or a better-for-you dessert. Easy to customize and bursting with sweet, chocolatey flavor, they’re the ultimate healthy twist on a classic favorite.
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 28 minutes
Servings: 16 servings

Equipment

  • 2 small bowls
  • 1 mini muffin pan

Ingredients

For the chocolate layer:

  • 1 cup chocolate chips
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil

For the peanut butter filling:

  • 1/2 cup peanut butter unsweetened
  • 2-3 tablespoons almond flour or 1-2 tablespoons coconut flour
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey

Instructions

  • Line a mini muffin pan with mini liners.
  • Melt together the chocolate chips and coconut oil in either the microwave or over a double boiler until completely melted and smooth.
  • Once the chocolate is melted, pour about 1 teaspoon of melted chocolate into the bottom of each liner and use a spoon to spread the chocolate around to cover the entire bottom of the liner. Once all liners are lined with chocolate, transfer your muffin pan to the freezer to set and set the remaining melted chocolate aside.
  • While the chocolate sets, add all peanut butter filling ingredients to a bowl and stir together until smooth, slightly thick, and combined.
  • Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the peanut butter filling mixture into the palm of your hands and roll it into a ball, then flatten it slightly to form a disk. Remove the muffin tin from the freezer and place one disk on top of each cup lined with chocolate. Repeat this process until all cups have been filled with peanut butter.
  • Pour 1-2 teaspoons of melted chocolate over each peanut butter cup, making sure you completely cover the peanut butter inside. Once all peanut butter cups are filled with chocolate, place a strawberry slice on top of each cup, then transfer the pan back into the freezer for 10-15 minutes or until the chocolate is completely set. Remove the strawberry peanut butter cups from the freezer, transfer to an airtight container and store in the fridge or enjoy right away!

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 120kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 8g | Sugar: 6g
View Post
By
30 Minutes or Less

Chocolate Covered Strawberry Almond Flour Brownies

By
overhead image of chocolate covered strawberry almond flour brownies with a chocolate drizzle and freeze dried strawberries on top.

With valentine’s day right around the corner, I was craving something extra chocolate-y! I’ve been drinking my healthy hot chocolate pretty much daily and gathered the ingredients for my 3-ingredient oreo mug cake, but I wanted something new …something a little more special. After all, this is my baby’s first Valentine’s day, and I plan on going ALL out!

So what did I do? I took my almond flour brownies, threw in some freeze dried strawberries, and topped with a chocolate drizzle – and voilà, these chocolate covered strawberry almond flour brownies were born! They’re rich, fudgy, and extra indulgent but totally grain-free, dairy-free, and sweetened with coconut sugar. So whether you’re also craving something special this month, or looking to treat that someone special, you gotta give these chocolate covered strawberry almond flour brownies a try. It’s love at first bite!

bite shot of chocolate covered strawberry almond flour brownies.

What You’ll Need to Make Chocolate Covered Strawberry Almond Flour Brownies

Sugar: I used coconut sugar in my brownies, but cane sugar works great too! Use whatever you prefer, even granulated monk fruit sweetener will do the trick.

Almond Flour: Almond flour is the secret ingredient in these chocolate covered strawberry *almond flour* brownies, making them gluten-free and grain-free. Don’t mess with it though, the almond flavor can’t be subbed without compromising this recipe!

Olive Oil: This is the secret to extra fudgy brownies! Olive oil is the magic touch for that perfect consistency and rich flavor. Embrace it – your taste buds will thank you.

Freeze Dried Strawberries: I used the Natierra freeze-dried strawberries and they were delicious. But I know Trader Joe’s sells them too! No freeze-dried strawberries? No problem. Fresh chopped strawberries work just as well.

close-up overhead image of chocolate covered strawberry almond flour brownies with chocolate drizzle and freeze dried strawberries on top.

Can I use store bought brownie mix instead?

You sure can! To make these chocolate covered strawberry brownies with store bought brownie mix, start by preparing the mix according to the package instructions. Then, add in 1 cup of freeze dried strawberries to the batter and stir to combine. Transfer the batter to a lined and/or greased brownie pan and bake according to package instructions. Once brownies are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely before topping with the chocolate drizzle. Just as delicious with half the effort!

Tips and Tricks

  • Whip the sugar and eggs until they’re super light and fluffy – a key step for that melt-in-your-mouth brownie texture.
  • When bringing together the dry ingredients, give them a gentle stir. Over-mixing can impact the texture of your brownies, so keep it light and just right.
  • For that pro finish, hold off on the chocolate drizzle until your brownies are entirely cooled. Patience pays off for that beautiful, glossy topping!
overhead image of chocolate covered strawberry almond flour brownies with a chocolate drizzle and freeze dried strawberries on top.
3 from 3 votes

Chocolate Covered Strawberry Almond Flour Brownies

These chocolate covered strawberry brownies are rich, fudgy, and totally delicious! They’re made with almond flour and coconut sugar for a healthier twist, but are still just as indulgent. These are the perfect Valentine’s Day recipe, or any day treat!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup sugar, I used coconut sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups almond flour
  • 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips, divided
  • 1/2 cup olive oil, or any vegetable oil
  • 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries, or 1 cup fresh chopped strawberries

For the chocolate drizzle:

  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips
  • 1 teaspoon coconut oil

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper.
  • In a large bowl, beat together the sugar and eggs with either a hand or stand mixer, or a whisk (hello arm workout!). Continue beating for 3-5 minutes, until light and fluffy.
  • Add the almond flour, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until everything is just combined, careful not to over-mix.
  • In a separate small bowl, add the coconut oil and 1 cup of chocolate chips. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until chocolate chips are fully melted.
  • Pour melted chocolate chips and olive oil into the brownie batter, and stir to combine. Then, add in the remaining chocolate chip and freeze dried strawberries and fold to combine.
  • Pour brownie batter into prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is just barely set. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
  • Once brownies are cool, make the chocolate drizzle by melting the chocolate chips and coconut oil together in the microwave in 30 seconds increments. Stir the chocolate between each increment until completely smooth.
  • Cut the brownies into squares, then top the brownies with the melted chocolate drizzle and additional freeze dried strawberries if you’d like.

Nutrition

Calories: 300kcal
View Post
By