Description

This Strawberry Shortcake Cottage Cheesecake Jar recipe is a delightful and light dessert that layers fluffy angel food-style cake, creamy cottage cheese cheesecake filling, and fresh strawberry slices in a convenient jar. It combines the wholesome protein of cottage cheese with the sweet, tender cake and juicy fruit for a fresh and satisfying treat perfect for quick desserts or make-ahead snacks.

Ingredients

Cheesecake filling

1.5 cups cottage cheese (good culture low fat 2%)
1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tbsp vanilla bean paste (or 1 tsp vanilla extract as substitute)
1/4 cup maple syrup

Angel Food Cake

3 egg whites
4 tbsp coconut sugar
6 tbsp all-purpose flour (sifted)
3/4 tsp vanilla extract
1 big pinch of salt
Optional: 1/8 teaspoon cream of tartar (helps stabilize the egg whites)

Additional

Fresh strawberry slices, for layering

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Instructions

Make the pound cake: In a clean bowl, whip the egg whites using a hand mixer or whisk until soft peaks form. Gradually add the coconut sugar one tablespoon at a time, whipping after each addition until the mixture becomes glossy and smooth, indicating well-incorporated sugar.
Fold in dry ingredients: Gently fold in the sifted all-purpose flour, vanilla extract, and salt (and cream of tartar if using) into the egg white mixture. Be careful to fold gently to preserve the airiness and volume of the whipped egg whites, which will ensure a light cake texture.
Cook the cake: You have two options: Microwave the batter in 2-3 large mugs or microwave-safe containers for 30-50 seconds each (depending on mug size and microwave wattage), or bake the batter in a greased mini loaf pan or 6-inch cake pan in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-18 minutes, until the cake is lightly golden and springs back when touched.
Cool the cake: Allow the cake to cool completely before handling, then crumble or cube it for layering in the jars.
Make the cheesecake filling: Combine cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, vanilla bean paste, and maple syrup in a food processor. Blend until completely smooth and creamy, achieving a silky texture reminiscent of traditional cheesecake.
Assemble the jars: Layer the cheesecake filling, crumbled pound cake, and fresh strawberry slices in jars. Repeat layers as desired to create visually appealing dessert jars.

Notes

For best texture, enjoy the jars immediately so the pound cake remains light and fluffy.
If preparing ahead, store the cheesecake filling, pound cake, and strawberries separately and assemble just before serving to maintain texture and freshness.
Blending the cottage cheese thoroughly is key to achieving a silky smooth cheesecake filling.
Chilling the cheesecake filling before assembling will help it firm up and create clean, defined layers in the jars.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American