In a world filled with sugary temptations, embarking on a sugar-free journey can be quite the challenge. However, the benefits are undeniable: improved energy levels, better overall health, and a reduced risk of various diseases. If you’ve been sugar-free for a year, or if you’re simply looking for a delicious and nutritious treat that won’t derail your sugar-free lifestyle, we’ve got just the recipe for you. Here’s a sugar-free energy dessert that’s truly a treasure trove of flavors and benefits!
Ingredients
To make this sugar-free energy dessert, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Assorted dried fruits (about 130g) – Dried cranberries, apricots, prunes, and raisins
20g of quick-dissolve gelatin
50g of nuts
50g of peanuts
50g of pumpkin seeds
350g of cottage cheese
80g of yogurt
Preparing the Dried Fruits
Start by soaking the assorted dried fruits in water for about 15 to 20 minutes. This step helps remove preservatives and slightly hydrate the fruits.
Start by soaking the assorted dried fruits in water for about 15 to 20 minutes. This step helps remove preservatives and slightly hydrate the fruits.
After soaking, place the fruits on a paper towel to dry. Cover with another towel and let them air dry.
Once dry, chop the fruits into smaller pieces for easier incorporation into the dessert.
Dissolving the Gelatin
While the fruits are drying, dissolve 20g of quick-dissolve gelatin in 100g of water. Set this mixture aside.
Roasting the Nuts
In a pan, roast the nuts, peanuts, and pumpkin seeds. Stir and toss them occasionally to prevent burning.
Once roasted, let the nuts cool.
Combining Cottage Cheese and Yogurt
In a large bowl, mix 350g of cottage cheese and 80g of yogurt. Blend them thoroughly using an immersion blender until you achieve a smooth consistency.
Incorporating the Gelatin
Melt the previously prepared gelatin mixture.
Take about two tablespoons of the cottage cheese-yogurt mixture and incorporate it into the melted gelatin.
Return this gelatin-cottage cheese mixture to the bowl with the rest of the cottage cheese-yogurt mix. Blend again with the immersion blender. The gelatin will help bind everything together.
Mixing Fruits, Nuts, and Seeds
Add the dried fruits, roasted nuts, and pumpkin seeds to the cottage cheese and gelatin mixture in the bowl. Use a ladle to mix everything well until the ingredients are evenly combined.
Shaping the Mixture
Gently pour the mixture onto a sheet of aluminum foil.
Shape the mixture into a thick line along the length of the wrap.
Roll the Saran wrap in the same manner you would roll sushi, creating a tube shape.
Twist the ends of the Saran wrap tightly to ensure the mixture holds its shape.
Cooling in the Refrigerator
Place the wrapped mixture in the refrigerator for about 2 hours to set.
Unwrapping and Slicing
Once ready, remove the dessert from the refrigerator and unwrap the Saran film.
Cut the dessert into individual portions. Each slice is a perfect source of fiber, protein, natural sugars, and essential fats.
Conclusion
Eating sugar-free doesn’t mean giving up taste or pleasure. This sugar-free energy dessert proves that you can indulge in a delicious treat while staying true to your sugar-free lifestyle. With a delightful combination of dried fruits, nuts, seeds, and creamy benefits, this dessert is a treasure of nutrition and flavor.
FAQ
Can I use other dried fruits in this recipe? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite dried fruits to create a customized version of this dessert.
Is gelatin necessary, or can I use a vegetarian alternative? Gelatin helps set the dessert, but you can explore vegetarian gelatin alternatives if you prefer.
How should I store this dessert? Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to stay fresh.
Can I add other nuts or seeds for variety? Definitely! Mix and match nuts and seeds according to your taste and dietary preferences.
Is this dessert suitable for a low-carb diet? Yes, it can be adapted to a low-carb diet by adjusting the choice of dried fruits and monitoring portion sizes.