Pucker Up for Lemon Protein Tiramisu

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Lemon Protein Tiramisu made with cottage cheese, greek yogurt, protein powder, rice cakes and a lemon as the main ingredients.

Lemon lovers, this one’s for you! If you’re a fan of all things lemony and looking for a healthy dessert (or even a breakfast option), get ready to fall in love with our Lemon Protein Tiramisu. This refreshing treat is not only bursting with zesty lemon flavor but also packed with protein, making it a perfect guilt-free indulgence. Just 256 cal, 24g carb, 4g fat and a whopping 33g protein for the generous-sized serving.

The Healthy Twist

Our Lemon Protein Tiramisu is designed with health and fitness enthusiasts in mind. It’s made without any added sugar, loads of fat, or gluten, so you can enjoy it without worrying about derailing your goals. The surprise ingredients that make this tiramisu both nutritious and delicious are cottage cheese, protein powder, and rice cakes. Yes, you read that right!

If you're a fan of all things lemony and looking for a healthy dessert (or even a breakfast option), get ready to fall in love with our Lemon Protein Tiramisu. This refreshing treat is not only bursting with zesty lemon flavor but also packed with protein, making it a perfect guilt-free indulgence. Just 256 cal, 24g carb, 4g fat and a whopping 33g protein for the generous-sized serving.

Why Cottage Cheese, Protein Powder and Rice Cakes?

  • Cottage Cheese: This creamy dairy product is an excellent source of protein, calcium, and vitamins. It’s low in fat and calories, making it a perfect ingredient for a health-conscious dessert – it blends into a smooth and creamy consistency. Cottage cheese desserts will keep you filled up!
  • Protein Powder: You only need about ½ scoop of vanilla protein powder, but it adds another 10g +/- protein depending on the type you use. It also acts a bit as a binder in the filling, but you CAN omit if you’d prefer.
  • Rice Cakes: These light and crispy cakes are naturally gluten-free and provide a good base for the layers of our tiramisu.  Rice cakes add a satisfying texture that sops up flavor without the heaviness of traditional cake layers (Lady Fingers). 
  • Tip: Use fresh lemon juice, if at all possible, the flavor is just next level. About one medium lemon should give you enough juice when squeezed (try this squeezer).

Perfectly Portioned for One

One of the best things about this Lemon Protein Tiramisu is that it’s perfectly portioned for one and fits into a bowl or wide-mouth mug about 16-ounces (I used these vintage-style glass mugs with lids, so be convenient for keeping covered in the fridge). Whether you’re treating yourself to a solo dessert or need a quick and healthy breakfast option, this recipe is convenient and easy to prepare without baking.

How to Enjoy Lemon Rice Cake Tiramisu

This versatile dish can be enjoyed in various ways:

  • As a Dessert: End your meal on a high note with this refreshing and protein-packed treat. And, did you know that dairy products can help you sleep better, making it perfect at night.
  • For Breakfast: Kickstart your day with a healthy, balanced and energizing breakfast that feels like a treat.
  • Post-Workout Snack: Replenish your energy and protein levels with a serving of this delicious tiramisu. 33 grams of protein!

Also, if you like this cottage cheese dessert recipe, you’ll love this Caramel Protein Cottage Cheese Tiramisu

A guilt-free makeover on a classic dessert favorite – Caramel Protein Tiramisu! Swapping out traditional ingredients for healthier options like blended cottage cheese for mascarpone cheese and rice cakes for lady fingers creates a protein dessert that nourishes with 31g protein for only 281 calories.

.Note: This post contains affiliate links.

Lemon Protein Tiramisu made with cottage cheese, greek yogurt, protein powder, rice cakes and a lemon as the main ingredients.
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Lemon Protein Tiramisu
Prep Time
10 mins
chill to set
5 mins
Total Time
25 mins
 
Pucker Up! Lemon lovers will be obsessed with this healthy dessert (or breakfast) packed with protein and no added sugar or gluten. Cottage cheese and rice cakes are the surprise ingredients, trust me – it works! No- bake, no stress with amazing macros for a little meal or dessert ready in no time– 256 cal, 24g carb, 4g fat and 33g protein.
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, high protein, Italian, workout
Keyword: cottage cheese, dessert for one, high protein, lemon, protein powder, tiramisu
Servings: 1 serving
Ingredients
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice about 1 medium lemon
  • ¼ cup sugar-free vanilla syrup like the coffee shop kind
  • 2 plain rice cakes standard size, not minis
  • ½ cup 2% cottage cheese
  • ¼ cup 0% Greek yogurt
  • ½ scoop vanilla whey protein about 2 tbsp
  • Optional toppings: whipped cream lemon zest, mint sprigs
Instructions
  1. In small cup or jar, mix together lemon juice and vanilla syrup to make “lemon syrup”. Set aside.
  2. Find a 12-ounce minimum capacity mug or bowl with wide opening (large enough to mostly accommodate rice cake).
  3. Set 1st rice cake in or on top (if slightly too large) of mug bowl, and soften with approx. 1/3 of the lemon syrup. Push down into bottom of container.
  4. Next add another 1/3 of lemon syrup, cottage cheese, Greek yogurt and protein powder to small blender and process until smooth.
  5. Pour ½ of this mixture over the rice cake in cup. Next add 2nd rice cake and soften with remaining lemon syrup, pressing down gently to make another layer.
  6. Top with remaining cottage cheese filling mixture. Chill for 15 minutes to set.
  7. If desired, top with whipped cream, lemon zest and fresh chopped mint.

Creamy Cottage Cheese Cheesecakes in 5 Delicious Flavors for Breakfast or Dessert

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Whether for breakfast, dessert or snack-time, these little, no-bake cheesecakes are pleasingly delicious, creamy and protein packed. They all starts with one of my favorite ingredients, blended cottage cheese. A cottage cheese cup is such a powerhouse food providing lots of protein and calcium for a relatively low-calorie expenditure. I love easy cottage cheese recipes.

Featuring blended smooth cottage cheese, these creamy, no-bake treats are packed with protein, calcium and other great nutrition, making them a smart choice for breakfast, snack time or a healthy dessert!

Cottage cheese makes the perfect base for these healthy cheesecakes that are portioned up in single-serve size. Even if you think you don’t like cottage cheese, you’ll change your mind – once the curds are blended up smooth, it becomes an amazing creaming filling for cheesecake creations (and also cottage cheese bowls, smoothies, savory pasta dishes, baked recipes and more). When I get home from the store, I usually blend mine up in a smaller blender (like this one) and keep on hand in the fridge for whatever use I have in mind!

Also, it’s a good idea to have smaller mason jars, mugs, ramekins or bowls – around 10-14 ounces to portion out the no-bake cheesecakes before setting in the fridge! ENJOY!

This no added sugar cheesecake dessert features cottage cheese and collagen blended until creamy -- sugar free chocolate chips and strawberries put this no-bake, no crust, lower carb, single-serve recipes over the top.

Sugar-free Chocolate Chip Cottage Cheese Cheesecake: Dig into this smart, no-added-sugar, single-serve solution that will sooth your sweet tooth and give you enough protein (30g) to stand in for a full meal – thanks to cottage cheese and collagen powder.

These No-Bake Beet Protein Cheesecakes are not only pretty in pink and very delicious, but also include the functional benefits of eating beets and lots of protein thanks to blended cottage cheese and protein powder! Plus, that sugar-free chocolate topping is amazing. A healthy dessert or post workout snack.

No-Bake Beet Protein Cheesecakes with Sugar-Free Chocolate: You’ll love the pretty-in-pink benefits of Beetroot Powder, plus 39g protein per cup!

Boston Cream Pie Cottage Cheese Protein Chesecake

Boston Cream Protein Cheesecake for Two: You’ll love how an American classic dessert is transformed into a luscious, lower-carb (and high protein) treat that is also gluten-free and has no added sugar.

Mango Protein Cheesecake Cup for One is a no-bake, easy high protein snack that will be your new tropical-inspired favorite for a healthy dessert, post-workout snack or even an easy breakfast that also boasts lots of calcium and fiber.

Mango Protein Cheesecake Cup for One: Mango pairs up so deliciously with chia seeds and dresses up the top of this creamy protein snack. You’ll feel oh-so tropical.

Maple Pecan Protein Cheesecakes -- are a protein-packed, low-carb option that is healthy enough for breakfast or a smart dessert!

Maple Pecan Protein Cheesecake Cups: These no-bake, mini cheesecakes are lower-carb, higher protein, and offers 75% of your recommended daily calcium needs. Plus, you’ll fall in love with that maple flavor.

Featuring blended smooth cottage cheese, these creamy, no-bake treats are packed with protein, calcium and other great nutrition, making them a smart choice for breakfast, snack time or a healthy dessert!

Crispy Chocolate Banana Bites: A Quick, Easy, and Healthy Snack

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Craving something sweet yet healthy? Look no further than Crispy Chocolate Banana Bites.

Treat your sweet tooth to this healthy snack - a sugar-free crispy chocolate inspired by a Nestle Crunch bar, nut butter and banana slices! Prep a batch and store in the freezer!

This delightful snack satisfies your sweet tooth while keeping the carbs low, thanks to sugar-free chocolate. In part, inspired by the classic Nestles Crunch bar, these bite-sized snacks use popped amaranth to create that irresistible crunch. Popped amaranth is a light, low-calorie, gluten-free ancient grain that boasts plenty of protein, making it a nutritious alternative.

Why You’ll Love Crispy Chocolate Banana Bites

1. Low-Carb and Sugar-Free: By using sugar-free chocolate, you get sweetness with fewer carbs. It’s a great option for those looking to reduce their sugar intake without sacrificing flavor. I used Sugar-Free Milk Chocolate Chips from ChocZero – but you can use and type of chocolate – eg, dark, white, even a regular, full sugar chocolate.

2. Nutritious Crunch: The “crispy” element comes from popped amaranth, a nutritious grain that adds texture and protein. If you can’t find popped amaranth, don’t worry! Unsweetened puffed rice cereal or toasted quinoa are excellent substitutes that still deliver that delightful crunch.

3. Perfect for Ripe Bananas: Have a banana that’s getting too ripe? These bites are an excellent way to use it up, especially if you’re not in the mood for a smoothie or banana bread. The natural sweetness of the ripe banana pairs perfectly with the chocolate coating and nut butter.

4. Easy Meal Prep: Make a batch or two of these chocolate, banana and nut butter bites to store in the freezer. They are prepped in mini muffin pan – I used a metal pan in video, but later realized much easier to pop out of a .silicone mini muffin pan. They’re perfect for those moments when snack cravings hit. Just grab a few and enjoy a healthier alternative to a candy bar.

Post contains Amazon affiliate links. Visit my Amazon store for more products I love to use in my recipes.

Treat your sweet tooth to this healthy snack - a sugar-free crispy chocolate inspired by a Nestle Crunch bar, nut butter and banana slices! Prep a batch and store in the freezer! Only 86 cal, guten free
Treat your sweet tooth to this healthy snack - a sugar-free crispy chocolate inspired by a Nestle Crunch bar, nut butter and banana slices! Prep a batch and store in the freezer. Gluten-free and only 84 cal per piece
Print
Crispy Chocolate Banana Bites
Prep Time
10 mins
freezer
20 mins
Total Time
30 mins
 

Treat your sweet tooth to this healthy snack – a sugar-free crispy chocolate inspired by a Nestle Crunch bar, nut butter and banana slices! Prep a batch and store in the freezer!

Course: Dessert, Snack
Keyword: amaranth, banana, chocolate, peanut butter
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: 84 kcal
Ingredients
  • 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
  • ½ cup sugar-free chocolate chips
  • 1 tsp coconut oil
  • ¼ cup popped amaranth can sub unsweetened puffed rice cereal
  • 1 medium banana sliced into 12 discs
  • 3 tbsp nut butter of choice
  • 1 medium banana sliced into 12 discs
Instructions
  1. In a 12-ct mini muffin tin sprinkle salt evenly in the bottoms of each opening.
  2. In a small, microwave-safe bowl, heat chocolate chips with coconut oil for a total of 90 seconds, stirring once after 60 seconds. If needed, continue heating in 10 second increments, stirring between, until chocolate is smooth and glossy.
  3. Stir in popped amaranth (or substitute). Divide this chocolate mixture evenly among the 12 openings.
  4. Next dollop in about 1 tsp. of nut butter over chocolate and then press in a banana slice.
  5. Freeze for 20-30 minutes to set. Let sit on the counter for 1-2 minutes to loosen, and then invert muffin tins and tap with spoon to release.
  6. Store leftovers in freezer for up to 2-3 days.
Recipe Notes

Makes 12 pieces, each with 84 calories, 10g carb, 6g fat, and 1g protein.

No Noodle Veggie Mug Lasagna for One: A Quick and Nutritious Meal

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Who isn’t looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal that can be whipped up in minutes? My Layered Veggie Mug Lasagna for One is the perfect, perfectly-portioned solution for those busy lunch hours or hectic evenings when you want to stick to your clean-eating goals and avoid take-out or lackluster packaged meal products.

The entire portion of this no-noodle veggie lasagna has amazing macros to fuel your day. Only 188 calories, 16g carbs, 6g fat and 21 g protein. The protein primarily comes from cottage cheese (2% milkfat) that makes an excellent cheesy, creamy swap for lasagnas signature ricotta cheese.

Also, this healthy comfort food dish replaces traditional lasagna noodles with thinly-sliced zucchini and packs in a variety of fresh veggies, offering a nutritious and satisfying meal. In addition to the zucchini, I used fresh spinach, button mushrooms and grape tomatoes – you can tweak this to suit your taste preferences (and what you might need to use up in your produce bin).

Why You’ll Love This Lasagna in a Mug Recipe:

  • Zucchini Noodles: Swap out carb-heavy pasta with thinly sliced zucchini, adding a delightful crunch and a boost of vitamins. The key for success here is to slice the zucchini very thinly (it cooks quicker) and also to pat it down to remove extra moisture before layering up you mug (this helps prevent watery lasagna).
  • Protein-Packed: As mentioned above, using cottage cheese (I recommend 2%, not 0% milkfat) instead of ricotta provides more protein and less fat, making it a healthier option.
  • Quick and Easy: Assemble your lasagna in a 16-ounce mug (wider mug a better option than tall and skinny) and microwave it in minutes. It’s perfect for a speedy lunch or dinner.
  • Portion-Controlled: This single-serving recipe ensures you have the right portion size, helping you stay on track with your dietary goals.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: You can prepare your mug lasagna ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a couple of days. Consider doubling or tripling the batch into multiple mugs. Just heat and eat when you’re ready!

This layered veggie mug lasagna is a game-changer for busy days when you need a wholesome meal without the hassle. Enjoy the convenience and taste of this delightful dish, perfect for anyone looking to eat healthily without spending hours in the kitchen.

This post may contain affiliate links. I earn a small commission from any sales, which helps me host and operate this site. Thank you!

This single portion lasagna made in a mug for one is a quick, nutrition and delicious meal that is ready in minutes. A perfectly portioned, high-protein and lower carb solution for your busy lunch hour or a hectic evening. Easy to meal prep ahead and then heat and eat when ready. Gluten free and vegetarian.
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No-Noodle Layered Veggie Mug Lasagna for One
Prep Time
7 mins
Cook Time
3 mins
Total Time
10 mins
 

This single portion lasagna made in a mug for one is a quick, nutrition and delicious meal that is ready in minutes. A perfectly portioned, high-protein and lower carb solution for your busy lunch hour or a hectic evening. Easy to meal prep ahead and then heat and eat when ready. Gluten free and vegetarian.

Course: dinner, lunch
Cuisine: Italian, low carb, vegetarian
Keyword: lasagna, mug meal, single portion
Servings: 1 serving
Calories: 188 kcal
Ingredients
  • 3 ounces zucchini sliced into very thin discs
  • ½ cup 2% cottage cheese
  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • 2/3 cup chopped fresh spinach
  • ¼ cup marinara sauce
  • 3 small button mushrooms sliced thin
  • 5 grape tomatoes chopped
  • 2 tbsp shredded mozzarella
  • Optional: chopped fresh basil
Instructions
  1. Take sliced zucchini and blot with paper towel to remove any excess moisture. Set aside.
  2. Mix Italian seasoning and garlic powder into cottage cheese until combined.
  3. In minimum 16-ounce mug (wider better than tall and skinny mug), layer 1/3 of zucchini slices in bottom. Top with about 3 tbsp cottage cheese mixture, spread to cover zucchini. Next add half of spinach to this layer. Then sliced mushrooms and about 2 tbsp marinara.
  4. Add another layer of zucchini (another 1/3 portion) and top with 3 tbsp cottage cheese mixture, then more mushrooms and marinara
  5. Top with zucchini one last time, using up remainder, and top with the remaining cottage cheese. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and top with tomatoes.
  6. Microwave on high for 1 minute, then let rest 15 seconds. Microwave 1 more minute (or until hot and bubbling through, then let rest for 1 minute before eating. Top with fresh basil if desired.
Recipe Notes

Delicious Red Fruit Salad with Lime-Honey-Mint Dressing

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Summer is the perfect time to indulge in fresh, vibrant, and healthy dishes, and nothing screams summer more than a refreshing fruit salad. Add a pop of bold color to your table with a  red fruit salad, made up of the summer’s best season – watermelon, strawberries, cherries and raspberries.

This beautiful fruit salad -- featuring red raspberries, strawberries, watermelon and cherries – will be the star of your summer celebration. The Honey Lime Mint dressing is super easy to make and adds a flavorful upgrade to your breakfast, lunch, or dinner!

Not only is a salad of red fruit visually stunning, it’s also packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and a burst of natural sweetness. The easy Lime-Honey-Mint Dressing enhances the sweetness with a bright tang of citrus – no need to dirty another dish, I just mix it up in the bottom of my serving dish and then toss around after adding fruit before serving.

This beautiful fruit salad -- featuring red raspberries, strawberries, watermelon and cherries – will be the star of your summer celebration. The Honey Lime Mint dressing is super easy to make and adds a flavorful upgrade to your breakfast, lunch, or dinner!

A fun way to prep the salad is in a large, wide-mouth mason jar – keep in the fridge until ready to serve. Then dump into a bowl before serving, the dressing on the bottom ends up on top!!  Perfect for a summer patio meal, pool party or pot luck!

This beautiful fruit salad -- featuring red raspberries, strawberries, watermelon and cherries – will be the star of your summer celebration. The Honey Lime Mint dressing is super easy to make and adds a flavorful upgrade to your breakfast, lunch, or dinner!
This beautiful fruit salad -- featuring red raspberries, strawberries, watermelon and cherries – will be the star of your summer celebration. The Honey Lime Mint dressing is super easy to make and adds a flavorful upgrade to your breakfast, lunch, or dinner!
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Red Fruit Salad with Lime-Honey-Mint Dressing
Prep Time
10 mins
Total Time
10 mins
 
This beautiful fruit salad — featuring red raspberries, strawberries, watermelon and cherries – will be the star of your summer celebration. Super easy to make, so also perfect for lazy days or busy night meals.
Course: Dessert, entree salad, Side Dish, Snack
Keyword: cherries, fruit salad, raspberries, strawberries, watermelon
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
  • Dressing:
  • 2 Tbsp. honey
  • 1 ½ Tbsp lime juice
  • 2 tsp chopped fresh mint leaves
  • Fruit 4 cups total, can vary a bit
  • ¾ cup raspberries
  • ¾ cup halved and pitted cherries
  • 1 cup sliced strawberries
  • 1 ½ cup watermelon cubes 1/2” cut
Instructions

  1. In bottom of glass jar that holds 4 cups or a medium serving bowl, whisk together the honey, lime juice and chopping fresh mint.

  2. When ready to add raspberries, halved and pitted cherries, sliced strawberries, and chopped watermelon to bowl and gently toss to coat with dressing.
  3. Store leftovers, covered, in the fridge for up to two days.

  • 1 ½ cup watermelon cubes 1/2” cut

Instructions