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!
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
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- 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
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In small cup or jar, mix together lemon juice and vanilla syrup to make “lemon syrup”. Set aside.
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Find a 12-ounce minimum capacity mug or bowl with wide opening (large enough to mostly accommodate rice cake).
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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.
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Next add another 1/3 of lemon syrup, cottage cheese, Greek yogurt and protein powder to small blender and process until smooth.
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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.
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Top with remaining cottage cheese filling mixture. Chill for 15 minutes to set.
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If desired, top with whipped cream, lemon zest and fresh chopped mint.
