What can you use cottage cheese for in baking?

Cottage cheese is an incredibly versatile secret weapon in baking. You can use it to add moisture, protein, and a wonderfully tender texture to a wide range of recipes. Beyond cookies, it works beautifully in pancakes, muffins, quick breads, and even brownies. I also love using it as a lighter substitute for cream cheese or ricotta in cheesecakes and filled pastries. The key is to blend it until it's completely smooth so it incorporates seamlessly into your batter.

Do cottage cheese cookies need to be refrigerated?

That's a great question! For short-term storage, your cottage cheese cookies are perfectly fine in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. However, if you want to keep them fresh for longer, I do recommend refrigerating them. In the fridge, they will stay soft and delicious for about a week. The extra moisture from the cottage cheese is what helps them maintain that wonderful chewy texture.

How does cottage cheese affect baking?

Cottage cheese is a true game-changer for baked goods. Primarily, it adds a significant amount of moisture, which results in an incredibly soft and tender crumb that resists drying out. It also boosts the protein content, making your treats more satisfying. When blended, it provides richness and a subtle tangy flavor that balances sweetness, much like buttermilk or sour cream, without being overpowering. Essentially, it makes your baked goods better without anyone ever guessing your secret ingredient.

What's the best cottage cheese for cookies?

For the absolute best results, I always reach for a full-fat (at least 4% milkfat), small-curd cottage cheese. The higher fat content is key for creating that rich, tender, and moist texture we're aiming for in these cookies. Small curds are also preferable because they blend into a smoother, creamier consistency much more easily. I would advise staying away from fat-free or low-fat versions for this recipe, as their higher water content can negatively affect the final texture.

Cottage Cheese Cookies: The #1 Ultimate Tip for Soft Treats

Name: Cottage Cheese Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup full-fat small-curd cottage cheese, blended smooth; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Optional: 1 cup chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit