Ingredients

• 1 container (16 oz / 454 g) low-fat cottage cheese
• 1 container (5.3 oz / 150 g) plain nonfat Greek yogurt
• 1 cup Fairlife chocolate protein shake (or any chocolate protein shake)
• 1 tub (8 oz / 226 g) whipped cream cheese
• 1 package (1 oz / 28 g) sugar-free chocolate instant pudding mix
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1½ cups pitted dark sweet cherries (fresh, frozen and thawed, or canned in juice, drained)

Optional

• Chocolate shavings
• Mini dark chocolate chips
• Whipped topping for serving

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Instructions

Step 1: Blend the Base

In a blender or food processor, combine:

• Cottage cheese
• Greek yogurt
• Whipped cream cheese
• Chocolate protein shake
• Cocoa powder
• Chocolate pudding mix
• Vanilla

Blend for 1–2 minutes until completely smooth.

Step 2: Add Cherries

Fold in the cherries gently. For more cherry flavor, lightly mash about half before mixing.

Step 3: Chill

Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour so the pudding mix thickens.

Step 4: Serve

Divide into 6 dessert cups and enjoy cold.

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Nutrition (Approximate)

Per serving (6 servings)

• Calories: 180–220
• Protein: 18–22 g
• Carbohydrates: 12–16 g
• Fat: 6–8 g
• Fiber: 2–3 g
• Sugar: 8–10 g

Nutrition varies depending on the exact brands and whether the cherries are sweetened.

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Storage

• Refrigerator: Up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

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Variations

• Chocolate Raspberry: Replace cherries with raspberries.
• Triple Chocolate: Add ¼ cup mini chocolate chips.
• Mocha: Add 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder.
• Black Forest: Top with whipped cream and extra cherries.
• Lower Carb: Use fewer cherries and add extra cocoa powder.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes. Thaw them first and drain excess liquid.

Q: Can I skip the pudding mix?
Yes, but the dessert will be thinner. You can thicken it with a little unflavored gelatin (prepared as directed) or simply chill longer.

Q: Can I use regular cream cheese?
Yes, but it will increase the calories and fat.

Q: Can I make it without a blender?
A food processor works well. Mixing by hand won’t produce the same smooth texture because of the cottage cheese.

Q: Is this healthy?
It’s relatively high in protein and lower in sugar than many chocolate desserts, especially when made with sugar-free pudding and unsweetened cherries.

Q: Can I use another fruit?
Absolutely. Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or chopped bananas all work well.

Q: How can I increase the protein?
Add an extra ½ cup Greek yogurt or mix in 1 scoop of chocolate protein powder. If using protein powder, add a splash of milk or protein shake if needed to maintain a creamy consistency.