Ingredients:
- 300 g cottage cheese or curd cheese (cream cheese)
- 40 g coconut or cocoa butter (can be replaced with regular butter)
- 40 g honey (or another natural sweetener, if preferred)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 20 g cocoa powder
- 40 g peanuts, roughly chopped
- 160 g dark chocolate, sugar-free
- 40 g olive oil
Instructions:
- Prepare the Base:
- In a mixing bowl, blend the cottage cheese or cream cheese until smooth. If the cheese has lumps, consider passing it through a sieve or giving it a quick blend for a silkier texture.
- Mix Ingredients:
- Melt the coconut or cocoa butter in a small saucepan or in the microwave. Allow it to cool slightly before adding it to the cheese.
- Add the melted butter, honey, and vanilla extract to the cheese. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully combined.
- Sift in the cocoa powder to avoid lumps and mix until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Add Crunch and Flavor:
- Stir in the chopped peanuts, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture. This adds a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with chocolate.
- Prepare the Chocolate Coating:
- In a separate bowl, combine the dark chocolate and olive oil. Melt them together using a double boiler or microwave, stirring frequently to ensure the mixture is smooth.
- Form the Bites:
- Line a tray with parchment paper. Using a spoon or a small ice cream scoop, form the cheese mixture into balls and place them on the prepared tray.
- Dip each ball into the melted chocolate mixture using a fork, ensuring they are fully coated. Let the excess chocolate drip off before placing them back on the parchment paper.
- Chill and Serve:
- Once all bites are coated in chocolate, refrigerate them for at least 1-2 hours until they are firm.
- Keep them stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
These chocolate cheesecake bites are a perfect treat for any occasion, offering a guilt-free indulgence without sacrificing flavor. Enjoy the rich, creamy texture and the robust flavors of cocoa and peanuts in each bite!