Name: Cottage Cheese Cookie Skillet (High Protein) Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup full fat cottage cheese (2% fat recommended, avoid low fat); 1/3 cup maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 large egg; tiny pinch salt; 3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons oat flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 to 1 cup dark chocolate chips (adjust to preference, roughly 1 cup used); Additional dark chocolate chips for topping; flaky sea salt; vanilla ice cream (optional but recommended)

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 72 reviews

If you are looking for a warm, comforting treat that satisfies your sweet tooth while giving you a protein boost, the Cottage Cheese Cookie Skillet (High Protein) Recipe is an absolute game-changer. This unique skillet cookie combines the creamy tang of cottage cheese with the rich indulgence of chocolate chips, creating a soft, slightly cake-like cookie that feels indulgent without the guilt. Whether you’re after a hearty dessert or a protein-packed snack, this recipe brings together simple ingredients in a fun, easy way that anyone can master in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Six clear glass bowls are arranged on a white marbled surface, each filled with different ingredients. The top left bowl contains small yellow grains, the top middle bowl has a dark amber liquid, and the top right bowl is filled with tiny dark brown chocolate chips. In the center bottom, a bowl holds white cottage cheese with a lumpy texture. To the bottom left, there is a bowl with a dark brown liquid, and the bottom right bowl contains a light beige powder. The image is bright and clear, showing the contrast between the ingredients and the white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe comes together with just a handful of straightforward, wholesome ingredients that each play a vital role in creating the perfect texture and flavor. From the creamy cottage cheese that brings richness and protein to the oat flour that adds a subtle nuttiness and structure, every item is essential.

Full fat cottage cheese: The star ingredient providing moisture, creaminess, and a boost of protein for that high-protein promise.
Maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness and depth, complementing the tang of the cottage cheese beautifully.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, sweet notes that make the cookie irresistible.
Large egg: Binds the ingredients together and helps the cookie puff up just right.
Tiny pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies all the flavors.
Oat flour: Provides a tender crumb and a mild, nutty dimension perfect for cookies.
Baking soda: Gives the cookie lift and a soft texture without heaviness.
Dark chocolate chips: The melt-in-your-mouth pockets of decadence – feel free to add more on top for that chocolaty finish.
Vanilla ice cream (optional): A creamy topping that takes this skillet cookie from delicious to divine.
Flaky sea salt: A finishing touch that enhances the chocolate and adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness.

How to Make Cottage Cheese Cookie Skillet (High Protein) Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures your cookie skillet will bake evenly and rise perfectly without drying out.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a bowl, combine the full fat cottage cheese, maple syrup, vanilla extract, large egg, and a tiny pinch of salt. Mix these until smooth and uniform. Next, add in the oat flour and baking soda, stirring gently just until the batter comes together. Finally, fold in the dark chocolate chips, saving some to sprinkle on top before baking. The batter might look slightly lumpy or thin—that’s totally normal and will transform beautifully in the oven.

Step 3: Prepare the Skillet

Grab a 10-inch skillet—cast iron is ideal for even heat distribution and that rustic look. Lightly spray it with oil to prevent sticking. Pour the batter into the skillet and spread it evenly across the surface. It may look thin right now, but rest assured, it will puff up as it bakes.

Step 4: Bake the Cookie Skillet

Place the skillet in the oven and bake for 20 to 30 minutes, checking with a toothpick for doneness. The cookie will appear soft and cake-like when ready, not crisp like a traditional cookie, which is exactly what you want. I usually take mine out at 25 minutes—perfectly tender and moist.

Step 5: Cool and Add Final Touches

Allow the cookie skillet to cool slightly before topping. Sprinkle generously with flaky sea salt to enhance the sweetness and take your taste buds on a glorious ride. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate cozy finishing touch.

How to Serve Cottage Cheese Cookie Skillet (High Protein) Recipe

A white bowl holds a dessert with two main layers: the bottom layer is a warm, light brown cake mixed with melted dark chocolate pieces that create dark brown, shiny patches with a slightly rough texture; on top sits a round scoop of smooth, creamy off-white vanilla ice cream that is starting to melt slightly around the edges. A gold spoon with a white handle rests inside the bowl, positioned on the right side. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding flaky sea salt on top brings a subtle crunch and complexity that pairs amazingly well with the melty dark chocolate. A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream not only contrasts in temperature but also adds lusciousness, making every bite a perfect harmony of warm and cold, sweet and salty.

Side Dishes

This cookie skillet is pretty much a star on its own, but if you want to turn it into a fuller dessert experience, consider fresh seasonal berries or a drizzle of homemade berry compote alongside. It adds a bright, fresh contrast to the rich, indulgent cookie.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the cookie skillet straight from the pan for a rustic, family-style vibe that’s perfect for sharing. You can also scoop individual portions into dessert bowls and top each with a sprig of fresh mint or a dusting of cocoa powder to impress guests or simply make your snack feel more special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which might be tough!), store the skillet covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay good for up to 3 days while maintaining its soft, cake-like texture.

Freezing

The cookie skillet freezes well if you want to prepare it ahead of time. Simply wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then in foil or an airtight freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

To bring the cookie skillet back to life, warm it in a 350-degree oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions gently, just enough to warm without making it soggy. Top again with ice cream or sea salt to refresh all the flavors.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat or non-fat cottage cheese instead of full fat?

Using 2% or full fat cottage cheese works best for moisture and flavor. Low-fat versions might yield a drier cookie, but you can experiment if you prefer a lighter option—just expect a slight difference in texture.

Is oat flour necessary or can I substitute it?

Oat flour adds a mild nutty flavor and soft texture, but you can substitute with all-purpose flour or another gluten-free flour if needed. Keep in mind that this might tweak the flavor and texture slightly.

Can I make this cookie skillet dairy-free?

Since cottage cheese is central to this high protein recipe, dairy-free versions would require a complete rework. There isn’t a straightforward substitute that maintains the same protein content and texture in this recipe.

How many servings does this recipe make?

This recipe yields about 8 servings, making it perfect for sharing or for plenty of protein-packed snacks throughout the week.

What makes this a high protein recipe?

The use of full fat cottage cheese and the inclusion of eggs add significant protein. Compared to traditional cookies, this skillet provides a more satisfying, nutrient-rich option that supports your hunger and fitness goals.

Final Thoughts

This Cottage Cheese Cookie Skillet (High Protein) Recipe is a lovely twist on dessert that brings warmth, comfort, and nutrition to your table. Whether you’re cooking for family or indulging in a solo treat, it’s a joy to make and even more delightful to eat. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite cookie that’s as good for your body as it is for your taste buds.