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Vanilla Protein Ricotta Dessert - Light, Creamy, and Satisfying

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Ricotta cheese (whole milk or part-skim): 1 cup. Whole milk ricotta gives a richer texture; part-skim keeps calories lower.
  • Vanilla protein powder: 1 scoop (about 25–30 g). Choose whey, casein, or a plant-based blend you like.
  • Milk of choice: 2–4 tablespoons. Dairy or unsweetened almond/oat milk both work (adjust for thickness).
  • Pure vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon for a clean vanilla flavor.
  • Sweetener (optional): 1–2 teaspoons maple syrup, honey, or a zero-calorie sweetener if your protein powder isn’t very sweet.
  • Pinch of fine sea salt: Enhances the vanilla and rounds out sweetness.
  • Optional toppings: Fresh berries, shaved dark chocolate, a dusting of cinnamon, chopped nuts, cacao nibs, crushed cookies, or a drizzle of nut butter.

Method
 

  1. Drain the ricotta (if needed): If your ricotta looks watery, spoon it into a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth and let it drain for 10–15 minutes. This keeps the dessert thick and creamy.
  2. Whip the base: Add the ricotta to a mixing bowl. Beat with a hand mixer for 30–60 seconds until smooth and fluffy. You can also use a whisk, but mixing longer helps remove graininess.
  3. Add the protein and flavor: Sprinkle in the vanilla protein powder, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Start mixing on low to avoid clumps and powder puffs.
  4. Adjust with milk: Add 2 tablespoons of milk and blend. If it’s too thick or chalky, add more milk 1 tablespoon at a time until the texture is silky and spoonable—similar to soft mousse.
  5. Taste and sweeten: Try a spoonful. If you want it sweeter or your protein powder is mild, add your chosen sweetener and mix again. Aim for balanced sweetness, not overly sugary.
  6. Chill briefly: Spoon into small bowls or glasses and refrigerate for 15–30 minutes. Chilling helps the flavors meld and the texture set slightly.
  7. Top and serve: Right before serving, add toppings. Fresh berries brighten it up, dark chocolate adds depth, and nuts bring crunch.