Cottage cheese might not be the first thing that comes to mind when baking cookies, but it works wonderfully to add moisture, protein, and a tender texture without needing loads of butter or cream. These cookies are a great way to use leftover paneer (fresh cottage cheese) or even store-bought ones. Let’s bake some soft, melt-in-your-mouth cookies — the healthy way!
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese (paneer), crumbled or mashed
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- ½ cup jaggery powder or coconut sugar
- ¼ cup oil or melted butter
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- 1–2 tbsp milk (only if needed to adjust dough)
- Optional: ¼ cup chopped nuts, raisins, or dark chocolate chips
How to Make Cottage Cheese Cookies
- Preheat the oven:
Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper. - Prepare the dough:
In a mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, jaggery, and oil. Mix until smooth. Add vanilla extract, flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix to form a soft dough. If the dough is dry, add 1 tbsp of milk at a time. - Add extras (optional):
Mix in nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips if using. - Shape the cookies:
Scoop spoonfuls of dough, roll into balls, and flatten slightly on the tray. - Bake:
Bake for 12–15 minutes or until the edges turn golden. They’ll stay soft in the centre. - Cool and enjoy:
Let them cool on the tray for 5 minutes, then move to a wire rack to cool fully.
Expert Tips
- Use fresh paneer or unsalted cottage cheese for best results. Avoid watery ones.
- If using store-bought cottage cheese, drain excess water before use.
- These cookies are soft and chewy. For a crunchier version, bake a couple of minutes longer.
- You can blend the cheese if you want a smoother texture in the cookies.
Storage Tips
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days.
- For longer shelf life, refrigerate for up to a week.
- Can be frozen (baked or raw dough) for up to 1 month.
Nutrition (Per Cookie – Approximate)
- Calories: 95
- Protein: 3g
- Carbs: 12g
- Fat: 4g
- Sugar: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
These cookies are packed with protein and lower in sugar — making them a great snack choice for all ages!
Cottage cheese cookies are a unique and wholesome way to enjoy a treat without overloading on sugar or butter. With the goodness of paneer, natural sweeteners, and whole wheat flour, these cookies offer a tasty balance of nutrition and flavour. They’re easy to bake, kid-approved, and perfect for anyone who enjoys light, homemade snacks. Try them once, and you might just ditch your usual cookie recipe!
FAQ’s
Can I use store-bought paneer for these cookies?
Yes, you can use store-bought paneer or cottage cheese. Just make sure to drain any excess water and mash it well for a smooth dough.
Can I make these cookies without jaggery?
Yes, you can replace jaggery with coconut sugar, brown sugar, or even a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit as per your dietary needs.
Are these cookies suitable for toddlers?
Yes, these cookies are soft, mildly sweet, and made with healthy ingredients — making them suitable for toddlers above one year. Avoid nuts if there’s any allergy risk.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour with almond flour or oat flour. The texture will vary, but they’ll still taste great.
How long do cottage cheese cookies stay fresh?
These cookies stay fresh for 2–3 days at room temperature. For longer freshness, refrigerate them for up to 7 days or freeze for a month.
