Mint Chocolate Chip Cottage Cheese Bark

Name: Mint Chocolate Chip Cottage Cheese Bark
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 8 pieces
Ingredients: 2 cups cottage cheese; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon peppermint extract; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies or chocolate mint cookies (optional)

Highlighted under: Borderless Food

I love indulging in treats that are both delicious and nutritious, and this Mint Chocolate Chip Cottage Cheese Bark perfectly fits the bill. With its creamy cottage cheese base and refreshing mint flavor, it's an excellent way to satisfy my sweet tooth! The addition of dark chocolate chips adds richness while keeping this dessert light. I also enjoy how easy it is to make and how it can be enjoyed any time of the day, whether as a snack or a simple dessert after a meal.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-18T14:54:18.656Z

When I first experimented with this Mint Chocolate Chip Cottage Cheese Bark, I was amazed at how simple it was to whip up. I used cottage cheese as a base, and I quickly realized how well it combines both creaminess and protein. The mint extract elevates the flavor and makes every bite refreshing, while the dark chocolate chips add just the right amount of sweetness.

One tip I learned during my journey with this recipe is to make sure to spread the cottage cheese mixture evenly on the baking sheet for consistent texture. Since this bark freezes beautifully, I often keep a stash ready for unexpected guests or late-night cravings.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Refreshing mint flavor combined with creamy cottage cheese
Healthy twist on traditional bark with added protein
Quick and easy to make with minimal ingredients

      

Understanding Cottage Cheese in Desserts

Cottage cheese is the star ingredient in this bark, and it plays a crucial role in creating a smooth and creamy texture. When combined with sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, it not only offers a delightful flavor but also adds protein to this treat. Opt for full-fat or low-fat cottage cheese depending on your dietary preferences—both work beautifully, but full-fat will yield a creamier bark. To ensure a velvety consistency, blend the cottage cheese well until any lumps are smoothed out before mixing in the other ingredients.

The addition of peppermint extract is essential for achieving that classic mint flavor. When selecting your peppermint extract, look for a pure extract without added sugars or artificial flavors, as these can interfere with the overall taste. A little goes a long way; just one teaspoon offers a refreshing burst that complements the creamy base without overpowering it. If you prefer an even stronger mint taste, consider adding a touch of food-grade peppermint oil instead, but remember to use it sparingly.

Customization Options

This Mint Chocolate Chip Cottage Cheese Bark lends itself well to customization, making it easy to adjust to your taste or dietary needs. For example, if you're aiming to reduce sugar intake, consider using a sugar-free sweetener in place of honey or maple syrup—erenin, stevia, or erythritol can work, but remember to check the conversion ratios as these are often sweeter. Alternatively, if you want a more indulgent bark, feel free to substitute milk chocolate chips for dark chocolate, keeping in mind that this will change the flavor profile and sweetness level.

For added texture and flavor, crushed peppermint candies or chocolate mint cookies can be folded into the mixture before freezing. If you don’t have these on hand, consider using crushed nuts for a completely different crunch or sprinkle some sea salt on top before the bark sets to create a delightful sweet-salty balance. You can also explore using flavored chocolate chips, such as espresso or orange, to create interesting flavor combinations—just be cautious not to overwhelm the primary mint flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make this delightful bark:

Ingredients

2 cups cottage cheese
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon peppermint extract
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies or chocolate mint cookies (optional)

Make sure to have everything ready before you start combining the ingredients!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Mint Chocolate Chip Cottage Cheese Bark:

Prepare the Mixture

In a bowl, mix together the cottage cheese, honey (or maple syrup), and peppermint extract until smooth.

Add Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips and any optional crushed candies for added crunch.

Spread and Freeze

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the mixture evenly on the sheet. Freeze for about 2 hours until firm.

Cut and Enjoy

Once set, remove from the freezer and cut into pieces. Store any leftover bark in the freezer.

Enjoy your refreshing and nutritious bark!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite toppings or using different extract flavors for a unique twist.

Making Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best aspects of this cottage cheese bark is its make-ahead capability. Once you’ve spread the mixture and frozen it for the recommended two hours, you can simply store it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will keep in the freezer for up to three months, allowing you to enjoy a nutritious sweet treat whenever the craving strikes. Just remember to slice the bark into pieces before freezing, as it can be hard to cut when fully solidified.

If you find that the bark is hard to bite into after being frozen, let it sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes to soften slightly. Always check your freezer’s temperature settings to ensure that the bark sets properly—extremely cold temperatures can create an overly hard texture. If you’re planning to serve this at a gathering, you can remove it from the freezer just before guests arrive; it’s best served slightly chilled, as this allows the flavors to shine.

Serving Suggestions

This Mint Chocolate Chip Cottage Cheese Bark is incredibly versatile and can be served in several fun ways. For a whimsical touch, consider presenting it on a dessert platter. You can add fresh mint leaves or even a drizzle of additional melted chocolate for an elegant finish. Pairing the bark with fresh fruits, like strawberries or bananas, can elevate the dessert while adding a refreshing element that complements the mint flavor beautifully.

For those looking to incorporate this bark into a more substantial meal, try crumbling some pieces over Greek yogurt or oatmeal for breakfast. The creamy texture and protein boost will turn a simple dish into a satisfying meal. Alternatively, it can be used as a topping for ice cream or blended into a smoothie for an extra layer of flavor. Your creativity is the only limit!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese?

Yes, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute for cottage cheese, providing a thicker texture and similar flavor.

→ How long can I store the cottage cheese bark?

The bark can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just make sure to keep it in an airtight container.

→ Is this dessert suitable for a low-sugar diet?

You can adjust the sweetness by using less honey or opting for a sugar substitute in the recipe.

→ Can I add nuts to this recipe?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts can add a delightful crunch and extra flavor.