High Protein Raspberry Lemon Cottage Cheese Chocolate Clusters

Ingredients

• 1 cup cottage cheese (preferably low-fat or fat-free)
• 1 cup fresh raspberries, gently mashed
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 cup dark chocolate chips (or sugar-free chocolate)
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
• Additional fresh raspberries for garnish
• Chopped nuts (such as almonds or walnuts) for added crunch
• Shredded coconut (optional)

Instructions

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, mashed raspberries, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix until well combined with some raspberry chunks for texture.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, microwave the dark chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until fully melted and smooth.
3. Gradually fold the melted chocolate into the cottage cheese mixture until evenly coated. Add honey or maple syrup if desired.
4. Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, drop heaping tablespoons of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, forming clusters.
5. Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and let the clusters chill for at least 30 minutes or until the chocolate has completely set.
6. Once set, remove the clusters from the fridge. Garnish with additional raspberries, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut and serve immediately.