Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s something magical about fall — the crisp air, cozy sweaters, and of course, pumpkin spice everything. If you’ve ever craved a dessert that’s both comforting and healthy, these Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Pie Bars might just become your new favorite treat.
Unlike traditional pumpkin pie, which can be heavy and loaded with sugar, this version is light, protein-packed, and naturally sugar-free. Made with simple ingredients you probably already have at home, it’s the perfect balance between indulgence and nourishment.
These bars are soft, creamy, and bursting with warm pumpkin pie spice. Whether you’re looking for a wholesome dessert, a grab-and-go snack, or even a quick breakfast option, this recipe checks all the boxes. And the best part? It takes just 20 minutes from start to finish.
Looking for inspiration? Try these other healthy fall treats that pair perfectly with your cozy afternoons.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up 8 delicious Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Pie Bars:
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- ¼ cup almond flour (or oat flour for a nut-free version)
- 2–3 tbsp sweetener of choice (like stevia, monk fruit, or erythritol)
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: chopped nuts or sugar-free chocolate chips for topping
This combination creates a perfectly creamy texture with a hint of natural sweetness.
Step-by-Step Directions
Making these protein-rich pumpkin bars is quick and simple.
1. Preheat & Mix Batter
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a blender or mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, eggs, pumpkin puree, sweetener, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla, and salt. Blend until completely smooth.
- Stir in almond flour until fully incorporated.
2. Prepare Baking Dish
- Grease a small baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Pour the batter evenly into the dish.
- Sprinkle on toppings like chopped nuts or chocolate chips if you’d like.
3. Bake
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until set and lightly golden.
- Test with a toothpick — it should come out mostly clean.
4. Cool & Serve
- Let the bars cool slightly before slicing into 8 portions.
- Serve warm for a cozy dessert or chilled for a firmer snack.
Don’t miss our other quick, high-protein recipes that fit perfectly into a busy lifestyle.
Serving & Storage Tips
These Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Pie Bars are versatile and store well, making them ideal for meal prep.
- Serving Ideas:
- Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt or whipped cream.
- Pair with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a cozy fall treat.
- Crumble into oatmeal or yogurt bowls for added texture.
- Storage:
- Keep bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freeze individual bars for up to 2 months — thaw overnight in the fridge.
Check out meal prep storage hacks here to keep your desserts fresh longer.
Helpful Notes & Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is how customizable it is.
- Vegan Option: Use flax eggs instead of regular eggs and swap cottage cheese with a plant-based yogurt.
- Gluten-Free: Stick with almond flour or certified gluten-free oat flour.
- Low-Carb/Keto: Use almond flour and your favorite keto-friendly sweetener.
- Add-In Ideas: Stir in chopped pecans, walnuts, or sugar-free chocolate chips for extra crunch and flavor.
Discover great ideas like gluten-free pumpkin treats that are just as satisfying.
Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Pie Bars – High-Protein, Sugar-Free Fall Dessert
- Total Time: 20–23 min
Description
These Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Pie Bars are the perfect balance of cozy fall flavors and healthy nutrition. Soft, creamy, and lightly spiced with pumpkin pie seasoning, they’re a high-protein, sugar-free dessert that doubles as a snack or breakfast. Ready in just 20 minutes, these bars are easy to prep, customizable with nuts or chocolate chips, and ideal for meal prep. Enjoy the taste of pumpkin pie without the guilt — wholesome, satisfying, and made for every pumpkin lover.
Ingredients
1 cup cottage cheese
2 large eggs
½ cup pumpkin puree
¼ cup almond flour
2–3 tbsp sweetener of choice
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
½ tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Optional: nuts or chocolate chips
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Blend cottage cheese, eggs, pumpkin, sweetener, spices, and vanilla. Stir in flour.
Pour batter into lined baking dish, add toppings.
Bake 15–18 minutes until golden.
Cool, slice into bars, and serve.
Notes
For vegan: use flax eggs + plant-based yogurt.
Chill bars in fridge for firmer slices.
Freeze up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15–18 min
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes! These bars are perfect for meal prep. Bake them, let them cool, and store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
2. Can I use ricotta instead of cottage cheese?
Absolutely. Ricotta gives a slightly different texture but works well as a substitute.
3. Do these bars taste like traditional pumpkin pie?
They have the same warm, spiced flavor but with a lighter, protein-rich texture — more like a cheesecake bar than a pie slice.
4. How do I make the bars sweeter?
You can add a touch more sweetener, a drizzle of sugar-free maple syrup, or even mix in chocolate chips.
5. Are these bars kid-friendly?
Yes! They’re naturally sweet, soft, and packed with protein, making them a healthier choice for kids too.
Nutritional Insight
Each bar (based on 8 servings) provides approximately:
- Calories: ~120 kcal
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 6g
- Net Carbs: 5g
This makes them a great low-carb, high-protein dessert option for anyone watching macros or following a balanced lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a cozy, guilt-free dessert this fall, these Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Pie Bars deliver everything you need — flavor, nutrition, and simplicity. They’re easy enough for weeknights yet delicious enough to share at holiday gatherings.
So go ahead — preheat that oven, whip up a batch, and let the warm, spiced aroma fill your kitchen. You deserve a dessert that loves you back!
Don’t miss our full collection of protein-rich recipes for more inspiration.
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