Cottage cheese has been given a makeover on social media, with users adding it to eggs, smearing it on toast, and making it into a rainbow of ice cream flavors. Read on to learn how TikTok has revolutionized the way we perceive this once unappealing food.
Introduction
TikTok has revolutionized the way we perceive grocery items, from butter to canned sardines, and now cottage cheese is experiencing a similar renaissance. Long known for its unappealing texture and associations with sad mid-century diets, the curds have been given a makeover on social media. Cottage cheese is now being whipped, blended, and even made into ice cream flavors in videos that have gone viral. The hashtag #cottagecheese has been trending, and people are now adding the cheese to eggs, smearing it on toast, and most notably, making it into a rainbow of ice cream flavors.
The cottage cheese ice cream trend has exploded on TikTok, with users calling it “the new cauliflower.” According to Serena Schaffner, the senior vice president of communications at the trade association Dairy Management, cottage cheese was trending upward in the last few years before exploding on TikTok. She credits the rise to Gen Z’s nostalgia for something they might have seen their moms or grandmoms eat and a general interest in nutrition.
In this article, we’ll explore the cottage cheese trend and why it has become so popular. We’ll also share some recipes and tips for making your own cottage cheese creations at home.
Cottage Cheese: The New Ice Cream?
Cottage cheese is no longer just a topping for your salad or a bland side dish. With its newfound versatility and ease of preparation, it has become the latest TikTok recipe sensation to go mainstream. People are now making cottage cheese into a variety of sweet and savory dishes, including:
- Rainbow ice cream
- Cheesecake bites
- Toast toppings
- Pasta sauce
- Omelets
- Pancakes
Rainbow ice cream Cheesecake bites Toast toppings Pasta sauce Omelets Pancakes One TikTok user, @lainiecooks, shared a healthy ice cream hack video that has been watched over 1.2 million times. Her version uses strawberries and crushed graham crackers for a cheesecake-y vibe. Others have tried adding peanut or almond butters, crushed cookies, chocolate chips, vanilla extract, nuts, or bananas. Sweeteners such as syrups, jams, and honey are also being used.
The trend has recently evolved, and people are now preparing and freezing the cheese in the plastic container they are sold in using a stick immersion blender, reducing the number of dishes. The result is a creamy, ice cream-like texture that’s perfect for warm weather.
Cottage Cheese: A Healthy Alternative
Cottage cheese is not only versatile and easy to prepare, but it’s also a healthy alternative to other dairy products. It’s high in protein, low in calories, and contains essential nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, and selenium.
The cheese is a great option for vegetarians and vegans who need a source of protein in their diets. It’s also a good choice for people who are lactose intolerant, as it contains lower levels of lactose than other dairy products.
Wellness influencers have been praising cottage cheese for its protein content, which helps build and repair muscles. It’s also a good option for people who are trying to lose weight, as it’s low in calories and can help keep you feeling full.
Making Your Own Cottage Cheese Creations Making your own cottage cheese creations is easy and fun. All you need is a tub of cottage cheese and a few ingredients to customize the flavor. Here are some tips for making your own cottage cheese creations:
- Start with a high-quality cottage cheese. Look for a brand with a creamy texture and minimal additives. You can also make your own cottage cheese at home using milk and vinegar or lemon juice.
- Experiment with flavor combinations. Mix in your favorite fruits, nuts, and sweeteners to create a unique taste. Try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to your savory dishes.
- Blend it up. Use a blender or immersion blender to whip the cottage cheese into a smooth and creamy texture. This is especially helpful when making cottage cheese ice cream.
- Try different recipes. Cottage cheese can be used in many dishes, from sweet to savory. Experiment with recipes like omelets, pancakes, and pasta sauce.
In conclusion, cottage cheese has been given a much-needed makeover on social media, thanks to TikTok. It’s no longer just a bland and unappealing food but has become a versatile ingredient that can be used in many dishes. With its high protein content and essential nutrients, cottage cheese is also a healthy alternative to other dairy products. So, why not give it a try and start creating your own cottage cheese creations at home?