Protein dessert

Protein dessert

40 min
Experience the perfect blend of sweet blueberries and creamy, tangy quark, made even better with fluffy whipped egg whites and a hint of lime zest. This snack is not just a tasty reward after a workout, but also a great choice when you’re craving something light and sweet. Its simplicity doesn't skimp on flavour, so get your ingredients ready to create what is sure to become one of your favourite snacks of all time.
https://www.arlafoods.co.uk/recipes/protein-dessert/

Instructions

  • Mix the blueberries and quark.
  • Beat the egg whites into a stiff foam. Add the sugar and continue to beat for a few minutes.
  • Fold the blueberries and quark into the egg white mixture.
  • Pour into four serving glasses or moulds. Leave in the freezer for approx. 30 mins.
  • Garnish with blueberries and lime zest.
Enjoy!

Questions about protein desserts

Explore the world of our protein dessert with answers to your top questions. Curious about the equipment you need, choosing the right ingredients, or wondering about the best way to store it? We have the answers. Read on for these essential FAQs to perfect your dessert-making skills.

What’s the best way to store this protein dessert?
For freshness, refrigerate the protein dessert in a sealed container. It's best consumed within three to four days. If it thickens, just mix in a little quark to smooth it out before serving.
Can I use frozen instead of fresh blueberries?
Frozen blueberries are a great alternative if you don’t have access to fresh fruit. Simply thaw the frozen blueberries and drain any excess liquid before using them in your recipe. Thawing helps to ensure they blend smoothly into the mixture, maintaining the desired texture and flavour of the blueberry fluff. Using frozen blueberries won't compromise the taste or quality of your dessert, allowing you to enjoy this refreshing treat any time of the year.
Do I need a blender for this recipe?
While a blender is not essential for this recipe, it is useful for mixing the egg whites to the right consistency. Using a blender can help achieve the necessary stiff peaks more efficiently and ensure the egg whites are perfectly whipped, contributing to the dessert's light and airy texture. If you don't have a blender, a hand mixer or a whisk will also work, though it may require more effort and time. Regardless of the tool, it’s important to ensure the egg whites are whipped to the right consistency for a dessert that sets properly and maintains its fluffiness.

Ingredients

Blueberries
125 g
Quark
270 ml
Egg whites
2
Powdered sugar
53 g
To garnish
Blueberries
65 g
Lime zest, finely grated 1 lime

Make sure your protein dessert sets properly

To make sure your snack seats just right, it’s important to whip the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. This will help the dish maintain its structure and hold its shape when frozen. When folding in the blueberry and quark mixture, do so gently to maintain the fluffy texture created by the whipped egg whites.

Once assembled, get your protein dessert into the freezer as quickly as possible and ensure it freezes undisturbed for at least 30 minutes. This short freezing period is crucial to solidify the dessert enough to hold its form when served. By following these steps, you'll achieve a deliciously light and airy protein dessert that's both satisfying and refreshing.

Master the art of extra fluffy egg whites

Mastering the art of fluffy egg whites is essential for creating the perfect protein dessert. Start with room-temperature egg whites, as they whip up more easily and achieve greater volume. Use a clean, dry bowl – preferably metal or glass – since any grease or moisture can prevent the egg whites from whipping properly. Begin beating the egg whites on low speed until they become frothy, then gradually increase the speed to medium-high. Add a pinch of salt or cream of tartar to stabilise the egg whites and help them hold their shape. Continue beating until you achieve stiff peaks, where the egg whites stand up straight when the beaters are lifted. This careful technique ensures your fluff will be light, airy, and perfectly textured.

Lesser-known tricks for perfection

To create a protein dessert that really stands out with its smooth consistency, use a technique that expert pastry chefs favour: gradually mix small amounts of the quark mixture into the beaten egg whites. This step, called tempering, stabilises temperatures and prevents the egg whites from collapsing when mixed with the cooler quark.

After tempering the egg whites, fold them into the quark blend. This careful mixing minimises the risk of losing the dessert's airy quality. The result is a light, delicious snack with a consistent texture that looks as good as it tastes.

A great source of protein for anytime snacking

This protein dessert is a rich and creamy source of protein, perfect for anytime snacking. Its light and airy texture, combined with the refreshing taste of blueberries, makes it a satisfying treat that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Whether you need a quick pick-me-up in the afternoon or a sweet ending to your evening, this frozen dessert is both delicious and versatile. Easy to prepare and enjoy, it’s a convenient option for those looking to incorporate more protein into their snacks without compromising on taste.

Texture contrast in protein desserts

Our protein dessert is a perfect example of how a mix of textures can turn a simple treat into an exceptional culinary delight. The creamy quark blends smoothly with the burst of fresh blueberries while the whipped egg whites add a fluffy dimension that provides a pleasing contrast to the denser quark.

For an even lighter and airier texture, consider whipping the quark before folding in the blueberries. Mashing the fruit (using a potato masher or back of a spoon) will also result in a less chunky consistency, allowing the blueberries to seamlessly blend into the whipped protein dessert.

You can also experiment with the freezing time: a shorter freezing period will yield a softer, more mousse-like texture, while a longer freeze will result in a firmer, ice cream-like consistency. By adjusting these elements, you can customise your snack to achieve your desired texture.

Serving and pairing suggestions

To craft a visually appealing presentation, arrange your protein dessert in elegant glass dishes or parfait glasses, showing off the creamy quark, bright blueberries, and vibrant lime zest. For a rustic charm, consider layering the mixture into small mason jars with decorative ribbons.

To serve, add variation with other light and airy snacks like a decadent protein chocolate mousse. The rich and creamy notes of chocolate and hazelnut serve as the perfect balance to this recipe’s light fruitiness. Our high-protein mousse is also a great pairing that will add a burst of blackberries and raspberries to the bright blueberries of your protein dessert.

How to prevent icicles in your protein dessert

Start by gently yet thoroughly folding the whipped egg whites into the blueberry-quark mixture to maintain the fluffy texture without overworking it. Avoid excessive stirring once the ingredients are combined to prevent introducing too much air, which can lead to icy crystals forming as the dessert freezes.

Secondly, ensure your protein desserts are evenly spread and levelled in the serving dish before placing it in the freezer. A smooth surface helps to maintain consistency as it freezes. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or a lid to minimise exposure to air, which can contribute to ice formation.

Lastly, adhere to the recommended freezing time. Freezing the protein desserts for just the right amount of time – around 30 minutes as per the recipe – helps it to set without becoming too hard or developing icy patches. By following these steps, you can enjoy a smooth and creamy protein dessert without worrying about unwanted icicles.

A symphony of flavour

Making the perfect protein dessert is about blending flavours that delight the taste buds. Our recipe mixes the sharpness of quark with the sweetness of blueberries for a satisfying contrast. A touch of lime zest brings a lively, aromatic twist to every bite.

When making a dessert like this, it's important to ensure no flavour overpowers another. The quark and lime zest's acidity balances the sweetness of the blueberries and sugar, creating a pleasing blend. This careful mix of flavours not only makes it more enjoyable but also showcases the quality of each ingredient.