Add the cookies and butter into a food processor and pulse until a crumb-like mixture is formed. It should resemble sand. You can also smash the cookies (in a plastic bag) with a meat tenderizer and stir in the butter.
Add 12 muffin liners to the pan. Spoon an equal amount of the mixture into each cup, then press down using your fingers. Bake for 7 mins.
Meanwhile, add the cottage cheese, coconut sugar, vanilla, protein powder, and arrowroot powder to a blender or food processor. Blend for 1 minute until smooth. You may need to scrape down the sides/ use a long spoon to help stir halfway through. Add eggs one at a time and mix on low speed for 1 minute to get air bubbles out.
Combine chocolate chips and almond milk in a microwave safe dish and microwave in 30 second increments until melted and smooth. Pour into the blender and continue blending on low for 1 minute. Pour the mixture evenly into muffin tins on top of the crusts and bake for an additional 20-22 mins until the tops are firm and starting to crack.
Let them cool completely before removing. Chill in the fridge 2-3 hours (or overnight). top with optional ganache topping (make this by melting the chocolate chips and almond milk together in the microwave or over a double boiler), whipped cream, and berries. Enjoy!
Notes
Mary’s Tips & Tricks
Depending on your lifestyle and allergies, you can use vegan, gluten-free protein powder, or whey protein powder. There are a ton of options out there!
You can also use full-fat cottage cheese instead of 1% if preferred.
If you want to make these chocolate peanut butter protein cheesecakes, feel free to add a couple of tablespoons of peanut butter to the batter.
Serving Tips
Let them cool completely, then chill in the fridge for 2-3 hours (or overnight).
Top the protein cheesecake with optional ganache topping (make this by melting the chocolate chips and almond milk together in the microwave or over a double boiler), whipped cream, and berries.
Serve cold and enjoy!
Storage Tips
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To freeze, wrap the protein cheesecakes tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature for about an hour and serve.