This high-protein cottage cheese cake is the perfect guilt-free treat that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. What I love about this recipe is how the zesty lemon and nutty almond flavors create a beautifully balanced cake that’s light, fluffy, and naturally gluten-free and healthy.
Watch my video below for a simple, step-by-step recipe for creating this delicious lemon almond cottage cheese cake. If you enjoy it, don’t forget to like and subscribe for more recipes!
Why Cottage Cheese Cake Is Good For You

- High in Protein: Cottage cheese adds a protein boost, making this cake more filling and energizing.
- Naturally Gluten-Free: To me, using almond flour instead of regular flour feels like a win—it’s gluten-free and adds that nutty flavor we all love.
- Lower in Sugar: With less sugar than traditional cakes, it’s a healthier dessert option.
- Rich in Healthy Fats: Thanks to almond flour and cottage cheese, this cake is packed with good fats that keep you full and happy.
- Light Yet Satisfying: One thing I always notice about this cake is how it feels indulgent without being heavy. It’s the perfect post-meal treat!
- Full of Nutrients: Packed with calcium, B vitamins, and phosphorus for overall wellness.
- Great for Active Lifestyles: Whether you’re hitting the gym or just need a quick pick-me-up, this high-protein, low-carb cake is perfect.
What You Need to Make This High-Protein Cottage Cheese Cake
In my opinion, the magic of this cake is how it turns a few everyday ingredients into something that feels truly special.

- 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup (150 grams) raw cane sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons (9 grams) vanilla extract
- 1 ½ teaspoons (7 grams) almond extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 ¼ cups (280 grams) cottage cheese
- 1 ½ cups (150 grams) almond flour
- 4 large egg whites
- 1/2 cup (50 grams) almond flakes
Quick Note: If you don’t have almond flour, finely ground almonds work just as well.
How to Make the Best High-Protein Lemon Almond Cottage Cheese Cake
Let me show you how to bake this super easy, zesty cottage cheese cake—it’s light, fluffy, and honestly, so good you’ll want to make it again and again!

Step 1: Get Things Ready
First things first—preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan with butter, or if prefer less cleanup, just line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cream the Base
In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar using an electric mixer. Let it mix until it’s light and fluffy—this is the magic step for a soft, airy cake.
Step 3: Add Flavor
Now comes the fun part! Stir in the vanilla extract, almond extract, a pinch of salt, fresh lemon juice, and zest. The aroma at this point? Absolutely amazing. Mix everything until it’s well combined.
Top Tip: Use a microplane for super fine zest and zest the lemons before juicing them—it’s so much easier.
Step 4: Incorporate Yolks
Add the egg yolks one by one, mixing well after each. The batter should turn smooth and silky.
Step 5: Blend in Cottage Cheese
Here’s the star of the show: cottage cheese. Add it to the batter and mix until it’s fully incorporated. This step makes the cake incredibly moist and protein-packed. Don’t rush it—every bit counts.
Step 6: Fold in Almond Flour
Gradually add the almond flour and mix just until it’s well combined. Set this batter aside for a while.
Step 7: Whip the Egg Whites
In a clean, dry bowl, whip the egg whites with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. This step is what gives the cake its amazing texture.
Pro Tip: Make sure your bowl is grease-free, or the egg whites won’t cooperate!
Step 8: Combine the Two
Now, gently fold the whipped egg whites into the batter. Carefully fold them in using a spatula. I always take my time here—being gentle is key to keeping all that lovely air in the mixture.
Step 9: Top and Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth out the top. Sprinkle almond flakes over the surface (this part makes it look so fancy with almost no effort). Bake for 50-55 minutes or until the cake is golden brown and the center is just set.
Step 10: Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Slice yourself a piece, take a bite, and savor that zesty, nutty goodness.
Looking for the perfect pairing? Click here to check out my Creamy Sugar-Free Ice Cream Recipe—it’s the ultimate match!
Related Recipe: If you’re looking for another simple, high-protein dessert, I highly recommend trying my High Protein Lemon Bars recipe. They cost about one dollar each, and every square packs 7 grams of protein.
Make It Your Own: Easy Variations

- Try Different Citrus: Swap the lemon for orange or lime if you want a different citrus twist.
- Go Fruity: I love adding a handful of blueberries or raspberries to the batter for little bursts of fruity flavor in every bite.
- Add Some Crunch: For a bit of crunch, try folding in some chopped almonds or walnuts—it adds such a nice texture!
- Sweeten It Up: If you ask me, a drizzle of honey or powdered sugar glaze takes this cake to the next level.
- Want to impress? Top it with fresh berries or thin slices of citrus for a pop of color and elegance.
- Tropical Vibes: For a tropical twist, sprinkle shredded coconut on top instead of almond flakes—it’s a game-changer!
How to Keep Your Cottage Cheese Cake Fresh and Delicious

- Refrigerate Right Away: I always pop my cake into an airtight container and store it in the fridge—it stays perfectly moist for up to 4 days.
- Freeze for Later: One of my favorite tricks is slicing the cake and wrapping each piece in plastic wrap before freezing. This way, I can grab a slice whenever I want without defrosting the whole thing!
- Warm It Up for That Fresh-Baked Feel: If you’re like me and love a warm slice, just pop it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. It’ll taste like it just came out of the oven!
- Save the Toppings for Later: If you’re adding powdered sugar or glaze, wait until you’re ready to serve. It keeps everything looking and tasting fresh.
- Use Freezer Bags for Extra Protection: For those frozen slices, I like to tuck the wrapped pieces into a freezer-safe bag to keep them extra protected from freezer burn.
Surprising Ways to Serve Your Cottage Cheese Cake

- Pair it with Fresh Fruits: Fresh berries or sliced peaches bring out the lemon and almond flavors—so simple and so good!
- Add Sugar-Free Ice Cream: A scoop of sugar-free vanilla or almond ice cream takes this cake to the next level. Cold, creamy, and totally irresistible!
- Top it with Whipped Greek Yogurt: Whip up some Greek yogurt with a little honey and vanilla for a protein-packed topping that’s seriously delicious.
- Make it a Parfait: Layer cake slices with yogurt, fruit, and granola in a glass for a fun, no-fuss dessert.
- Enjoy with Tea or Coffee: This cake and a hot cup of tea or coffee or even these delicious coffee alternatives? A match made in heaven!
Tried this High-Protein Lemon Almond Cottage Cheese Cake? I’d love to hear how it turned out—leave a comment or a question, I’m here to help. Watch my video for a step-by-step video guide here, and don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious and healthy recipes! – Jen