why make this recipe

Cinnamon Apple Cottage Cheese Bites are a delicious and nutritious snack. They combine the sweetness of apples and cinnamon with the creamy texture of cottage cheese. This recipe is easy to make and packed with protein, making it a perfect choice for a healthy treat any time of the day. You can enjoy them for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a dessert. Plus, they’re simple to whip up, making them a great option for busy days.

how to make Cinnamon Apple Cottage Cheese Bites

Ingredients:

1 cup (240g) cottage cheese, preferably small curds and whole milk for best flavor
1 cup (90g) rolled oats
1/2 cup (120ml) applesauce or small grated apple (use sweet, firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji)
1 large egg
1/2 tsp (1.5g) ground cinnamon, good quality
1 tbsp (21g) honey or maple syrup (optional)
1/2 tsp (2g) baking powder
Pinch of salt

Directions:

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to warm fully. Grease the mini muffin pan with non-stick spray or oil, or line it with mini muffin liners to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, rolled oats, applesauce or grated apple, egg, cinnamon, honey or maple syrup if using, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended. This ensures the flavors meld evenly and the texture is uniform.
Allow the batter to sit for 5 minutes at room temperature. This resting period lets the oats absorb some moisture, resulting in fluffier bites after baking.
Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared mini muffin pan, filling each cup nearly to the top. Avoid overcrowding the cups to help the bites bake evenly without sticking together.
Place the muffin pan into the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes. The bites are done when the tops appear lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Ovens vary, so monitor closely towards the end of baking and add 2-3 more minutes if necessary for golden tops.
Remove the pan from the oven and let the bites cool in the pan for a few minutes. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling allows the bites to firm up and develop a better texture for handling and eating.

how to serve Cinnamon Apple Cottage Cheese Bites

These bites can be served warm or at room temperature. They make a wonderful snack on their own but can also be topped with additional apple slices, a drizzle of honey, or a sprinkle of extra cinnamon for added flavor. Pair them with yogurt or a smoothie for a filling breakfast.

how to store Cinnamon Apple Cottage Cheese Bites

To store the bites, place them in an airtight container. They can last in the refrigerator for about 3-5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just make sure to separate them with parchment paper before placing them in a freezer bag. This way, you can easily grab one whenever you need a quick snack!

tips to make Cinnamon Apple Cottage Cheese Bites

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. If using apples, choose sweet and firm varieties.
Allow the mixture to rest as instructed; this helps improve the texture.
Experiment with different add-ins like nuts, raisins, or other spices to customize the flavor to your liking.

variation (if any)

You can switch up the flavors by adding different fruits such as mashed bananas, blueberries, or even pumpkin puree for a fall twist. Additionally, you can replace half the rolled oats with ground flaxseed or chia seeds to boost fiber content.

FAQs

Can I use non-dairy cottage cheese?
Yes, you can use a non-dairy alternative if you wish. Just ensure it has a similar texture for the best results.

Are these bites gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free oats, the bites can easily be made gluten-free.

Can I use other spices instead of cinnamon?
Absolutely! You can try nutmeg, allspice, or pumpkin spice for a different flavor profile.