Description
Healthy Cinnamon Apple Cottage Cheese Bites are a guilt-free, nutrient-packed snack perfect for any time of the day. Made with wholesome ingredients like cottage cheese, oats, applesauce, and warm cinnamon, these mini bites are baked to perfection, offering a soft, moist texture with just a hint of natural sweetness. With options to add nuts, chocolate chips, or pumpkin puree, this recipe is versatile and ideal for those seeking a delicious, low-fat, and protein-rich treat.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup Cottage Cheese (or substitute with ricotta)
- 1 cup Rolled Oats (or use quick oats for softer texture)
- 1/2 cup Applesauce (or grated apple)
- 1 large Egg (to bind ingredients)
- 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (or use nutmeg for extra flavor)
- 2 tablespoons Honey or Maple Syrup (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (ensure freshness)
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
Optional Additions
- 1/4 cup Chopped Nuts (like pecans or walnuts)
- 1/4 cup Mini Chocolate Chips or Raisins (for added sweetness)
- 1/2 cup Pumpkin Puree (optional)
- 2 tablespoons Chia Seeds or Ground Flaxseed (for extra fiber)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a mini muffin pan by greasing it lightly or lining it with paper liners to prevent sticking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, rolled oats, applesauce (or grated apple), egg, cinnamon, honey or maple syrup if using, baking powder, and salt. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated into a uniform batter.
- Rest the Batter: Allow the batter to rest for 5 minutes. This helps the oats absorb moisture and thickens the mixture slightly for better texture.
- Fill Muffin Pan: Use a spoon or small scoop to portion the batter into the prepared mini muffin pan, filling each cup almost to the top for nicely sized bites.
- Bake the Bites: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the bites are set and the tops turn lightly golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bites cool in the pan for a few minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve as a wholesome snack or light breakfast option.
Notes
- Use quick oats for a softer texture if preferred.
- Substitute cottage cheese with ricotta for a milder flavor.
- Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and sweetness.
- Pumpkin puree can be added for a seasonal twist and extra moisture.
- Honey or maple syrup is optional and can be adjusted based on desired sweetness.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently before serving to bring back softness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American