If you’re looking for a snack that’s both satisfying and good for you, these cinnamon apple cottage cheese bites might just be what you need. They’re simple to whip up and perfect for busy mornings or a sweet treat any time.
This recipe helps solve the need for a quick, nourishing snack that remains fresh for days while offering a satisfying protein and natural sweetness combination.
I often face the challenge of finding something healthy, filling, and quick when life gets hectic. These bites check all the boxes, making them a go-to for my family, especially when the kids come home from school, asking for a snack.
What I love about this recipe is that it only takes about 25 minutes from start to finish. With protein-packed cottage cheese, sweet cinnamon, and a hint of apple, these bites will leave you feeling nourished and happy.
If you enjoy snacks that are easy to make, check out my Honey Garlic Chicken Breast for a delicious dinner idea!
Table of contents
Dietary Considerations
- This recipe is gluten-free as it contains no wheat, barley, rye, or other gluten-containing grains in the ingredients.
- The recipe is not dairy-free because it uses cottage cheese, which is a dairy product.
- This recipe is vegetarian since it includes no meat, poultry, or seafood but contains dairy-derived cottage cheese.
- The recipe is not suitable for vegan diets because it contains cottage cheese, an animal-derived dairy ingredient.
- This recipe is not low-carb or keto due to the natural sugars present in apples and honey used in the ingredients.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Quick and Simple Preparation These cinnamon apple cottage cheese bites come together in no time. With just 5 minutes of prep and a quick bake, you can enjoy a warm snack or breakfast in about 25 minutes.
- Protein-Packed Goodness The use of cottage cheese not only adds a creamy texture but brings a good amount of protein, making these bites a filling option that helps fuel your day.
- Perfectly Sweet and Spicy The combination of cinnamon and natural sweetness from applesauce or grated apple gives a comforting flavor reminiscent of fall. It’s a satisfying mix for anyone who loves cozy desserts.
- Long-Lasting Freshness These bites store well in the fridge for up to four days, making them an excellent make-ahead snack. You can easily grab one whenever you need a nutritious pick-me-up!
How To Make Cinnamon Apple Cottage Cheese Bites
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cool Time: N/A
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 bites 1x
- Category: Snack / Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and healthy Cinnamon Apple Cottage Cheese Bites, perfect for a snack or breakfast.
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
Instructions
- Step 1: 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.
- Step 2: 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.
- Step 3: 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.
- Step 4: 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.
- Step 5: 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.
- Step 6: 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.
Notes
- Room Temperature: Store the bites in an airtight container away from direct heat or sunlight for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Ensure the bites have cooled completely before storing to maintain texture and freshness.
- Freezing: Wrap bites individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- To address bites that do not rise properly, ensure baking powder is fresh and precisely measured at 1/2 teaspoon.
- For uneven texture, mix the batter until smooth and well blended—not just combined—prior to letting it rest.
- If bites feel too wet, add 1 tablespoon of rolled oats to absorb excess moisture and improve texture.
- If the tops are not golden after 20 minutes, bake for 2-3 additional minutes, checking frequently for doneness.
- Allow bites to cool completely on a wire rack before storing if they are not eaten immediately; this prevents sogginess and maintains firmness.
- Serve with fresh fruit or a side of yogurt for a balanced snack.
- Pair with nuts or trail mix to add crunch and variety.
- Add bites to breakfast bowls or blend with smoothies for added protein and texture.
- Use as a topping for oatmeal or pancakes for a filling morning boost.
- Drizzle with honey or maple syrup, or lightly dust with cinnamon for extra warmth and flavor.
- Cottage cheese: Choose small curd varieties for a creamier texture that balances cinnamon well. Whole milk cottage cheese provides richer flavor, though low-fat works as an alternative.
- Apples: Use firm, sweet varieties such as Honeycrisp or Fuji. Avoid overripe fruit to maintain texture and flavor.
- Cinnamon: A quality ground cinnamon is essential to impart the signature warm flavor reminiscent of apple pie.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: Raw or local honey is preferred to add natural sweetness without overpowering. Maple syrup serves as a suitable substitute.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 130mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Ingredient Notes
- Cottage cheese: Look for small curds for a creamier texture. You want it rich to balance the cinnamon. Low-fat works, but whole milk gives the best flavor.
- Apples: Use sweet, firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji. They hold their shape and add natural sweetness. Make sure they’re ripe but not overripe.
- Cinnamon: Stick to a good quality ground cinnamon. It enhances the apple flavor and adds warmth. Don’t skimp; it’s pivotal for that cozy taste.
- Honey: Raw or local honey adds natural sweetness without overpowering. This keeps your bites balanced. Maple syrup works as a substitute if needed.
- Vanilla extract: Opt for pure vanilla extract for a smooth flavor boost. It enriches the overall taste. I recommend checking the bottle for quality; avoid artificial versions.
Recipe Tips
- If the bites aren’t rising properly, check your baking powder; it should be fresh, measured precisely at 1/2 teaspoon, added 18-20 minutes into baking.
- For uneven texture, mix ingredients until well blended and smooth, not just combined, before letting the batter sit for 5 minutes.
- If your bites are too wet, add an additional 1 tablespoon of rolled oats; this helps absorb moisture and improves overall texture during baking.
- When the tops of the bites aren’t golden, bake for another 2-3 minutes; keep an eye on them during the last minutes for doneness.
- If you’re not serving immediately, let the bites cool completely on a wire rack for optimal texture before storing in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Serving Suggestions
Serve cinnamon apple cottage cheese bites with fresh fruit or a side of yogurt. Pair with nuts or trail mix for added crunch.
Add to breakfast bowls or combine with smoothies. Use in oatmeal for a filling morning boost or to top pancakes.
Top with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. Consider dusting with cinnamon for extra warmth and flavor.
Recipe variations
- You can use whole wheat flour instead of rolled oats for a denser texture with more fiber. Mix 1 cup flour with the cottage cheese and other ingredients as usual.
- Add 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg alongside the cinnamon for a warmer spice blend that complements the apples. Adjust cinnamon to 1 teaspoon to maintain flavor balance in the bites.
- Either applesauce or small grated apple can be swapped for mashed ripe banana, which adds moisture and sweetness. Use 1/2 cup banana to replace the apple ingredient in the recipe.
- If using this recipe for meal prepping, double all ingredients to yield 24 cinnamon apple cottage cheese bites. Bake in batches, watching closely for slight time differences in each oven.
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How to Store?
To keep your cinnamon apple cottage cheese bites fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:
Room Temperature: Store cinnamon apple cottage cheese bites in an airtight container at room temperature up to 2 days away from direct heat or sunlight.
Refrigeration: Place bites in an airtight container and refrigerate. Maintain freshness for up to 4 days, ensuring they cool fully before storing.
Freezing: Wrap bites individually in plastic wrap, place in a freezer bag or container, and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.
Other Recipes You’ll Love
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