Blueberry and Lemon Zest Cottage Cheese Bites Recipe

Introduction

These Blueberry and Lemon Zest Cottage Cheese Bites make a delightful, protein-packed snack or breakfast option. Combining creamy cottage cheese with fresh blueberries and bright lemon zest, they are both refreshing and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 large lemon (about 1 tbsp)
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• 3/4 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (do not thaw)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 24-cup mini muffin pan.
2. Step 2: In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, rolled oats, egg, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, lemon zest, baking powder, and salt. Pulse until the oats are broken down and the mixture is well combined.
3. Step 3: Pour the batter into a bowl and gently fold in the blueberries.
4. Step 4: Let the batter rest for 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
5. Step 5: Divide the batter among the prepared mini muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full.
6. Step 6: Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the bites are firm to the touch and lightly golden.
7. Step 7: Allow them to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Variations

• Use rolled oats for a chewier texture, or substitute with quick oats for a smoother consistency.
• Try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth.
• Swap blueberries for raspberries, chopped strawberries, or even chocolate chips for a different flavor.
• If using frozen blueberries, do not thaw to prevent the batter from getting too watery.

Storage

Store the cottage cheese bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm them briefly in the microwave or enjoy cold as a grab-and-go snack. They can also be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these bites dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, try substituting the cottage cheese with a plant-based yogurt or silken tofu, though the texture may vary slightly.

Can I use a different sweetener?

Yes, you can swap honey or maple syrup for agave nectar, coconut sugar syrup, or another preferred liquid sweetener to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Blueberry and Lemon Zest Cottage Cheese Bites Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 61 reviews

• Author: Lily
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 24 mini bites 1x
• Diet: Low Fat

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Description

These Blueberry and Lemon Zest Cottage Cheese Bites are a delightful and healthy snack or breakfast option. Combining creamy cottage cheese, zesty lemon, and sweet blueberries with the wholesome goodness of oats, these mini muffin bites are baked to perfection for a tender, flavorful treat that’s high in protein and easy to make.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 large lemon (about 1 tbsp)
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• 3/4 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (do not thaw)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 24-cup mini muffin pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the batter: In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, rolled oats, egg, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, lemon zest, baking powder, and salt. Pulse the mixture until the oats are broken down and the batter is smooth and well-combined.
3. Fold in blueberries: Pour the batter into a bowl and gently fold in the fresh or frozen blueberries, being careful not to crush them.
4. Rest the batter: Let the batter rest for 5 minutes to allow it to thicken slightly, which will improve texture and consistency.
5. Fill muffin pan: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared mini muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full for optimal rising and baking.
6. Bake: Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the bites are firm to the touch and lightly golden on top.
7. Cool and serve: Allow the bites to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Notes

• You can substitute honey with maple syrup for a vegan alternative.
• Do not thaw frozen blueberries before adding to the batter to avoid excess moisture.
• These bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For a nutty flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of chopped nuts or seeds to the batter.
• Make sure to pulse the oats well in the blender for a smoother texture.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: blueberry bites, cottage cheese snacks, lemon zest muffins, healthy breakfast, protein bites, baked snacks