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.
Ingredients
Scale
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)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 24-cup mini muffin pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- 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.
- Fold in blueberries: Pour the batter into a bowl and gently fold in the fresh or frozen blueberries, being careful not to crush them.
- Rest the batter: Let the batter rest for 5 minutes to allow it to thicken slightly, which will improve texture and consistency.
- Fill muffin pan: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared mini muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full for optimal rising and baking.
- 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.
- 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
