Why Make This Recipe
Blueberry and Lemon Zest Cottage Cheese Bites are not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. They are perfect for a quick snack or a healthy breakfast option. With the sweet flavor of blueberries and the fresh zing of lemon, these bites offer a delightful taste experience. Plus, they are easy to make and great for both kids and adults. You can enjoy them at home or even on the go!
How to Make Blueberry and Lemon Zest Cottage Cheese Bites
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)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 24-cup mini muffin pan.
- In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, oats, egg, honey, vanilla, lemon zest, baking powder, and salt. Pulse until the oats are broken down and the mixture is well-combined.
- Pour the batter into a bowl and gently fold in the blueberries.
- Let the batter rest for 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Divide the batter among the prepared mini muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the bites are firm to the touch and lightly golden.
- Allow them to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Blueberry and Lemon Zest Cottage Cheese Bites
These tasty bites can be served warm or cold. They are great on their own or paired with a dollop of yogurt for added creaminess. You can also enjoy them with a sprinkle of extra lemon zest on top for a refreshing twist!
How to Store Blueberry and Lemon Zest Cottage Cheese Bites
To store these bites, keep them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to store them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just thaw them in the fridge before enjoying!
Tips to Make Blueberry and Lemon Zest Cottage Cheese Bites
- Make sure to grease the muffin pan well to prevent sticking.
- You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey or maple syrup.
- Try adding a handful of chopped nuts for added crunch.
Variation
You can customize this recipe by using different fruits such as raspberries or strawberries. For a richer flavor, consider adding a scoop of protein powder or some cinnamon to the batter.
FAQs
1. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese?
Yes, Greek yogurt can be used as a replacement. It will give a creamy texture as well.
2. Are these bites gluten-free?
Yes, if you use certified gluten-free oats, these bites can be gluten-free.
3. Can I make these bites vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use maple syrup to sweeten.
Blueberry and Lemon Zest Cottage Cheese Bites
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 bites 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and nutritious bites packed with blueberries and lemon zest, perfect for a quick snack or healthy breakfast option.
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 your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 24-cup mini muffin pan.
- In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, oats, egg, honey, vanilla, lemon zest, baking powder, and salt. Pulse until the oats are broken down and the mixture is well-combined.
- Pour the batter into a bowl and gently fold in the blueberries.
- Let the batter rest for 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Divide the batter among the prepared mini muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the bites are firm to the touch and lightly golden.
- Allow them to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Serve warm or cold. Pair with yogurt or a sprinkle of extra lemon zest for added flavor. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for up to three months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: blueberry, cottage cheese, healthy snacks, breakfast bites, lemon zest