Blueberry and Lemon Zest Cottage Cheese Bites Recipe

Introduction

These Blueberry and Lemon Zest Cottage Cheese Bites are a delightful, protein-packed snack that’s perfect for breakfast or anytime you need a quick treat. With fresh blueberries and a hint of lemon zest, they offer a fresh, tangy flavor wrapped in wholesome oats and creamy cottage cheese.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat recommended for creaminess)
• 1 cup rolled oats (old-fashioned, not quick 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 if frozen)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 24-cup mini muffin pan to prevent sticking.
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 mostly broken down and the mixture becomes smooth and thick.
3. Step 3: Pour the batter into a bowl, then gently fold in the fresh or frozen blueberries. Be careful not to overmix to keep the blueberries whole and juicy.
4. Step 4: Let the batter rest for 5 minutes to allow the oats to soak and the mixture to firm up for better texture.
5. Step 5: Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin pan, filling each cup about three-quarters full.
6. Step 6: Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the bites are golden and set. A light press on top should bounce back when done.
7. Step 7: Allow the bites to cool briefly in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Variations

• Use full-fat cottage cheese for a creamier texture and richer flavor.
• Try swapping blueberries with raspberries or chopped strawberries for a different fruity twist.
• For added crunch, sprinkle a few chopped nuts on top before baking.
• If you prefer sweeter bites, increase the honey or maple syrup slightly.

Storage

Store cooled bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage—simply thaw or microwave a few seconds until warm for a quick, healthy snack.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

It’s best to use old-fashioned rolled oats as quick oats may create a softer, less textured bite. Rolled oats provide a nice chewiness that works well in this recipe.

Do I need to thaw frozen blueberries before adding them?

No, you can fold frozen blueberries directly into the batter without thawing. This helps keep them intact and juicy after baking.

Blueberry and Lemon Zest Cottage Cheese Bites Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 145 reviews

These Blueberry and Lemon Zest Cottage Cheese Bites are a delicious and protein-packed snack, combining creamy cottage cheese, whole rolled oats, fresh blueberries, and bright lemon zest. Baked into mini muffin-sized bites, they offer a light, wholesome treat perfect for breakfast or anytime snack prep.

• Author: lea
• Prep Time: 7 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: 24 mini bites 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

• 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat preferred for creaminess)
• 1 cup rolled oats (old-fashioned, not quick 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 blueberries or frozen (do not thaw)

Instructions

1. Prep the Pan and Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 24-cup mini muffin pan to prevent sticking.
2. Blend the Base: Add cottage cheese, rolled oats, egg, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, lemon zest, baking powder, and salt to a blender or food processor. Pulse until smooth and thick, with the oats mostly broken down.
3. Fold in the Blueberries: Pour the batter into a bowl and gently fold in the fresh or frozen blueberries, taking care not to overmix to keep blueberries whole and juicy.
4. Rest the Batter: Let the batter sit for 5 minutes to allow oats to soak and the mixture to firm up, enhancing the texture.
5. Fill the Muffin Cups: Spoon the batter into each muffin cup, filling about three-quarters full for even baking.
6. Bake: Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 18–22 minutes, or until golden, set, and a light press on top bounces back.
7. Cool and Store: Allow the bites to cool briefly in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. These also freeze well for longer storage.

Notes

• Use full-fat cottage cheese for a creamier texture.
• Do not thaw frozen blueberries before mixing to avoid excess moisture.
• Letting the batter rest helps the oats soften and improves bite texture.
• These bites can be stored refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen for longer-term storage.
• Reheat frozen or refrigerated bites in the microwave for a quick and nutritious snack.
• A mini muffin pan (24-cup) is recommended for portion size and even baking.

Keywords: Blueberry bites, cottage cheese snack, healthy muffins, lemon zest, protein snack, oatmeal bites, easy baking, quick snacks