Blueberry and Lemon Zest Cottage Cheese Bites Recipe
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.
- 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
Scale
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
- Prep the Pan and Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 24-cup mini muffin pan to prevent sticking.
- 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.
- 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.
- Rest the Batter: Let the batter sit for 5 minutes to allow oats to soak and the mixture to firm up, enhancing the texture.
- Fill the Muffin Cups: Spoon the batter into each muffin cup, filling about three-quarters full for even baking.
- 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.
- 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
