Cinnamon Apple Cottage Cheese Bites (Print-Friendly Version)

Fluffy, protein-packed mini bites with sweet apples and warm cinnamon—ready in under 30 minutes for a perfect nutritious snack.

# Ingredients List:

01 - 1 cup (240g) cottage cheese, small curds, whole milk preferred
02 - 1 cup (90g) rolled oats
03 - 1/2 cup (120ml) applesauce or small grated apple, sweet firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji
04 - 1 large egg
05 - 1/2 tsp (1.5g) ground cinnamon, good quality
06 - 1 tbsp (21g) honey or maple syrup (optional)
07 - 1/2 tsp (2g) baking powder
08 - Pinch of salt

# How to Make It:

01 - Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to warm fully. Grease the mini muffin pan with non-stick spray or oil, or line it with mini muffin liners to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
02 - In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, rolled oats, applesauce or grated apple, egg, cinnamon, honey or maple syrup if using, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
03 - Allow the batter to sit for 5 minutes at room temperature. This resting period lets the oats absorb some moisture, resulting in fluffier bites after baking.
04 - Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared mini muffin pan, filling each cup nearly to the top. Avoid overcrowding the cups to help the bites bake evenly without sticking together.
05 - Place the muffin pan into the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes. The bites are done when the tops appear lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Monitor closely towards the end of baking and add 2-3 more minutes if necessary for golden tops.
06 - Remove the pan from the oven and let the bites cool in the pan for a few minutes. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling allows the bites to firm up and develop a better texture for handling and eating.

# Extra Tips:

01 - Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Refrigerate up to 4 days or freeze up to 2 months. Ensure bites cool completely before storing.
02 - Fresh baking powder ensures proper rising. For uneven texture, mix batter smoothly and let it rest for optimal hydration.
03 - Serve with fresh fruit, yogurt, nuts, or trail mix for variation. Add bites to breakfast bowls or smoothies for extra protein.
04 - Use whole milk small curd cottage cheese for best flavor. Avoid overripe apples to maintain texture.

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