Cinnamon apple cottage cheese bites are my favorite little snack when I want something wholesome, flavorful, and easy to make. These bites combine tender, cinnamon-spiced apples with creamy cottage cheese, all tucked into a soft and slightly sweet base. They’re perfect for breakfast, meal prep, or as a protein-packed snack throughout the day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how these bites strike the perfect balance between sweet and savory. The apples are warm and cozy with a hint of spice, and the cottage cheese adds a creamy texture and a boost of protein. They’re baked until golden, easy to portion, and totally satisfying. Plus, I can whip them up in under 30 minutes with just a handful of ingredients.
ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- cottage cheese
- eggs
- rolled oats or oat flour
- baking powder
- cinnamon
- honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- apple, finely chopped or grated
- vanilla extract
- pinch of salt
directions
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Preheat the oven: I set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin tin or line it with silicone liners.
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Mix the base: In a bowl, I blend the cottage cheese, eggs, oats (or oat flour), baking powder, cinnamon, sweetener, vanilla, and salt until smooth. I like using a blender or food processor to get a creamy texture.
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Add the apples: I fold in the chopped or grated apple last so it stays nice and juicy in every bite.
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Scoop and bake: I spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup nearly to the top.
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Bake: I bake the bites for 18–20 minutes, until the tops are set and lightly golden. A toothpick should come out clean from the center.
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Cool and enjoy: I let them cool for a few minutes in the pan before transferring to a wire rack. They’re delicious warm or chilled.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 12–16 mini bites. It takes around 25 minutes total: 5–7 minutes of prep time and 18–20 minutes of baking.
Variations
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I sometimes add a dash of nutmeg or ginger for a deeper spice flavor.
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For extra texture, I mix in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans.
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If I want them sweeter, I use maple syrup or a mashed ripe banana.
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I’ve also tried using pear instead of apple—it’s just as tasty.
storage/reheating
I keep these bites in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 5 days. They’re great cold, but I also warm them up in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. For longer storage, I freeze them and just thaw a few at a time for a quick snack or breakfast on the go.
FAQs
Can I use flavored cottage cheese?
I usually stick with plain for this recipe, but I’ve tried vanilla-flavored cottage cheese and it added a nice subtle sweetness.
Do I need to peel the apple?
It’s up to me. I usually leave the peel on for more fiber and texture, but peeling works too if I want a smoother result.
Can I use applesauce instead of fresh apple?
Yes, I’ve swapped in applesauce and it worked well, though the texture is a bit softer. I just reduce the other liquid ingredients slightly.
Are these gluten-free?
If I use certified gluten-free oats or oat flour, then yes—they’re totally gluten-free.
Can I make these into full-sized muffins?
Absolutely. I’ve made them in a standard muffin tin before. They just need a longer bake—around 25–28 minutes.
Conclusion
Cinnamon apple cottage cheese bites are a cozy, protein-packed treat I keep in my regular rotation. They’re quick to make, easy to customize, and perfect for when I want something that tastes indulgent but is secretly good for me. Whether I eat them fresh out of the oven or as a chilled snack from the fridge, they always hit the spot.
Print
Cinnamon Apple Cottage Cheese Bites
- Prep Time: 5–7 minutes
- Cook Time: 18–20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12–16 mini bites
- Category: Snack, Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Cinnamon Apple Cottage Cheese Bites are a wholesome, protein-packed snack or breakfast option made with creamy cottage cheese, warm cinnamon-spiced apples, and oats. Baked in mini muffin form, they’re easy to make, naturally sweetened, and perfect for meal prep or a healthy on-the-go treat. A cozy, guilt-free apple cinnamon snack you’ll love any time of day.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese (plain)
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup rolled oats or ¾ cup oat flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1–2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
- 1 small apple, finely chopped or grated
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
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Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin or line with silicone liners.
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Make the Batter: In a blender or food processor, combine cottage cheese, eggs, oats/oat flour, baking powder, cinnamon, sweetener (if using), vanilla extract, and salt. Blend until smooth.
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Fold in Apples: Gently fold in the chopped or grated apple using a spatula or spoon.
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Scoop & Bake: Spoon the batter into the prepared mini muffin tin, filling each cup nearly to the top.
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Bake: Bake for 18–20 minutes, until set and lightly golden. A toothpick should come out clean.
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Cool & Serve: Let cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or chilled.
Notes
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Add a dash of nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth.
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Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
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Use mashed banana or applesauce instead of honey for natural sweetness.
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Swap the apple for pear for a variation.
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Make them into full-sized muffins—just bake 25–28 minutes instead.
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