Cinnamon Apple Cottage Cheese Bites

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these bites give me all the cozy apple cinnamon flavor I crave, without being overly sweet or heavy. They’re made with real, simple ingredients and the cottage cheese keeps them moist while adding a protein boost. Whether I’m looking for a post-workout snack, a lunchbox treat, or something to meal prep ahead, these bites check all the boxes.

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

• Vanilla extract

• Apple, peeled and finely chopped

• Maple syrup or honey (optional, for added sweetness)

• Salt

• Optional: raisins or chopped walnuts

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a mini muffin pan.

2. In a blender or food processor, I combine the cottage cheese, eggs, oats, baking powder, cinnamon, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. I blend until smooth.

3. I stir in the chopped apples and any optional add-ins like raisins or nuts.

4. I scoop the batter into the mini muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full.

5. I bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the bites are set and lightly golden on top.

6. I let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 20–24 mini bites, depending on the pan size. Prep takes around 10 minutes, and baking time is about 20 minutes—so I usually have them ready in half an hour.

Variations

Sometimes I add grated apple instead of chopped for a smoother texture. If I want extra protein, I mix in a scoop of vanilla protein powder and adjust the oats slightly. I’ve also made a chocolate chip version for the kids using cinnamon and mini chips instead of apple. And when I want a lower-sugar option, I skip the maple syrup entirely—the apples are sweet enough on their own.

Storage/Reheating

I store these bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, I freeze them and just pop a few in the microwave for 15–20 seconds when I need a quick snack. They’re great cold, but I like them best slightly warmed.

FAQs

Can I use unsweetened applesauce instead of chopped apples?

Yes, I’ve done that when I wanted a smoother texture. About ½ cup of applesauce works well, but I reduce other liquid slightly if needed.

What type of cottage cheese works best?

I use full-fat or low-fat cottage cheese, depending on what I have. Small curd blends smoother, but any kind will work once blended.

Can I use a regular muffin pan?

Yes, I bake them in a standard muffin tin for about 25–28 minutes. They make a great portable breakfast in a larger size.

Are these bites good for kids?

Definitely. They’re naturally sweet, soft, and easy for little hands to hold. I often make a batch just for school snacks.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes, I’ve swapped cottage cheese with a thick dairy-free yogurt or blended silken tofu—it changes the flavor slightly but still works well.

Conclusion

Cinnamon apple cottage cheese bites are one of my favorite snacks to make ahead. They’re soft, flavorful, and packed with nutrients that keep me full and energized. Whether I’m meal prepping, feeding the family, or just looking for a cozy bite, these little treats never disappoint.