These Blueberry and Lemon Zest Cottage Cheese Bites are a tasty and healthy snack. They combine creamy cottage cheese with fresh blueberries and a zing of lemon for a perfect treat!
I love how quick and easy these are to make. Just mix and chill! Plus, they are great for breakfast or a pick-me-up snack—such a fun way to enjoy cottage cheese!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: Low-fat cottage cheese gives a creamy texture and adds protein. If you’re dairy-free, consider using a plant-based cream cheese alternative.
Flour: All-purpose flour works well, but you can substitute with whole wheat flour for a heartier bite or almond flour for a gluten-free option.
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries are ideal for sweetness and moisture. If they’re out of season, frozen blueberries can work too; just thaw and drain them first.
Lemon Zest: Fresh lemon zest brightens the bites. If you don’t have a lemon, lime zest can be a tasty alternative.
Egg: If you need a vegan option, you can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water, let sit) or store-bought egg replacer.
How Do I Ensure My Bites Are Light and Fluffy?
Mixing is key to keeping these bites fluffy. Be careful not to overmix after adding dry ingredients as this can make them dense. Aim for just combined; it’s okay if there are a few lumps! Folding in the blueberries gently also helps prevent them from breaking and releasing too much juice, which can make the bites soggy.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients gently, use a folding motion.
- Mix until you still see some dry flour; it’s fine to leave it a bit lumpy.
- Folding the blueberries in last allows for even distribution without breaking them apart.
Blueberry And Lemon Zest Cottage Cheese Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- Zest of 1 lemon (about 1 tablespoon)
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to bake. After that, let them cool for a bit before serving. So, in total, you’re looking at about 30-35 minutes before you can enjoy these delicious bites!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, lightly grease or line a mini muffin tin with paper liners to prevent sticking. This will make clean-up a breeze!
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and granulated sugar. Use a whisk or a fork to mix everything well. This helps to ensure the baking powder is evenly distributed.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk the large egg until it’s combined. Next, add the low-fat cottage cheese, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Stir these ingredients together until they are well mixed. You want a creamy texture!
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Now, gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Use a spatula or a wooden spoon and mix just until combined. Remember, it’s okay if the batter is a bit lumpy. Overmixing can lead to tough bites.
5. Add the Blueberries:
Take your fresh blueberries and gently fold them into the batter. Do this carefully to avoid breaking the berries. You want to keep them whole for a burst of flavor in every bite!
6. Fill the Muffin Tin:
Spoon the batter into the prepared mini muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full. This way, they will have room to rise but will not overflow while baking.
7. Bake:
Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for about 18-22 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they are done when the tops are lightly golden and set. You can check by inserting a toothpick in the center—it should come out clean!
8. Cool:
Once baked, remove the bites from the oven and allow them to cool in the tin for 5 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This avoids sogginess.
9. Garnish and Serve:
If you want, sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top for an extra touch. You can also add some more lemon zest for a vibrant look! Enjoy these delightful blueberry bites as a tasty breakfast or healthy snack!
Now, dig in and enjoy these moist, tangy bites—you’ve earned this delicious treat!
Can I Use Frozen Blueberries Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen blueberries work well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess moisture. This will help prevent the batter from becoming too wet.
How Should I Store Leftover Cottage Cheese Bites?
Store any leftover bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or enjoy them cold!
Can I Make These Bites Gluten-Free?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure the blend includes a binding agent, or consider adding a bit of xanthan gum for better texture.
How Do I Ensure My Bites are Not Dense?
To keep your bites light and fluffy, avoid overmixing the batter after adding the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined and gently fold in the blueberries to prevent breaking them apart. This helps maintain airiness!
