Apple Cinnamon Cottage Cheese Bake: High-Protein (Print Version)
Start your day with a high-protein Apple Cinnamon Cottage Cheese Bake. This healthy breakfast is easy to make, satisfying, and packed with flavor.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 35 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Vegetarian
# Ingredients:
→ The Protein-Packed Base
01 -
32 oz (4 cups) 4% milkfat cottage cheese
02 -
4 large eggs
03 -
1/2 cup 2% milk
04 -
1 tsp vanilla extract
05 -
1/4 tsp salt
→ Sweet Apple Swirl
06 -
2 large apples (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji), peeled, cored, and diced
07 -
1/4 cup maple syrup
08 -
1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
09 -
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
→ Wholesome Add-ins
10 -
1/2 cup rolled oats
11 -
1 tsp baking powder
12 -
1/4 cup chopped pecans
→ Finishing Touch
13 -
Pinch of ground cinnamon, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. This prepares your dish for the delicious Apple Cinnamon Cottage Cheese Bake: High-Protein Breakfast.
02 -
In a medium bowl, combine 2 large diced apples, 1/4 cup maple syrup, 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice. Stir well to coat the apples evenly. This mixture will create a sweet, spiced swirl in your bake.
03 -
In a large blender or food processor, combine 32 oz (4 cups) 4% milkfat cottage cheese, 4 large eggs, 1/2 cup 2% milk, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/4 tsp salt. Blend until completely smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain for a perfect base.
04 -
In a separate large bowl, combine 1/2 cup rolled oats and 1 tsp baking powder. Stir these wholesome add-ins together. This step ensures even distribution and helps give the Apple Cinnamon Cottage Cheese Bake: High-Protein Breakfast its structure.
05 -
Pour the blended cottage cheese mixture into the bowl with the oats and baking powder. Stir gently to combine. Fold in 1/4 cup chopped pecans. Pour half of this mixture into the prepared baking dish, then spoon half of the apple mixture over it. Repeat layers.
06 -
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes, or until the bake is set in the center and the top is golden brown. A knife inserted into the center should come out mostly clean.
07 -
Remove the Apple Cinnamon Cottage Cheese Bake: High-Protein Breakfast from the oven. Let it cool for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. Garnish with a pinch of ground cinnamon for a beautiful finish.
# Notes:
01 -
For an extra boost of flavor, you can lightly sauté the diced apples with a tablespoon of butter for 3-5 minutes before mixing them with the maple syrup and cinnamon.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
03 -
Feel free to substitute other fruits like pears or berries for the apples. You can also swap pecans for walnuts or almonds, or omit nuts entirely if preferred.
04 -
Serve warm or at room temperature. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of extra maple syrup makes a delightful addition.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
9x13 inch baking dish
02 -
large mixing bowl
03 -
whisk
04 -
cutting board
05 -
knife
06 -
measuring cups
07 -
measuring spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 315 kcal
Total Fat: 14 g
Total Carbohydrate: 29 g
Protein: 23 g