These cinnamon apple cottage cheese bites are soft, wholesome mini snacks that blend protein-rich cottage cheese with oats and warm apple spice for a cozy treat you’ll want again and again. They bake up tender and lightly golden, perfect for breakfast on the go, afternoon snacks, or even lunchboxes. The combination of oats, applesauce (or grated apple), and cottage cheese creates satisfying texture and flavor without refined ingredients.
The recipe is easy and forgiving — no fancy tools required. Just mix the ingredients, let the oats absorb a bit of moisture, scoop into a mini muffin pan, and bake. These bites are naturally sweet enough without added sugar, though a drizzle of honey or maple syrup makes them extra special. They’re fridge-friendly and freeze beautifully, making them ideal for meal prepping or quick wholesome snacks any time.
Equipment
- Mini muffin pan
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven
- Wire rack
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup applesauce or 1 small grated apple
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a mini muffin pan or line it with mini muffin liners.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, rolled oats, applesauce or grated apple, egg, cinnamon, honey or maple syrup (if using), baking powder, and salt. Stir until well blended.
- Let the batter sit for 5 minutes so the oats can absorb some moisture.
- Scoop the mixture evenly into each cup of the mini muffin pan, filling nearly to the top.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the bites are set and lightly golden on top.
- Allow the bites to cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling.
- Enjoy warm or store for later.
Recipe Info
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18–20 minutes
- Total Time: ~30 minutes
- Servings: ~24 mini bites
- Cuisine: American
- Course: Snack / Breakfast
How to Store
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze in a sealed freezer bag for up to 1 month; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat gently in the microwave or enjoy cold.
What Not to Do
- Do not skip the resting time — it helps oats soften and prevents dry texture.
- Do not overfill the mini cups — it can make them spill over while baking.
- Do not use quick oats instead of rolled oats without adjusting moisture — it alters texture.
- Do not leave out the baking powder — it helps give a tender lift.
Tips & Variations
- Fold in a handful of chopped nuts or raisins for extra texture.
- Add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg for extra cozy spice.
- Swap applesauce for mashed banana if you prefer a banana-apple flavor.
- Serve with a light drizzle of Greek yogurt and honey for an elevated breakfast.
- For gluten-free option, use certified gluten-free oats.
Approximate Nutrition (per 2 bites)
- Calories: ~60 kcal
- Protein: ~4 g
- Total Fat: ~2 g
- Saturated Fat: ~1 g
- Carbohydrates: ~7 g
- Fiber: ~1 g
- Sugar: ~2 g (plus optional honey)
- Sodium: ~120 mg
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a mini muffin pan or line it with mini muffin liners.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, rolled oats, applesauce or grated apple, egg, cinnamon, honey or maple syrup (if using), baking powder, and salt. Stir until well blended.
- Let the batter sit for 5 minutes so the oats can absorb some moisture.
- Scoop the mixture evenly into each cup of the mini muffin pan, filling nearly to the top.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the bites are set and lightly golden on top.
- Allow the bites to cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling.
- Enjoy warm or store for later.
Notes
- Protein: ~4 g
- Total Fat: ~2 g
- Saturated Fat: ~1 g
- Carbohydrates: ~7 g
- Fiber: ~1 g
- Sugar: ~2 g (plus optional honey)
- Sodium: ~120 mg
Conclusion
These cinnamon apple cottage cheese bites deliver a delicious balance of protein, fiber, and natural sweetness with minimal fuss. The combination of cottage cheese and oats keeps you satisfied longer than sugary snacks, while apples and cinnamon bring cozy warmth without refined sugar. They’re ideal for busy mornings, post-workout snacks, or anytime you want a wholesome bite that feels like comfort food.
FAQs
Can I make these dairy-free?
Use a plant-based cottage cheese alternative if dairy is a concern.
Do I have to use applesauce?
You can substitute with 1 small grated apple for more texture.
Can I make them vegan?
Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water).
Can I add more spice?
Yes — a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom complements the cinnamon.
Are these good cold or warm?
Both — they’re tasty right from the fridge or warmed slightly.
Can I make a larger version?
Yes — bake in a standard muffin pan for 10–12 minutes longer.
