This bake is the ultimate healthy comfort food. It combines the creamy, protein-rich goodness of cottage cheese with the warm, spiced flavor of apple pie, all in one easy-to-make dish. It’s like having dessert for breakfast, but guilt-free!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 40-50 minutes | Total Time: 55-65 minutes + cooling | Serves: 6
Ingredients
- 2 cups cottage cheese (full-fat for richest flavor)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 large apple, peeled and finely diced (Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Gala work well)
- ½ cup rolled oats or almond flour
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup or honey
- 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- Pinch of salt (to enhance flavors)
- Optional Topping: 1 tbsp rolled oats + ½ tbsp coconut sugar or brown sugar for sprinkling
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8 inch or similar-sized baking dish.
- Blend the Base: In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, eggs, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour the smooth blended mixture into a large bowl. Add the rolled oats (or almond flour), baking powder, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir with a spatula until just combined.
- Fold in Apples: Gently fold the finely diced apple into the batter.
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Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish. Smooth the top with the spatula. If using, sprinkle the optional oat and sugar topping over the batter for a little crunch.
- Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the center is fully set and the top is golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bake cool in the pan for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing. This allows it to set properly. Serve warm.
Recipe Notes & Tips
- Blending is Key: Blending the cottage cheese is essential for creating a smooth, lump-free, and cheesecake-like texture.
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Oat vs. Almond Flour:
- Rolled Oats: Will give you a heartier, more oatmeal-like texture.
- Almond Flour: Creates a denser, richer, and gluten-free result.
- Apple Choices: For a sweeter bake, use Honeycrisp or Gala apples. For a tart contrast, use Granny Smith.
- Make-Ahead/Meal Prep: This is a perfect Sunday recipe for a week of healthy breakfasts. Let it cool completely, then slice and store portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently in the microwave.
- Add-Ins: Feel free to add ¼ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and healthy fats. A pinch of nutmeg would also pair beautifully with the cinnamon.
Enjoy the cozy, apple-pie aroma and the delicious, energizing start to your day!
