Cinnamon Apple Cottage Cheese Bites

Cinnamon Apple Cottage Cheese Bites are a wholesome, protein-packed snack or breakfast treat made with just a few simple ingredients. These soft, fluffy bites are naturally sweetened, filled with warm cinnamon-spiced apple flavor, and balanced with creamy cottage cheese for extra moisture and nutrition. They’re the kind of grab-and-go snack I keep on repeat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these little bites manage to be both satisfying and healthy. The cottage cheese keeps them moist and adds protein, while the apples and cinnamon give that cozy, comforting flavor I crave in the fall (or honestly, year-round). They’re easy to prep in one bowl, and I can eat them straight out of the fridge or pop them in the microwave for a warm, soft treat. They’re also kid-friendly and perfect for meal prep.

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

• Apple, peeled and finely diced

• Vanilla extract

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

• Pinch of salt

directions

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

2. In a mixing bowl or blender, I combine cottage cheese, eggs, oats (or oat flour), baking powder, cinnamon, vanilla, sweetener (if using), and salt. I blend or mix until smooth.

3. I fold in the finely diced apples by hand so they stay chunky in the batter.

4. I spoon the mixture into the mini muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 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 tin for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 20–24 mini bites.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• I sometimes add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.

• For a more indulgent version, I mix in a few mini chocolate chips.

• If I want a stronger spice profile, I add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves.

• I’ve also swapped the apple for pear or banana chunks when I want to change it up.

storage/reheating

I store the bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. They’re great cold, but I like to microwave them for 10–15 seconds to make them warm and soft again. They also freeze well—I freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a bag and reheat from frozen as needed.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought oat flour instead of rolled oats?

Yes, I’ve made this with both. Oat flour gives a smoother texture, while whole oats add a bit of chew. Either works great.

Is there a substitute for cottage cheese?

I’ve used Greek yogurt in a pinch, but cottage cheese gives a better texture and more moisture. I blend it smooth if I want it less chunky.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes, I use a dairy-free cottage cheese or try blended silken tofu as a substitute. Just keep in mind the flavor and texture may vary.

Are these good for kids?

Definitely. These bites are soft, naturally sweetened, and the perfect size for little hands. I usually skip added sweetener if I’m making them for kids.

Can I bake them in a regular muffin tin?

Yes, I just increase the baking time to 25–28 minutes and check for doneness with a toothpick in the center.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Apple Cottage Cheese Bites are one of my favorite easy snacks to have on hand. They’re simple, nutritious, and full of cozy flavor that makes me feel like I’m eating dessert for breakfast—without the guilt. Whether I’m meal prepping for the week or just need something quick and satisfying, these bites always do the trick.