Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High in Protein: Cottage cheese and eggs provide a protein boost to keep you energized throughout the morning.
- Naturally Sweetened: Fresh blueberries add natural sweetness and a burst of flavor without the need for refined sugars.
- Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this bake comes together in under an hour.
- Versatile: Enjoy it warm, at room temperature, or chilled, and customize with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- For the Bake:
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon baking powder for a fluffier texture
- Optional: Chopped nuts or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for garnish
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish or individual ramekins.
- Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the cottage cheese, eggs, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth.
- Add Blueberries: Gently fold in the blueberries, reserving a few to scatter on top for presentation.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Scatter the reserved blueberries on top.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the bake is set and golden around the edges.
- Cool and Serve: Allow to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled, with optional garnishes if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 50 minutes
Variations
- Add-Ins: Mix in chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or dark chocolate chips for extra flavor.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute cottage cheese with a plant-based alternative and use almond or coconut milk.
- Fruit Options: Swap blueberries for raspberries, diced apples, or sliced bananas.
- Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats to make this recipe gluten-free.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, frozen blueberries work well. There’s no need to thaw them; just fold them directly into the batter.
Can I make this bake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare and bake it the night before, then store it in the refrigerator. Reheat slices as needed.
What can I use instead of honey?
Maple syrup or agave nectar are great substitutes for honey.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats.
How can I make this recipe sweeter?
Increase the honey or maple syrup slightly, or serve with a drizzle of syrup or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
What size baking dish should I use?
An 8×8-inch or similar-sized dish works well for this recipe.
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but the texture will be slightly different. Rolled oats are preferred for structure.
Can I serve this cold?
Yes, it’s delicious cold and makes a great grab-and-go breakfast.
How do I prevent the blueberries from sinking to the bottom?
Toss the blueberries in a little flour before folding them into the batter to help distribute them evenly.
Conclusion
The Blueberry Cottage Cheese Breakfast Bake is a delightful and nourishing start to any day. Its creamy texture, natural sweetness, and versatility make it a standout dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it fresh from the oven or as a make-ahead meal, this breakfast bake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection