Lemon Blueberry Cottage Cheese Protein Bites Recipe
Introduction
These Lemon Blueberry Cottage Cheese Protein Bites are a fresh and nutritious snack perfect for a quick energy boost. Combining creamy cottage cheese with juicy blueberries and zesty lemon, they offer a delightful balance of flavors and texture.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese (preferably low-fat)
- 1 cup fresh blueberries, plus extra for garnish
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)
- 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- a pinch of salt
Instructions
- Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, fresh blueberries, lemon zest, honey, almond flour, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix gently to keep the blueberries mostly intact.
- Step 2: Use your hands to scoop out small portions of the mixture, about 1 tablespoon each, and roll them into spheres.
- Step 3: For a toasted exterior, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the bites for 10-12 minutes until golden.
- Step 4: Let the bites cool for a few minutes, then drizzle with extra honey and garnish with fresh blueberries before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For a vegan version, use maple syrup instead of honey and replace cottage cheese with a plant-based yogurt or soft tofu.
- Add a sprinkle of chia seeds or flaxseeds for extra fiber and omega-3 benefits.
- If you prefer a no-bake option, chill the bites in the refrigerator for an hour instead of baking.
- To enhance the lemon flavor, add a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice to the mixture.
Storage
Store the protein bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. Reheat briefly in the oven if you prefer them warm.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Thaw and drain them well before mixing to avoid excess moisture in the bites.
Are these bites suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. They are easy to prepare in advance and store well, making them convenient for quick snacks throughout the week.
PrintLemon Blueberry Cottage Cheese Protein Bites Recipe
These Lemon Blueberry Cottage Cheese Protein Bites are a delicious and healthy snack combining creamy cottage cheese, fresh blueberries, and zesty lemon with natural sweetness and a toasted exterior. Perfect for a quick protein boost or a guilt-free treat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 12 bites 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese (preferably low-fat)
- 1 cup fresh blueberries, plus extra for garnish
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)
- 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- a pinch of salt
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, fresh blueberries, lemon zest, honey, almond flour, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix gently to evenly distribute the ingredients without breaking up the blueberries too much.
- Form Bites: Use your hands to scoop out small portions of the mixture, about 1 tablespoon each, and roll them carefully into spheres, ensuring the mixture holds together.
- Toast Bites: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the formed bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until the exterior turns golden and slightly firm to create a toasted texture.
- Cool and Garnish: Allow the bites to cool for a few minutes after baking. Then drizzle with extra honey and garnish with fresh blueberries for added sweetness and visual appeal.
Notes
- You can substitute honey with maple syrup to make the recipe vegan-friendly.
- For a firmer texture without baking, refrigerate the bites for at least an hour before serving.
- These bites keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- Use low-fat cottage cheese to reduce calorie count while maintaining protein content.
Keywords: lemon blueberry protein bites, cottage cheese snacks, healthy protein bites, low fat snacks, baked protein treats
