This Blueberry Cottage Cheese Breakfast Bake is a healthy and delicious way to start your day! Packed with protein from the cottage cheese, fiber from the oats, and antioxidants from the blueberries, it’s a perfect balance of flavors and nutrients. This dish is easy to make ahead and can be enjoyed as a quick breakfast or a snack throughout the week.
Blueberry Cottage Cheese Breakfast Bake
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cottage cheese (preferably low-fat or full-fat)
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce (or mashed banana)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey for sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups fresh blueberries (or frozen, if using frozen, do not thaw)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional, for topping – almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
- Optional garnish: Greek yogurt, additional maple syrup, or a sprinkle of cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or a similar-sized dish with cooking spray or butter.
2. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cottage cheese, eggs, applesauce (or mashed banana), maple syrup, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Stir to combine.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients and stir until well combined. The oats will absorb the liquid and begin to soften.
5. Add Blueberries:
- Gently fold in the blueberries (and any optional nuts) into the mixture, being careful not to crush the berries too much.
6. Bake:
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Serve:
- Let the bake cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm, topped with a dollop of Greek yogurt, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Tips:
- Make-Ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping! You can assemble the breakfast bake the night before and bake it the next morning.
- Frozen Blueberries: If using frozen blueberries, there’s no need to thaw them, just fold them directly into the batter.
- Vegan Option: To make this recipe vegan, use flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water = 1 egg), plant-based yogurt instead of cottage cheese, and maple syrup for sweetness.
This Blueberry Cottage Cheese Breakfast Bake is a satisfying and nutritious breakfast that’s perfect for busy mornings. Enjoy the flavors of oats, cottage cheese, and fresh blueberries in every bite!
