Save Start your day with a nourishing and delicious Blueberry Cottage Cheese Breakfast Bake. This protein-packed casserole is a luscious blend of creamy cottage cheese, wholesome oats, and juicy blueberries, all brought together with a hint of warm cinnamon. With its delightful custardy texture, this make-ahead dish provides 20g of protein per serving, making it the perfect fuel for an energizing morning.
Save This easy-to-prepare breakfast is a versatile option for any household. It is naturally vegetarian and can easily be made gluten-free, ensuring a wholesome and delicious meal that everyone can enjoy together.
Ingredients
- 2 cups low-fat cottage cheese, room temperature
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup almond milk or milk of choice
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup rolled oats (use gluten-free oats if needed)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries (do not thaw if frozen)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional – almonds or walnuts)
- Cooking spray or butter, for greasing
Instructions
- Step 1: Prep
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
- In a large bowl, blend the cottage cheese until mostly smooth using a whisk or hand mixer. Add eggs, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Whisk until combined.
- Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
- Add cinnamon, salt, rolled oats, and chia seeds (if using). Pour in the milk. Gently fold to combine, ensuring the mixture is uniform but not overmixed.
- Step 4: Add Fruit
- Fold in blueberries (and nuts, if using) gently to avoid crushing the berries.
- Step 5: Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly. Bake for 45–60 minutes, until the edges are golden, the center is mostly set with a slight jiggle, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with moist crumbs. Tent loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly.
- Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Cool on a wire rack for at least 30–60 minutes to set. For cleanest slices, cool completely or chill in the refrigerator. Cut into 8 squares and serve plain or with toppings.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the perfect consistency, use a 9×13-inch baking dish and a rubber spatula for folding. Blending the cottage cheese until mostly smooth is the secret to achieving that signature custardy texture. Don't forget to use a toothpick to check the center before removing it from the oven.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This recipe is highly adaptable. You can swap the blueberries for raspberries, blackberries, or a mixed berry blend. If you have a gluten intolerance, simply use certified gluten-free oats. For added crunch and nutrients, don't forget the optional chia seeds or chopped walnuts.
Serviervorschläge
Enjoy your breakfast square plain or topped with a dollop of Greek yogurt for an extra protein boost. It also tastes wonderful with a drizzle of sugar-free syrup or extra fresh berries. This bake keeps well in the refrigerator for 3–4 days and can be served cold or gently reheated.
Save Each serving of this Blueberry Cottage Cheese Breakfast Bake provides approximately 210 calories, 6g of fat, and 23g of carbohydrates alongside its 20g of protein. It is a satisfying and wholesome choice for anyone looking for a high-protein, vegetarian breakfast option.
Kitchen Questions
- → Can I substitute the blueberries with other fruits?
Yes, raspberries, blackberries, or a mixed berry combination work well and provide similar freshness and flavor.
- → Is it possible to make a gluten-free version?
Absolutely, use certified gluten-free rolled oats to avoid gluten and maintain texture.
- → How do I achieve the custardy texture consistently?
Whisk the cottage cheese smoothly and gently fold ingredients without overmixing before baking to maintain a custard-like finish.
- → What is the best way to store leftovers?
Keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days and enjoy cold or warmed gently for best texture and flavor.
- → Can nuts be omitted or substituted?
Nuts are optional; omitting them won't affect the bake significantly, but chopped almonds or walnuts add a pleasant crunch.
- → Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, it can be assembled in advance and baked when ready, making it convenient for a busy morning.