Start your day right with these yummy Apple Cinnamon Cottage Cheese Breakfast Cookies! Made with soft cottage cheese, sweet apples, and a sprinkle of cinnamon, they’re both tasty and healthy.
These cookies are perfect for busy mornings. I love how easy they are to whip up, and they fill the kitchen with such a wonderful smell. Plus, they’re a great way to enjoy some fruit! 🍏✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats are key for texture. If you’re in a pinch, you can use quick oats, but they will make cookies softer. Steel-cut oats won’t work as well since they need longer cooking times. Oats are hearty and filling, so I wouldn’t skip them!
Cottage Cheese: This is the star ingredient! If you prefer a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based yogurt or smoothieable tofu blended until smooth. Just keep in mind that the texture might slightly change, but it still can be delicious.
Apple: Any apple works, but I love Granny Smith for its tartness. Fuji or Honeycrisp add sweetness. If you don’t have fresh apples, unsweetened applesauce can substitute. Use about 1/2 cup, but remember to reduce the honey or maple syrup to maintain balance.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Both add natural sweetness. If you need a vegan option, maple syrup is perfect. Agave syrup or coconut sugar are good substitutes, but sugar may require adjusting the liquid since it’s drier.
How Do I Get the Cookies to Have a Nice Texture?
The texture is all about balancing the ingredients and baking time. Here’s how to get those cookies just right:
- Mix wet and dry ingredients gently until just combined to avoid over-mixing; this helps maintain a tender cookie.
- Add the apples and nuts or raisins last to keep them from breaking down while mixing. This adds great texture!
- Don’t forget to flatten the dough on the baking sheet; these cookies don’t spread out much on their own while baking.
- Keep an eye on the baking time! Check around 20 minutes; if edges turn golden brown but centers slightly soft, that’s perfect for chewier cookies.
With these tips, you’ll have delicious and satisfying breakfast cookies that are great for mornings or snacks!
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Cottage Cheese Breakfast Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup small curd cottage cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 medium apple, peeled and diced into small pieces
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans) or raisins for extra texture
- Optional glaze: 2 tablespoons powdered sugar mixed with 1 teaspoon milk or water
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake, making the total time around 35 minutes. It’s quick enough for a weekday morning treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the cookies from sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Give it a good stir to mix everything well!
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk the egg. Then add the cottage cheese, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is blended together nicely.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—don’t over-mix, or your cookies might be tough!
5. Fold in the Apples and Optional Add-ins:
Now, fold in the diced apple pieces. If you’re using nuts or raisins, add them in as well for some extra crunch and sweetness!
6. Scoop the Cookies:
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, place the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Use the back of your spoon to gently flatten each scoop into a cookie shape.
7. Bake the Cookies:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cookies are set and the edges turn golden brown. Keep an eye on them towards the end!
8. Cool and Transfer:
Once baked, take the cookies out and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This helps them firm up a little before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. (Optional) Add a Glaze:
For an extra treat, mix the powdered sugar with a bit of milk or water to create a glaze. Drizzle it over the cookies once they are completely cooled.
10. Enjoy Your Cookies:
These cookies are best served warm or at room temperature. They make a delightful breakfast or snack any time of the day. Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a comforting treat!
With their moist texture, hearty oats, and delicious apple-cinnamon flavor, these cookies are sure to become a breakfast favorite!
Can I Use Different Sweeteners in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute honey or maple syrup with agave syrup, coconut sugar, or brown sugar. Just adjust the quantity slightly if using a granulated sugar, as it may require a bit more moisture.
Can I Freeze the Cookies?
Yes, these cookies freeze well! Once cooled, store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.
What if I Don’t Have Cottage Cheese?
No worries! You can replace cottage cheese with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative like silken tofu blended until smooth. This will still provide a creamy texture to the cookies.
How Long Do Leftover Cookies Last?
Leftover cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, store them in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze them as mentioned before.