This Lemon Raspberry Cottage Cheese Bake is a light and tasty treat! Packed with zesty lemon and sweet raspberries, it’s great for breakfast or dessert.
Honestly, it’s like a cake and a pudding had a baby! I love how easy it is to whip up—just mix, bake, and enjoy the deliciousness that follows!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: This is the star of the bake! I prefer full-fat for creaminess, but low-fat or non-fat cottage cheese can work too, just note it might be less rich.
Raspberries: Fresh raspberries add a tart sweetness, but you can swap in blueberries or blackberries if needed. Frozen raspberries can work too, just ensure to thaw and drain excess moisture.
Lemon Juice & Zest: Fresh lemon juice provides a bright flavor. Bottled lemon juice can substitute, but fresh is always best for that zesty punch. A little extra zest makes it even more vibrant!
Granulated Sugar: For a twist, you can use coconut sugar or maple syrup. If you want to lower the sugar, try using a sugar substitute like Stevia, but adjust according to the product’s instructions.
How Do I Ensure My Bake is Fluffy and Not Dense?
To achieve fluffy results, the folding technique is crucial. Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can create a dense texture.
- When you add raspberries, gently fold them into the batter. This keeps them intact and means fewer lumps!
- Don’t skip the baking powder! It helps the bake rise and creates that fluffy consistency.
Also, letting it cool slightly before serving helps maintain its structure. Enjoy your Lemon Raspberry Cottage Cheese Bake!
How to Make Lemon Raspberry Cottage Cheese Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Bake:
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh raspberries (plus extra for garnish)
- Butter or non-stick spray (for greasing)
- Optional Garnish:
- Fresh mint leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Lemon Raspberry Cottage Cheese Bake takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then 40 to 45 minutes to bake. After it’s baked, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. In total, you’ll spend about 1 hour, making it perfect for a quick treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Baking Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This ensures that your bake doesn’t stick and comes out easily!
2. Cream the Base Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, eggs, granulated sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. You want to have a nice base for your bake.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This mix will add structure to your bake, so it’s important to do this step well.
4. Merge the Mixtures:
Now, gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir gently until everything is combined, but be careful not to overmix. A little bit of lumps are okay—this helps keep your bake light!
5. Add the Raspberries:
Gently fold in the fresh raspberries. Take your time with this step to avoid breaking them up too much—whole raspberries look great in the bake and burst with flavor!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick poked into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s baked, carefully remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This makes it easier to slice and serve. You can enjoy it warm or at room temperature.
8. Garnish and Enjoy!
For an extra touch, serve the bake topped with more fresh raspberries and a sprig of mint leaves if you like. This Lemon Raspberry Cottage Cheese Bake is a delightful treat that pairs perfectly with your favorite tea or coffee. Enjoy!
Can I Use Low-Fat or Non-Fat Cottage Cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat or non-fat cottage cheese if you prefer! Just keep in mind that the texture may be slightly less creamy compared to full-fat cottage cheese.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Raspberries?
If fresh raspberries aren’t available, you can use frozen raspberries. Just be sure to thaw and drain them first to remove excess moisture. Alternatively, blueberries or blackberries make great substitutes!
Can I Add Other Flavors or Ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to add a teaspoon of almond extract for an extra flavor boost, or mix in some chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for added texture. Just be sure to adjust the sugar if using sweetened ingredients.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in the microwave or enjoy it cold. It tastes great both ways!