These Apple Cinnamon Cottage Cheese Breakfast Cookies are a tasty way to start your day! They’re soft, sweet, and packed with yummy apple bits and a hint of cinnamon.
Plus, they’re super easy to make! I love whipping these up on busy mornings. They make a perfect grab-and-go snack too—who doesn’t love cookies for breakfast? 🍏🍪
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are essential for a chewy texture and fiber. If you don’t have rolled oats, quick oats can work, but they’ll give a slightly different texture. I love using old-fashioned oats for the perfect cookie consistency!
Cottage Cheese: Full-fat cottage cheese adds moisture and protein. If you’re looking for lower fat, you can use low-fat cottage cheese, but the cookies may be less moist. Greek yogurt could also work as a substitute for a tangy flavor!
Apple: A tart apple, like Granny Smith, adds a nice balance to the sweetness. If you prefer sweeter cookies, go for Fuji or Honeycrisp. Don’t feel limited—mix in other fruits if you have leftovers!
Egg: This binds the ingredients together. If you need an egg substitute for a vegan option, try 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water, mixed and set aside for 5 minutes).
Nuts/Raisins: These are optional but add texture and flavor. Try using sunflower seeds or dried cranberries for variety! I often add chopped pecans for a nice crunch.
How Can I Ensure My Cookies Bake Evenly?
Baking cookies evenly is key to getting that perfect texture! Here are some tips:
- Make sure to preheat your oven properly. This helps them cook evenly from the start.
- Using parchment paper or silicone mats prevents sticking and promotes even browning.
- Space cookies at least 2 inches apart on the baking sheet to allow for spreading.
- If you’re baking multiple trays, it’s best to rotate them halfway through to avoid uneven baking.
- Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes. Every oven is a little different, and you want to catch them just before they overbake!
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Cottage Cheese Breakfast Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Cookies:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese (preferably full fat for moisture)
- 1 medium apple, peeled and finely chopped
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Optional: 1/3 cup chopped nuts or raisins for extra texture (e.g., walnuts or raisins)
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and 18-22 minutes to bake, totaling around 30-35 minutes. Simple and quick enough for busy mornings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will help ensure your cookies bake evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir well to distribute the spices evenly so every bite is bursting with flavor!
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
Now, add the cottage cheese, egg, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly until you have a sticky batter. Don’t worry if it looks a bit different, it’s supposed to be that way!
4. Add the Apple and Optional Ingredients:
Fold in the finely chopped apple with your spatula. If you’re using nuts or raisins, gently mix those in too. This adds extra texture that you’ll love!
5. Scoop the Cookie Batter:
Using a spoon or small ice cream scoop, drop dollops of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. To help them hold shape, flatten each cookie slightly with the back of the spoon.
6. Bake the Cookies:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown and firm to the touch. You’ll know they’re ready when the smell fills your kitchen!
7. Cool and Serve:
Once they’re done baking, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Enjoy:
Serve these warm or at room temperature. They make a fantastic grab-and-go breakfast or a delightful snack. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Enjoy your wholesome, moist, and tasty Apple Cinnamon Cottage Cheese Breakfast Cookies, packed with protein and delicious apple goodness! 🍏🍪
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of Oats?
While oats are key for texture, you can experiment with whole wheat flour. Keep in mind it will change the consistency, so you may need to adjust the liquid slightly to compensate for the differences in absorption.
Can I Use Another Type of Cheese?
Yes, you can substitute cottage cheese with Greek yogurt or ricotta for a different flavor and texture. Both options will still provide a creamy base, but Greek yogurt may add a tangy taste!
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness?
If you’d like a sweeter cookie, feel free to add more honey or maple syrup, adjusting it up to an additional tablespoon to fit your taste. Alternatively, you could introduce some brown sugar even for extra depth in flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Store These Cookies?
To store the cookies, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them! Just make sure they’re completely cooled, then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to a month. Thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!