Lemon Blueberry Cottage Cheese Protein Bites Recipe
Introduction
These Lemon Blueberry Cottage Cheese Protein Bites are a refreshing and nourishing snack that combines creamy cottage cheese with the bright flavors of lemon and fresh blueberries. Perfect for a quick energy boost or a healthy dessert, they’re easy to make and full of protein.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese (low-fat)
- 1 cup fresh blueberries, plus extra for garnish
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)
- 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- a pinch of salt
Instructions
- Step 1: In a mixing bowl, gently combine cottage cheese, blueberries, lemon zest, honey, almond flour, vanilla extract, and salt. Be careful not to crush the blueberries.
- Step 2: Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes to firm up.
- Step 3: Use a tablespoon to scoop out portions and roll into tight, compact balls. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Step 4: Optional: Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C) and bake for 8–10 minutes for a lightly toasted exterior. Watch carefully to prevent over-browning. Bites can also be enjoyed chilled without baking.
- Step 5: Cool slightly, drizzle with honey if desired, and garnish with extra blueberries.
Tips & Variations
- For a vegan version, substitute cottage cheese with a plant-based alternative and use maple syrup instead of honey.
- Try adding a sprinkle of chia seeds or flaxseeds for extra nutrition and texture.
- Use frozen blueberries if fresh are not available, but thaw and drain excess liquid before mixing.
Storage
Store the protein bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be enjoyed chilled or warmed slightly in the oven or microwave before serving. If baked, allow them to cool completely before storing.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I freeze these protein bites?
Yes, you can freeze the bites. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before eating.
Are these bites suitable for a low-carb diet?
They are relatively low in carbs thanks to almond flour and cottage cheese, but the honey and blueberries add some natural sugars. To reduce carbs, use less honey and adjust blueberries.
PrintLemon Blueberry Cottage Cheese Protein Bites Recipe
These Lemon Blueberry Cottage Cheese Protein Bites are a refreshing, nutritious snack combining creamy low-fat cottage cheese with fresh blueberries and zesty lemon. Naturally sweetened with honey and enriched with almond flour for texture, these protein-packed bites can be enjoyed chilled or lightly baked for a toasted exterior. Perfect as a healthy on-the-go treat or a post-workout boost.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (optional baking)
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 protein bites 1x
- Category: Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Protein Base
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
Fruit and Flavorings
- 1 cup fresh blueberries, plus extra for garnish
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- a pinch of salt
Sweetener
- 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
Binder
- 1/2 cup almond flour
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, gently stir together the low-fat cottage cheese, fresh blueberries, lemon zest, honey, almond flour, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix carefully to avoid crushing the blueberries, maintaining their whole shape for texture and visual appeal.
- Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for 15 to 20 minutes. This helps the mixture firm up, making it easier to roll into balls in the next step.
- Form Protein Bites: Using a tablespoon, scoop portions of the chilled mixture and roll each portion into a tight, compact ball using your hands. Place each ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Optional Baking: For a lightly toasted exterior, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Bake the formed bites for 8 to 10 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid over-browning. Alternatively, you can enjoy these bites chilled and fresh without baking.
- Finish and Garnish: Allow the baked bites to cool slightly. Drizzle with additional honey if desired for extra sweetness and garnish each bite with fresh blueberries to enhance flavor and presentation.
Notes
- You can substitute honey with maple syrup to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
- Do not overmix or crush blueberries to keep bursts of fresh flavor in every bite.
- Baking is optional; chilled bites provide a softer texture while baking adds a subtle crunch.
- Store these protein bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for best freshness.
- Use almond flour for a gluten-free option, but you can try other nut flours if preferred.
Keywords: lemon blueberry protein bites, cottage cheese snacks, healthy snack, protein bites, low-fat snack, gluten-free snack, easy snack recipe
