Lemon Blueberry Cottage Cheese Protein Bites Recipe

Introduction

These Lemon Blueberry Cottage Cheese Protein Bites are a refreshing and nutritious snack perfect for any time of the day. Combining the sweetness of fresh blueberries with bright lemon zest and creamy cottage cheese, they offer a delightful balance of flavors and a boost 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

1. 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.
2. Step 2: Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes to firm up.
3. Step 3: Use a tablespoon to scoop out portions and roll into tight, compact balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Step 4 (Optional): Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C) and bake the bites for 8–10 minutes for a lightly toasted exterior. Watch carefully to prevent over-browning. Alternatively, enjoy them chilled without baking.
5. Step 5: Cool slightly, drizzle with honey if desired, and garnish with extra blueberries before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For a vegan version, substitute cottage cheese with a plant-based yogurt and use maple syrup instead of honey.
• Adding a handful of chopped nuts can provide extra crunch and texture.
• If the mixture feels too wet to roll, chill longer or add a bit more almond flour to firm it up.
• Use frozen blueberries if fresh are not available, but thaw and drain excess juice to avoid a soggy batter.

Storage

Store the protein bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage, up to 1 month; just thaw in the fridge before enjoying. Reheat baked bites briefly in a warm oven or enjoy them chilled for a refreshing snack.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these bites without baking them?

Yes, these protein bites can be enjoyed chilled without baking, offering a fresh, creamy texture. Baking is optional to add a lightly toasted exterior.

What can I substitute for almond flour?

You can use oat flour, coconut flour, or finely ground nuts as alternatives, but note that texture and moisture levels may vary slightly.

Lemon Blueberry Cottage Cheese Protein Bites Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 67 reviews

These Lemon Blueberry Cottage Cheese Protein Bites are a delicious and healthy snack combining creamy cottage cheese, fresh blueberries, zesty lemon, and a hint of sweetness. Easy to prepare and customizable with a baking option for a toasted exterior, they offer a perfect balance of protein and fruit for a nourishing bite any time of day.

• Author: zara
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8-10 minutes (optional)
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes
• Yield: 12–14 bites 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main 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

1. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, gently combine cottage cheese, fresh blueberries, lemon zest, honey, almond flour, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix carefully to avoid crushing the blueberries, preserving their texture and shape.
2. Chill the Mixture: Place the mixture in the refrigerator and chill for 15 to 20 minutes. This firms up the mixture, making it easier to handle for shaping.
3. Form the Bites: Using a tablespoon, scoop portions of the chilled mixture and roll them into tight, compact balls. Arrange the formed bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
4. Optional Baking: For a lightly toasted exterior, preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Bake the bites for 8 to 10 minutes, watching carefully to avoid over-browning. Alternatively, you can enjoy the bites chilled without baking.
5. Finish and Garnish: Let the baked bites cool slightly. Drizzle with additional honey if desired for extra sweetness and garnish with fresh blueberries before serving.

Notes

• You can substitute honey with maple syrup to make the bites vegan.
• Be gentle when mixing to keep blueberries intact.
• Baking is optional; eating them chilled offers a fresher, softer texture.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For a nuttier flavor, try using different nut flours like cashew or hazelnut.

Keywords: lemon blueberry bites, cottage cheese snacks, protein bites, healthy snacks, low-fat snacks, easy protein bites