Description
Ingredients (makes about 12 mini muffins):
1 cup cottage cheese
2 large eggs
½ cup oat flour (or almond flour for a low-carb version)
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp baking powder
1–2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
Pinch of salt
½ cup fresh or frozen blueberries
Directions:
Step-by-Step:
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line or grease a mini muffin tray.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together cottage cheese, eggs, vanilla, and honey until smooth.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Fold in oat flour, baking powder, and salt to form a batter.
Step 4: Add Blueberries
Gently stir in blueberries, reserving a few to sprinkle on top.
Step 5: Bake
Spoon batter into the muffin cups. Bake 18–22 minutes until golden and set.
Step 6: Serve
Cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm or chilled.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect muffins every time. First, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for easier mixing. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and thoroughly grease a mini muffin tin or use liners. For the batter, use a blender or food processor for the smoothest result: combine the cottage cheese, eggs, vanilla, and sweetener (if using) and blend until completely smooth and creamy. This step is key to avoiding a grainy texture. Pour this mixture into a mixing bowl. Then, sift the oat flour, baking powder, and salt directly into the wet ingredients. Use a spatula to fold gently until just combined; overmixing will make the muffins dense. Finally, fold in most of the blueberries, being careful not to burst them. Divide the batter evenly among the 12 cups, top with the reserved berries, and bake immediately.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile muffins can be enjoyed in many ways. For a protein-packed breakfast, serve them warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey. They make an excellent snack for kids; pack them in lunchboxes with a side of apple slices. For a dessert-like treat, crumble a muffin into a bowl and top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. You can also customize the recipe by swapping blueberries for dark chocolate chips, raspberries, or diced strawberries.
How-to Summary
In short: Blend cottage cheese, eggs, vanilla, and sweetener until smooth. Fold in sifted dry ingredients, then gently mix in blueberries. Portion into a prepared mini muffin tin and bake at 350°F for 18-22 minutes. Cool briefly before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these muffins dairy-free?
Yes. Substitute the cottage cheese with an equal amount of dairy-free yogurt or silken tofu, though the texture and protein content will vary.
Can I use regular all-purpose flour instead of oat flour?
Absolutely. Use ½ cup of all-purpose flour as a direct substitute. The muffins will be slightly lighter in texture.
How should I store these muffins?
Store cooled muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They also freeze well for up to 3 months.
Why are my muffins wet or soggy?
This is often due to under-baking or using frozen blueberries without thawing and patting them dry. Ensure a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Can I make this as a loaf or full-size muffins?
Yes. For a loaf, bake in a greased loaf pan for 45-55 minutes. For standard muffins, bake for 22-28 minutes, checking for doneness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the batter: This develops the gluten in the oat flour, leading to tough, dense muffins. Fold until just combined.
- Not blending the cottage cheese: Skipping the blending step will result in a lumpy, uneven texture instead of a smooth, creamy crumb.
- Using dripping-wet frozen berries: Always thaw and thoroughly pat dry frozen blueberries to prevent excess moisture from bleeding into the batter.
- Overfilling the muffin cups: Fill each cup only ¾ full to allow space for the muffins to rise properly without spilling over.
Conclusion
These cottage cheese blueberry mini muffins are a brilliant fusion of simple nutrition and delightful flavor. They prove that a healthy snack can be incredibly satisfying and easy to prepare. With their high protein content and customizable nature, this recipe is a fantastic staple for busy households. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can consistently create a batch of moist, tender muffins that everyone will love. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a wholesome treat that fuels your day.