Description
Ingredients (makes about 24 bites):
1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup pumpkin puree
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/4 cup honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ginger
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chocolate chips
Nutrition (per bite, 24 bites): ~60 kcal | 2g protein | 2g fat | 10g carbs
Full step-by-step right below — just 10 min prep + 20 min bake!
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine cottage cheese, pumpkin puree, rolled oats, honey, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Mix until smooth.
Step 3: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in chocolate chips into the mixture until evenly distributed.
Step 4: Shape & Bake
Drop tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until bites are firm and lightly golden.
Step 5: Cool & Enjoy
Allow bites to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prep Time: 10 min | Bake Time: 20 min | Total: 30 min
Tips for Success:
Adjust spices to your taste for a personalized flavor.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Pumpkin Cottage Cheese Bites every time. First, ensure your pumpkin puree is 100% pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling. Using a food processor or blender to combine the cottage cheese, pumpkin, and oats will create a smoother, more cohesive batter, though mixing by hand works too. When shaping, a small cookie scoop ensures uniform size for even baking. Space the dollops about an inch apart on the parchment-lined sheet. The bake time is key; look for the edges to be set and the tops to appear dry. They will firm up significantly as they cool.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile bites are perfect for any time of day. Enjoy them as a quick breakfast on-the-go with a cup of Greek yogurt. Pack them in lunchboxes for a wholesome afternoon snack. For a dessert treat, serve them slightly warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of almond butter. They also pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or chai tea.
How-to Summary
In summary: Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet. Blend wet ingredients and spices, then mix in oats. Fold in chocolate chips. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto the sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes until set. Cool completely before storing. The entire process takes just 30 minutes for a batch of 24 nutritious bites.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cheese? Cottage cheese is ideal for moisture and protein. Ricotta is the best substitute, but the texture may be slightly grainier.
Can I make these gluten-free? Absolutely. Ensure you use certified gluten-free rolled oats.
Can I reduce the sugar? Yes, you can reduce the honey by half, but the bites will be less sweet and may be slightly drier.
Why are my bites too soft? This is usually due to under-baking or using pumpkin puree with too much water. Ensure you bake until firm and consider blotting your puree with a paper towel.
Can I omit the chocolate chips? Yes, you can leave them out or substitute with dried cranberries, chopped nuts, or seeds for a different flavor profile.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Avoid using pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices, as it will throw off the recipe’s balance.
- Do not overmix the batter after adding the chocolate chips, as this can cause the bites to become tough.
- Do not skip the cooling step. The bites need time to set and firm up after coming out of the oven.
- Avoid packing the mixture tightly when shaping; a gentle scoop helps maintain a light texture.
Conclusion
These Pumpkin Cottage Cheese Bites are a testament to how simple, wholesome ingredients can create a delicious and satisfying snack. With minimal prep time, customizable flavors, and excellent storage potential, they are a practical addition to any healthy eating routine. This recipe successfully combines the cozy flavors of fall with a protein-packed punch, making it a treat you can feel good about enjoying any day of the year.