Apple Cinnamon Cottage Cheese Bake

This apple cinnamon cottage cheese bake is a cozy dessert that feels like a warm hug on chilly evenings. It brings together the natural sweetness of apples and the comforting spice of cinnamon with the creamy bite of cottage cheese for a dish that is both satisfying and wholesome.

I first made this dish one fall afternoon when I needed something easy yet special. It quickly became a favorite for weekend family breakfasts and casual desserts alike.

Ingredients

• Two cups cottage cheese: for a creamy, protein-rich base choose full-fat for richness or low-fat for a lighter option
• One cup diced apples: add natural sweetness and moisture pick crisp, tart varieties like Granny Smith for balance
• Half a cup sugar: to enhance sweetness you can swap for a natural sweetener if preferred
• Two teaspoons cinnamon: bring warmth and depth opt for fresh ground spice for the best flavor
• Three eggs: help bind the bake and provide structure fresh eggs create a lighter texture
• One teaspoon vanilla extract: adds a subtle sweet aroma use pure vanilla for best results
• Quarter cup raisins: offer bursts of chewy sweetness soak them in warm water briefly if they seem dry
• Half a cup rolled oats: contribute texture and a rustic feel choose old-fashioned oats, not quick oats for better bite

Instructions

Build The Mixture:

In a large mixing bowl combine cottage cheese, diced apples, sugar, cinnamon, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir gently until the ingredients are evenly distributed. The apples provide juicy bits while the cottage cheese adds creaminess which makes this bake uniquely textured.

Add The Extras:

Fold in the raisins and rolled oats carefully. These ingredients deliver contrast in texture—the chewiness of raisins and the heartiness of oats balance the softness of the base perfectly.

Prepare The Dish:

Lightly grease a baking dish to keep everything from sticking. Pour the mixture evenly into the dish smoothing the top slightly to ensure it cooks uniformly.

Bake Until Set:

Place the dish in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until the top is golden and the center is set. The aroma of cinnamon and apple will fill your kitchen signaling it is ready.

Cool Slightly Before Serving:

Remove from the oven and let the bake rest for a few minutes which helps it to firm up making slicing easier when serving warm or cold.

I love how cinnamon infuses the dish with warmth reminiscent of cozy family gatherings. This bake always brings back memories of slow weekend mornings and simple pleasures shared around the table.

Storage Tips

This bake keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. I find it tastes great warmed briefly or enjoyed cold as a quick snack. It also freezes well for up to two months if you want to make it ahead in batches.

Ingredient Swaps

Try substituting the raisins with dried cranberries or chopped dates for a different sweet note. You can swap rolled oats for quinoa flakes if you want a gluten-free version. Using a mix of tart and sweet apples can add more complexity to the flavor.

Serving Ideas

Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess. A drizzle of honey or maple syrup can add natural sweetness on top. Pairing it with a cup of spiced tea or freshly brewed coffee makes a comforting treat.

Seasonal Twists

In summer, swap apples for fresh peaches or berries for a lighter fruit option. During the holidays, a sprinkle of nutmeg or allspice alongside the cinnamon enhances the festive spirit. Adding chopped toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans adds crunch and richness perfect for colder months.

This bake captures cozy flavors perfectly and is sure to become a family favorite with its warm spices and comforting texture.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ Can I substitute low-fat cottage cheese in this bake?

Yes, using low-fat cottage cheese works well and reduces overall fat while maintaining the creamy texture.

→ How do the rolled oats affect the texture?

Rolled oats add a slight chewiness and help absorb moisture, contributing to a more structured and hearty bake.

→ What is the best way to achieve a golden top?

Bake at 350°F (175°C) until the top is lightly browned and the mixture is set, usually around 45–50 minutes.

→ Can I add nuts for extra crunch?

Absolutely, adding chopped nuts before or after baking enhances texture and provides a pleasant crunch.

→ Is it better served warm or cold?

Both options work well—warm enhances the spices and creaminess, while cold offers a firmer texture and refreshing finish.