Description
These Cinnamon Apple Cottage Cheese Bites are soft, chewy, and golden on the outside with a warm, creamy apple center. Packed with protein and naturally sweetened, they make a perfect healthy snack or dessert. Whether baked or air-fried, they’re easy to make and ideal for meal prep, lunchboxes, or cozy evenings with tea.
Ingredients
1 cup cottage cheese (small curd, drained)
1 apple (finely diced, Honeycrisp or Pink Lady preferred)
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (optional)
1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut (divided)
Instructions
1. Drain the cottage cheese using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the drained cottage cheese, diced apple, egg, vanilla extract, and maple syrup (if using).
3. Stir until well combined but not overmixed.
4. Fold in ½ cup of shredded coconut and the cinnamon.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll into balls.
6. Coat each ball in the remaining ½ cup shredded coconut.
7. To bake: Place on parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes until golden.
8. To air fry: Place in a single layer and air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway.
9. Cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or chilled.
Notes
For crispier bites, always drain the cottage cheese thoroughly before mixing.
Choose firmer apples for the best texture contrast and flavor.
You can make a double batch and freeze half—just reheat in the air fryer when needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack, Dessert
- Method: Bake or Air Fry
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 bites
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 35mg