Description
This Cinnamon Cottage Cheese Oatmeal Bake is a warm, comforting breakfast perfect for cozy mornings. Combining wholesome oats, protein-rich cottage cheese, and fragrant cinnamon, this baked oatmeal offers a deliciously soft texture with a hint of spice. Topped with fresh fruit and crunchy nuts, it makes a nutritious and satisfying start to your day.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats (certified gluten-free for gluten-free option)
- 1 cup cottage cheese (ensure well mixed)
- 3 large eggs (binding agent)
- 1 cup milk (substitute with almond or oat milk for dairy-free)
- 1/4 cup honey (or maple syrup if unavailable)
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (add nutmeg or cardamom for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (enhances flavor)
Toppings
- 1 cup fresh fruit (berries or sliced bananas)
- 1/2 cup nuts (walnuts or almonds)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Mix Base Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the old-fashioned oats, well-mixed cottage cheese, and eggs. Stir these together thoroughly until evenly combined, forming the base mixture.
- Add Flavorings: Pour in the milk, honey, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract to the oat mixture. Stir carefully until the mixture achieves a thick but pourable consistency.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the prepared batter into your greased baking dish. Spread it evenly for uniform cooking and browning.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. Bake until the top is golden brown and the center is set, indicating it is fully cooked.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bake cool for a few minutes to allow it to firm up. Before serving, top with fresh fruits such as berries or sliced bananas and sprinkle with nuts like walnuts or almonds for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, be sure to use certified gluten-free oats.
- Substitute milk with almond or oat milk to make the recipe dairy-free.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom along with the cinnamon for a more complex spice profile.
- Honey can be replaced with maple syrup depending on your preference or availability.
- Ensure to grease the baking dish well to prevent sticking.
- Allow the bake to cool slightly before slicing for clean servings.
