Description
This High Protein Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Bake is a nutritious and delicious autumn-inspired dish that combines creamy cottage cheese and pumpkin puree with warming spices. Packed with protein from cottage cheese and protein powder, this bake is perfect for a healthy breakfast, snack, or dessert that provides sustained energy and satisfies sweet cravings without excessive sugar.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Spices & Leavening
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Optional Add-ins
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish to prevent sticking during baking.
- Combine Cottage Cheese and Pumpkin: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese and canned pumpkin puree. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Add Eggs: Crack the eggs into the bowl one at a time, whisking well after each addition to incorporate fully and maintain a smooth batter.
- Incorporate Protein and Sweeteners: Mix in the protein powder, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until all ingredients are combined uniformly.
- Add Spices and Baking Powder: Sprinkle in the cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, and baking powder. Stir the mixture ensuring the spices and leavening agent are evenly distributed.
- Mix in Nuts (Optional): If you choose to use nuts, fold the chopped walnuts or pecans gently into the batter for added texture and flavor.
- Transfer Batter to Dish: Pour the batter into the prepared 8×8-inch baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly to ensure even baking.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. The bake is done when the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the bake from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Once slightly cooled, slice into squares and serve.
Notes
- You can use either honey or maple syrup as a natural sweetener depending on your taste preference.
- The protein powder can be vanilla or unflavored, based on desired flavor.
- Adding nuts is optional but provides a crunchy texture contrast and extra nutrients.
- Make sure to grease the baking dish well to prevent sticking.
- Let the bake cool slightly before slicing to achieve clean cuts.
- This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
