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Delicious Blueberry Cottage Cheese Muffins: A Healthy Treat

When it comes to indulging in a delicious snack without the guilt, blueberry cottage cheese muffins are a perfect choice. They are not only scrumptious and moist but also packed with protein and nutrients, making them a delightful addition to your breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up. In this article, we’ll explore how to make these delightful muffins and why they should be a staple in your baking repertoire.

The Benefits of Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is a versatile ingredient that often gets overlooked in baking. It is lower in fat compared to many other dairy products, yet still provides a rich source of protein and calcium. Including cottage cheese in your muffins not only adds moisture but also enhances their nutritional profile, making them a more wholesome option than traditional muffins.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up a batch of blueberry cottage cheese muffins, gather the following ingredients:

• 200g plain flour
• 100g rolled oats
• 150g granulated sugar (or to taste)
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 240g cottage cheese (preferably low-fat)
• 120ml milk (any type)
• 60ml vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 150g fresh or frozen blueberries
• Optional: 1 teaspoon lemon zest for an extra zing

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a muffin tin with paper cases.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the plain flour, rolled oats, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well to ensure all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

3. Combine the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, cottage cheese, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until well blended. If you’re adding lemon zest for a touch of brightness, mix it in at this stage.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold them together. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.

5. Add the Blueberries: Gently fold in the blueberries, taking care not to break them if they are fresh, as this could colour the batter.

6. Fill the Muffin Cases: Spoon the mixture evenly into the prepared muffin cases, filling them about two-thirds full to allow for rising.

7. Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.

8. Cool and Enjoy: Let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy these muffins warm for the best flavour, or store them in an airtight container for later.

Variations and Tips

Feel free to experiment with this recipe by adding your favourite ingredients. Chopped nuts, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a swirl of nut butter can elevate these muffins to new heights. If you’re using frozen blueberries, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand; simply add them directly to the batter to prevent bleeding.

Conclusion

Blueberry cottage cheese muffins are a fantastic way to satisfy your sweet tooth while providing your body with the nourishment it needs. Perfect for breakfast, lunchboxes, or a healthy snack, these muffins are sure to become a family favourite. Bake a batch today and relish in the joy of these delightful treats!