01 -
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease an 8x8 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter, ensuring all sides are coated for easy removal of your Protein Apple Cinnamon Cottage Cheese Bake.
02 -
In a medium bowl, combine 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, diced), 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, and 1/4 cup maple syrup. Mix well and set aside. This forms the delicious core of your Protein Apple Cinnamon Cottage Cheese Bake.
03 -
In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups low-fat cottage cheese, 2 large eggs, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Stir in 2 tbsp oat flour and 1/2 tsp baking powder until just combined.
04 -
Pour half of the cottage cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spoon the apple mixture evenly over it. Top with the remaining cottage cheese mixture, spreading gently to cover the apples.
05 -
In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup rolled oats, 1/4 cup chopped pecans, 1 tbsp light brown sugar, 1 tbsp unsalted butter (melted), and 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon. Mix until crumbly.
06 -
Sprinkle the oat-pecan topping evenly over the cottage cheese mixture. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the Protein Apple Cinnamon Cottage Cheese Bake is set and the topping is golden brown.
07 -
Remove the Protein Apple Cinnamon Cottage Cheese Bake from the oven. Let it cool for at least 10-15 minutes before serving to allow it to set properly. This enhances its creamy texture.