Strawberry Cottage Cheese Muffins

Strawberry Cottage Cheese Muffins are a deliciously moist and protein-packed treat made with fresh strawberries, creamy cottage cheese, and natural sweeteners. These muffins are refined sugar-free and perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• High in Protein: Cottage cheese, eggs, and cashew butter make these muffins a nutritious and filling option.
• Refined Sugar-Free: Sweetened naturally with coconut sugar for a healthier alternative.
• Great for Meal Prep: Easy to make in advance and enjoy throughout the week.
• Soft & Moist Texture: The combination of cottage cheese and fresh strawberries ensures a tender and fluffy texture.

Ingredients

For the Muffins:

• 1/4 cup cashew butter (or any preferred nut/seed butter, oil, or butter)
• 1/2 cup coconut sugar (or cane sugar, monk fruit sweetener)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup plain whole milk cottage cheese
• 1/3 cup milk (any nut or seed milk works)
• 2 eggs
• 1.5 cups all-purpose flour (or a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend)
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1.5 cups fresh strawberries, diced

For the Strawberry Compote:

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
• 2 tbsp coconut sugar

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Strawberry Compote

1. In a small skillet over medium-low heat, combine diced strawberries and coconut sugar.
2. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries soften. Remove from heat and set aside.

Prepare the Muffin Batter

1. In a large bowl, mix cashew butter, coconut sugar, vanilla extract, milk, eggs, and cottage cheese. Stir until smooth.
2. Add the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Gently fold the mixture until just combined.
3. Fold in diced fresh strawberries.

Assemble and Bake

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a muffin tin with liners or lightly grease it.
3. Spoon the batter into each muffin cup, filling about three-quarters full.
4. Add a spoonful of strawberry compote on top of each muffin, gently pressing it into the batter.
5. Bake for 23-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 15-20 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes approximately 12 muffins
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Lovers: Add dark chocolate chips for an extra indulgent treat.
• Nut-Free Option: Use sunflower seed butter instead of cashew butter.
• Dairy-Free: Use plant-based milk and a dairy-free cottage cheese substitute.
• Crunchy Texture: Add chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
• Freezing: Freeze cooled muffins for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave before serving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but thaw and drain them first to prevent excess moisture in the batter.

How can I make these muffins gluten-free?

Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

Can I replace coconut sugar with another sweetener?

Yes, cane sugar, honey, or monk fruit sweetener can be used.

Can I make mini muffins instead?

Yes! Reduce the baking time to about 12-15 minutes for mini muffins.

How do I prevent the strawberry compote from sinking?

Make sure the batter is thick enough and do not overmix. Press the compote lightly into the batter instead of fully mixing it in.

Can I make these muffins vegan?

Yes! Substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water per egg) and use plant-based milk and cottage cheese.

How do I know when the muffins are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin; if it comes out clean, they are ready.

Can I add a streusel topping?

Yes! A simple mixture of oats, brown sugar, and butter will add a delightful crunch.

What is the best way to reheat these muffins?

Microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm in a toaster oven for a few minutes.

Can I omit the cinnamon?

Yes, you can skip it or replace it with nutmeg or cardamom for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

Strawberry Cottage Cheese Muffins are a nutritious and delicious way to start your day. With their high protein content, natural sweetness, and moist texture, they make the perfect breakfast or snack. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or enjoying them fresh out of the oven, these muffins are sure to become a favorite!