Description
These Irresistibly Crispy Cottage Cheese Mozzarella Bites are a high-protein, gluten-free snack perfect for any time of day. Combining creamy cottage cheese with gooey mozzarella and a hint of garlic, these bites deliver a crispy exterior and a soft, cheesy interior. They can be baked or air fried for convenience and a perfectly golden finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese & Egg
- 1 cup Cottage Cheese (Drain well to keep bites firm.)
- 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (Try cheddar or provolone for variety.)
- 1 Large Egg (Use a flax or chia egg for vegan version.)
Dry Ingredients & Spices
- ¼ cup Almond Flour (Swap with oat flour for a nut-free option.)
- ½ tsp Garlic Powder (Optional for added flavor.)
- Pinch Salt
- Pinch Pepper
Instructions
- Preparation: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) or your air fryer to 370°F to ensure it’s adequately heated for cooking your bites to perfect crispness.
- Mixing Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the well-drained cottage cheese, shredded mozzarella, egg, almond flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Blend the mixture thoroughly until it becomes smooth and uniform, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Forming Bites: Using a spoon, scoop portions of the mixture and shape them into bite-sized mounds. Place these evenly spaced on a parchment-lined baking tray to prevent sticking and allow for even cooking.
- Cooking: Bake the formed bites in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes until they turn golden and crispy. Alternatively, you can air fry them at 370°F for 12 to 15 minutes to achieve the same crispy texture with less time.
- Cooling: Once cooked, remove the bites from the oven or air fryer and let them cool for 2 to 3 minutes. This allows them to firm up slightly and makes them easier to handle before serving.
Notes
- For a vegan version, substitute the egg with a flax or chia egg.
- You can switch the almond flour to oat flour for a nut-free alternative.
- Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or provolone for varied flavors.
- Ensure cottage cheese is well drained to maintain bite firmness.
- These bites can be served as a snack, appetizer, or protein-packed addition to meals.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18-20 minutes (oven) or 12-15 minutes (air fryer)
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cottage cheese bites, mozzarella bites, high protein snack, gluten free snack, crispy cheese bites, baked cheese snacks, air fryer cheese bites
