This Lemon Raspberry Cottage Cheese Bake is a bright and tasty treat! With creamy cottage cheese, zesty lemon, and sweet raspberries, it’s perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Honestly, who knew cottage cheese could be this fun? I love serving it chilled—it’s like a cool summer hug in a dish! 🍋💖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: Full-fat cottage cheese gives the bake a rich texture, but you can use low-fat or even non-dairy options like silken tofu for a lighter version. I love how cottage cheese adds protein as well as creaminess!
Fresh Raspberries: Raspberries can be swapped for blueberries, blackberries, or strawberries if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavors will change a bit, but they’ll still be delicious!
Lemon Juice & Zest: If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice will work, but fresh is always best for flavor. Lime can be a zesty substitute too, giving a different, yet refreshing twist.
Granulated Sugar: You can replace granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup if you want a natural sweetener. Just reduce the amounts a bit, as these options can be sweeter than regular sugar.
How Do I Make Sure My Bake is Creamy and Not Dry?
The key to keeping your Lemon Raspberry Cottage Cheese Bake creamy is to watch your baking time closely! Start checking it around the 35-minute mark. You want the edges to be golden but the center should still have a slight jiggle. Here are some tips:
- Mix the cottage cheese blend until smooth, but don’t overmix once you add the flour; lumps are okay!
- Use large, juicy raspberries—they will add moisture to the bake.
- Let it cool before serving; it will set up a bit more as it cools, giving you a nice creamy slice.
Lemon Raspberry Cottage Cheese Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Bake:
- 1 ½ cups cottage cheese (full fat)
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup fresh raspberries (plus extra for serving)
For Serving:
- Whipped cream or Greek yogurt (optional)
- Butter or non-stick spray for greasing the pan
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful bake takes about 10 minutes of preparation time and 40-45 minutes to bake. Overall, you should plan for about an hour to an hour and a half, including cooling time before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat The Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, grab an 8×8 inch baking dish and grease it with butter or non-stick spray to prevent the bake from sticking.
2. Combine The Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the cottage cheese, eggs, granulated sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Blend until everything is smooth and well combined. If you prefer an extra smooth texture, use a blender or food processor.
3. Prepare The Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. This will help aerate the mixture and give your bake a nice lift!
4. Mix It All Together:
Slowly fold the flour mixture into the cottage cheese mixture until you don’t see any dry flour. Be gentle to avoid over-mixing, as lumps are totally okay!
5. Add The Raspberries:
Carefully fold in the fresh raspberries, but save a few to dot on top of the batter for a pretty presentation.
6. Bake It Up:
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Lightly press the reserved raspberries into the top. Place it in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
7. Cooling Time:
Once done, take the bake out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This cooling time helps it set up nicely for slicing.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice it warm or chill it in the fridge before serving. Top with a dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt, and sprinkle extra fresh raspberries on top for a refreshing finish.
Enjoy this bright, creamy, and fruity bake that’s perfect for breakfast or a light dessert!
Can I Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Cottage Cheese?
Yes, you can swap Greek yogurt for cottage cheese for a different texture and flavor. Just keep in mind that the bake may turn out slightly denser, but it will still be delicious!
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Raspberries?
If fresh raspberries aren’t available, you can use frozen raspberries instead. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the batter to avoid excess moisture. Alternatively, other berries like blueberries or strawberries work well, too!
Can I Make This Bake Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! To make this recipe gluten-free, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Just ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can enjoy it cold or reheat it gently in the microwave or oven. It’s great both ways!