This pumpkin bake combines creamy cottage cheese with sweet pumpkin for a warm, comforting treat. It’s packed with protein and has a delicious blend of spices!
Honestly, I love how easy this is to whip up—just mix everything and bake! Plus, it’s a great snack that feels like dessert but is super healthy. Yum! 🎃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: This is the star that brings protein and creaminess. You can use low-fat or full-fat depending on your preference. If you want a dairy-free option, try silken tofu for a similar texture.
Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin is super convenient, but if you’re feeling adventurous, you can roast and puree fresh pumpkin or even use butternut squash as a substitute.
Maple Syrup or Honey: Both add sweetness, but if you’re looking for a lower-calorie option, consider using agave syrup or a sugar substitute that measures 1:1 like monk fruit sweetener.
Eggs: The eggs help bind everything together. If you’re vegan, you can replace eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg, let it sit until gelatinous).
Protein Powder: Adding protein powder boosts the protein content even more! If you’re not into protein powder, just skip it; the bake will still be delicious.
How Do I Ensure My Pumpkin Bake Sets Properly?
Getting the right texture is key. Here are some tips to ensure your bake is perfectly set:
- Preheat the oven as directed; a hot oven bakes evenly.
- Blend the mixture thoroughly until smooth; this helps distribute ingredients and create a nice texture.
- Keep an eye on the bake in the oven. It should be firm around the edges with a slight jiggle in the center when done.
- Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating. This helps it firm up more and develop flavors.
- Chilling it for a few hours is crucial for the best taste and texture!
The Best High Protein Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups low-fat or full-fat cottage cheese
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
- 1/2 cup eggs (about 2-3 large eggs)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey (adjust according to sweetness preference)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (for topping)
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (for extra protein boost)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pumpkin bake will take about 15 minutes to prepare. After the prep work, it will bake for around 40-50 minutes. Don’t forget to let it chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours before serving to enhance the flavors. So, in total, you’re looking at about 3 hours for prep, baking, and chilling—including some well-deserved waiting time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, lightly grease a small baking dish or an 8-inch springform pan to prevent sticking.
2. Blend Together:
In a blender or food processor, add the cottage cheese, pumpkin puree, eggs, maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, ground cinnamon, salt, and protein powder if you’re using it. Blend everything together until it becomes smooth and creamy. This is where the magic happens—everything is mixed perfectly!
3. Pour and Smooth:
Once blended, pour the mixture into your greased baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth the top so it’s nice and even—this will help it cook uniformly.
4. Add Seasoning:
Sprinkle a little extra ground cinnamon over the top for a delightful spiced finish. It adds flavor and a lovely aroma while baking!
5. Bake to Perfection:
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 40-50 minutes. You’re looking for the edges to be set and the center to be slightly firm but still a bit jiggy—this means it’s super creamy and delicious.
6. Cooling Down:
After baking, remove the pumpkin bake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. This step is important as it helps everything set. Then refrigerate it for at least 2 hours (or longer if you can wait!).
7. Serving Time:
Once chilled, your protein-packed pumpkin delight is ready to serve! You can enjoy it as is, or for an extra treat, add a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of maple syrup. It’s perfect as a snack or a dessert—enjoy each creamy bite!
Happy baking! This delightful pumpkin bake is not only nutritious but also full of warming flavors—perfect for fall!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cottage Cheese?
Absolutely! Low-fat cottage cheese works great in this recipe while still keeping it creamy and delicious. If you prefer, you can also use full-fat cottage cheese for an even richer texture.
How Can I Sweeten This Bake Without Sugar?
If you want to avoid sugar, consider using natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Just make sure to check the conversion ratio, as they can be much sweeter than traditional sweeteners.
Can I Add Other Spices or Ingredients?
Of course! Feel free to experiment with additional spices like nutmeg, or cloves for a different flavor profile. You can also add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits for some texture and extra sweetness.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you wish to keep it longer, you can freeze portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge before enjoying!
