Orange and Apple Cottage Cheese Bake

This delightful cottage cheese bake is a treat for those who appreciate a light and fluffy dessert with fresh flavors. Combining creamy cottage cheese with the zest of an orange and the sweetness of apples, this dish is both refreshing and satisfying. The oats or grain flakes provide a hearty texture, while the eggs and sour cream lend a creamy consistency. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy evening dessert, this bake is versatile and can easily be adjusted to suit dietary preferences. The combination of ingredients ensures a moist, souffle-like texture that is lightly sweet and incredibly tender. It's an easy-to-make recipe that uses simple ingredients commonly found in most kitchens. Whether served warm with a dollop of yogurt or cold with a drizzle of honey, this dish will quickly become a favorite for its simplicity and delicious taste.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup oats, wheat, barley, or rye flakes
• Zest of 1 orange
• 250 g cottage cheese
• 2 large apples
• 2 small eggs
• 4 tablespoons sugar
• 2 tablespoons semolina

Preparation Time

Total Time: 50 minutes (including prep and cook time)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Start by mixing the oats or chosen flakes with the sour cream and semolina in a large bowl. Set the mixture aside to let it absorb moisture while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
2. If the cottage cheese is grainy, blend it until smooth for a creamier texture in the final bake.
3. Peel the apples and grate them using a fine grater. This will ensure the apple pieces blend seamlessly into the cottage cheese mixture.
4. Finely grate the zest from one orange, careful only to include the outermost layer to avoid bitterness.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the smooth cottage cheese with the grated apples and orange zest. Stir in the pre-prepared oats and sour cream mixture until well combined.
6. Beat the eggs with the sugar in another bowl until they become light and airy. This will help create a fluffy texture in the final bake.
7. Gently fold the egg and sugar mixture into the cottage cheese blend, ensuring an even distribution without overmixing to maintain the lightness.
8. Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F).
9. Grease a baking dish generously with butter to prevent sticking and facilitate easy removal after baking.
10. Pour the well-mixed batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
11. Place the dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 30-40 minutes. The exact baking time will depend on the thickness of the bake; thinner mixtures will bake faster.
12. Keep an eye on the bake through the oven window if possible. The bottom should turn a light golden brown, indicating it's ready.
13. Once the bottom browns slightly and the top appears set but still pale, remove the bake from the oven.
14. Let it cool slightly before serving, as the bake will firm up a bit as it rests.
15. The result is a lightly sweet bake, reminiscent of a delicate souffle, both juicy from the apples and creamy from the cottage cheese.
16. Enjoy it warm or cold, and savor the harmony of flavors and textures.
17. The bake can be refrigerated and enjoyed for several days, making it perfect for leisurely breakfasts throughout the week.
18. For an added twist, consider topping with a drizzle of honey or a scattering of fresh berries before serving.
19. This dish is an excellent balance between dessert and breakfast, satisfying sweet cravings while maintaining a nutritious profile.
20. Enjoy your delicious, homemade cottage cheese bake with family and friends!

Tips

• For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture.
• If a crunchy texture is desired, sprinkle a handful of nuts or seeds on top before baking.
• Substitute sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
• Protein: 12 g
• Fats: 8 g
• Carbs: 30 g

Variations

• Swap cottage cheese for ricotta to explore a different flavor profile.
• Use gluten-free oats if serving to someone with gluten intolerance.
• For a dairy-free option, replace sour cream with a plant-based alternative.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla yogurt for a complete meal.
• Pair with a warm herbal tea or a chilled glass of orange juice for a delightful breakfast.

Best Places

• Café Orlin - Renowned for its cozy atmosphere and inventive takes on traditional bakes. Location: 41 St Marks Pl, New York, USA.

• Le Meurice - Experience luxury with delightful variations of classic bakes in a sophisticated setting. Location: 228 rue de Rivoli, Paris, France.

• The Breakfast Club - Known for its hearty breakfast dishes and a friendly, vibrant ambiance. Location: 33 D'Arblay St, Soho, London, UK.

• Café Einstein Stammhaus - Offers traditional and modern bakery comforts in a historically rich venue. Location: Kurfürstenstraße 58, Berlin, Germany.

• De Koffieschenkerij - A charming coffee spot offering traditional Dutch bakes amidst lush gardens. Location: Oudekerksplein 27, Amsterdam, Netherlands.

• Maya Café - Combines Mexican and Mediterranean flavors with a focus on fresh, organic ingredients. Location: Mérida 120, Roma Nte., CDMX, Mexico.

• Melbourne Bakehouse - A local favorite for innovative takes on classics and freshly baked goods. Location: 326 Balcombe Rd, Beaumaris, Australia.

• The Florence Bakery - Offers a taste of Italy with its authentic and hand-crafted bakes. Location: Via Ghibellina 93, Florence, Italy.

• Silo Brighton - A zero-waste restaurant famed for its creative and sustainable dishes. Location: 39 Upper Gardner St, Brighton, UK.

• Bakeriet - Scandinavian warmth meets contemporary baking methods in this delightful spot. Location: Møllergata 19, Oslo, Norway.

Hope you enjoy this delightful and easy-to-make recipe, along with exploring some great places where similar delightful treats can be enjoyed!