Mediterranean Pumpkin Cottage Cheese Bake – Creamy, Cozy & Protein-Packed
This creamy pumpkin cottage cheese bake is a warm, protein-rich dish perfect for cozy mornings or as a healthy dessert. It blends the comforting flavors of pumpkin spice with the creamy tang of cottage cheese for a light yet satisfying bite. Naturally sweetened with maple syrup (or brown sugar), this Mediterranean-inspired version keeps things wholesome and balanced.
Total Time: 45 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
For the Bake:
2 cups (16 oz) cottage cheese
3 large eggs
1 cup pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
½ cup rolled oats or almond flour
½ cup maple syrup or brown sugar
2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
Optional Toppings:
Chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans)
A sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of maple syrup
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
Blend the Base
In a blender or food processor, add cottage cheese, eggs, pumpkin purée, oats (or almond flour), maple syrup, and pumpkin pie spice. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Pour and Smooth
Pour the blended batter into the prepared baking dish. Smooth out the top with a spatula.
Add Toppings
Sprinkle chopped nuts or cinnamon on top if you’d like extra texture and flavor.
Bake
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is just set. It should still have a slightly soft, custard-like texture.
Cool and Serve
Let it cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or chilled with an extra drizzle of maple syrup or a spoon of Greek yogurt.
Tips & Variations
Texture Control:
If you prefer a smoother, more custard-like texture, blend the batter longer until completely creamy. For a slightly rustic, oatmeal-style bake, pulse only a few times so some oats remain whole.
Sweetness Level:
Taste the blended mixture before baking. If you want it sweeter, add a touch more maple syrup, brown sugar, or even a mashed ripe banana for natural sweetness.
Cottage Cheese Type:
Full-fat cottage cheese makes the bake richer and creamier, while low-fat works if you want to keep it lighter. You can also substitute with ricotta for a softer, dessert-like texture.
Pumpkin Spice Boost:
If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice, mix your own using 1 tsp cinnamon, ¼ tsp nutmeg, ¼ tsp ginger, and a pinch of cloves or allspice.
Extra Protein Kick:
Stir in a scoop of unflavored or vanilla protein powder before baking. You may need to add 2–3 tbsp of milk or water to balance the texture.
Add Mediterranean Flair:
Fold in chopped dates, figs, or raisins for a naturally sweet Mediterranean touch. You can also add a spoonful of tahini or a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top before baking.
Crunch & Garnish Options:
Top with chopped walnuts, pecans, or pistachios for crunch. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup just before serving for a glossy finish.
Serving Ideas:
Serve warm for breakfast with Greek yogurt and fresh fruit.
Chill overnight and enjoy it as a high-protein snack or healthy dessert.
Reheat leftovers in the microwave for 20–30 seconds for a fresh-from-the-oven feel.
Storage Tips:
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze slices for up to 2 months—just thaw in the fridge overnight and warm before serving.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this bake without blending?
A: Yes, though the texture will be more rustic. You can whisk everything together in a large bowl instead of blending. The cottage cheese curds will stay visible, but the flavor will still be delicious.
Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese?
A: You can, but the texture will be denser and less creamy. Cottage cheese provides more structure and protein, while Greek yogurt makes it softer.
Q: How do I make it dairy-free?
A: Substitute cottage cheese with a dairy-free alternative like blended silken tofu or a thick vegan yogurt. Use maple syrup instead of honey if you’re keeping it vegan.
Q: Is this recipe sweet enough for dessert?
A: Yes, it’s naturally sweetened and balanced, but if you want it more dessert-like, use the full ½ cup maple syrup and add a handful of dark chocolate chips or a caramel drizzle.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Absolutely. Just bake it in a larger dish and extend the baking time by 10–15 minutes, checking for doneness in the center.
Nutrition
(per serving, based on 6 servings)
Approximate values — may vary by ingredients used.
Calories: 185
Protein: 13 g
Carbohydrates: 20 g
Fat: 6 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 11 g
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Pumpkin Cottage Cheese Bake is everything you want in a fall-inspired dish — creamy, cozy, and nourishing. It’s packed with protein, naturally sweet, and easy to customize with your favorite toppings or spices. Whether you enjoy it warm for breakfast or chilled as a light dessert, it brings a wholesome touch of comfort to your table.