Go Back

Crispy Cottage Cheese Treats

Crispy Cottage Cheese Treats are golden, crunchy bites with a creamy, protein-packed center. Perfect for a healthy snack or breakfast, these versatile treats can be made savory or sweet, baked, air-fried, or pan-fried. With simple ingredients like cottage cheese, eggs, and your choice of coatings, they come together quickly and offer a delightful balance of texture and flavor.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Appetizer, Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine American, Gluten-free adaptable, Vegetarian-friendly
Servings 15 treats (depending on size).
Calories 60 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Fine sieve or cheesecloth (for draining)
  • Baking sheet or air fryer basket
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
  • Spatula or tongs
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons

Ingredients
  

Base:

  • 1 cup (225g) cottage cheese (low-fat or full-fat)

Binders:

  • 2 large eggs

Coating:

  • ½ cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free)
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs or cornmeal (optional, for extra crunch)

Flavor enhancers:

  • 1 tsp garlic powder (savory) or ½ tsp cinnamon (sweet)
  • ½ tsp onion powder (savory) or 1 tsp vanilla extract (sweet)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Add-ins (optional):

  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (parsley, chives)
  • 2 tbsp finely diced veggies (bell pepper, spinach) or fruit bits (apple, dried cranberries)

Instructions
 

  • Drain the cottage cheese: Place cottage cheese in a fine sieve or cheesecloth and let drain for 10-15 minutes to remove excess moisture.
  • Mix ingredients: In a bowl, combine drained cottage cheese, eggs, chosen seasonings, and any add-ins. Mix until uniform but not overly wet.
  • Shape treats: Form the mixture into small patties, balls, or strips—about 1 to 2 tablespoons each.
  • Coat: Dredge each piece lightly in flour or almond flour. For extra crispness, dip in beaten egg then coat with breadcrumbs or cornmeal.

Cook:

  • Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Place treats on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • Air fryer: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking or turning halfway through.
  • Pan fry: Heat a nonstick skillet with light oil spray over medium heat. Cook patties 3-4 minutes per side until golden.
  • Serve: Enjoy immediately with your choice of dipping sauce or toppings.

Notes

  • For best results, always drain cottage cheese well to avoid sogginess.
  • Adjust seasoning and add-ins to fit your flavor preference—try sweet or savory!
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
  • Use gluten-free coatings and plant-based egg substitutes to adapt for special diets.
Keyword Cottage cheese snacks, crispy cottage cheese bites, healthy snacks, protein snacks, savory bites, sweet cottage cheese treats