This Lemon Raspberry Cottage Cheese Bake is a tasty treat that combines creamy cottage cheese, zesty lemon, and sweet raspberries. It’s like a hug in dessert form!
Making this bake is super easy—just mix, pour, and bake! I love serving it warm with a sprinkle of powdered sugar. It’s a bright, cheerful dessert that always makes me smile! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: Full-fat cottage cheese gives a creamy texture which I love. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you can use low-fat or even fat-free, but keep in mind it might not be as rich.
Sugar: You can use granulated sugar, but if you’re trying to reduce sugar intake, consider using coconut sugar or a sugar substitute. Just note that it may slightly alter the flavor.
Fresh Raspberries: Raspberries add a tart sweetness. You can swap them for blueberries or strawberries, but remember, the bake might taste a bit different!
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest are key here. If you’re short on lemons, bottled lemon juice is fine, but fresh is always best for taste.
Flour: All-purpose flour helps bind the bake. If you’re gluten-free, you can use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend, though it may need adjustments.
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture for My Bake?
Getting the right texture for your cottage cheese bake is crucial! Here are some tips:
- Mix ingredients just until combined to keep it fluffy; avoid over-mixing.
- Gently fold in the raspberries to prevent them from breaking apart.
- Ensure that your eggs are fresh as they help in binding and giving a fluffy structure.
- Bake until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out mostly clean; a little moisture is fine!
Let the bake cool slightly before serving to help it hold its shape. Enjoy!
How to Make Lemon Raspberry Cottage Cheese Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 2 cups cottage cheese (full-fat for creamier texture)
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
For The Fruit:
- 1 cup fresh raspberries, plus extra for garnish
- 1-2 thin lemon slices for garnish
For Greasing:
- Butter or nonstick spray for greasing the baking dish
Optional Topping:
- Powdered sugar for dusting after baking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful bake will take about 10 minutes to prep and then around 40-45 minutes to bake. Just a little patience, and you’ll have a tasty, refreshing dessert ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bake will cook evenly and rise perfectly!
2. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking. It’s important for serving later on!
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, combine the cottage cheese, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, all-purpose flour, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice. Use a whisk or spatula to mix everything together until it’s well combined. The mixture should be smooth but not over-mixed.
4. Add the Raspberries:
Gently fold in 1 cup of fresh raspberries into the mixture. Take care to keep the raspberries whole for a lovely presentation and burst of flavor!
5. Pour and Spread:
Pour the cottage cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. This helps ensure even baking!
6. Garnish with Extra Fruit:
Now for a pretty touch—place additional raspberries on top, pressing them lightly into the batter. Decorate with lemon slices to add a nice visual appeal.
7. Bake:
Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes. Ideally, the top should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean. Keep an eye on it as every oven can behave a bit differently!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once done baking, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a bit. This waiting time allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to cut. For an extra touch, dust with powdered sugar before serving if you like.
Enjoy this bright, creamy Lemon Raspberry Cottage Cheese Bake warm or at room temperature. It’s a delightful dessert that is sure to impress!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cottage Cheese Instead?
Yes, you can! Low-fat cottage cheese will work, but keep in mind that the texture may be a bit less creamy than with full-fat. If you’re looking for a lighter option, it’s a great substitute.
Can I Replace Raspberries with Another Fruit?
Absolutely! You can substitute raspberries with blueberries, strawberries, or even diced peaches. Just remember that the flavor may shift slightly depending on the fruit you choose!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or enjoy it cold—it’s still delicious either way!
Can I Make This Bake Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare everything up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate it overnight. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed to ensure it’s cooked through.
