Name: Apple Crumble Cottage Cheese Bake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Cheesecake Layer: 1 ½ cups cottage cheese; ½ cup plain Greek yogurt; 3 tbsp maple syrup; 1 tsp vanilla bean paste; Apple Layer: 1 medium apple, peeled and diced; 1 tbsp coconut oil or butter; 2 tbsp maple syrup; 1 tsp cinnamon; ¼ tsp nutmeg; Pinch of salt; Crumble Topping: ½ cup rolled oats; ¼ cup almond flour; 2 tbsp coconut sugar; 2 tbsp melted coconut oil or butter; ½ tsp cinnamon

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This Apple Crumble Cottage Cheese Bake came to life one chilly afternoon when I was craving something sweet but wholesome. With apples on the counter and cottage cheese in the fridge, I blended the two into a creamy, spiced dessert that’s now a family favorite. It’s layered like a trifle—cheesecake base, caramelized apples, oat crumble—and ready in no time. Whether I serve it in mason jars or one big dish, this fall treat is cozy, satisfying, and secretly packed with protein. Apple Crumble Cottage Cheese Bake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this Apple Crumble Cottage Cheese Bake feels indulgent yet nourishing. The creamy cheesecake layer made with cottage cheese and Greek yogurt is rich and smooth while being high in protein. The maple syrup adds natural sweetness that balances the warm cinnamon-spiced apples perfectly. It’s like eating a lighter version of apple pie with a crumble topping that gives every bite a little crunch.

I also enjoy how simple it is to make—ready in under 30 minutes and easy to customize. Whether I want to serve it warm for dessert or chilled for breakfast, it fits any mood or occasion.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cheesecake Layer:
1 ½ cups cottage cheese
½ cup plain Greek yogurt
3 tbsp maple syrup
1 tsp vanilla bean paste

Apple Layer:
1 medium apple (peeled and diced)
1 tbsp coconut oil or butter
2 tbsp maple syrup
1 tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp nutmeg
Pinch of salt

Crumble Topping:
½ cup rolled oats
¼ cup almond flour
2 tbsp coconut sugar
2 tbsp melted coconut oil or butter
½ tsp cinnamon

Directions

I start by cooking the apples. In a skillet, I heat coconut oil, then add apples, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. I cook them for 5–7 minutes until soft and caramelized.
Next, I toast the crumble by mixing oats, almond flour, sugar, oil, and cinnamon. I bake it at 350°F for 8–10 minutes or air fry for 2–4 minutes until golden.
For the cheesecake base, I blend cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, maple syrup, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
Then I assemble the jars: a layer of crumble, apple mixture, cheesecake base, more apples, and a final sprinkle of crumble.
I chill the jars for about 30 minutes before serving—or enjoy them right away if I want a warm version.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 6 servings (about six 4 oz jars).
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

I like how easy it is to adapt this recipe. When I need a dairy-free version, I use plant-based yogurt and vegan butter. If I don’t have almond flour, crushed graham crackers or cookies work beautifully. Adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumble gives extra crunch, and a drizzle of caramel or nut butter makes it even more indulgent.

Sometimes I build it in a small trifle bowl instead of jars for a family-style dessert, and it scoops out just as nicely. For a stronger fall flavor, I add a pinch of cloves or swap in spiced applesauce.

Storage/Reheating

I store the assembled jars in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the crumble crisp, I sometimes store it separately and layer it right before serving. This bake tastes great cold, but if I want it warm, I reheat the apple and crumble layers for a few seconds before adding the creamy base.

I avoid freezing it since cottage cheese doesn’t thaw well, though the apple filling and crumble can be frozen separately for future prep.

FAQs

Can I use ricotta instead of cottage cheese?

Yes, I can use ricotta for a creamier, milder flavor. However, cottage cheese adds a lovely tang and higher protein content that I really enjoy.

Is this recipe good for breakfast?

Absolutely! I often eat it for breakfast—it’s high in protein, naturally sweetened, and keeps me full for hours. I like adding extra fruit or nuts on top in the morning.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, I can prepare it the night before and refrigerate it. To maintain a crisp crumble, I store it separately and add it when serving.

How long does it last in the fridge?

It stays fresh for about 3 days when kept covered in the refrigerator.

Can I bake it instead of layering it cold?

Yes, I sometimes bake it in ramekins for about 10 minutes. The warmth enhances the cozy flavors and makes it feel like a mini cheesecake crumble.

Conclusion

This Apple Crumble Cottage Cheese Bake brings together the best of fall flavors—warm cinnamon apples, creamy cottage cheese, and a golden oat topping—in a simple, nourishing dessert. I love serving it for brunch, dessert, or even meal prep, and it always feels comforting and wholesome. Once I made it, it quickly became one of my go-to fall recipes—and now, I find myself craving it all year long.