Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Seed Crunch Cups

These cottage cheese pumpkin seed crunch cups are a delightful and easy-to-make snack, perfect for satisfying your cravings with a wholesome twist.

This recipe offers a unique combination of creamy and crunchy textures that your family will love, making it a fantastic option for a quick bite or a lunchbox addition. Each serving provides about 12.5 grams of protein.

Discover the details on how to whip up these simple yet satisfying crunch cups, bringing a fresh and easy snack idea to your kitchen that everyone will enjoy.

Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Seed Crunch Cups

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• Total Time: 20-25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

These cottage cheese pumpkin seed crunch cups are a delightful and easy-to-make snack, perfect for satisfying your cravings with a wholesome twist. This recipe offers a unique combination of creamy and crunchy textures that your family will love, making it a fantastic option for a quick bite or a lunchbox addition. Each serving provides about 12.5 grams of protein. Discover the details on how to whip up these simple yet satisfying crunch cups, bringing a fresh and easy snack idea to your kitchen that everyone will enjoy.

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Ingredients

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1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)

1/4 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)

1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for flavor)

Pinch of ground cinnamon (optional)

Small paper or silicone muffin liners, or small ramekins

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Instructions

1. Prepare your containers: Line a mini muffin tin with small paper or silicone liners, or arrange a few small ramekins on a tray. This makes for easy removal and serving.

2. Combine ingredients: In a small mixing bowl, gently combine the cottage cheese, pumpkin seeds, and optional honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Stir until all ingredients are evenly distributed. You want to mix just enough to combine, not overmix and break down the cottage cheese curds too much.

3. Portion into cups: Spoon the mixture evenly into your prepared liners or ramekins. Aim for roughly equal portions so they set consistently.

4. Smooth the tops: Gently tap the muffin tin or tray on the counter a few times to settle the mixture and create a relatively flat top. You can also use the back of a spoon to lightly press and smooth the surface of each cup.

5. Chill to set (optional but recommended): Place the cups in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes. This allows the cottage cheese to firm up slightly and helps the flavors to meld beautifully. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but chilling enhances the texture.

6. Serve and enjoy: Once chilled, carefully remove the crunch cups from their liners or ramekins. Serve them immediately as a refreshing and satisfying snack.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: snack
• Cuisine: american

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Protein: 12.5

Keywords: snack, cottage cheese, pumpkin seeds, easy, healthy, no-bake, protein, crunchy, quick, meal prep

What You’ll Love About This Quick And Easy Recipe

This recipe is a true winner for anyone looking for a no-fuss, delicious snack that comes together in a flash. It’s perfect for busy parents needing a wholesome after-school treat, or for individuals seeking a satisfying, protein-packed bite to tide them over between meals. The beauty of these crunch cups lies in their simplicity and versatility; they don’t require any complicated techniques or fancy equipment. You’ll appreciate the balance of creamy cottage cheese with the satisfying bite of pumpkin seeds, all contained in a convenient, portion-controlled cup. Serve them as a quick breakfast on the go, a midday snack, or even a light dessert. They’re also excellent for meal prepping, as they hold up well in the fridge, making your week a little easier.

Everything You Need To Make This Recipe Without Stress

Gathering your ingredients for these cottage cheese pumpkin seed crunch cups is straightforward, focusing on common pantry staples and fresh dairy. You won’t need to hunt for obscure items, which means you can likely make these whenever the craving strikes. The key is to use good quality ingredients to ensure the best flavor and texture.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
• 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for flavor)
• Pinch of ground cinnamon (optional)
• Small paper or silicone muffin liners, or small ramekins

When choosing your cottage cheese, feel free to go with full-fat for a richer, creamier texture, or low-fat if you prefer. Both work wonderfully in this recipe. For the pumpkin seeds, ensure they are shelled (pepitas) as these are easier to eat and provide the best crunch. You can find them in the baking aisle or bulk section of most grocery stores. If you’re not a fan of honey or maple syrup, you can omit the sweetener entirely, or use a tiny sprinkle of sugar. The vanilla extract and cinnamon are optional but add a lovely warmth and depth of flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

Time Needed From Start To Finish

One of the best aspects of these cottage cheese pumpkin seed crunch cups is how quickly they come together. They are designed for speed and convenience, perfect for those moments when you need a snack without a long wait.

• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Chill time: 15-20 minutes (optional, but recommended for setting)
• Total time: 20-25 minutes

While the chill time is optional, it really helps the cups firm up and allows the flavors to meld, making for a more enjoyable eating experience. If you’re in a hurry, you can certainly enjoy them right away, but a short stint in the fridge makes a noticeable difference.

How To Make It Step By Step With Visual Cues

Making these crunch cups is incredibly simple, even for the most novice cook. Follow these steps for perfect results every time.

1. Prepare your containers: Line a mini muffin tin with small paper or silicone liners, or arrange a few small ramekins on a tray. This makes for easy removal and serving.
2. Combine ingredients: In a small mixing bowl, gently combine the cottage cheese, pumpkin seeds, and optional honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Stir until all ingredients are evenly distributed. You want to mix just enough to combine, not overmix and break down the cottage cheese curds too much.
3. Portion into cups: Spoon the mixture evenly into your prepared liners or ramekins. Aim for roughly equal portions so they set consistently.
4. Smooth the tops: Gently tap the muffin tin or tray on the counter a few times to settle the mixture and create a relatively flat top. You can also use the back of a spoon to lightly press and smooth the surface of each cup.
5. Chill to set (optional but recommended): Place the cups in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes. This allows the cottage cheese to firm up slightly and helps the flavors to meld beautifully. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but chilling enhances the texture.
6. Serve and enjoy: Once chilled, carefully remove the crunch cups from their liners or ramekins. Serve them immediately as a refreshing and satisfying snack.

Easy Variations And Serving Ideas That Fit Real Life

These cottage cheese pumpkin seed crunch cups are a fantastic base for customization. Here are some simple ideas to switch things up and make them fit any occasion or preference:

• Fruity Freshness: Stir in a few fresh berries like blueberries, raspberries, or finely diced strawberries for a burst of natural sweetness and color.
• Nutty Boost: If you like more crunch, add a sprinkle of chopped walnuts, pecans, or slivered almonds along with the pumpkin seeds.
• Sweet Treat: For a dessert-like version, a tiny drizzle of chocolate syrup or a few mini chocolate chips mixed in can be a delightful addition.
• Savory Spin: Skip the sweetener and vanilla. Instead, add a pinch of black pepper, a dash of everything bagel seasoning, or some finely chopped chives for a savory snack.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Let kids help spoon the mixture into the cups and choose their own toppings from a selection of small fruits or a tiny sprinkle of sprinkles (for a special treat!).
• Breakfast Parfait Style: Layer the cottage cheese mixture with granola and fresh fruit in a small glass for a quick and elegant breakfast parfait.
• Party Platter: Arrange a variety of crunch cups with different toppings on a serving tray for a healthy and appealing option at your next gathering. They look great alongside a fruit platter.
• Dip It: Serve the cottage cheese mixture in a small bowl with apple slices, pear slices, or graham cracker sticks for dipping.

Common Slip-Ups And How To Avoid Them

Even with a simple recipe, a few common mistakes can impact the outcome. Here’s how to ensure your cottage cheese pumpkin seed crunch cups turn out perfectly:

• Overmixing the Cottage Cheese: While you want the ingredients combined, excessive stirring can break down the cottage cheese curds, leading to a less appealing, mushy texture. Stir gently until just combined.
• Forgetting to Chill: While not strictly mandatory, skipping the chilling step can result in a softer, less firm cup that might not hold its shape as well. A short chill time really improves the overall experience.
• Using Un-shelled Pumpkin Seeds: Make sure you’re using shelled pumpkin seeds (pepitas). Un-shelled seeds have a hard outer shell that is not pleasant to eat in this context.
• Too Much Sweetener: If adding honey or maple syrup, start with a small amount and taste. It’s easier to add more sweetness than to take it away. Cottage cheese has a natural tang that balances well with just a hint of sweetness.
• Not Using Liners or Greasing Ramekins: If you’re using a muffin tin without liners or ramekins, the cottage cheese mixture might stick, making it difficult to remove. Always use paper or silicone liners, or lightly grease your ramekins for easy release.

How To Store It And Make It Ahead Without Ruining Texture

These cottage cheese pumpkin seed crunch cups are fantastic for making ahead, which makes them ideal for meal prep or busy mornings. Proper storage is key to maintaining their fresh taste and pleasant texture.

To store, place the prepared crunch cups in an airtight container. You can keep them in their individual liners or remove them and stack them carefully with parchment paper in between layers to prevent sticking. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The pumpkin seeds will retain most of their crunch for the first day or two, but may soften slightly over time. This doesn’t affect the flavor, just the texture.

For making ahead, you can prepare a batch on Sunday to enjoy throughout the week. They are designed to be eaten cold, so no reheating is necessary, which adds to their convenience. Simply grab one from the fridge and enjoy! If you want to keep the pumpkin seeds extra crunchy, you can store the cottage cheese mixture separately and stir in the pumpkin seeds just before serving each cup.

Questions People Always Ask Before Making This Recipe

Here are some common questions that pop up when people are considering making these delightful crunch cups:

• Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese? Yes, you can! Greek yogurt will give you a similar creamy texture and protein boost, though the flavor will be tangier. Adjust sweetness accordingly.
• Are these suitable for a low-carb diet? Cottage cheese is naturally low in carbs. If you omit the optional honey/map

FAQs

• Can I make these ahead? Yes—prep ahead, refrigerate, then serve when ready.
• How long do leftovers last? Store covered in the fridge for 3–4 days for best texture.
• Can I adjust sweetness? Yes—add more or less sweetener to taste.
• Can I change the fruit? Yes—swap strawberries for blueberries, raspberries, or sliced banana.