These breakfast cookies are wonderfully adaptable. You can easily adjust them to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
- Add 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
- Mix in raisins for a classic cinnamon-raisin roll flavor.
- Add a tablespoon of melted butter for extra richness.
- Use honey instead of maple syrup for a slightly different sweetness.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for deeper spice.
- Stir in mini chocolate chips for a treat-style version.
- Replace part of the oats with oat flour for a softer texture.
- Add a swirl of cream cheese on top before baking.
- Drizzle with a light maple glaze after baking.
- Sprinkle with coarse sugar for a subtle crunch on top.
These variations let you customize the cookies for different moods, from wholesome weekday breakfasts to cozy weekend treats.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Place the cottage cheese in a blender or food processor and blend until completely smooth. This step ensures a creamy, uniform dough.
- Transfer the blended cottage cheese to a mixing bowl. Add the maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
- Stir in the oats, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Mix gently until everything is evenly incorporated. The dough will be thick and slightly sticky.
- Scoop portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
- Flatten each scoop gently with the back of a spoon or your fingers to form cookie-shaped rounds.
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until the cookies are set and lightly golden on the bottom.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
Pro Tips for Perfect Breakfast Cookies
- Blend the cottage cheese fully for the smoothest texture.
- Use old-fashioned oats for more texture or quick oats for a softer cookie.
- Don’t overbake; these cookies should remain soft.
- Flatten the dough slightly so the centers bake evenly.
- Let cookies cool briefly before moving them to avoid breakage.
- For extra cinnamon flavor, sprinkle a little cinnamon on top before baking.
- Use parchment paper rather than greasing the pan.
- If dough feels too wet, add a tablespoon of oats.
- If dough feels too dry, add a splash of milk.
- Enjoy warm for the most cinnamon-roll-like experience.
