Savory Cottage Cheese and Herb Cookies are a delightful twist on traditional cookies, offering a blend of soft, cheesy goodness with a touch of herbs and spices. Perfect as a snack or a side to soups and salads, these cookies are quick to make, versatile, and packed with protein from cottage cheese and eggs. The added sesame or flax seeds give a slight crunch, making them even more enjoyable. Whether you want a savory snack for a gathering or just a healthier alternative to regular cookies, this recipe is sure to impress.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 eggs
- 300g cottage cheese
- 150g cheese (cheddar or any hard cheese, grated)
- ~130g all-purpose flour
- 0.5 tsp baking powder
- 0.5 tsp salt
- Spices to taste (0.5 tsp each of Provençal herbs and dried garlic suggested)
- Sesame seeds for sprinkling (or flax seeds as an alternative)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) so it’s ready to go when your cookie dough is prepared.
- Grate the Cheese:
- Grate 150g of your chosen hard cheese (cheddar works well, but any flavorful hard cheese can be substituted). Set aside.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- Beat the Eggs:
- In a large mixing bowl, lightly beat the two eggs until smooth and combined.
- Add Cottage Cheese:
- Add 300g of cottage cheese to the eggs. Mix well until the cottage cheese is evenly distributed and the mixture is smooth.
Step 3: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
- Add the Grated Cheese:
- Stir the grated hard cheese into the egg and cottage cheese mixture.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour (around 130g), baking powder, and salt. Optionally, add your spices here, such as Provençal herbs and dried garlic.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. The dough should be thick enough to scoop and shape, but not too stiff.
Step 4: Shape and Prepare the Cookies
- Shape the Cookies:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop out the dough using a spoon or your hands and form small round balls or patties (depending on your preferred cookie shape).
- Sprinkle with Seeds:
- Sprinkle sesame seeds (or flax seeds) over the tops of the cookies for a nice crunchy texture and added flavor.
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
- Bake the Cookies:
- Place the prepared cookies in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown on top. The exact baking time may vary depending on the size of your cookies, so keep an eye on them.
- Check for Doneness:
- The cookies should be golden and slightly firm to the touch. You can insert a toothpick into the center of one to ensure they are fully baked—it should come out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Cool the Cookies:
- Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve:
- Serve these savory cookies warm or at room temperature. They pair beautifully with dips, soups, or salads, and can be enjoyed as a snack on their own.
Cooking Tips:
- Cheese Variations: You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as Parmesan, Gouda, or a combination of cheeses, for unique flavors.
- Herbs and Spices: If you prefer other herbs and spices, feel free to add dried oregano, thyme, rosemary, or paprika for a customized flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it easier to whip up fresh cookies when you’re short on time.
Storage:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They taste best when served fresh, but can be reheated in the oven for a crispier texture.
- Freezing: These cookies can also be frozen. Freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in a preheated oven until warmed through.
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie):
- Calories: 80 kcal
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Sugar: 1g
FAQs:
- Can I use ricotta cheese instead of cottage cheese?
- Yes, you can substitute cottage cheese with ricotta for a smoother texture, although it may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the cookies.
- What can I serve with these savory cookies?
- These savory cookies are great served with dips like hummus, garlic aioli, or alongside soups and salads. They also pair well with charcuterie boards.
- Can I make the dough ahead of time?
- Absolutely! The dough can be prepared and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This is a great way to prep for a party or meal in advance.
- How can I make these cookies vegan?
- To make this recipe vegan, you can replace the cottage cheese with a plant-based alternative, use vegan cheese, and substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flax seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg).
Conclusion: These Savory Cottage Cheese and Herb Cookies are a quick, easy, and versatile snack that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. With their crispy exterior and soft, cheesy interior, they are perfect for pairing with soups, salads, or even as an accompaniment to breakfast. The mix of herbs and spices adds depth of flavor, while the sesame or flax seeds give an additional layer of crunch. Easy to store and reheat, these cookies are also a great make-ahead snack for busy days or casual gatherings. Give them a try and enjoy a healthier, protein-packed alternative to traditional cookies!