These Stuffed Cottage Cheese Balls are a delicious and versatile snack or dessert that combines the creamy texture of cottage cheese with a sweet, fruity filling. They are easy to make, packed with protein, and perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed warm or at room temperature, these delightful treats will surely impress your family and guests!
Ingredients (Makes 40 Pieces)
- Dry Cottage Cheese: 500 g (17.6 oz)
- Sugar: 2 tablespoons
- Salt: A pinch
- Egg: 1
- Flour: 2 tablespoons
- Semolina: 2 tablespoons
- Vanilla Extract or Zest (Optional): For extra flavor
- Butter: 40 g (2.8 tablespoons), melted (for coating)
- Optional Fillings: Fresh or frozen berries (e.g., raspberries, blueberries)
Nutritional Information (Per Piece)
- Calories: 35
- Protein: 2 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Sugars: 1 g
- Fat: 2 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Sodium: 20 mg
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry cottage cheese, sugar, a pinch of salt, and the egg.
- Tip: If the cottage cheese is too coarse, you can blend it in a food processor or use a fork to break it down to achieve a smoother consistency.
- Add the flour and semolina to the mixture. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
- Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, mix in a bit of vanilla extract or lemon/orange zest. This step is optional but highly recommended!
Step 2: Shape the Balls
- Take a small amount of the cheese mixture and flatten it in your hand.
- Tip: If the mixture is too sticky, wet your hands slightly with water to make handling easier.
- Place a berry (or your chosen filling) in the center and carefully wrap the cheese mixture around it to form a ball.
- Repeat the process until all the cheese mixture is used up, forming approximately 40 balls.
Step 3: Cook the Balls
- Bring a large pot of water to a gentle boil.
- Tip: Avoid a rolling boil, as it can cause the balls to break apart. A gentle simmer is perfect.
- Carefully drop the cheese balls into the boiling water. Do not overcrowd the pot; cook them in batches if necessary.
- Let them cook until they float to the surface, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the balls from the water and let them drain well.
Step 4: Coat with Butter
- Melt the butter in a small saucepan or microwave.
- Gently roll each cooked cheese ball in the melted butter to coat them lightly. This step adds a delicious buttery finish and keeps the balls from sticking to each other.
Step 5: Serve
- Arrange the butter-coated cheese balls on a serving plate.
- Serve warm or at room temperature as a delightful snack or dessert.
- Tip: These cheese balls pair wonderfully with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of honey, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch of sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
- For Breakfast or Brunch: Serve with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a light salad for a balanced meal.
- As a Dessert: Pair with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent finish.
- Snack Time: Enjoy as a light snack with a cup of tea or coffee.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place them in a microwave-safe dish and warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or until just heated through.
Tips for Success
- Ensure Even Size: To ensure even cooking, try to make each cheese ball the same size. Using a small ice cream scoop or tablespoon can help with portioning.
- Customize the Fillings: Feel free to experiment with different fillings such as chopped nuts, dried fruits, or chocolate chips to cater to your taste preferences.
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter dessert, you can increase the sugar slightly or dust the finished balls with powdered sugar before serving.
Enjoy making these delightful Stuffed Cottage Cheese Balls at home. They are not only easy to prepare but also a fun way to incorporate nutritious cottage cheese into your diet!