Why Make This Recipe

Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Cake Squares are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of pumpkin and warm spices with the creamy texture of cottage cheese. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy a moist, flavorful dessert that’s easy to prepare. The use of cottage cheese adds protein and a slight tang, which balances the sweetness of the cake. Whether you serve them at a gathering or enjoy them as a snack, these squares are sure to please everyone.

How to Make Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Cake Squares

Ingredients:

1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup pumpkin puree
1 cup flour
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1/4 tsp cloves
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×9 inch baking pan by greasing it lightly.
In a large bowl, mix the cottage cheese, pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, both sugars, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Make sure there are no lumps in the dry ingredients.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix. If you would like to add walnuts, gently fold them into the batter at this stage.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Once cool, cut it into squares and enjoy! You can add optional toppings such as whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.

How to Serve Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Cake Squares

Serving Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Cake Squares is easy and fun. These squares are delicious on their own, but you can elevate the experience by adding a few toppings. A dollop of whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar can make them even more delightful. Additionally, serving them with a hot beverage like coffee or tea can create a perfect pairing for an afternoon snack or dessert.

You can also serve them warm right out of the oven for a comforting treat, or enjoy them cold from the refrigerator for a refreshing dessert. They make a great addition to any gathering, potluck, or holiday celebration.

How to Store Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Cake Squares

Storing your Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Cake Squares is simple. Once the squares have cooled completely, you can place them in an airtight container. If you expect to have them for a few days, it’s best to refrigerate them. They will last in the refrigerator for about 3 to 5 days.

If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Slice the cake into squares and layer them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. To enjoy later, simply thaw the squares in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving.

Tips to Make Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Cake Squares

Choose Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh cottage cheese and pumpkin puree for the best flavor and texture in your cake.
Don’t Overmix: Mix the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients gently. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of a light and fluffy cake.
Custom Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. If you love cinnamon, add a bit extra!
Nut Options: If you are not a fan of walnuts, you can leave them out or replace them with pecans or chocolate chips for a different flavor.
Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. Check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time.

Variation

This recipe is quite versatile. Here are a couple of variations to try:

Chocolate Swirl: Add a swirl of chocolate batter for a chocolatey twist. You can do this by mixing in cocoa powder into a portion of the batter and swirling it in before baking.
Frosting Topping: For a creamy topping, consider adding a light cream cheese frosting on top after the cake has cooled. This adds a rich and tangy flavor that pairs well with the pumpkin.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin if you prefer. Just make sure to cook and thoroughly puree the pumpkin before using it in the recipe.

2. What can I substitute for cottage cheese?
If you want a different flavor or texture, you can try ricotta cheese or Greek yogurt. However, keep in mind that this may slightly change the consistency and taste of the cake.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that you check the measurements and adjust according to the specific blend you use.

With this delicious Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Cake Squares recipe at your fingertips, you can delight your family and friends with a healthy, tasty, and easy-to-make dessert. Enjoy the process of making it and even more the joy of sharing this delightful cake!

Cottage Cheese Pumpkin Cake Squares

Author: ethanmiller
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 16 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of pumpkin and warm spices with the creamy texture of cottage cheese, making it a moist and flavorful dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup pumpkin puree
1 cup flour
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1/4 tsp cloves
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×9 inch baking pan by greasing it lightly.
In a large bowl, mix the cottage cheese, pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, both sugars, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Make sure there are no lumps in the dry ingredients.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix. If you would like to add walnuts, gently fold them into the batter at this stage.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Once cool, cut it into squares and enjoy!

Notes

For an added touch, serve with whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 square
Calories: 180
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 200mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: pumpkin cake, dessert, cottage cheese, healthy dessert, easy recipe