Baked Carrot-Oat Custard with Cottage Cheese

This Baked Carrot-Oat Custard with Cottage Cheese is the perfect combination of comfort and health. Rich in fiber from carrots and oats, this dish offers a creamy, slightly sweet flavor thanks to the cottage cheese, a hint of vanilla, and the warm aroma of cinnamon. The subtle sweetness from stevia (optional) and the addition of egg whites give this custard a light, fluffy texture, making it an excellent breakfast or dessert. Baked to perfection, this dish can be enjoyed warm or cold, offering a versatile, satisfying option for any time of the day.

Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Custard:

  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated

  • Water, as needed to cook the carrots

  • 1 tsp cinnamon

  • 1 cup (240 ml) carrot broth (from cooking the carrots)

  • 1 cup cottage cheese

  • 1 tsp cinnamon

  • ½ tsp vanilla extract (optional)

  • Stevia, to taste (optional)

  • 3 egg whites

  • 1 cup oatmeal (rolled oats)

  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for greasing)

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the Carrots
   Start by peeling and grating the carrots into fine shreds. Place them in a medium saucepan and cover them with water. Add 1 tsp of cinnamon and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Cook until the carrots are soft, which should take around 10-12 minutes. Once cooked, save some of the carrot broth (about 1 cup) and drain the rest. Set the carrots and the reserved broth aside.

2. Prepare the Custard Base
   Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F). Grease a medium-sized baking dish with vegetable oil. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked carrots, cottage cheese, and the reserved carrot broth. Stir in an additional 1 tsp of cinnamon, the vanilla extract (if using), and stevia for sweetness. Mix thoroughly to incorporate the ingredients.

3. Add the Egg Whites and Oats
   Whisk the 3 egg whites in a separate bowl until soft peaks form. Gradually fold the egg whites into the carrot-cottage cheese mixture. Then, add 1 cup of oatmeal and mix well until everything is evenly combined. The egg whites will help create a light, fluffy texture once baked.

4. Transfer to Baking Dish
   Pour the custard mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. The mixture should fill about two-thirds of the dish.

5. Bake the Custard
   Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is firm. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick—if it comes out clean, the custard is ready.

6. Cool and Serve
   Remove the custard from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice into squares or serve as is. This dish can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, and it’s equally delicious the next day after chilling in the fridge.

Nutritional Information (per serving; makes 6 servings)

Calories: 160 kcal
Carbohydrates: 22 g
Protein: 8 g
Fat: 6 g
Fiber: 4 g
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 120 mg

The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe

Carrot-based desserts have a long history in many cultures, with the carrot cake being one of the most well-known examples. The use of oats and cottage cheese in this dish adds a healthier twist to traditional custards and baked goods. This dish is inspired by the concept of “healthier desserts,” blending the natural sweetness of carrots and the creamy texture of cottage cheese. It is perfect for anyone looking for a nutritious yet indulgent snack or breakfast option.

Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe

• Healthy Comfort Food: With the natural sweetness of carrots and a balance of oats and cottage cheese, it’s a satisfying dish that won’t leave you feeling guilty.

• Easy to Make: A simple, one-bowl recipe with minimal preparation required.

• Customizable Sweetness: You can adjust the sweetness with stevia, honey, or leave it unsweetened for a more savory flavor.

• Meal Prep Friendly: Can be made ahead of time and eaten throughout the week as a breakfast, snack, or dessert.

Health Benefits

• Carrots: A great source of beta-carotene (vitamin A), which is essential for eye health and immune function.

• Oats: Full of fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain blood sugar levels.

• Cottage Cheese: High in protein, calcium, and probiotics, supporting bone health and gut function.

• Egg Whites: A low-fat, high-protein ingredient that helps build muscle and keep you full.

• Cinnamon: Contains antioxidants and has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.

Serving Suggestions

• With Yogurt: Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess and protein.

• Topped with Nuts: Sprinkle with toasted walnuts or almonds for added crunch and healthy fats.

• Pair with Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside berries or an apple for a refreshing contrast.

• As a Snack: Enjoy chilled for a quick, wholesome snack during the day.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Carrots: Make sure the carrots are soft but not mushy before using them in the custard.

• Not Allowing to Cool: Let the custard cool for a few minutes before slicing, as this helps it set and maintain its structure.

• Underbaking: Ensure that the custard is baked long enough to form a golden top and firm texture.

Pairing Recommendations

• Drink: A warm cup of chai tea or spiced coffee complements the cinnamon flavor.

• Dessert: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or custard for an indulgent treat.

• Wine: A light dessert wine like Moscato or Riesling pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the dish.

Cooking Tips

• Use Fresh Spices: Fresh cinnamon and high-quality vanilla extract can elevate the flavor of this dish.

• Experiment with Sweeteners: If you prefer a sweeter custard, you can substitute stevia with maple syrup or honey.

• Adjust Consistency: Add a bit more carrot broth or milk if the custard seems too thick before baking.

Similar Recipes to Try

• Carrot Cake Oatmeal: A healthy twist on traditional carrot cake, made as a warm, comforting breakfast.

• Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats: A similar baked oat recipe with apples and cinnamon.

• Zucchini Bread with Cottage Cheese: Another way to incorporate cottage cheese into a baked good, using zucchini as the base.

Variations to Try

• Add Raisins: Stir in ¼ cup of raisins or currants to the custard for a sweet, chewy texture.

• Nuts for Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy bite in the custard.

• Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water), and use plant-based butter and milk.

• Spiced Pumpkin Version: Replace half of the carrots with pureed pumpkin and adjust spices to include nutmeg and ginger for a fall-inspired variation.

Ingredient Spotlight

Cottage Cheese
Cottage cheese is a protein-packed, low-fat dairy product that adds a creamy texture to baked goods without overpowering the flavor. It’s versatile enough for both savory and sweet dishes, providing a mild flavor that pairs perfectly with fruits, spices, and oats. Cottage cheese is rich in calcium, vitamin B12, and probiotics, which support bone health and digestion.

Conclusion

This Baked Carrot-Oat Custard with Cottage Cheese combines the best of both worlds—comforting, warm, and satisfying with a healthy, nourishing twist. With its combination of cinnamon-spiced sweetness, creamy texture, and subtle flavors, it’s an excellent addition to your breakfast, dessert, or snack repertoire. Enjoy it on a cold morning or serve it as an afternoon treat—either way, it’s bound to become a family favorite.

FAQ

1. Can I use regular milk instead of carrot broth?
   Yes—regular milk or a plant-based milk can be used in place of carrot broth if you don’t have it.

2. Can I skip the egg whites?
   The egg whites provide structure, but you can omit them for a softer, pudding-like texture.

3. Can I freeze this custard?
   Yes, this dish freezes well. Let it cool completely before freezing and reheat in the oven or microwave.

4. Can I use other fruits?
   Yes—this recipe can be adapted with apples, pears, or sweet potatoes for a similar texture.

5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   Yes—oats are naturally gluten-free, but make sure to use certified gluten-free oats if needed.

6. How can I adjust the sweetness?
   Add more stevia, honey, or maple syrup to taste, depending on your preference.

7. Can I make this dish without cottage cheese?
   You can substitute with ricotta or a dairy-free alternative such as silken tofu.

8. How long can I store leftovers?
   Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

9. How do I know when it’s baked properly?
   The top should be golden brown, and a toothpick should come out clean.

10. Can I make this ahead of time?
    Yes—this dish can be made the night before and reheated in the oven for 10 minutes before serving.