Ingredients

Cottage cheese balls

  • 250 grams (8.8 ounces) cottage cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tablespoons (24 grams) sugar
  • 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
  • 0.5 teaspoon lemon juice or vinegar
  • A pinch of salt
  • 130 grams (1 cup) all-purpose flour

Equipment

  • Blender or Sieve

    Use this to mush the curd for a smooth texture. A blender offers speed, while a sieve can provide a finer quality, making each bite melt in your mouth.

  • Whisk

    An essential tool for blending the egg, sugar, and salt together to achieve that perfectly balanced sweetness.

  • Sifter

    Make sure to sift the flour slowly to avoid lumps, resulting in a smooth and even dough.

  • Frying Pan

    A heavy-bottom frying pan works best to evenly cook the balls, maintaining a consistent temperature for perfect crispiness.

  • Paper Towels

    Essential for draining excess oil after frying, leaving your cottage cheese balls light and less greasy.

Instructions

Step 1

These cottage cheese balls are incredibly tender and crispy. They cook up very quickly, but they're usually eaten even faster! They're perfect for breakfast or as a treat for kids. You will definitely love them!

Step 2

Gather your ingredients: 250 grams (8.8 ounces) cottage cheese, 1 egg, 2 tablespoons (24 grams) sugar, 0.5 teaspoon baking soda (quenched with lemon juice or vinegar), a pinch of salt, and 130 grams (1 cup) all-purpose flour.

Step 3

First, whisk the egg with sugar and salt until well combined. Then add the cottage cheese and baking soda, and mix well. Gradually sift in the flour. You may need slightly more or less flour depending on the moisture content of your cottage cheese. The dough should be a bit sticky; avoid adding too much flour.

Step 4

To form the balls, lightly flour your hands. Pinch off a small piece of dough, roll it between your palms into a ball, and set aside. If the dough is too sticky, dust your hands and the dough ball with a little flour.

Step 5

Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a small piece of dough into it; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is hot enough. Fry the balls until golden brown, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. This should take about 10 minutes. Make sure to check one ball to see if it's cooked through—there should be no raw dough inside.

Step 6

Place the cooked balls on a napkin or paper towel to drain excess oil. Then transfer them to a plate, sprinkle with powdered sugar, and serve warm.

Step 7

Bon Appetit!

Servings

Cottage cheese balls can be the star of your breakfast table or the perfect afternoon pick-me-up. Serve them warm with a dusting of powdered sugar for a classic look and a pop of sweetness. For a gourmet touch, drizzle them with honey or serve with a side of fresh fruit preserves. These delightful balls also make an excellent pair with a steaming cup of coffee or hot chocolate, creating a comforting and cozy snack experience. For a kid-friendly option, dip them in a small bowl of chocolate sauce or a mix of yogurt and fruit puree—watch them disappear in seconds! If you're hosting a brunch, you can elevate the presentation by arranging them in a pyramid on a beautiful plate, garnished with a handful of mint leaves for a burst of color. Truly, these versatile treats can be enjoyed in multiple ways, making every serving a mini celebration.

Variations

For a gluten-free version, simply replace the wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to choose a blend that includes xanthan gum or another binding agent to maintain the right texture. To turn these into a vegan delight, substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) and use a dairy-free cottage cheese. Remember to use a plant-based milk option to quench the baking soda. This ensures the same fluffiness and flavor that everyone will love!

Faq

  • Why is my dough too sticky?

    If your dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour gradually until it is easier to handle. Remember, it’s okay if it sticks a little.

  • Can I bake these instead of frying?

    Yes, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown, though they may not be as crispy.

  • Can I freeze the dough?

    Absolutely! You can make the dough balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-lock bag. When ready to cook, fry them directly from frozen.

  • How do I know if the oil is hot enough for frying?

    You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of dough into it. If it sizzles and floats to the surface, it’s ready for frying.

  • Can I add flavors or spices to the dough?

    Yes, you can experiment with adding a dash of cinnamon, vanilla extract, or even a bit of lemon zest for an extra flavor twist.

  • What's the best oil for frying?

    Neutral oils like canola, vegetable, or sunflower oil are best for frying these cottage cheese balls as they don’t overpower the flavor.

Nutrition facts

COTTAGE CHEESE BALLS
Recipe Yield:4 servings
Calories:Approximately 190 calories per serving
Calories (Min - Max):180 - 200
Total Fat:8g
Saturated Fat:4.5g
Protein:7g
Total Carbohydrate:18g
Total Sugars:5g