Protein Cottage Cheese Monkey Bread Recipe

Ingredients

Dough

• 2 cups blended 2% cottage cheese
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 pinch sea salt
• 5 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon

Icing

• 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup 2% blended cottage cheese
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 300℉ to prepare for cooking the monkey bread dough balls evenly.
2. In a large bowl, combine blended cottage cheese, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and sea salt. Stir with a silicon or wooden spoon until the ingredients begin to come together, then use your hands to press the mixture into a ball.
3. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it until smooth. Add more flour if the dough feels sticky to make it easier to handle.
4. Divide the dough into 4 equal parts. Roll each part into a 6-inch log and cut each log into 5 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a small ball and set aside.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar and cinnamon until well combined.
6. Roll each dough ball in the melted butter, then roll it in the cinnamon sugar mixture, ensuring each ball is evenly coated. Set aside.
7. Line the air fryer basket with a round parchment paper insert or multiple layers to create a bowl shape. Place all the coated dough balls closely together inside the liner so they touch.
8. Cook the dough balls in the air fryer at 300℉ for 25 minutes. Expect some melted brown sugar liquid at the bottom when done and ensure the exterior is golden brown.
9. While the bread cooks, combine softened cream cheese, blended cottage cheese, and maple syrup in a bowl. Use an electric mixer to whip until smooth and creamy, avoiding lumps.
10. Let the monkey bread rest for 10 minutes after cooking. Serve by pouring the frosting over the top or use it as a dip alongside for extra flavor.

Notes

• Greek yogurt can substitute blended cottage cheese but will slightly alter the texture of the dough.
• A 4-quart air fryer is recommended to accommodate the size and ensure even cooking.
• Use softened cream cheese for smooth frosting; otherwise, lumps may form.
• If you don’t have a round parchment paper liner, layering two pieces to form a bowl shape works well for the air fryer basket.
• Kneading the dough thoroughly ensures smooth, elastic dough balls for even cooking.