Broccoli Apple and Cheese Bites

Name: Broccoli Apple and Cheese Bites
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 24 bites
Ingredients: 2 cups chopped broccoli florets; 1 cup diced apples (Granny Smith works great); 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or gouda); 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 egg, beaten; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for drizzling

Highlighted under: Cozy Home-Cooked Recipes

I love creating snacks that are not only delicious but also healthy, and these Broccoli Apple and Cheese Bites are a perfect example. The combination of crunchy broccoli, sweet apples, and rich cheese makes them irresistible. With just a few ingredients and a quick preparation time, these bites are perfect for a party appetizer or a guilt-free snack. I usually make a batch when I want something savory yet slightly sweet, and they always disappear fast among friends and family!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-01T22:29:05.483Z

When I was experimenting with flavorful snacks, I stumbled upon the idea of mixing broccoli and apples. Initially, I was skeptical about how well they would blend, but after a few tries, I realized the crunchy textures and contrasting flavors worked beautifully together. The key is to balance the sweetness of the apples with the sharpness of the cheese, which brings a delightful twist to these bites.

Another piece of advice? Don't skip the breadcrumbs! They give your bites a satisfying crunch that perfectly complements the creamy filling. Plus, these snacks are versatile—swap in your favorite cheese or add spices to put your twist on them!

Why You'll Love These Bites
Deliciously unique flavor combining savory broccoli and sweet apples
Healthy snack option that's quick and easy to prepare
Perfect for gatherings or as a tasty mid-day treat

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Bites

To achieve the perfect texture in your Broccoli Apple and Cheese Bites, it's crucial to chop the broccoli into small, uniform florets. This will ensure even cooking and prevent larger pieces from becoming overly crunchy while the smaller ones get soft. Aim for about 1/2-inch pieces, which will cook nicely within the 20-minute bake time. If you prefer a more intense flavor, consider lightly steaming the broccoli for a few minutes before mixing it into the batter.

When combining the ingredients, mix them thoroughly, but be careful not to overwork the mixture, which can lead to dense bites. The goal is to create a cohesive mix that holds together. The beaten egg acts as a binder here, helping the bites remain intact during baking. If you're looking to go egg-free, flaxseed meal combined with water can be a good substitute for an egg in this recipe.

Variations and Substitutions

While this recipe features Granny Smith apples, feel free to experiment with other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for different sweetness levels. Keep in mind that sweeter apples may require adjusting the amount of salt to maintain a balanced flavor profile. Additionally, if you're avoiding dairy, try using vegan cheese options available in most grocery stores—just ensure it melts well to achieve that gooey texture.

For added nutrition and flavor, consider incorporating additional ingredients like finely chopped spinach or cooked quinoa. These can boost the fiber content and create a heartier snack. Just remember to adjust the breadcrumbs slightly to maintain the right consistency; less dense ingredients might require adding a touch more breadcrumbs to help the bites hold together.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Broccoli Apple and Cheese Bites:

Ingredients

2 cups chopped broccoli florets
1 cup diced apples (Granny Smith works great)
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or gouda)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg, beaten
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for drizzling

Having all ingredients ready makes the cooking process a breeze!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your Broccoli Apple and Cheese Bites:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, diced apples, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, and beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper.

Form the Bites

Scoop small amounts of the mixture and form into bite-sized balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.

Bake

Drizzle a little olive oil over the bites for extra crispiness. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Allow the bites to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

Once these bites are out of the oven, you'll want to serve them as soon as possible—they're irresistible!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with the cheese type to find your favorite combination. Adding herbs like dill or basil can also enhance the flavor!

Storage and Reheating

These Broccoli Apple and Cheese Bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days, making them a great option for meal prep. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving if you’d like to maintain that desirable crunchy texture, as they can become soggy.

If you want to make a larger batch for gatherings or meal prep, these bites freeze exceptionally well. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. To bake from frozen, just increase your baking time by a few minutes and check for the same golden-brown color.

Serving Suggestions

Serving these Broccoli Apple and Cheese Bites with a dip can elevate your snack experience. A tangy yogurt-based dip with herbs can complement the savory and sweet elements of the bites beautifully. Alternatively, a honey mustard sauce can add the right amount of zest and sweetness for those who appreciate a bit more tang.

For a more substantial meal, serve these bites alongside a fresh salad or as part of a charcuterie board. The bites not only bring a burst of color but also round out the flavors with their unique profile, making them an appealing addition to any table. Whether as an appetizer, snack, or part of a main dish, their versatility will surely impress your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these bites ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mixture and form the bites, then refrigerate them for up to a day before baking.

→ What can I substitute for breadcrumbs?

You can use crushed crackers or even ground oats as alternatives for breadcrumbs.

→ Can I freeze the bites?

Absolutely! Freeze them before baking, and when you're ready to enjoy, bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What are some dipping sauces that go well with these bites?

These bites pair wonderfully with a side of ranch dressing, honey mustard, or a spicy aioli.