Wash the apple thoroughly and remove the core. Dice the apple into small, uniform cubes about half an inch wide. Keeping the skin on adds extra fiber and a nice pop of color to your bowl, but you can peel it if you prefer a softer texture.

Place a small non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the diced apples, half of the cinnamon, and a splash of water (about a tablespoon). Sauté the apples for 4 to 5 minutes until they become tender and slightly caramelized. If you are using maple syrup or honey, drizzle it over the apples during the last minute of cooking to glaze them.

While the apples are cooking, scoop the cottage cheese into a medium-sized bowl. Stir in the vanilla extract and the remaining cinnamon. Once the apples are soft and fragrant, spoon them directly over the cold cottage cheese. The contrast between the warm apples and cold cheese is spectacular.

Finish the bowl by sprinkling chopped walnuts or pecans over the top for a much-needed crunch. Add a tiny pinch of sea salt to enhance the sweetness of the apples and the richness of the cheese. Serve immediately while the apples are still steaming.