A moist and protein-rich banana bread made with creamy cottage cheese, almond flour, and a hint of cinnamon. Perfect for a healthier breakfast or snack that’s both delicious and nourishing!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Protein-Packed: The addition of cottage cheese and almond flour makes this a filling, protein-rich option.
- Naturally Sweetened: Sweetened with bananas and maple syrup, it’s free from refined sugars.
- Gluten-Free: Made with almond flour, it’s perfect for those avoiding gluten.
- Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins like walnuts, chocolate chips, or blueberries.
- Moist and Tender: The cottage cheese ensures a soft, moist texture in every bite.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups almond flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, chocolate chips, or blueberries
Directions
- Preheat Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a loaf pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
- Mix Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, eggs, cottage cheese, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
- Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Add Dry Ingredients
- Add the almond flour, baking soda, and ground cinnamon to the wet mixture.
- Stir until the batter is evenly combined.
- Fold in Mix-ins (Optional)
- If desired, gently fold in chopped walnuts, chocolate chips, or blueberries for extra texture and flavor.
- Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve
- Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Servings: 10 slices
Variations
- Nut-Free: Skip the nuts and use sunflower seed butter for added richness.
- Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use a plant-based cottage cheese alternative.
- Chocolate Delight: Add cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolate banana bread twist.
- Zesty Addition: Mix in a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest for a citrusy flavor boost.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
- Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a freshly baked feel.
FAQs
Can I substitute almond flour with another flour?
Yes, you can use all-purpose or oat flour, but the texture will differ slightly.
What’s the best cottage cheese to use?
Both full-fat and low-fat cottage cheese work well. Make sure it’s smooth or blend it for a creamier consistency.
Can I use frozen bananas?
Absolutely! Thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
Is this recipe suitable for diabetics?
It’s lower in sugar due to natural sweeteners, but check with a healthcare provider if you’re managing diabetes.
Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?
Yes, divide the batter into a muffin tin and bake for 20-25 minutes.
Can I skip the maple syrup?
Yes, the bananas add natural sweetness, but you may want to add a touch more if skipping maple syrup.
How do I prevent the bread from being too dense?
Ensure your bananas are ripe, and don’t overmix the batter. Lightly folding ingredients is key.
Can I add protein powder to this recipe?
Yes, add a scoop of your favorite protein powder, but you may need to slightly adjust the wet ingredients.
What can I use instead of eggs?
Flax eggs or chia eggs are great substitutes for a plant-based version.
Can I make this recipe nut-free?
Yes, substitute almond flour with oat flour and skip the optional nuts.
Conclusion
Cottage Cheese Banana Bread combines wholesome ingredients for a guilt-free treat that’s perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re enjoying it warm with a dollop of butter, pairing it with your morning coffee, or packing it as a snack, this protein-rich banana bread is sure to delight. Try this healthier twist on a classic recipe today!
PrintCottage Cheese Banana Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 10 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract2 1/2 cups almond flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, chocolate chips, or blueberries
Instructions
- Preheat Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a loaf pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
- Mix Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, eggs, cottage cheese, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
- Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Add Dry Ingredients
- Add the almond flour, baking soda, and ground cinnamon to the wet mixture.
- Stir until the batter is evenly combined.
- Fold in Mix-ins (Optional)
- If desired, gently fold in chopped walnuts, chocolate chips, or blueberries for extra texture and flavor.
- Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve
- Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra sweetness, add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
- Use whole wheat or almond flour for a healthier twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Cottage Cheese Banana Bread