Description
If you’re looking for a moist, protein-packed twist on a classic favorite, this Cottage Cheese Banana Bread is just what you need. It’s soft, fluffy, and naturally sweetened with ripe bananas—plus the cottage cheese adds extra moisture and a subtle richness without any overpowering taste. This healthier take on banana bread is perfect for breakfast, snacking, or a not-too-sweet dessert.
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Ingredients
For the Banana Bread:
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3 ripe bananas (mashed, about 1½ cups)
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¾ cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
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2 large eggs
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⅓ cup honey or maple syrup
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¼ cup olive oil or melted coconut oil
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1½ tsp vanilla extract
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1¾ cups all-purpose flour (or white whole wheat flour)
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1 tsp baking soda
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½ tsp baking powder
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½ tsp cinnamon
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¼ tsp salt
Optional Add-Ins:
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½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
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½ cup chocolate chips
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¼ cup shredded coconut
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1 tbsp chia or flax seeds for extra fiber
For Topping:
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Extra banana slices for garnish (optional)
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Sprinkle of cinnamon or sugar before baking (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Oven & Pan
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper or grease it with nonstick spray.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas
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In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas until smooth and lump-free.
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Stir in the cottage cheese until fully combined—it’s okay if it stays a little chunky for texture.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
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Whisk in the eggs, honey (or maple syrup), oil, and vanilla extract.
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Mix well until everything is smooth and evenly incorporated.
Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
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In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
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Stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula.
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Mix gently until just combined—don’t overmix to keep the bread tender.
Step 5: Fold in Add-Ins (Optional)
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If using nuts, chocolate chips, or other mix-ins, gently fold them in now.
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Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
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Add banana slices or a light sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top, if desired.
Step 6: Bake the Banana Bread
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Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil during the last 10–15 minutes.
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Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Use Very Ripe Bananas – The spottier, the better for sweetness and moisture.
Room Temperature Eggs – Helps blend smoothly with the other ingredients.
Don’t Overmix – Stir just until no flour remains for the best texture.
Drain Wet Cottage Cheese – If your cottage cheese is very watery, drain a little first to prevent soggy bread.
Let It Cool – Banana bread slices cleaner and holds shape better when fully cooled.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Cuisine: American